Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q2 fiscal 2026, net sales decreased to $769.5 million from $954.7 million, a decline of 19.4% [17] - Total shell egg sales fell to $649.6 million from $903.9 million, down 28.1%, with selling prices down 26.5% and sales volumes down 2.2% [17] - Gross profit was $207.4 million, down 41.8% from $356 million, primarily due to lower shell egg selling prices [18] - Net income attributable to Cal-Maine Foods was $102.8 million, down 53.1% from $219.1 million, with diluted earnings per share at $2.13, down 52.3% [18] - For the first half of fiscal 2026, net sales were $1.7 billion, down 2.8% from the previous year [22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Shell egg sales represented 84.4% of total net sales in Q2, down from 94.7% [3] - Specialty eggs accounted for 44% of total shell egg sales, up from 31.7% [4] - Prepared food sales surged to $71.7 million from $10.4 million, an increase of 586.4% [17] - In the first half, specialty egg sales rose to $569.2 million, up 4.7% with 3.8% higher sales volumes [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Breeder flocks grew by 12.7%, total chicks hatched rose by 65.1%, and the average number of layer hens expanded by 2.6% [17] - The company is experiencing a shift in sales mix towards specialty and prepared foods, which is expected to enhance earnings predictability [3][4] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is evolving into a more resilient, strategically diversified portfolio, focusing on specialty eggs and prepared foods [7][10] - Investments include a $15 million project to expand prepared foods capabilities, expected to add $17 million in annual production by mid-fiscal 2027 [8] - The company aims to maintain a strong balance sheet and pursue disciplined capital allocation for growth [21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management believes the company is well-positioned to navigate through market cycles, emphasizing the importance of reliability in supply [12][14] - The company anticipates continued growth in specialty eggs and prepared foods, with a target of 30% growth in prepared foods over the next 18-24 months [31][46] - Management acknowledges ongoing supply challenges related to avian influenza and emphasizes the need for operational execution [11][12] Other Important Information - The company maintains a virtually debt-free status with cash and temporary cash investments of $1.1 billion [19] - A cash dividend of approximately $0.72 per share is planned for Q2 fiscal 2026 [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: How does Cal-Maine plan to weather down markets without generating losses? - Management highlighted the strength of their balance sheet and diversification into specialty eggs and prepared foods, which are expected to perform well in lower market conditions [31][34] Question: What is the expected gross margin for prepared foods moving forward? - Management indicated a target of a 19% EBITDA margin for prepared foods, despite some short-term slippage due to ongoing adjustments [39] Question: How does the company view M&A opportunities in the current market? - Management believes that the attractiveness of prepared foods remains stable, and they will continue to evaluate acquisitions in a disciplined manner [41] Question: What is the expected cadence of specialty egg capacity growth? - Management anticipates specialty eggs could exceed 50% of total shell egg net sales in the long term, supported by recent acquisitions [46] Question: How should SG&A expenses be expected to trend for the rest of the year? - Management noted that SG&A expenses may remain elevated due to increased professional fees and promotional activities as specialty volumes grow [72]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenues increased to $621.3 million, up 2.7% from the prior year period [3][9] - Operating income decreased to $45.3 million from $55.5 million year-over-year [9] - Net income decreased to $34.4 million, or $1.89 per diluted share, down from $43.1 million, or $2.31 per diluted share [9] - Adjusted EBITDA decreased to $82.8 million from $94 million in the prior year [9] - Effective tax rate increased to 26.9% from 25.6% in the prior year [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Uniform and Facility Service Solutions revenues increased to $565.9 million, with organic growth of 2.4% driven by strong new account sales and improved customer retention [10][12] - First Aid and Safety Solutions revenues increased by 15.3% to $30.2 million, primarily due to investments in the First Aid van business [13] - Other segment revenues decreased by 2.9% to $25.2 million, reflecting the anticipated start of a large refurbishment project wind-down [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The employment climate has softened, affecting both rental and direct sale accounts, which has tempered growth [6][32] - Energy costs represented 4.1% of revenues in the first quarter [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on investments in sales and service organizations to build a stronger platform for growth [3][4] - Key initiatives include operational excellence through the UniFirst Way, enhanced inventory management, and digital transformation [4][5] - The company is committed to creating value for all stakeholders, including employees, customers, and shareholders [7] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains confident in the ongoing investments yielding measurable improvements in growth metrics [6] - The full-year guidance for fiscal 2026 remains unchanged, with consolidated revenue expected between $2.475 billion and $2.495 billion [15] - Management anticipates inflection points in profitability and growth initiatives by 2027 and 2028 [19][40] Other Important Information - The company repurchased approximately $32 million of common stock during the quarter and over $77 million in the past two quarters [6] - The board is evaluating an unsolicited non-binding proposal from Cintas, engaging independent financial and legal advisors [7][8] Q&A Session Summary Question: Timeline for achieving long-term objectives - Management expects steady improvement towards mid-single-digit organic growth and high-teens adjusted EBITDA margins by 2027 and 2028 [17][19] Question: New account growth and customer mix - New accounts are primarily from mid-size customers, with a focus on improving sales organization structure [29][30] Question: Impact of employment climate on growth - The employment situation has become incrementally more impactful, affecting existing account penetration [32] Question: Unchanged revenue guidance despite momentum - Management believes it is early in the year to make meaningful changes to guidance, despite positive top-line momentum [38] Question: ERP implementation status - The ERP project is ongoing, with core financial modules being prioritized this year and supply chain enhancements expected in 2027 [50][51]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales increased by 2.1% to $348.6 million, driven by $18.4 million in inorganic sales from the acquisition of UW Solutions and favorable product mix, partially offset by lower volume primarily in metals [10] - Adjusted EBITDA margin decreased slightly to 13.2%, impacted by lower volume and price, as well as higher aluminum and health insurance costs [10] - Adjusted diluted EPS was $1.02, down year-over-year due to higher amortization and interest expense from the UW Solutions acquisition [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Metals segment net sales declined due to lower volume, but adjusted EBITDA margin improved to 13.5% driven by increased productivity and cost savings from Fortify Phase Two [11] - Services segment achieved its seventh consecutive quarter of year-over-year net sales growth, with adjusted EBITDA margin increasing to 9.7% due to lower incentive compensation expense [11] - Glass segment net sales increased slightly to approximately $71 million, driven by increased volume and favorable mix, though adjusted EBITDA margin moderated due to lower price and higher material costs [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average aluminum prices rose approximately 13% from Q2 to Q3 and are up over 50% compared to the same quarter last year, impacting volume and margin [14] - Backlog for services ended the quarter at $775 million, down slightly from Q2 but up over 4% compared to Q3 of last year [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to become the economic leader in target markets with differentiated offerings and competitive cost structures, while also managing its portfolio through creative M&A opportunities [8] - The acquisition of UW Solutions is expected to contribute to market and geographical expansion, with fiscal 2026 expectations of $100 million in net sales and approximately 20% adjusted EBITDA margin [6] - The company is focused on operational excellence through the Apogee Management System (AMS) to drive productivity improvements and cost savings [7] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges challenging macroeconomic factors but believes the company is well-positioned due to operational excellence, cost-out execution, and a strong balance sheet [7] - The outlook for fiscal 2026 has been updated to expect net sales of approximately $1.39 billion and adjusted diluted EPS in the range of $3.40-$3.50, factoring in tariff impacts and cost headwinds [13] - Management anticipates continued margin pressure in the Metals and Glass segments due to competitive market dynamics and rising aluminum prices [14] Other Important Information - The company is expanding the scope of Project Fortify Phase Two to include further restructuring actions, primarily in Metals and corporate, to manage near-term headwinds [15] - The balance sheet remains strong with a consolidated leverage ratio of 1.4 times and no near-term debt maturities [13] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the board looking for in new leadership? - The company is seeking someone with deep growth and operational excellence experience, particularly in M&A integration, with no change in strategic direction [18][19] Question: How is the updated outlook impacted by aluminum prices? - The primary issue is the continued increase in aluminum prices, which has led to margin pressures in both Metals and Glass segments [20][25] Question: What is the company's stance on M&A activity? - The M&A pipeline is robust, with successful integration of UW Solutions and ongoing efforts to identify new opportunities for growth [32][34] Question: How does the company view pricing discipline in the current market? - The company is focused on maximizing EBITDA dollar contribution while managing costs and maintaining pricing discipline in a competitive environment [40][41] Question: What are the near-term priorities for the company? - Key priorities include delivering results for the current year, expanding Project Fortify, and leveraging AMS for cost structure improvements [59][60]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenues increased to $621.3 million, up 2.7% from the prior year period [3][9] - Operating income decreased to $45.3 million from $55.5 million year-over-year [9] - Net income for the quarter decreased to $34.4 million, or $1.89 per diluted share, down from $43.1 million, or $2.31 per diluted share [9] - Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA was $82.8 million compared to $94 million in the prior year [9] - Effective tax rate increased to 26.9% from 25.6% in the prior year [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Uniform and Facility Service Solutions segment revenues increased to $565.9 million, with organic growth of 2.4% [10][11] - First Aid and Safety Solutions segment revenues grew by 15.3% to $30.2 million, driven by investments in the First Aid Van Business [5][12] - Other segment revenues decreased by 2.9% to $25.2 million due to anticipated project wind-downs [12][13] - Operating margin for Uniform and Facility Service Solutions was 7.4%, down from 8.8% in the previous year [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The employment climate has softened, affecting both rental and direct sale accounts [5][6] - Energy costs represented 4.1% of revenues in the first quarter [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on investments in sales and service organizations to build a sustainable growth platform [3][4] - Key initiatives include operational excellence through the UniFirst Way, enhanced inventory management, and digital transformation [4][5] - The company is evaluating an unsolicited proposal from Cintas, engaging independent advisors to determine the best course of action [7][8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains confident in the ongoing investments yielding measurable improvements in growth metrics [6] - The full-year fiscal 2026 guidance remains unchanged, with consolidated revenue expected between $2.475 billion and $2.495 billion [15] - Management anticipates steady improvement towards mid-single-digit organic growth and high-teens adjusted EBITDA margins by 2027-2028 [17][18] Other Important Information - The company repurchased approximately $32 million of common stock during the quarter and increased the common stock dividend [6] - Capital expenditures for the quarter were $38.9 million, with four first-aid businesses acquired for $14.9 million [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Timeline for achieving long-term objectives - Management expects to see steady improvement towards mid-single-digit organic growth and high-teens adjusted EBITDA margins by 2027-2028, with significant milestones anticipated in the next 18-24 months [17][18] Question: New account growth and customer mix - New account growth is being driven by a tiered sales organization focusing on mid-size accounts, which has shown positive results [26][27] Question: Impact of employment climate on growth - The employment climate has become a headwind, but the company is making progress in product placements and customer retention [28][30] Question: Unchanged revenue guidance - Management feels positive about top-line momentum but believes it is too early to make meaningful changes to guidance due to economic weaknesses affecting customer purchasing [33][34] Question: ERP implementation status - The ERP project is ongoing, with foundational releases scheduled for this year and supply chain enhancements expected in 2027 [44][45]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q2 fiscal 2026, net sales were $769.5 million, down 19.4% from $954.7 million in Q2 fiscal 2025 [14] - Total shell egg sales decreased by 28.1% to $649.6 million, with selling prices down 26.5% and sales volumes down 2.2% [14] - Gross profit fell 41.8% to $207.4 million, primarily due to lower shell egg selling prices [15] - Operating income decreased by 55.5% to $123.9 million, with an operating income margin of 16.1% [15] - Net income attributable to the company was $102.8 million, down 53.1% from $219.1 million [15] - Diluted earnings per share were $2.13, down 52.3% from $4.47 [15] - For the first half of fiscal 2026, net sales were $1.7 billion, down 2.8% [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Shell egg sales represented 84.4% of total net sales in Q2 fiscal 2026, down from 94.7% [3] - Specialty eggs accounted for 44% of total shell egg sales, up from 31.7% [4] - Prepared food sales surged 586.4% to $71.7 million compared to $10.4 million in Q2 fiscal 2025 [14] - Specialty egg sales in the first half of fiscal 2026 were $569.2 million, up 4.7% with 3.8% higher sales volumes [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Breeder flocks grew by 12.7%, and total chicks hatched rose by 65.1% [14] - The average number of layer hens expanded by 2.6% [14] - Prepared foods capacity is expected to increase by more than 30% over the next 18 to 24 months [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is evolving into a more resilient, strategically diversified portfolio, focusing on specialty eggs and prepared foods [6] - Investments include a $15 million project to expand prepared foods capabilities, expected to add $17 million in annual scrambled egg production [7] - The company aims to demonstrate long-term growth through multiple growth engines and a focus on consumer preferences [22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted the importance of reliability in supply to build trust with retailers and consumers [11] - The company is positioned to manage through cycles effectively, emphasizing a strong balance sheet and disciplined capital allocation [12] - Management expressed confidence in the growth of specialty eggs and prepared foods, targeting a 30% growth in prepared foods over the next 18-24 months [25] Other Important Information - The company maintains a strong cash position and an unlevered balance sheet, allowing for targeted acquisitions and capital returns [17] - A cash dividend of approximately $0.72 per share is scheduled for payment on February 12, 2026 [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: How does the company view earnings power in depressed egg markets? - Management noted that the company is in a better position than in previous downturns due to diversification into specialty eggs and prepared foods, which are expected to perform well even in lower markets [24][27] Question: What is the expected gross margin for prepared foods moving forward? - Management indicated a target of a 19% EBITDA margin for prepared foods, despite some expected slippage in the near term [28] Question: How does the company plan to utilize outside egg purchases as supplies normalize? - Management stated that outside egg purchases are expected to decline as production increases, aiming for a 93%-95% self-produced sales ratio [47][49] Question: What is the outlook on bird flu cases and its impact on the industry? - Management expressed concern over the ongoing presence of the virus globally, indicating that the situation remains precarious despite recent decreases in bird flu cases [50][51]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fiscal Q1 sales were approximately $966 million, reflecting a 4% year-over-year increase, primarily driven by a 4.2% contribution from price, partially offset by a 30 basis point decline in volumes due to the federal government shutdown [21][11][12] - Gross margin for the quarter was 40.7%, flat compared to the prior year, with reported operating margin at 7.9% and adjusted operating margin at 8.4%, slightly above the midpoint of expectations [15][24] - GAAP EPS was $0.93 compared to $0.83 in the prior year, while adjusted EPS improved to $0.99 from $0.86, marking a 15% increase [24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core customer daily sales grew approximately 6% year-over-year, while national accounts improved by 3%, and public sector sales declined by 5% due to the federal government shutdown [21][12] - Daily sales in vending increased by 9% year-over-year, representing 19% of total company sales, and In-Plant program sales grew by 13%, accounting for approximately 20% of total net sales [22][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Demand across primary markets was described as stable, with aerospace remaining strong, while automotive and heavy truck sectors showed some softness [16] - Average daily sales for fiscal December improved approximately 2.5% year-over-year, despite a month-over-month decline of roughly 20% due to holiday timing and customer shutdowns [17][18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on reconnecting with core customers and optimizing its sales organization to enhance customer experience and cost structure [4][5] - A Supplier Council has been established to foster collaboration and develop joint strategies for growth, with an inaugural growth forum planned to engage approximately 1,400 associates and suppliers [7][8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving higher levels of profitable growth, with expectations of adjusted incremental operating margins around 20% for the full fiscal year [16][31] - Despite uncertainties in demand visibility entering the new calendar year, management remains optimistic about core customer performance and growth initiatives [18][19] Other Important Information - The company reaffirmed its commitment to reducing Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 15% by 2030 and highlighted its recognition as a best company to work for [10][11] - Free cash flow generated in the quarter was approximately $7.4 million, representing about 14% of net income, with expectations of 90% free cash flow conversion for the fiscal year [25][26] Q&A Session Summary Question: What drove the 4% price increase and expectations for fiscal Q2? - Management indicated that the price increase was in line with expectations, driven by prior price actions and ongoing inflation, particularly in metalworking [35][36] Question: What is the impact of IEEPA tariffs if ruled invalid? - Management noted that there would be an initial hit from lower inventories, followed by benefits as lower-cost inventory is received [41][42] Question: Clarification on the mid-single-digit growth scenario and operating leverage? - Management acknowledged that while historical seasonality suggests low to mid-single digits, they expect to outperform due to ongoing growth initiatives and productivity improvements [46][48] Question: Insights on public sector sales and normalization? - Management expects public sector sales to return to business as usual, with a quarter-over-quarter mixed headwind of approximately 50 basis points anticipated [53] Question: Details on cost measures and service model optimization? - The company has optimized its sales organization and is now applying similar principles to its service model to enhance efficiency and customer experience [60][61]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fiscal first quarter sales were approximately $966 million, representing a 4% year-over-year increase, primarily driven by a 4.2% contribution from price, partially offset by a 30 basis point decline in volumes due to the federal government shutdown [21][11] - Gross margin for the quarter was 40.7%, flat compared to the prior year, while reported operating margin was 7.9% and adjusted operating margin was 8.4%, slightly above the midpoint of expectations [24][15] - GAAP EPS was $0.93 compared to $0.83 in the prior year, and adjusted EPS was $0.99 compared to $0.86, marking a 15% improvement [24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core customer daily sales grew approximately 6% year-over-year, while national accounts improved by 3%, and public sector sales declined by 5% due to the federal government shutdown [22][12] - Daily sales in vending increased by 9% year-over-year, representing 19% of total company sales, and daily sales to customers with an implant program grew by 13%, accounting for approximately 20% of total net sales [22][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Demand across primary markets was described as stable, with aerospace remaining strong, while automotive and heavy truck showed some softness [16] - Average daily sales for fiscal December improved approximately 2.5% year-over-year, but experienced a month-over-month decline of roughly 20% due to holiday timing and customer shutdowns [17][18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on reconnecting and growing with core customers, optimizing the sales organization, and enhancing the customer experience through improved service models and technology [4][5] - A growth forum is planned to bring together approximately 1,400 associates and suppliers to develop joint strategies for growth, emphasizing collaboration and data-driven decision-making [8][9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management described the operating environment as stable, with expectations for continued traction on growth initiatives and price stability supporting adjusted incremental operating margins of approximately 20% for the full fiscal year [16][31] - Despite challenges in December, management remains confident in the core customer growth and the effectiveness of ongoing initiatives to capture market share [17][18] Other Important Information - The company reaffirmed its commitment to reducing Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 15% by 2030 and highlighted its recognition as a best company to work for [10][11] - Free cash flow generated in the quarter was approximately $7.4 million, representing about 14% of net income, with expectations of achieving 90% free cash flow conversion for the fiscal year [25] Q&A Session Summary Question: What drove the 4% price increase and expectations for 2Q? - Management indicated that the price increase was in line with expectations due to prior price actions and ongoing inflation, particularly in metalworking, with further increases anticipated in January [35][39] Question: What is the impact of IEEPA tariffs if ruled invalid? - Management noted that there would be an initial hit from lower inventories, followed by benefits as lower-cost inventory is received [40] Question: Clarification on the mid-single-digit growth and operating leverage opportunities? - Management expressed confidence in outperforming historical seasonal trends due to ongoing growth initiatives and productivity improvements [44][48] Question: How to quantify the net margin impact from public sector sales in 2Q? - Management indicated a mixed headwind of approximately 50 basis points from public sector sales, with expectations of normalization in the back half of the fiscal year [52] Question: Details on cost measures and service model optimization? - Management explained that recent cost measures were aimed at optimizing the service organization to align with sales optimization efforts, resulting in a headcount benefit [60][61] Question: Insights on the supplier event and its goals? - Management emphasized the importance of rebuilding trust with suppliers and the event's focus on joint business planning to drive growth [88][90]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Identical sales grew by 2.4%, while digital sales increased by 21% [5][22] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q3 was $1.039 billion, with adjusted EPS at $0.72 per diluted share [25] - Gross margin was reported at 27.4%, a decline of 55 basis points year-over-year, but improved sequentially from Q2 [24] - Selling and administrative expense rate decreased to 24.9%, down 33 basis points year-over-year [24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Pharmacy and health sales increased by 18%, driven by strong execution in immunizations and core prescriptions [13][23] - Loyalty membership grew by 12% to over 49 million members, enhancing customer engagement [14][15] - The media collective saw double-digit growth year-over-year, contributing to high-margin growth [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Digital penetration reached 9.5%, with over half of orders delivered in three hours or less [12] - The company continues to gain market share in e-commerce, with sales up 21% this quarter [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on leveraging technology and AI to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency [8][9] - Strategic priorities include modernizing capabilities, scaling digital engagement, and monetizing the media collective [8][12] - The company aims to grow its own brands penetration from 25% to 30% [16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The operating environment remains mixed, with pressure across income segments, leading to cautious consumer spending [20] - The company is confident in its ability to deliver long-term profitable growth through strategic investments and productivity initiatives [29][30] - The outlook for fiscal 2025 has been updated, with identical sales expected to range from 2.2% to 2.5% [30] Other Important Information - The company is committed to a $1.5 billion productivity plan over the next three fiscal years [18] - Capital expenditures for Q3 were $462 million, focusing on store upgrades and digital technology [25] - The company refinanced $1.5 billion of existing indebtedness, demonstrating balance sheet strength [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is the overall pricing environment lined up relative to your initial expectations? - The company is taking a surgical and targeted approach to price investments, seeing positive results in categories where investments were made [39][40] Question: How are you progressing with getting new pharmacy shoppers to purchase more grocery items? - The company is pleased with pharmacy growth, noting that many customers are already shopping in grocery, leading to deeper engagement [47] Question: Can you comment on the potential headwinds for FY26? - The company remains confident in its strategy, with a focus on pharmacy and digital growth, despite potential headwinds from the Inflation Reduction Act [54][56] Question: What are the key drivers for the lower guide on ID sales? - The guidance reflects the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act, with potential upside from pharmacy growth depending on various factors [58][59] Question: How are you tracking against the cost savings plan? - The company is executing well against its $1.5 billion productivity plan, with ongoing process redesign and technology integration [68]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Identical sales grew by 2.4% and digital sales increased by 21% in Q3 2025, with adjusted EBITDA reported at $1.039 billion [5][22][25] - Gross margin was 27.4%, a decline of 55 basis points year-over-year, but improved sequentially from Q2 [24] - Selling and administrative expense rate decreased to 24.9%, down 33 basis points year-over-year, indicating disciplined cost management [24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Pharmacy and health sales increased by 18%, driven by strong execution in immunizations and core prescriptions [12][23] - Loyalty membership grew by 12% to over 49 million members, enhancing customer engagement [14][15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Digital penetration reached 9.5%, with over half of orders delivered in three hours or less, showcasing the efficiency of the store-based fulfillment model [12][13] - The company continues to gain market share in the digital and e-commerce space, with sales up 21% [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on leveraging technology and AI to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency, with significant investments in digital transformation [8][9][12] - Strategic priorities include modernizing capabilities, scaling digital engagement, and monetizing the Media Collective [8][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The management noted a mixed consumer environment, with lower-income shoppers prioritizing essentials and middle-income households showing increased price sensitivity [20][21] - The company remains confident in its ability to deliver long-term profitable growth through strategic investments and productivity initiatives [29][30] Other Important Information - The company is targeting $1.5 billion in productivity gains over the next three fiscal years, which will support innovation and profitability [18] - Capital expenditures in Q3 amounted to $462 million, focusing on store upgrades and digital technology [25][26] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is the overall pricing environment lined up relative to your initial expectations? - Management indicated a surgical and targeted approach to price investments, with positive results in categories where investments were made [39][40] Question: How are you progressing with getting new pharmacy shoppers to purchase more grocery items? - Management noted that most pharmacy customers are already grocery shoppers, and deeper engagement is expected as they adopt digital platforms and loyalty programs [47] Question: Can you comment on the potential headwinds for FY 2026? - Management expressed confidence in their strategy, highlighting growth opportunities in pharmacy and digital, despite potential headwinds from the Inflation Reduction Act [54][56] Question: What are the key drivers for the lower guide on ID sales? - Management identified the Inflation Reduction Act's impact on drug pricing as a significant factor, while also noting opportunities for growth in pharmacy [58][59] Question: How is the company tracking against the $1.5 billion productivity plan? - Management confirmed strong execution against the productivity plan, with ongoing process redesign and technology integration contributing to results [69][70]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Identical sales grew by 2.4% in Q3 2025, while digital sales increased by 21% [4][20] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $1.039 billion, with adjusted EPS at $0.72 per diluted share [23] - Gross margin was reported at 27.4%, a decline of 55 basis points year-over-year, but improved sequentially from Q2 [22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Pharmacy and health sales increased by 18%, driven by strong execution in immunizations and core prescriptions [21][12] - Loyalty membership grew by 12% to over 49 million members, enhancing customer engagement [12][14] - The media collective saw double-digit growth year-over-year, contributing to higher ROI for partners [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Digital penetration reached 9.5%, with over half of orders delivered in three hours or less [10] - The company noted a mixed consumer environment, with low-income shoppers prioritizing essentials and middle-income households showing increased price sensitivity [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on leveraging technology and AI to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency [6][10] - Strategic priorities include modernizing capabilities, scaling digital engagement, and monetizing the media collective [6][10] - The company aims to grow its own brands from 25% to 30% penetration [15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate a challenging environment and emphasized the importance of personalized promotions and loyalty enhancements [18][19] - The outlook for fiscal 2025 was updated, with identical sales expected to range between 2.2% and 2.5% [28] Other Important Information - The company is targeting $1.5 billion in productivity gains over the next three fiscal years [17] - Capital expenditures for Q3 were $462 million, focusing on store upgrades and digital technology [23] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: How is the overall pricing environment lined up relative to your initial expectations? - The company is taking a surgical and targeted data-driven approach to price investments, seeing positive results in categories where investments were made [34][35] Question: How are you progressing with getting new pharmacy shoppers to purchase more grocery items? - The company noted that most pharmacy customers are already shopping in grocery, and deeper engagement is expected as they convert to pharmacy [37] Question: Can you comment on the potential headwinds for FY26? - Management expressed confidence in their strategy, highlighting growth opportunities in pharmacy and digital customer engagement despite potential headwinds from disinflation and lower Medicare drug prices [39][40] Question: What are the key drivers for the lower guide on ID sales? - The guidance reflects a significant impact from the Inflation Reduction Act, with additional opportunities in pharmacy expected to offset some of the pressures [43][44] Question: How are you tracking against your productivity plan? - The company is executing well against its $1.5 billion productivity plan, with ongoing improvements in SG&A and operational efficiencies [48]