Star Group(US:SGU)2026-02-05 17:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fiscal 2026 started positively with adjusted EBITDA increasing by $16.5 million or 32% year-over-year, net of a $5 million charge to the weather hedge program [4][9] - Net income rose by $3 million to $36 million, despite a $10 million unfavorable non-cash change in the fair value of derivative instruments [8] - Product gross profit increased by $29 million or 19% to approximately $179 million due to higher home heating oil and propane volume sold and improved per-gallon margins [6][7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Home heating oil and propane volume rose by 11.5 million gallons or 14% to approximately 94 million gallons, driven by acquisitions and colder temperatures [6] - Gross profit from service and installations was $5.6 million, down from $6.9 million in the prior year, with installation gross profit increasing by $1.4 million but service gross profit loss increasing by $2.7 million [7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Temperatures in the operational areas were 19% colder than the same period last year and 6% colder than normal, significantly impacting demand and operational performance [6][4] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on providing excellent customer service, managing costs, and growing service and installation profitability [5] - Despite not closing any acquisitions in the first quarter, the company completed a purchase of a small heating oil business shortly after the quarter ended, indicating ongoing strategic growth efforts [5] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in handling operational challenges due to persistent cold weather, highlighting employee dedication and service quality [4][14] - The company is prepared to address challenges and opportunities in the remainder of the heating season, with a strong operational forecast [6][14] Other Important Information - Delivery, branch, and G&A expenses rose by $11 million compared to the prior year, with $5 million attributed to weather hedge contracts and $3.8 million due to increased delivery expenses [7] Q&A Session Summary Question: Commentary on operational performance in the second quarter given persistent cold weather - Management noted that January was colder than normal and February is starting similarly, with strong forecasts ahead. They acknowledged the challenges but expressed confidence in their operational capabilities and employee performance [12][14]