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Pure Cycle(PCYO) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-07-10 13:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Quarterly revenues were $5 million, with gross profits of approximately $3.2 million, reflecting a gross margin of about 63% [7] - Net income for the quarter was over $2 million, translating to earnings per share of $0.09, while year-to-date net income reached $7 million, or $0.29 per share [9][15] - Revenue trends showed a slight decline from previous quarters due to weighted deliveries of lots, particularly from the largest homebuilder, D.R. Horton [9][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The water utility segment saw growth driven by annual customer additions and strong tap fees, particularly from Phase 2B, with about 230 lots delivered last year [16][18] - The oil and gas segment is expected to normalize in fiscal 2026 after a weaker performance in 2025 due to permitting issues [19][20] - The land development segment is on track to deliver approximately 900 lots in Phase 2C, with ongoing work in Phase 2D [21][43] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company operates in a low inventory environment for entry-level homes in the Denver area, which is beneficial for its market positioning [55] - The housing market faces headwinds from consumer confidence and affordability, but the company remains well-positioned due to its unique entry-level master plan community offerings [54][56] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on maintaining liquidity to invest in business segments and capitalize on market opportunities, particularly in land acquisition and water rights [52][53] - The strategy includes a phased delivery model to manage inventory levels effectively, ensuring that neither the company nor its homebuilder partners are burdened with excess inventory [56] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted that consumer confidence is a significant factor affecting the housing market, but the company is well-positioned to meet demand due to its unique offerings [54] - The company anticipates stronger performance in the single-family rental segment over the next 18 months, with plans to increase the number of units [51] Other Important Information - The company has a strong balance sheet with high liquidity, allowing it to navigate volatile markets effectively [52] - A groundbreaking for a new high school project was announced, which is expected to enhance community appeal and support home sales [45] Q&A Session Summary Question: Is there any development on the reservoir sites? - Management indicated that while there are no immediate developments, they are exploring partnership opportunities related to water rights and surface reservoirs [69][70] Question: Where will the water for the new parcel development be sourced? - The water will be sourced from the city of Aurora, as the property has been annexed to the city for over 20 years [71][72] Question: What is the status of the water rights application mentioned in the 10-K? - The company is negotiating with opposing groups regarding a new water right application that was initially turned down, with hopes for a resolution [73][75]
Yoshitsu (TKLF) - 2025 H2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-07-10 13:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue increased by 7.4% from $195.7 million to $210.1 million for fiscal year 2025 [10] - Net income decreased to $6.6 million from $7.5 million in fiscal year 2024, primarily due to foreign currency exchange losses [12] - Basic earnings per share were $0.16 for fiscal year 2025 compared to $0.20 for fiscal year 2024 [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue from directly operated stores grew by 14.4%, contributing $17.1 million [10] - Revenue from franchise stores and wholesale customers increased by 9.1% to $185.5 million, accounting for 88.3% of total revenue [6][10] - The total stock keeping unit (SKU) increased significantly to 201,300 from approximately 151,700 in the previous fiscal year [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company opened five new directly operated stores in the United States, Canada, and Hong Kong, enhancing brand recognition [6] - Revenue from collectible cards and training toys totaled $11.4 million, representing 5.4% of total revenue [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on optimizing local operations by converting some directly operated stores into franchise stores to enhance cash flow [5] - Plans to expand into new markets include opening stores in Vietnam and Australia, and entering the Middle East market with a new store in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia [9] - The company aims to strengthen its market footprint while closely monitoring trends and improving operational efficiency [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in driving sustainable growth and exploring new opportunities while strengthening customer loyalty [7] - The company remains committed to enhancing financial performance through robust business strategies and disciplined cost management [13] Other Important Information - The company received a Goldsmith Award in the retail medium-sized category at the 21st Annual International Business Awards in September 2024, highlighting market recognition [7] - As of March 31, 2025, the company had cash of $4.8 million and accounts receivable of $107.3 million, with approximately 31.9% collected [12][13] Q&A Session Summary - No specific questions or answers were provided in the content regarding the Q&A session.
The Simply Good Foods pany(SMPL) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-07-10 13:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Simply Good Foods reported Q3 net sales of $381 million, an increase of 13.8% year over year, driven by the acquisition of Owen and 3.8% organic growth [21][22] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $73.9 million, up 2.8% from the previous year, while net income was $41.1 million, slightly down from $41.3 million last year [23][24] - Gross margin declined to 36.4%, a decrease of 350 basis points year over year, primarily due to elevated input costs [22][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Quest, representing approximately 60% of net sales, achieved 11% consumption growth in Q3, with household penetration increasing by 120 basis points to 18.3% [11][21] - Atkins experienced a decline in consumption of 13% in Q3, attributed to distribution losses and the absence of high-volume merchandising events from the previous year [14][15] - Owen's retail takeaway grew by 24% in Q3, with ready-to-drink shakes seeing over 20% growth [17][21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The nutritional snacking category continued to show robust growth, with overall consumption up double digits, reflecting a shift towards high protein, low sugar, and low carb options [7][19] - The company noted that Quest and Owen together account for approximately 70% of net sales, indicating strong market positioning [19][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Simply Good Foods aims to lead the generational shift towards healthier food options through innovation, expanding physical availability, and increasing brand awareness [19][20] - The company is focusing on optimizing the Atkins brand by reducing lower-velocity SKUs and enhancing the core product offerings [15][16] - There is a commitment to driving growth in the Salty Snacks platform, which saw a 31% increase in retail takeaway [12][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged inflationary pressures impacting margins, particularly from cocoa and whey, and emphasized ongoing productivity and cost management efforts [8][9] - The outlook for the full year has been tightened, with expectations for net sales growth of 8.5% to 9.5% and adjusted EBITDA growth of 4% to 5% [28][30] - Management expressed confidence in the long-term growth potential of Quest and Owen, despite anticipated challenges with Atkins [19][20] Other Important Information - The company has repaid nearly all of the $250 million borrowed for the acquisition of Owen and has repurchased over $24 million worth of common stock [10][27] - The company is actively evaluating pricing strategies to address high input costs and maintain gross margins [96] Q&A Session Summary Question: Distribution expectations for Atkins and impact on sales - Management expects continued double-digit declines for Atkins due to distribution cuts but anticipates offsetting gains from Quest and Owen [36][39] Question: Performance expectations for Owen - Management remains confident in Owen's growth potential, expecting similar consumption trends to continue into FY 2026 [44][47] Question: Gross margin outlook and pricing strategies - Management indicated that gross margins are under pressure but are working on productivity and pricing actions to recover costs [65][68] Question: Capital allocation priorities - The company prioritizes M&A, debt repayment, and share buybacks as part of its capital allocation strategy [98][99] Question: Impact of Texas legislation on product portfolio - Management believes the impact of new regulations will be minimal, with only a few SKUs requiring reformulation [108][109]
The Simply Good Foods pany(SMPL) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-07-10 13:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total net sales for Q3 2025 reached $381 million, an increase of 13.8% year over year, driven by Owen's contribution of $33.6 million or 10%, alongside 3.8% organic growth [23] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $73.9 million, reflecting a 2.8% increase from the previous year [25] - Gross profit increased to $138.5 million, a 3.7% rise from the year-ago period, but gross margin declined to 36.4%, down 350 basis points due to elevated input costs [24][25] - Reported EPS was $0.40 per diluted share, compared to $0.41 in Q3 last year, while adjusted diluted EPS increased to $0.51 from $0.50 [26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Quest, representing approximately 60% of net sales, achieved 11% consumption growth in Q3, with household penetration increasing by 120 basis points to 18.3% [11] - Atkins experienced a 12.7% decline in net sales, attributed to distribution losses and the absence of high-volume merchandising events from the previous year [23][15] - Owen's retail takeaway grew by 24% in Q3, with ready-to-drink shakes seeing over 20% growth [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The nutritional snacking category continued to show robust growth, with overall consumption up double digits, reflecting a shift towards high protein, low sugar, and low carb options [8] - Quest's Salty Snacks platform saw retail takeaway grow by 31% in Q3, indicating strong market demand [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to optimize the Atkins brand by focusing on high-velocity SKUs and reducing lower-performing products, while continuing to support Quest and Owen's growth [16][18] - Simply Good Foods is positioned as a leader in the nutritional snacking category, focusing on innovation, expanding distribution, and increasing brand awareness [20][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged inflationary pressures impacting margins, particularly from cocoa and whey, and emphasized ongoing productivity and cost management efforts [9][10] - The company expects to generate approximately 3% organic growth and mid-single-digit total adjusted EBITDA growth for the fiscal year [10] Other Important Information - The company has repaid $240 million of the $250 million borrowed for the acquisition of Owen, with a current leverage ratio of approximately 0.5 times [10][27] - Cash flow from operations for the fiscal year to date was $133 million, down from $167 million the previous year due to higher working capital needs [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: Distribution expectations for Atkins and impact on sales - Management expects continued double-digit declines for Atkins due to distribution cuts, but is proactively addressing these challenges with retailers [38][40] Question: Performance expectations for Owen - Management remains confident in Owen's growth potential, anticipating similar consumption trends as seen in Q3 [46][50] Question: Gross margin outlook and pricing strategy - Management is evaluating additional pricing actions to recover costs and support gross margins, which are currently under pressure [97][70] Question: Capital allocation priorities - The company prioritizes M&A, debt repayment, and share buybacks as part of its capital allocation strategy [99][100] Question: Impact of Texas legislation on product portfolio - Management believes the impact of new regulations will be minimal, with only a few SKUs requiring reformulation [110]
Pure Cycle(PCYO) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-07-10 13:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Quarterly revenues reached $5 million, with gross profits of approximately $3.2 million, reflecting a gross margin of about 63% [7] - Net income for the quarter was over $2 million, translating to earnings per share of $0.09, while year-to-date net income stood at $7 million, or $0.29 per share [9][15] - Revenue trends showed a slight decline from previous quarters, primarily due to weighted deliveries of lots, particularly from the largest homebuilder, D.R. Horton [9][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The water utility segment is driven by annual customer growth and strong tap fees, with a noted decrease in industrial customer demand due to permitting issues [16][17] - The oil and gas segment is expected to normalize in fiscal 2026 after a weaker performance in 2025 due to permitting concentration [19][20] - The land development segment is on track to deliver all lots for Phase 2C in the fourth quarter, with ongoing activities in Phase 2D [21][22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company operates in a low inventory environment for entry-level homes in the Denver area, which is beneficial for its market positioning [55] - The housing market faces headwinds from consumer confidence and affordability issues, but the company remains one of the few entry-level master plan communities available [53][54] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on maintaining liquidity to invest in business segments and capitalize on market opportunities, particularly in land acquisition and water rights [52][53] - The strategic emphasis is on delivering finished lots in real-time to meet builder demands, thereby enhancing partnerships with homebuilders [39][40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted the importance of consumer confidence in the housing market and noted that mortgage rates are less of a headwind than in previous years [54][55] - The company anticipates strong growth in the single-family rental segment over the next 18 months, with plans to reach close to 100 units [51][52] Other Important Information - The company has a robust balance sheet with high liquidity, allowing it to navigate volatile markets effectively [52] - A groundbreaking for a new high school project was announced, which is expected to enhance community appeal and support home sales [44][45] Q&A Session Summary Question: Is there any development on the reservoir sites? - Management indicated that while there are no immediate developments, there are ongoing discussions regarding water rights and potential partnerships for future projects [69][70] Question: Where will the water for the new parcel development be sourced? - The water will be sourced from the city of Aurora, as the property has been annexed to the city for over twenty years [71][72] Question: What is the status of the water rights application mentioned in the 10-K filing? - Management explained that the application for new water rights was complicated and did not prevail, but they are working on finding a resolution with opposing groups [74][75]
Yoshitsu (TKLF) - 2025 H2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-07-10 13:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue increased by 7.4% from $195.7 million to $210.1 million for fiscal year 2025 [10] - Net income decreased to $6.6 million from $7.5 million in fiscal year 2024, primarily due to foreign currency exchange losses [12] - Basic earnings per share were $0.16 for fiscal year 2025 compared to $0.20 for fiscal year 2024 [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue from directly operated stores grew by 14.4%, contributing $17.1 million [10] - Revenue from franchise stores and wholesale customers increased by 9.1% to $185.5 million, accounting for 88.3% of total revenue [6][10] - The total stock keeping unit (SKU) increased to 201,300 from approximately 151,700, indicating significant growth in product offerings [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company opened five new directly operated stores in the United States, Canada, and Hong Kong, enhancing brand recognition [6] - Revenue from collectible cards and training toys totaled $11.4 million, representing 5.4% of total revenue [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on optimizing local operations by converting some directly operated stores into franchise stores to enhance cash flow [5] - Plans to enter new markets include opening stores in Vietnam and Australia, and establishing a presence in the Middle East [9] - The company aims to strengthen its market footprint while exploring new partnership opportunities and improving operational efficiency [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in driving sustainable growth and exploring new opportunities while enhancing customer loyalty [8] - The company remains committed to enhancing financial performance through robust business strategies and disciplined cost management [13] Other Important Information - The company received a Goldsmith Award in the retail medium-sized category at the 21st Annual International Business Awards, highlighting market recognition [7] Q&A Session Summary - No specific questions and answers were provided in the content, thus this section is not applicable.
Aehr Test(AEHR) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-07-08 22:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported revenue of $59 million for the fiscal year, down 11% year-over-year [46] - Non-GAAP gross margin for the full year was 44%, compared to 49.6% in the prior year [46] - Non-GAAP net income for the fiscal year was $4.6 million, or $0.15 per diluted share, down from $35.8 million, or $1.21 per diluted share, in the previous year [46] - Fourth quarter revenue totaled $14.1 million, a 15% decrease compared to $16.6 million in Q4 last year [47] - Non-GAAP gross margin for Q4 was 34.7%, down from 51.5% in the same period last year [49] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - AI processor burn-in now accounts for over 35% of total revenue, up from 0% last year [47] - WaferPak revenues were $4.2 million, representing 30% of total revenue in Q4 [48] - Sales of packaged part burn-in systems accounted for 44% of Q4 revenue [49] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has diversified its revenue sources, with silicon carbide devices making up less than 40% of revenue this fiscal year, down from over 90% last year [8] - The company is expanding into new markets, including gallium nitride power semiconductors and silicon photonics integrated circuits [29][33] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to increase research and development investments to support product enhancements and expand its AI customer base [40][55] - The focus for the upcoming fiscal year includes securing and executing orders across various market verticals, with expectations of order growth [41] - The company has completed the integration of InCal, which is expected to create synergies and reduce facility costs by over $800,000 per year [44] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term outlook despite temporary withdrawal of financial guidance due to tariff-related uncertainties [41][54] - The company anticipates growth opportunities in diverse markets, particularly in AI processors and gallium nitride power semiconductors [54] Other Important Information - The company has no debt and continues to invest excess cash in money market funds [52] - The class action claims against the company were voluntarily dismissed, with no related proceedings currently pending [53] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on customer list in investor deck - The updated customer list reflects current customers from the InCal package part burn-in side of the business, not prospects [58][60] Question: AI market potential compared to silicon carbide - The AI market is expected to be significantly larger than the silicon carbide market, with estimates suggesting it could be three to five times larger [63][66] Question: Gross margin decline explanation - The decline in gross margin is attributed to a mix issue, with lower-margin packaged part systems contributing to the overall decrease [72][73]
Kura Sushi USA(KRUS) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-07-08 22:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total sales for the fiscal third quarter were $74 million, compared to $63.1 million in the prior year period, representing a growth of approximately 17.5% [15][20] - Comparable sales growth was negative 2.1%, with traffic down 2.9% and price/mix up 0.8% [8][15] - Cost of goods sold as a percentage of sales improved to 28.3% from 29.2% in the prior year quarter [9][17] - Labor costs as a percentage of sales increased to 33.1% from 32.6% in the prior year quarter due to wage inflation [17][19] - Restaurant level operating profit margin was 18.2%, down from 20% in the prior year quarter [9][19] - Adjusted EBITDA increased to $5.4 million from $4.5 million in the prior year quarter, a 20% increase [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company opened three new restaurants during the third quarter and two more subsequent to the quarter end, achieving its unit development guidance of 14 new restaurants for the fiscal year [9][10] - The class of 2025 restaurants has performed well, with many exceeding expectations shortly after opening [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Comparable sales in the West Coast market were flat, while the Southwest market saw a decline of 2.5% [15][17] - The company is focusing on smaller DMAs, with successful openings in Bakersfield, California, and plans for further expansion into markets like Des Moines, Richmond, and Tulsa [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is implementing a new reservation system, which has been rolled out across all restaurants ahead of schedule, and is expected to drive operational efficiencies and improve customer experience [7][13] - There is a renewed focus on intellectual property collaborations, with seven to eight lined up for fiscal 2026, which is a record for the company [11][12] - The company aims to achieve a 50-50 split between new and existing markets by fiscal 2027, with ongoing development in previously unexplored DMAs [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about sequential improvement in comparable sales performance each month of the quarter [8][15] - The company is confident in achieving a 20% plus operating margin in fiscal 2026, supported by a strong pipeline of IP collaborations and the reservation system [46][47] - Management noted that labor inflation is expected to moderate in the upcoming quarter, which should help with labor cost leverage [32] Other Important Information - The company has $93 million in cash and no debt at the end of the fiscal third quarter [20] - General and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales were reduced to 11.8% from 14% in the prior year quarter, attributed to lower public company costs and operational efficiencies [18][19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the new reservation system and its impact on same-store sales? - Management noted that the reservation system rollout began in late February and showed sequential improvement in sales performance, particularly in May when the first IP campaign was introduced [25][26][29] Question: What are the expectations regarding labor costs and inflation? - The company expects mid to low single-digit labor inflation in Q4, which should improve labor cost leverage if sales are positive [31][32] Question: Can you provide insights on tariff implications and their impact on costs? - Management indicated that they do not foresee a significant impact from tariffs on food and beverage costs, and they are negotiating with suppliers to share any potential cost increases [40][41][42] Question: What is the outlook for restaurant margins moving forward? - Management acknowledged that achieving a 20% margin in fiscal 2025 is challenging but remains confident in reaching that target in fiscal 2026 due to improved sales and operational efficiencies [44][46] Question: How is the company managing general and administrative expenses? - The company is focused on maintaining tight control over hiring and operational efficiencies, which has led to a reduction in G&A expenses as a percentage of sales [79][81] Question: Can you discuss the performance of new store openings? - The class of 2025 openings has been strong, particularly in the Pacific Northwest, and management is optimistic about future openings in new markets [56][57] Question: What are the expectations for the light rice initiative? - The light rice option has been well-received in test markets, and management is confident it will drive increased sales and customer satisfaction [122][124]
Aehr Test(AEHR) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-07-08 22:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported revenue of $59 million for fiscal year 2025, down 11% year-over-year [46] - Non-GAAP gross margin for the full year was 44%, compared to 49.6% in the prior year [47] - Non-GAAP net income for fiscal year 2025 was $4.6 million, or $0.15 per diluted share, down from $35.8 million, or $1.21 per diluted share in fiscal year 2024 [47] - Fourth quarter revenue totaled $14.1 million, a 15% decrease compared to $16.6 million in Q4 last year [48] - Non-GAAP gross margin for Q4 was 34.7%, down from 51.5% in the same period last year [50] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - AI processor burn-in accounted for over 35% of total revenue in fiscal year 2025, compared to 0% in the previous year [48] - WaferPak revenues were $4.2 million, accounting for 30% of total revenue in Q4 [49] - Sales of Sonoma, Tahoe, and Echo package part burn-in systems accounted for 44% of Q4 revenue [50] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has diversified its market focus, with silicon carbide devices making up less than 40% of revenue in fiscal year 2025, down from over 90% in fiscal year 2024 [6] - The company is expanding into new markets such as gallium nitride power semiconductors and silicon photonics integrated circuits [29][33] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to increase research and development investment to support product enhancements and expand R&D resources [40] - The focus for fiscal year 2026 includes securing and executing orders across various segments, with expectations for order growth [41] - The company plans to leverage its unique technology in wafer-level burn-in solutions to capture a significant share of the AI processor market [22][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about long-term growth opportunities across diverse markets despite uncertainties related to tariffs [54] - The company is confident in its ability to meet potential demand in the AI market and other high-growth sectors [54] - Management noted that the silicon carbide market may experience stronger growth in fiscal year 2027, despite current forecasts suggesting a slowdown [41] Other Important Information - The company completed the integration of InCal, which is expected to create synergies and reduce facility costs by over $800,000 per year [45] - The company has no debt and continues to invest excess cash in money market funds [52] - A class action lawsuit against the company was voluntarily dismissed, with no related proceedings currently pending [53] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on customer list in investor deck - The customer list includes current customers from the InCal package part burn-in side of the business, not prospects [60] Question: Will the 10% customers be named in the K filing? - The new SEC rules do not require naming customers unless prior agreements exist [62] Question: Insights on AI market potential compared to silicon carbide - The AI market is projected to be significantly larger than the silicon carbide market, with estimates suggesting three to five times the size [66]
Kura Sushi USA(KRUS) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-07-08 22:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total sales for the fiscal third quarter were $74 million, compared to $63.1 million in the prior year period, representing a year-over-year increase [14] - Comparable restaurant sales performance was negative 2.1%, with traffic down 2.9% and price and mix positive 0.8% [14] - Cost of goods sold as a percentage of sales improved to 28.3% from 29.2% in the prior year quarter [15] - Labor costs as a percentage of sales increased to 33.1% from 32.6% in the prior year quarter due to wage inflation [15] - Net income was $565,000 or $0.05 per share, compared to a net loss of $558,000 or negative $0.05 per share in the prior year quarter [18] - Adjusted EBITDA increased to $5.4 million from $4.5 million in the prior year quarter, marking a 20% increase [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company opened three new restaurants during the third quarter and two additional units after the quarter ended, achieving its unit development guidance of 14 new restaurants for the fiscal year [7][8] - Restaurant level operating profit margin was 18.2%, down from 20% in the prior year due to increased labor and occupancy costs [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Comparable sales in the West Coast market were flat, while the Southwest market experienced a decline of 2.5% [15] - The company is focusing on smaller DMAs, with successful openings in Bakersfield, California, and plans for further expansion into markets like Des Moines, Richmond, and Tulsa [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to achieve a 50-50 split between new and existing markets by fiscal 2027, with ongoing development in previously unexplored DMAs [10] - A new light rice option was introduced to enhance customer experience and potentially drive sales [12] - The company is revamping its marketing strategy with a record number of collaborations planned for fiscal 2026 [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about sequential improvement in comparable sales performance each month of the quarter [6] - The implementation of the reservation system is expected to drive operational efficiencies and improve customer experience [12] - Management remains cautious about raising guidance too early, reflecting on past experiences [29] Other Important Information - The company has $93 million in cash and no debt at the end of the fiscal third quarter [19] - General and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales are expected to be below 13% for the fiscal year [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about the new reservation system and its impact on same-store sales - Management noted sequential improvement in sales throughout the quarter, with the reservation system rollout contributing positively [25][28] Question: Clarification on tariff implications and cost structure - Management indicated that they are currently assessing the impact of tariffs, with 45% of their basket sourced from Japan, Korea, and Vietnam [40][42] Question: Discussion on restaurant margins and future outlook - Management acknowledged the difficulty in achieving a 20% margin for fiscal 2025 but remains confident in returning to that level in fiscal 2026 [46][48] Question: Insights on new store productivity and market expansion - The company reported that the Class of 2025 openings are performing strongly, particularly in the Pacific Northwest [57] Question: Update on technology initiatives and operational efficiencies - Management highlighted the potential of the robotic dishwasher and ongoing improvements to the reservation system to enhance operational efficiency [109][110]