CarParts.com(PRTS) - 2024 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2024, the company reported revenues of $166.3 million, a decrease of 5% from $175.5 million in the prior year [30] - Gross profit for the quarter was $53.9 million, down approximately 14% compared to the prior year, with a gross margin of 32.4%, down from 35.6% [30] - GAAP net loss for the quarter was $6.5 million, compared to net income of $1.1 million in the prior year [30] - Adjusted EBITDA was approximately $1.1 million, down from $9.4 million in the prior year [31] - The company revised its gross profit margin guidance up to 33% plus or minus 100 basis points, from a previous guidance of 31% [32] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is focusing on optimizing its product and price assortment to capture market share, particularly targeting premium shoppers [14] - The mobile app revenue currently accounts for 8% of e-commerce revenue, up from 0% in Q3 of the previous year [24] - The company added about 7,000 SKUs year-to-date, with a product mix of approximately 65-35 between private label and branded products [67] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company faced significant pressure in key categories, particularly in lighting and mirrors, due to low-cost, low-quality parts from overseas [19] - The current economic environment has made low-price, discount-seeking customers more scarce and expensive to acquire [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on a digital-first and customer-centric automotive e-commerce strategy [9] - It aims to improve efficiency and profitability through cost-saving initiatives expected to provide up to $8 million in cost reductions in 2024 [21] - The company is also investing in marketing channels to improve brand awareness and grow its customer base while reducing acquisition costs [26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged disappointing performance in Q1 2024, citing headwinds in key categories and a deteriorating economic outlook [18] - The company is targeting adjusted EBITDA growth next year and aims for a medium-term adjusted EBITDA margin of 6% to 8% [38] - Management emphasized the importance of focusing on higher-value customers to maximize profitability and free cash flow [61] Other Important Information - The company ended the quarter with $46 million in cash and no revolver debt, with an inventory balance of $120 million [65] - The new semi-automated facility in Las Vegas is expected to drive improvements in customer experience and operating leverage [29] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the current assumption for branded drop-ship revenue? - The company is adjusting its assumptions regarding branded drop-ship revenue but did not provide specific figures [41] Question: Can you elaborate on the $8 million in cost savings expected in 2024? - The $8 million in cost savings will be spread across both cost of goods and operating expenses, reflecting a shift in product mix and operational efficiencies [59] Question: Will the company remain EBITDA positive in 2024? - The company expects to remain EBITDA positive in 2024, although free cash flow may be negative due to significant investments in Las Vegas [54]