Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Time charter revenues for Q3 2025 were $51.9 million, down from $57.5 million in the same quarter last year, reflecting the sale of two vessels earlier this year and one vessel in September 2024 [9] - Adjusted EBITDA decreased to $20.3 million from $23.7 million year-over-year, consistent with a smaller fleet [9] - Net income nearly doubled to $7.2 million from $3.7 million in Q3 2024, driven by lower expenses and a $10.6 million gain from the valuation of the investment in Genco [10] - Cash decreased to $133.9 million as of September 30, 2025, from $207.2 million at the end of 2024, due to strategic investments [10] - Long-term debt increased slightly to $651.1 million as of September 30, 2025, from $637.5 million at year-end 2024 [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fleet utilization reached 99.5% for Q3 2025, highlighting effective vessel management [4] - Time charter equivalent averaged $15,178 per day, a 1% decrease compared to $15,333 per day in Q3 2024 due to softer charter rates [11] - Vessel operating expenses decreased by 6% to $20 million compared to $21.2 million in Q3 2024, attributed to the smaller fleet size [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The dry bulk market showed solid performance in Q3, with record Chinese imports reaching nearly 580 million metric tons [3] - The 12-month time charter rate for a typical Cape was around $24,000 a day, up from earlier in the year [17] - The bulk carrier fleet is forecasted to grow by 3.1% this year and by 3.4% in 2026, with the Cape segment projected to increase by only 1.4% in 2025 [24] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a disciplined chartering strategy, securing approximately $149 million in contracted revenues with an average time charter rate of $16,200 per day [7] - Ongoing fleet modernization efforts include the delivery of two methanol dual-fuel new-building Kamsarmax dry bulk vessels expected at the end of 2027 and early 2028 [4] - The company is committed to ESG initiatives, promoting eco-friendly technologies and modernizing the fleet [31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the bulk carrier market has weathered geopolitical and trade developments well, with positive sentiment and new building orders appearing [17][18] - The outlook for 2026 appears positive, with potential revenues projected to reach $224.7 million at an average time charter rate of $17,102 per day [15] - Management emphasized the importance of proactive debt management and liquidity actions to provide resilience for future opportunities [16] Other Important Information - The company declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.01 per common share for Q3 2025, totaling approximately $1.16 million [6] - The average age of the fleet is approximately 12 years, with a total deadweight capacity of about 4.1 million tons [4] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the company's strategy regarding its stake in Genco? - Management stated that the position in Genco has strategic value, and they are currently observing developments without direct contact with Genco's management [36] Question: What is the current holding in OceanPal? - Management indicated that Diana Shipping's interest in OceanPal is minimal and not material at this stage [38]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company held its 2025 Annual General Meeting, where various proposals were presented for stockholder voting, including a reverse stock split and reincorporation [1][2][3] - The preliminary report indicated that all proposals, including the amendment to the equity incentive plan and the issuance of shares to Streeterville Capital, were approved by a majority of votes [12][13][14][15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Specific financial data and performance metrics for individual business lines were not disclosed in the meeting [1][2][3] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - No specific market data or key metrics were provided during the meeting [1][2][3] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company proposed a reverse stock split to potentially enhance its stock price and market perception, with a range of 1-for-2 to a maximum of 1-for-10 [9][13] - The reincorporation from Delaware to Nevada was aimed at potentially benefiting from a more favorable regulatory environment [10][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management did not provide specific comments on the operating environment or future outlook during the meeting [1][2][3] Other Important Information - The meeting included the election of seven directors, with all nominated candidates successfully elected [12] - The company plans to increase the number of shares authorized for issuance under its equity incentive plan to 5 million [14] Summary of Q&A Session - No Q&A session was documented in the provided meeting records [1][2][3]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenues reached EUR 127 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, representing a growth of almost 9% compared to the same period in 2024 [4][16] - Product sales increased to EUR 119.4 million, up 6.2% from EUR 112 million in the first nine months of 2024 [14] - Operating loss reported at EUR 53.9 million compared to an operating profit of EUR 34.2 million in the prior year, primarily due to the sale of a priority review voucher in 2024 [18][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - IXIARO sales increased by 12.5% to EUR 74.3 million, driven by sales to the U.S. Department of Defense and increased sales in Europe [14] - DUKORAL sales decreased from EUR 22.3 million to EUR 21.5 million, impacted by foreign currency fluctuations and a transition to a new distributor in Germany [14][15] - IXCHIQ sales surged to EUR 7.6 million from EUR 1.8 million, aided by the supply of doses during a chikungunya outbreak [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The gross margin on commercial products, excluding IXCHIQ, improved to 57.2% from 48.6% in the prior year, driven by better manufacturing performance [16] - IXIARO's gross margin reached 63.2%, up from 58.8%, while DUKORAL's gross margin improved to 52.3% from 34.8% [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to focus on strategic investments in R&D and anticipates continuous growth in product sales, particularly from the Lyme disease vaccine, VLA15, expected to be a significant growth driver [21][22] - Valneva is working on expanding IXCHIQ into low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and is exploring new partnerships to enhance market access [22][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the upcoming Lyme vaccine data, which could lead to sustained profitability post-commercialization [21][22] - The company is focused on reducing cash burn and maintaining a strong cash position to support future growth initiatives [4][19] Other Important Information - The company successfully completed debt refinancing, enhancing financial flexibility [5] - Cash at the end of September 2025 was reported at EUR 143.5 million, down from EUR 168.4 million at the end of 2024 [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Timeline for FDA response regarding IXCHIQ - Management indicated there is no predefined process for the FDA response and hopes for a collaborative interaction, although no specific timeline can be provided [29][30] Question: Impact of currency and distributor shift on DUKORAL - Management acknowledged currency impacts and noted a technical delay in sales due to the transition to a new distributor in Germany, expecting continued growth for DUKORAL [31][32] Question: Timing for Lyme phase III readout - Management stated that Pfizer controls the process and is taking steps to ensure timely results, with no major delays anticipated [36][38] Question: IXCHIQ BLA suspension and proposed remedies - The response to the FDA focused on medical evidence and a positive risk-benefit ratio, with ongoing pharmacovigilance reviews [40][41] Question: Launch timeline for VLA15 - Management confirmed that timelines communicated by Pfizer support a launch in the autumn of 2027, contingent on regulatory submission next year [46] Question: Future growth drivers for IXCHIQ - Management sees growth opportunities in travel and endemic countries, with ongoing discussions for market access in various territories [47][48] Question: Funding considerations for Zika vaccine candidate - Management highlighted uncertainties around funding and regulatory pathways, indicating that substantial funding would be necessary to proceed with development [54][55]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q3 2025 was $26.4 million, representing a 14% year-over-year increase [5][12] - Non-GAAP operating income was $3.7 million, compared to $1.1 million in Q3 2024 [14][15] - Non-GAAP net income was $4.6 million, or $0.10 per diluted share, compared to $1.3 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, in the same quarter last year [15] - Cash and investments totaled $81 million as of September 30, 2025, up from $59 million at the end of 2024 [15][16] - Recurring revenue as a percentage of total revenue increased to 63% in Q3 2025 from 58% in Q3 2024 [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue from the CCAS (Cybersecurity as a Service) segment was $7.3 million, up 60% year-over-year, accounting for 28% of total revenue [12][5] - CCAS annual recurring revenue (ARR) as of September 2025 was $27.6 million [12] - The Smart product line also contributed to revenue growth, with a strong backlog and visibility heading into the next year [9][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Increased sales in the Americas were noted, aligning with the strategy to boost business in this region [12] - The company is seeing strong traction among major telecom operators for its cybersecurity solutions [7][8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a cybersecurity-first strategy and a renewed go-to-market approach [7][10] - There is an emphasis on expanding the CCAS offering and enhancing the Smart product line to maintain technology leadership [9][10] - The company is optimistic about long-term growth, expecting CCAS ARR to surpass 60% year-over-year growth by year-end 2025 [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's strong financial position and growth trajectory, citing a robust pipeline and backlog [10][11] - The competitive landscape is viewed as more favorable, with unique technology providing a competitive edge [29] - Management raised full-year 2025 revenue guidance to between $100 million and $103 million [11] Other Important Information - The company completed a $46 million follow-on share offering, enhancing its financial resources [15] - Allot has no debt, positioning it well for future growth [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Increased traction with major telecom customers - Management noted positive trends in both tax rates and new service launches contributing to significant growth in CCAS revenue and ARR [18] Question: Details on the first customer for OPNET Secure - The first customer aims for 24/7 protection for their customers, combining Allot's network security with OPNET [19][20] Question: Continued strength in the Smart pipeline - Management confirmed a strong pipeline with opportunities from both new and existing customers, particularly for the Terra 3 product [23] Question: Drivers of CCAS growth - Growth is primarily from new customer contracts and existing accounts expanding their services [27] Question: Competitive landscape for network intelligence offerings - The competitive environment is currently favorable, with unique technology providing a competitive edge [29] Question: Impact of ad campaigns on CCAS adoption - Management identified four drivers for CCAS growth, including new customer additions and upselling existing services [31][32]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fiscal year 2025 revenue totaled $5.43 billion, reflecting a 2.4% increase year-over-year, with an organic growth rate of 3.9% [26][29] - Adjusted EBITDA margin for the full year was 12.9%, up from 11.6% in the prior year, and adjusted earnings per share were $7.36, a 20% increase from $6.11 [26][29] - Free cash flow for fiscal year 2025 was $366 million, with strong cash flows of $642 million in the fourth quarter alone [26][33] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. federal services segment achieved 12.1% organic growth, while the outside-the-U.S. segment delivered 4.1% organic growth [5][29] - Revenue for the U.S. services segment decreased to $1.76 billion from $1.91 billion, with an operating income margin of 9.7%, down from 12.9% in the prior year [31][32] - The outside-the-U.S. segment's revenue decreased to $600 million due to divestitures, but it experienced positive organic growth of 4.1% [32] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The total pipeline at September 30 was $51.3 billion, up from $44.7 billion in the previous quarter, with 64% representing new work [24] - Approximately 66% of the total pipeline is attributable to the U.S. federal services segment, with significant opportunities tied to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act still in development [24] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on three strategic priorities for fiscal year 2026: expanding in U.S. federal markets, policy-driven initiatives, and deploying AI and tech-enabled automation [7][8] - Investments in AI capabilities are a key priority, aimed at transforming service delivery and enhancing operational efficiency [20][21] - The company aims to maintain a disciplined approach to capital allocation, prioritizing organic investments, dividends, and strategic acquisitions [35][36] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in future growth opportunities, citing strong customer relationships and strategic investments as key drivers [7][9] - The company anticipates that fiscal 2026 will be defined by shaping efforts, with actual work and revenue expected to materialize in fiscal year 2027 [43] - Management noted that the impact of the recent government shutdown is expected to be minimal, as most programs are deemed essential services [55][57] Other Important Information - The company repurchased approximately $457 million worth of shares during fiscal year 2025, with a remaining authorization of $250 million [34][35] - The adjusted EPS guidance for fiscal year 2026 is projected to be between $7.95 and $8.25, with a midpoint of $8.10 [37][41] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more color on what's driving the EBITDA margin expansion for 2026? - Management indicated that the margin guidance reflects continued deployment of technology and automation, along with cost management efforts [47][50] Question: How are you thinking about the effects of the government shutdown on your results? - Management does not anticipate negative impacts on contract delivery, as most programs were funded prior to the shutdown [55][56] Question: What are your priorities for allocating capital in the short term? - The company remains focused on growth in the U.S. federal market, particularly in defense and national security, while also considering M&A opportunities [60][63] Question: What phase of the opportunity related to the One Big Beautiful Bill are you currently in? - Management noted that states are actively planning for compliance with new requirements, with significant urgency around SNAP payment error rates [66][68]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q3 2025 was $26.4 million, representing a 14% year-over-year increase [5][12] - Non-GAAP operating income was $3.7 million, compared to $1.1 million in Q3 2024 [14][15] - Non-GAAP net income was $4.6 million, or $0.10 per diluted share, compared to $1.3 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, in the same quarter last year [15] - Cash and investments totaled $81 million as of September 30, 2025, up from $59 million at the end of 2024, with no debt [15][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue from Cybersecurity as a Service (CCAs) was $7.3 million, up 60% year-over-year, comprising 28% of total revenue [12][5] - CCAs Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) as of September 2025 was $27.6 million [12] - The Smart product line also contributed to growth, with a strong performance and a robust pipeline [9][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Increased sales in the Americas, particularly from a large Smart order and growing contributions from the U.S. market [12] - Recurring revenue as a percentage of total revenue increased to 63% in Q3 2025 from 58% in Q3 2024 [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is executing a cybersecurity-first strategy and focusing on a renewed go-to-market approach [7][10] - The launch of OPNET Secure aims to enhance cybersecurity protection for end customers, expanding the service beyond the operator's infrastructure [8] - The company is optimistic about long-term growth, with expectations for CCAs ARR to surpass 60% year-over-year growth by year-end 2025 [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's strong financial position and growth strategy, highlighting the positive momentum in CCAs and network intelligence solutions [10][11] - The competitive landscape is viewed as more favorable, with unique technology providing a competitive edge [29] - Management raised full-year 2025 revenue guidance to between $100 million and $103 million [11] Other Important Information - The company completed a $46 million follow-on share offering, with $40 million received in Q2 and $6 million in Q3 [15] - The company reported positive operating cash flow of $4 million for the third consecutive quarter [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Increased traction with major telecom customer - Management noted positive trends in both tax rates and new services launched, contributing to significant growth in CCAs revenue and ARR [18] Question: Details on the first customer for OPNET Secure - Management indicated that the first customer values 24/7 protection and is looking to enhance their service with OPNET [19][21] Question: Continued strength in the Smart pipeline - Management confirmed a strong pipeline with opportunities from both new and existing customers, particularly for the Terra 3 product [23] Question: Drivers of CCAs growth - Growth is primarily from new contracts and the onboarding of additional customers, with a focus on strategic accounts [27] Question: Competitive landscape for network intelligence offerings - Management described the competitive landscape as easier, with unique technology providing a competitive edge [28] Question: Drivers of growth in larger CCAs contracts - Management identified new customer additions, upselling, and cross-selling as key growth drivers [32] Question: Progress with Verizon Live's penetration - Management refrained from discussing specific customers but expressed overall satisfaction with progress [39] Question: Role of Terra 3 in customer conversations - Management highlighted a good mix of new opportunities and discussions with existing customers, focusing on customer success [41]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For fiscal year 2025, the company reported revenue of $5.43 billion, reflecting an organic growth rate of 3.9% compared to the previous year [25][27] - The adjusted EBITDA margin for the full year was 12.9%, an increase from 11.6% in the prior year, while adjusted earnings per share rose to $7.36 from $6.11, representing a 20% increase [27][28] - Free cash flow for fiscal year 2025 totaled $366 million, with strong cash flows of $642 million in the fourth quarter alone [25][31] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. federal services segment achieved 12.1% organic growth, driven by high demand in clinical and disaster support programs [5][27] - The U.S. services segment revenue decreased to $1.76 billion, with an operating income margin of 9.7%, down from 12.9% in the prior year due to the completion of pandemic-related engagements [29][30] - The outside-the-U.S. segment reported revenue of $600 million, with a 4.1% organic growth rate, and an operating income margin improved to 3.7% from 1.2% in the prior year [30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The total pipeline of sales opportunities as of September 30 was $51.3 billion, up from $44.7 billion in the previous quarter, with 66% of this attributed to the U.S. federal services segment [24][22] - Approximately 64% of the total pipeline represents new work, indicating a strong future growth potential [24] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on three strategic priorities for fiscal year 2026: expanding in U.S. federal markets, policy-driven initiatives related to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and deploying AI and tech-enabled automation [8][10] - Investments in AI capabilities are seen as crucial for transforming service delivery and enhancing operational efficiency [21][22] - The company aims to maintain a disciplined approach to capital allocation, prioritizing organic investments, dividends, and strategic acquisitions to accelerate growth [35][36] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in future growth, citing strong customer relationships and a robust pipeline of opportunities, particularly in the U.S. federal services segment [7][42] - The company anticipates that fiscal year 2026 will be characterized by shaping efforts, with actual revenue growth expected to materialize in fiscal year 2027 [42][43] - Management noted that the impact of the recent government shutdown is expected to be minimal, as most programs are deemed essential services [48][49] Other Important Information - The company repurchased approximately $457 million worth of shares during fiscal year 2025, with a remaining authorization of $250 million for future repurchases [32][33] - The adjusted EPS guidance for fiscal year 2026 is projected to be between $7.95 and $8.25, reflecting ongoing margin expansion and growth [36][40] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more color on what's driving the EBITDA margin expansion for 2026? - Management indicated that the margin guidance reflects continued deployment of technology and automation, along with cost management initiatives [44][45] Question: How do you anticipate the government shutdown affecting results? - Management stated that they do not expect negative impacts on contract delivery, as most programs were funded prior to the shutdown [48][49] Question: What are the priorities for allocating capital in the short term? - The company emphasized a focus on growth in the U.S. federal market, particularly in defense and national security, while also considering M&A opportunities [51][52]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenues reached EUR 127 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, representing a growth of almost 9% compared to EUR 112.5 million in the same period of 2024 [4][16] - Product sales increased to EUR 119.4 million, up 6.2% from EUR 112 million in the first nine months of 2024 [14] - Operating loss reported at EUR 53.9 million compared to an operating profit of EUR 34.2 million in the prior year, primarily due to the sale of a priority review voucher in the previous year [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - IXIARO sales reached EUR 74.3 million, increasing 12.5% year-over-year, driven by sales to the U.S. Department of Defense and increased sales in some European countries [14] - Ducoral sales decreased from EUR 22.3 million to EUR 21.5 million, impacted by foreign currency fluctuations and lower sales during the transition to a new distributor in Germany [14][15] - Exchange sales significantly increased to EUR 7.6 million from EUR 1.8 million, including the supply of doses to combat a chikungunya outbreak [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is focusing on expanding into low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and new territories for IXIARO, leveraging its differentiated product profile [20][21] - The Lyme disease vaccine, VLA15, is expected to be a major growth driver, with regulatory submissions anticipated in 2026 and a potential launch in autumn 2027 [20][31] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to achieve sustainable profitability post-approval and commercialization of the Lyme disease vaccine, which is seen as a significant growth catalyst [20][21] - Valneva is actively identifying new opportunities for its R&D pipeline, aiming to build a coherent strategy for future vaccine candidates [22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the upcoming Lyme disease vaccine data, which is expected to be a pivotal moment for the company [20][37] - The company is focused on reducing cash burn and ensuring sufficient runway to reach key inflection points, with cash at September 30 reported at EUR 143.5 million [18][19] Other Important Information - The company successfully completed debt refinancing, enhancing financial flexibility [5] - Research and development expenses increased to EUR 59.7 million, partly due to costs related to the Shigella vaccine candidate [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Timeline for FDA response regarding exchange - Management indicated there is no predefined process for the FDA response and hopes for a collaborative interaction [24][25] Question: Impact of currency and distributor shift on Ducoral sales - Management noted that the transition to a new distributor in Germany caused a technical delay in purchases, but growth for Ducoral is expected to continue [25][26] Question: Timing for Lyme phase 3 readout - Management stated that Pfizer controls the process and is taking steps to ensure an early readout, with no major delays anticipated [27][28] Question: Remedies proposed to FDA for exchange BLA suspension - The response to the FDA focused on medical evidence and positive risk-benefit ratios, with ongoing pharmacovigilance reviews [29] Question: Launch timeline for VLA15 - Management confirmed that timelines communicated by Pfizer support a launch in the autumn of 2027, contingent on regulatory submissions next year [30][31] Question: Funding considerations for Zika vaccine candidate - Management highlighted uncertainty around funding and regulatory pathways, indicating that substantial funding would be necessary to proceed with development [33][36]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The stockholders approved the proposal to grant discretionary authority to the Board of Directors for a reverse stock split within a range of 1-for-2 to a maximum of 1-for-10, indicating a strategic move to potentially enhance share value [12][13][14] - The company successfully ratified the selection of M&K CPAs as the independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025, ensuring compliance and transparency in financial reporting [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The amendment to the 2022 equity incentive plan to increase the number of shares authorized for issuance to 5 million was approved, which may impact employee compensation and retention strategies [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The approval of the issuance of shares to Streeterville Capital, LLC, in prepaid financing transactions that may collectively equal or exceed 20% of the issued and outstanding shares indicates a significant capital raise strategy [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is pursuing a reincorporation from Delaware to Nevada, which may provide more favorable business regulations and tax benefits [13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management did not provide specific comments on the operating environment or future outlook during this meeting, focusing instead on the proposals and voting results Other Important Information - The meeting concluded with the election of seven directors, ensuring continuity in governance and strategic direction [12][13] Summary of Q&A Session - There were no recorded questions or answers during the meeting, as the focus was primarily on the proposals and voting outcomes

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported Q3 EPS of $0.53 and net sales of $297.2 million, both exceeding consensus expectations [3] - Gross profit margin expanded by 160 basis points to 37.6%, driven by disciplined pricing and a shift towards higher-income customers [4][17] - Net income for Q3 was $14.6 million, down from $19.2 million year-over-year, primarily due to re-banner investments impacting EPS by $0.22 [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Shoe Station net sales grew by 5.3%, while Shoe Carnival net sales declined by 5.2%, reflecting a significant performance gap of 10.5 percentage points [5][15] - Athletics represented 51% of total sales in Q3, with low single-digit growth overall, while non-athletic categories saw a mid-single-digit comp decline [4][16] - Shoe Station's product margins expanded by 260 basis points, contrasting with Shoe Carnival's decline due to economic pressures on lower-income households [5][18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is strategically shifting away from lower-income households, focusing on customers with median incomes of $60,000-$100,000 [5][9] - The competitive response in the lower-income segment is driving margins down across the industry, while Shoe Station is positioned to capture premium brand demand [5][9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to consolidate to one brand, Shoe Station, to improve operational efficiency and capitalize on the stronger performance of this banner [8][9] - By the end of fiscal 2027, the company expects to achieve $20 million in annual cost savings and $100 million in working capital freed from inventory reduction [9][27] - The transition to Shoe Station is expected to restore comparable sales growth and expand EPS significantly by fiscal 2028 [12][27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted that fiscal 2026 will be an investment year, with expectations of continued pressure on sales in the first half, followed by a potential turnaround in the second half as Shoe Station becomes the dominant brand [22][23] - The company remains debt-free with over $100 million in cash, allowing it to fund its transformation without external financing [10][13] - Management expressed confidence in the long-term value creation potential of the one-banner strategy, emphasizing the shift in consumer preferences towards premium brands [29] Other Important Information - The company completed 101 store re-banners during fiscal 2025, with plans to reach 51% of its stores operating as Shoe Station by back-to-school 2026 [7][28] - The Rogan's acquisition is fully integrated into Shoe Station, and results will be reported under this banner starting in Q4 [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the expected drag on earnings from re-bannering next year? - Management indicated that re-banner expenses for the next year are expected to be between $25 million and $30 million, with costs being front-loaded due to the conversion of approximately 70 stores [30][31] Question: How will the company manage inventory reductions? - The company plans to liquidate non-GoForward products aggressively and expects some margin pressure during this process [52][53] Question: What is the outlook for the boot business? - Management noted that while the boot season started slowly, there were double-digit increases in sales as inventory improved in October [35] Question: Will the company be able to elevate its product assortment at Shoe Station? - Management confirmed that there are ongoing discussions with premium brands to enhance the product assortment at Shoe Station [37] Question: What is the timeline for achieving the 80% re-bannering goal? - Management stated that the focus is on reaching the critical 51% threshold by summer 2026, with plans to exceed 90% by the end of fiscal 2028 [54]