Star Group(SGU) - 2026 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA increased by $16.5 million or 32% year-over-year, reaching $68 million, despite a $5 million charge to the weather hedge program [4][9] - Net income rose by $3 million to $36 million, impacted by 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 sales volume and 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 year-over-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 challenges [4][6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on improving efficiency, operational execution, and maintaining service and installation profitability while managing costs [4][6] - The company anticipates new acquisition opportunities as it approaches spring, despite a slight lull in prospect activity during the busy heating season [5] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in handling operational challenges due to persistent cold weather, highlighting employee dedication to customer service [5][14] - The company remains vigilant in providing excellent customer service and controlling costs while preparing for potential challenges in the heating season [6] Other Important Information - A $5 million non-cash charge was recorded related to the change in the fair value of derivative instruments, contrasting with a $5 million credit in the previous year [8] Q&A Session Summary Question: Commentary on operational performance given the persistent cold weather - Management noted that January was colder than normal and expressed confidence in the company's ability to manage operational challenges, emphasizing employee commitment to customer service [12][14]