struction Partners(ROAD) - 2026 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - First quarter revenue increased by 44% year-over-year, reaching $809.5 million, with 3.5% organic growth and 40.6% from acquisitions [5][14] - Adjusted EBITDA rose by 63% to $112.2 million, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 13.9%, the highest first quarter margin in company history [5][15] - Net income was reported at $17.2 million, while adjusted net income was $26.4 million, translating to adjusted earnings per diluted share of $0.47 [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has a project backlog of $3.09 billion, indicating strong demand across its markets [5][18] - The commercial sector is experiencing steady project bidding, supported by population migration to the Sun Belt and reshoring trends [6][8] - The public sector is expected to see a 10%-15% increase in contract awards for FY 2026 compared to FY 2025, particularly in small and medium-sized maintenance projects [8][9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is actively participating in approximately 1,000 commercial sector projects across eight states [7] - The federal and state governments are continuing to invest in infrastructure, which is expected to drive demand for the company's services [8][9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to double its revenue to over $6 billion by 2030, targeting an EBITDA margin growth to approximately 17% [12][13] - Recent acquisitions, including GMJ Paving Company, are part of a strategy to strengthen market position and expand geographic footprint [10][11] - The company is focused on both organic growth and strategic acquisitions to enhance shareholder value [12][81] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ongoing demand for infrastructure projects and the positive impact of recent acquisitions on future growth [9][10] - The company anticipates a robust pipeline of acquisition opportunities and plans to continue using cash flow from operations to fund these acquisitions [81][82] - Management remains optimistic about the reauthorization of the Surface Transportation Program, expecting increased funding for infrastructure projects [82][83] Other Important Information - Cash flow from operations was $82.6 million in Q1, up from $40.7 million in the same quarter last year [16] - The company expects to convert 75%-85% of EBITDA to cash flow from operations in FY 2026 [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more details on the acquisition pipeline? - Management indicated a robust pipeline with a mix of platform deals and tuck-ins, emphasizing strategic and cultural fit in acquisitions [24][25] Question: What is the size and scope of the data center project mentioned? - Management clarified that data centers are part of their commercial projects, with ongoing demand in southern and southeastern markets [28][29] Question: How do you expect to achieve the organic growth target of 7%-8% for the year? - Management explained that delays in project starts and competitive dynamics affected Q1 organic growth but reaffirmed the full-year target [34][35] Question: What is the outlook for public sector bidding? - Management expects public sector contract awards to increase by 10%-15% this year, with steady demand in the commercial market as well [50][54] Question: How confident are you in reducing leverage to 2.5 times by year-end? - Management expressed confidence in achieving the leverage target through strong cash flow generation and strategic acquisitions [78][81]