Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total sales increased by 7% in Q3, following an 11% growth last year, resulting in year-to-date total sales growth of 8% on top of 11% from the previous year [5][14] - Comparable store sales for Q3 rose by 1%, with a significant drop in traffic due to warmer-than-usual weather impacting sales [5][6] - Adjusted EBIT margin for Q3 was 6.2%, up 60 basis points from last year, exceeding guidance [15][19] - Adjusted earnings per share for Q3 was $1.80, representing a 16% increase year-over-year and well above guidance [15][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gross margin rate for Q3 was 44.2%, an increase of 30 basis points year-over-year, driven by a 10 basis point increase in merchandise margin and a 20 basis point decrease in freight expenses [14][15] - Product sourcing costs were $214 million in Q3, slightly up from $209 million last year, but decreased by 40 basis points compared to last year due to supply chain efficiencies [15][17] - Store inventories were down 2% year-over-year, with reserve inventory up 26% in dollar terms, indicating a well-balanced inventory strategy [16][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Southeast region was the strongest performer in Q3, while the Southwest trailed the chain [78] - Strong performance was noted in beauty, accessories, and shoes, while home category sales were softer [78] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to open at least 110 net new stores in 2026, reflecting confidence in the new store pipeline and performance [9][60] - The long-term financial goal remains to achieve approximately $1.6 billion in operating income by 2028, with a focus on margin expansion and new store sales [10][63] - The company is cautious about comp sales growth due to economic uncertainties, planning for flat to 2% growth in 2026 [9][45] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the impact of weather on Q3 sales, noting that once temperatures dropped, comp sales improved to mid-single digits [6][22] - The company remains optimistic about the off-price retail sector, indicating that the shift from traditional retail to off-price is likely to continue [51][52] - Management expressed confidence in the resilience of lower-income customers, who have been performing well despite economic challenges [66] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $61 million in stock during Q3, with $444 million remaining on the repurchase authorization [17] - The company is maintaining its fourth quarter guidance for comp sales growth of flat to 2% and total sales growth of 7% to 9% [18][19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Concerns about relative comp performance versus peers - Management acknowledged a 1% comp in Q3 compared to peers' 6% and 7%, attributing part of the gap to weather but recognizing the need for further analysis on performance differences [28][30] Question: Details on operating margin expansion despite lower comp - Management confirmed that choices made to mitigate tariff impacts contributed to higher margins but may have negatively affected sales [39][41] Question: Risks and opportunities in the 2026 outlook - Management highlighted economic uncertainties as potential risks but noted plans for new store openings and margin improvements [44][45] Question: Potential market share loss to competitors - Management emphasized the importance of the overall off-price sector's health and the opportunity to gain market share from non-off-price retailers [51][52] Question: Pricing strategy in Q3 and Q4 - Management stated a cautious approach to pricing, focusing on maintaining low prices while monitoring market trends [56][57] Question: Trends with lower-income customers - Management reported resilience among lower-income customers, with strong performance in stores located in lower-income areas [66] Question: Guidance for Q4 comp sales and earnings - Management reiterated guidance for Q4 comp sales and increased margin expectations, citing strong trends despite cautiousness [68][70] Question: Availability of off-price merchandise - Management characterized the buying environment for off-price merchandise as strong, with good availability heading into Q4 [72][73]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue grew year over year by 28% to $38 million, continuing record performance [3][4] - Net income increased by 54% to $2.8 million, demonstrating effective revenue conversion into profit [4] - Cash and equivalents rose to $7.3 million from $3.6 million at year-end [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - International revenues grew by 24% year over year, primarily driven by the Indian market [3][4] - The RFID Division faced challenges due to geopolitical tensions and currency fluctuations, but a rebound is expected [14][15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is strategically expanding overseas, particularly targeting India as a major market for wire and connector assembly [3][5] - The defense sector's growth is supported by increasing global defense budgets and replenishment of Israeli defense forces' inventory [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to enhance organic growth through strategic actions and international expansion [5][32] - Plans to open a branch office in India to facilitate sales and reduce costs [25][30] - Targeting profitable acquisitions in the Israeli defense sector to complement existing products [22][34] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about returning to profitability in the RFID Division due to operational adjustments and improved geopolitical conditions [14] - The defense segment is expected to continue growing, with historical growth rates around 7% annually, and even higher during recent years [18][32] Other Important Information - The company has a strong balance sheet with positive working capital of $18 million and no bank debt [7] - The company is raising its full-year 2025 financial guidance, expecting revenue between $45-$48 million and net income between $2.6-$3.1 million [4] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you highlight a couple of expanding opportunities with new customers? - The main new customers are overseas clients from India, with significant recent engagement [11][12] Question: When would you expect revenues from the new Indian customer to impact your P&L? - Revenues from international markets have already impacted the P&L, with a 24% increase noted [12] Question: Can you expand on the loss in the RFID Division and the logistics center slowdown in Israel? - The RFID Division faced challenges due to geopolitical issues and currency devaluation, but a rebound is anticipated [13][14] Question: How much did currency fluctuations impact your P&L? - The US dollar devalued against the Israeli shekel by about 11%, creating approximately $500,000 in additional cost pressure [15][16] Question: What is the impact of the end of the war in Gaza on your business? - The defense segment is expected to grow despite geopolitical tensions, while the civil market may not benefit from the war [17][18] Question: How do you intend to make the company less cyclical and more sustainable? - By increasing international sales and diversifying the product portfolio, the company aims to reduce cyclical exposure [31][32] Question: Are you looking at any specific M&A opportunities? - The company plans to close an M&A deal within the next year, targeting profitable companies in the defense sector [34][40]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue for the third quarter was $644.5 million, a decrease of 4.8% from $679.8 million in the prior year period, primarily due to weaker demand in domestic ag, construction, and Australia segments, offset by strength in Europe [17][19] - Gross profit was essentially flat at $111 million compared to $110.5 million in the prior year, with gross profit margin expanding to 17.2% from 16.3% [17][19] - Net income for the third quarter was $1.2 million, or earnings per diluted share of $0.05, compared to net income of $1.7 million, or earnings per diluted share of $0.07 for the same period last year [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Domestic ag segment revenue decreased by 12.3% to $420.9 million, with pre-tax income increasing to $6.1 million from $1.8 million in the prior year due to improved equipment margins and lower operating expenses [19][20] - Construction segment same-store sales decreased by 10.1% to $76.7 million, resulting in a pre-tax loss of $1.7 million compared to a pre-tax loss of $0.9 million in the prior year [19][20] - Europe segment saw same-store sales increase by 88% to $117 million, with pre-tax income rising to $3.5 million from a pre-tax loss of $1.2 million in the prior year, driven by EU subvention funds [20][21] - Australia segment same-store sales decreased by 40% to $29.9 million, with a pre-tax loss of $3.8 million compared to a pre-tax loss of $0.3 million in the prior year [20][22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Domestic farmers are facing headwinds from depressed commodity prices, government shutdown impacts, and higher interest expenses, leading to a challenging demand environment [12][14] - European performance was strong in Romania due to EU subvention funds, but underlying demand remains soft without this stimulus [15][48] - Australia is experiencing industry volumes below prior trough levels, with expectations for fourth quarter revenues to be closer to the prior year [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on inventory optimization, raising its full-year inventory reduction target to $150 million from $100 million, having already reduced total inventory by $98 million [7][24] - The company is optimizing its footprint by divesting underperforming dealerships, particularly in Germany, and focusing on high-performing markets [10][10] - The dual-brand strategy is being expanded, with recent access to New Holland distribution rights in Australia, enhancing customer service and market share [11][59] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in exceeding inventory reduction targets and emphasized the importance of maintaining customer relationships and service excellence [6][8] - The agricultural equipment market remains challenging, with no near-term recovery expected, but the company is positioning itself for improved performance when conditions improve [16][28] - Future expectations for construction and Europe segments have been refined, with construction expected to decline 5%-10% and Europe expected to increase 35%-40% [25] Other Important Information - The company is refining its fiscal 2026 modeling assumptions, with anticipated moderation in equipment margins due to less favorable sales mix and ongoing inventory optimization efforts [25][26] - A non-cash valuation allowance is expected to increase reported tax expense by approximately $0.35-$0.45 per share, impacting earnings per share guidance [27][28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Service revenue down year-over-year - Management noted that service revenue is generally flat in a challenging environment, with expectations for sustainable growth in the long term [34][35] Question: Construction segment performance - Management explained that the decline in construction sales is partly due to last year's backlog catch-up and that stability is being observed in the overall market [36][40] Question: Europe segment outlook - Management indicated that while Romania's performance was strong, weather conditions and subsidy expiration may impact future performance, with expectations for a pullback [46][48] Question: Inventory management and outlook - Management confirmed that inventory reduction targets are based on ongoing efforts and market conditions, with a focus on managing aged inventory [76][84] Question: Consolidation of CNH brands - Management stated that they are aligned with CNH's strategy for brand consolidation, with approximately one-third of their footprint already dual-branded [89][90]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The cash position as of September 30 was $102.6 million, with no debt reported [15] - Cash utilized in operating activities during the quarter was $8.6 million, with a current cash balance of over $120 million, indicating a cash runway of more than three years at the current utilization rate [16] - Research and development expenses for the quarter were $7.3 million, down from $11.6 million in the same quarter last year, while general and administrative expenses increased to $3.5 million from $2.7 million [16][17] - The net loss for the quarter was $9.8 million, equating to $0.11 per share [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is focused on advancing its precision medicine compounds, particularly Blarcamesine and ANAVEX®3-71, with ongoing clinical trials and regulatory actions [3][11] - Blarcamesine has shown significant clinical efficacy in slowing cognitive decline in early Alzheimer's disease patients, with a reported decline of less than 2.68 points on the ADAS-Cog13 scale compared to control groups [9][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is exploring regulatory opportunities beyond the European Union and the United States for Blarcamesine [25] - Initial contacts have been made with U.S. authorities regarding the Alzheimer's disease program, with further updates expected [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to expand collaborative initiatives and strategic partnerships while progressing clinical trials and regulatory actions [3] - There is a focus on addressing unmet medical needs in Alzheimer's disease and exploring the potential of ANAVEX®3-71 in treating schizophrenia and depression associated with Alzheimer's [11][14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted the complexity of Alzheimer's disease and the unmet medical need following recent setbacks in the industry, emphasizing the unique mechanism of action of Blarcamesine [23] - The company remains committed to working with regulatory bodies to advance its investigational therapies and is optimistic about the re-examination of Blarcamesine by the CHMP [4][66] Other Important Information - The company has published several scientific studies supporting the efficacy of Blarcamesine, including findings on its mechanism of action and long-term benefits in clinical trials [7][10] - The company plans to present additional data at upcoming conferences, reinforcing its commitment to advancing its therapeutic pipeline [10][73] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the likely commercial impact of the failure of semaglutide on the outlook for Blarcamesine in Alzheimer's disease? - Management noted that the recent setbacks in the industry highlight the unmet medical need and complexity of Alzheimer's disease, positioning Blarcamesine favorably due to its unique mechanism of action [23][24] Question: When is the next formal discussion of Blarcamesine scheduled to take place with the FDA? - Management indicated that updates will follow initial discussions with U.S. regulators and expressed excitement about these discussions [24] Question: What initiatives does Anavex plan near-term to pursue Blarcamesine approval in regions beyond the European Union and the United States? - The company is exploring other regulatory geographies and moving forward to address open questions [25] Question: Can you elaborate on the additional information needed by the CHMP? - Management stated that the focus is on demonstrating that the benefits of Blarcamesine outweigh the risks, including providing objective biomarker data [27][28] Question: Can the AbClear data be included for consideration on re-examination? - Management confirmed that the AbClear data showing significant cognitive benefits will be emphasized in discussions with regulators [31][32] Question: If approval ultimately came from the EMA, how long would a conditional trial take? - Management noted that it is difficult to speculate on timelines but emphasized the significant unmet need for effective treatments [34] Question: How is the company exploring options for marketing Blarcamesine if approved? - Management highlighted the focus on expanding corporate development partnership activities and participation in key industry conferences [38] Question: Does Anavex have support from the community for its re-evaluation? - Management stated that the community is aware of the drug, and the company is committed to the process of gaining regulatory confidence [68]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total sales increased by 7% in Q3, following an 11% growth last year, resulting in year-to-date total sales growth of 8% on top of 11% from the previous year [5][14] - Comparable store sales for Q3 rose by 1%, with a significant drop in traffic due to warmer-than-usual weather impacting sales [5][6] - Adjusted EBIT margin for Q3 was 6.2%, up 60 basis points from last year, exceeding guidance [15][19] - Adjusted earnings per share for Q3 was $1.80, representing a 16% increase year-over-year [15][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gross margin rate for Q3 was 44.2%, an increase of 30 basis points year-over-year, driven by a 10 basis point increase in merchandise margin and a 20 basis point decrease in freight expenses [14][15] - Product sourcing costs were $214 million in Q3, compared to $209 million last year, with a 40 basis point decrease in product sourcing costs as a percentage of sales [15][17] - Store inventories were down 2% year-over-year, indicating effective inventory management despite the weather-driven sales slowdown [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Southeast region was the strongest performer in Q3, while the Southwest trailed the chain [78] - Strong performance was noted in beauty, accessories, and shoes, while home category sales were softer [78] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to open 110 net new stores in 2026, reflecting a strong new store pipeline and performance from new stores [9][60] - The long-term financial goal remains to achieve approximately $1.6 billion in operating income by 2028, with a focus on margin expansion and new store sales [10][63] - The company is cautious about comp sales growth due to economic uncertainty, planning for flat to 2% growth in 2026 [9][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the impact of weather on Q3 sales, noting that once temperatures dropped, comp sales improved to mid-single digits [6][22] - The company remains optimistic about the off-price retail sector, indicating that the shift from traditional retail to off-price is likely to continue [51][52] - Management expressed confidence in the resilience of lower-income customers, who have been outperforming the chain [66] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $61 million in stock during Q3, with $444 million remaining on the repurchase authorization [17] - The company is maintaining its fourth quarter guidance for comp sales growth of 0% to 2% and total sales growth of 7% to 9% [18][19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Concerns about relative comp performance versus peers - Management acknowledged a 1% comp in Q3 compared to peers' 6% to 7%, attributing part of the gap to weather but recognizing the need for further analysis on performance differences [28][30] Question: Details on operating margin expansion despite lower comp - Management confirmed that decisions made to mitigate tariff impacts contributed to higher margins but may have negatively affected sales [39][41] Question: Risks and opportunities in the 2026 outlook - Management highlighted economic uncertainty as a key risk but noted potential tailwinds such as higher tax refunds [44][45] Question: Market share risks from competitors - Management emphasized that the off-price sector's overall health benefits all players, including Burlington, and that market share gains are primarily coming from non-off-price retailers [51][52] Question: Pricing strategy in Q3 and Q4 - Management stated a cautious approach to pricing, avoiding increases unless necessary, and indicated a potential for more aggressive pricing in Q4 depending on market conditions [56][57] Question: New store openings and productivity - Management expressed confidence in the new store pipeline, with recent openings performing well and contributing to total sales growth [60][62]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue for the third quarter was $644.5 million, a decrease of 4.8% from $679.8 million in the prior year period, primarily due to weaker demand in domestic ag, construction, and Australia segments, offset by strength in Europe [17][19] - Gross profit was essentially flat at $111 million compared to $110.5 million in the prior year, with gross profit margin expanding to 17.2% from 16.3% [17][19] - Net income for the third quarter was $1.2 million, with earnings per diluted share of $0.05, compared to net income of $1.7 million or $0.07 per diluted share in the same period last year [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Domestic ag segment revenue decreased by 12.3% to $420.9 million, with pre-tax income increasing to $6.1 million from $1.8 million in the prior year due to improved equipment margins and lower operating expenses [19][20] - Construction segment same-store sales decreased by 10.1% to $76.7 million, with a pre-tax loss of $1.7 million compared to a loss of $0.9 million in the prior year [20] - Europe segment saw same-store sales increase by 88% to $117 million, driven by customers capitalizing on EU subvention funds, with pre-tax income rising to $3.5 million from a loss of $1.2 million [21][22] - Australia segment same-store sales decreased by 40% to $29.9 million, reflecting the normalization of sprayer deliveries after a backlog in fiscal 2025, with a pre-tax loss of $3.8 million compared to a loss of $0.3 million in the prior year [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Domestic farmers face headwinds from depressed commodity prices, government shutdown affecting payments, and higher interest expenses, leading to a challenging demand environment [12][14] - European performance was strong in Romania due to EU funding, but underlying demand remains soft without this stimulus [15] - Australia is experiencing industry volumes below prior trough levels, with expectations for fourth quarter revenues to align more closely with the previous year [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on inventory optimization, having reduced total inventory by $98 million, with a new target of $150 million for the full fiscal year [7][24] - The company is divesting underperforming operations in Germany and optimizing its footprint to focus on high-performing markets [10][16] - The dual-brand strategy is being expanded, with recent access to New Holland distribution rights in Australia, enhancing customer service and market share [11][90] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in exceeding inventory reduction targets and emphasized the importance of maintaining customer relationships and service excellence [6][8] - The agricultural equipment market remains challenging, with expectations for continued low demand without significant improvements in commodity prices or government support [14][16] - Management anticipates a moderation in equipment margins in the fourth quarter due to less favorable sales mix and ongoing inventory optimization efforts [25][26] Other Important Information - The company is refining revenue expectations for construction and Europe segments while maintaining assumptions for domestic ag and Australia [24] - A non-cash valuation allowance is expected to increase reported tax expense by approximately $0.35-$0.45 per share, impacting earnings guidance [27][28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Service revenue down 4%, is it normal seasonality? - Management noted that service revenue is generally stable despite a decline in new equipment deliveries, with expectations for long-term growth [34][35] Question: Construction same-store sales not recovering as expected? - Management explained that last year’s performance was influenced by backlog deliveries, and current stability reflects market conditions [36][40] Question: Guidance for Europe post-subsidies? - Management indicated a potential pullback in Romania's performance but expects stable growth in Bulgaria and Ukraine, with ongoing opportunities [48][50] Question: Inventory reduction guidance and market outlook? - Management clarified that the inventory reduction target reflects ongoing efforts rather than a pessimistic market outlook, with expectations for a seasonal build in the first half of next year [81][84] Question: Contribution of Germany to Europe segment? - Management stated that Germany averaged about $40 million in revenue with a pre-tax loss of $4-$6 million, indicating limited impact on overall performance [97]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the fourth quarter ended September 30, 2025, revenue was $802,000 compared to $935,000 in the prior year quarter, reflecting the conclusion of citrus operations [15] - The net loss attributable to Alico common stockholders was $8.5 million, or $1.11 per diluted share, an improvement from a net loss of $18.1 million, or $2.38 per diluted share in the prior year quarter [15] - For the full fiscal year, revenue was $44.1 million compared to $46.6 million in fiscal 2024, with a net loss of $147.3 million primarily due to non-cash charges related to the strategic transformation [16] - Adjusted EBITDA for fiscal 2025 was $22.5 million, exceeding the $20 million guidance target [16] - The company ended fiscal year 2025 with $38.1 million in cash, significantly up from $3.2 million at the end of fiscal 2024, and reduced net debt to $47.4 million from $89 million [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The final major citrus harvest was completed, marking the end of capital-intensive citrus production operations [4] - Land sales generated $23.8 million from 2,796 acres sold during fiscal 2025, surpassing the $20 million target [17] - Approximately 5,250 acres have been leased to third-party citrus growers, with strong interest from other agricultural sectors [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The establishment of the Corkscrew Grove Stewardship District was approved by the Florida Legislature, validating the development strategy [7] - The entitlement process for the Bonnet Lake property is progressing as expected, with four near-term real estate development projects maintaining an estimated present value of between $335 million and $380 million [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Alico has transitioned from a traditional citrus producer to a diversified land company, focusing on sustainable long-term value creation and conservation [4] - The company aims to optimize agricultural operations and advance residential and commercial development projects, particularly focusing on securing final approvals for Corkscrew Grove Villages [12] - Alico's approach balances high-value development projects with diversified agricultural operations, with 25% of land identified for development and 75% remaining for agriculture [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management emphasized the successful execution of the transformation and the elimination of citrus agricultural volatility, unlocking value in the land portfolio [18] - The company believes it is well-capitalized and strategically focused, with multiple catalysts for value creation in the coming years [19] Other Important Information - Alico has returned over $190 million of capital to shareholders since 2015 through dividends, share repurchases, and debt reduction [10] - The company has a market capitalization of approximately $240 million, with a net debt of $47.4 million, indicating a significant valuation disconnect compared to the estimated land portfolio value of $650 million to $750 million [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the expected cadence of the land sales in the next 12 months? - Management has not provided guidance on additional land sales for fiscal year 2026 [22]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue grew year over year by 28% to $38 million, continuing record performance [3][4] - Net income increased by 54% to $2.8 million, demonstrating effective revenue conversion into profit [4] - Cash and equivalents rose to $7.3 million from $3.6 million at year-end [7] - Shareholders' equity amounts to $25 million, representing 66% of the balance sheet [7] - The company raised its full-year 2025 financial guidance, expecting revenue between $45-$48 million and net income between $2.6-$3.1 million [4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - International revenues grew by 24% year over year, primarily driven by the Indian market [3][4] - The RFID Division faced challenges due to geopolitical issues and currency fluctuations, but a rebound is expected in the fourth quarter [14][15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is strategically expanding overseas, particularly targeting India as a major market for wire and connector assembly [3][5] - The defense sector's growth is supported by increased global defense budgets and replenishment of Israeli defense forces' inventory [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to enhance organic growth through strategic actions and international expansion [5] - Plans to open a branch office in India to facilitate sales and reduce costs [25][30] - The company is targeting profitable acquisitions in the Israeli defense sector to complement its offerings [22][34] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the geopolitical stabilization in the Middle East positively impacting growth [5] - The company believes that the defense segment will continue to grow, even in times of peace, due to consistent defense budget increases [18][32] - Management is focused on reducing cyclicality by increasing international sales and diversifying the product portfolio [32] Other Important Information - The company has a positive working capital of $18 million and minimal long-term debt [7] - The price-to-earnings ratio for B.O.S. is 11, compared to 20 for the Russell 2000 index, indicating attractive valuation [7] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you highlight a couple of expanding opportunities with new customers? - Management mentioned new overseas clients, particularly from India, as a significant focus [11][12] Question: When do you expect revenues from the new Indian customer to impact your P&L? - Revenues from international markets have already impacted the P&L, with a 24% increase noted [12] Question: Can you expand on the loss in the RFID Division? - The RFID Division faced challenges due to geopolitical issues and currency fluctuations, but a rebound is expected [14] Question: How much did currency fluctuations impact your P&L? - The US dollar's devaluation against the shekel created approximately $500,000 in additional cost pressure [15] Question: What is the impact of the end of the war in Gaza on your business? - The defense segment is expected to grow due to ongoing demand, while the civil market may not benefit from the war [17] Question: How do you intend to make the company less cyclical? - Increasing international sales and diversifying the product portfolio are key strategies to reduce cyclicality [32] Question: Are you looking at any specific M&A opportunities? - The company plans to close an M&A deal within the next year, targeting profitable companies in the defense sector [34][40]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record net sales of $1.3 billion, up 7% year-over-year, marking the 12th consecutive quarter of growth [5][15] - Gross margin was 62.5% and operating margin was 12%, both impacted by approximately 210 basis points due to tariffs [6][17] - Earnings per share exceeded expectations at $2.36, compared to $2.50 in the previous year [7][17] - The company repurchased $100 million worth of shares in the quarter, totaling $350 million year-to-date, representing 9% of shares outstanding at the beginning of the year [5][18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Abercrombie brands saw net sales decline by 2% with comparable sales down 7%, while Hollister brands experienced a 16% increase in net sales and 15% in comparable sales [8][16] - The sequential improvement in Abercrombie was led by women's categories, with a strong transition to cold-weather products [9][10] - Hollister's growth was attributed to balanced contributions from both men's and women's categories, with strong cross-channel traffic [10][11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Americas, net sales increased by 7%, while EMEA also saw a 7% increase, offset by a 6% decline in APAC [15][18] - Comparable sales in the Americas were up 4%, EMEA up 2%, and APAC down 12% [15] - The U.K. showed strong sales performance, while Germany and other European markets experienced softness [8][15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on sustainable long-term growth through investments in marketing, stores, and technology, including AI enhancements in customer service [12][13] - Plans for the fourth quarter include maintaining inventory aligned with trends and executing a strong marketing strategy [10][22] - The company aims to open 60 new stores and remodel 40 existing ones, expecting to be net store openers [20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate the dynamic tariff environment and emphasized readiness for the holiday season [13][22] - The outlook for full-year net sales growth has been narrowed to 6%-7%, reflecting strong third-quarter performance [19] - The company anticipates a tax rate around 30% and expects net income per diluted share in the range of $10.20-$10.50 for the full year [20][21] Other Important Information - The company is leveraging its diversified sourcing footprint to mitigate tariff impacts and is focused on maintaining clean inventory levels [77][78] - The marketing strategy includes collaborations with brands like Taco Bell and Kimo Sabe to enhance brand awareness and customer engagement [52][54] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on Abercrombie brand performance by category and region - Management highlighted positive traffic and customer engagement, with strong inventory in key categories like denim and fleece heading into the fourth quarter [26][27] Question: Expectations for Hollister's momentum and future growth - Management noted balanced growth across genders and categories, with strong AUR growth and effective inventory management [33][34] Question: Composition of inventory and gross margin considerations for Q4 - Inventory is in good shape, with a 5% year-over-year increase at cost, and management expects continued AUR growth despite tariff impacts [42][43] Question: Marketing plans and promotional strategies for Q4 - Management confirmed increased marketing investment while maintaining flexibility in promotional strategies to optimize customer engagement [61][68] Question: Tariff impacts and pricing strategies for 2026 - Management expects to see relief from tariff headwinds in 2026 due to ongoing mitigation efforts and targeted price increases [76][84]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported full year revenue of approximately $2.3 billion, which was about $300 million below expectations due to delays in ramping up a new manufacturing facility [8][20] - Adjusted gross margin reached a record of approximately 13.7% for the year, exceeding expectations, while adjusted EBITDA was approximately $19.5 million, at the top end of guidance [8][22] - The company ended the quarter with approximately $1.3 billion in liquidity, an increase of $300 million compared to the end of fiscal 2024 [9][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company signed more than $1.4 billion in orders during the fourth quarter, bringing the backlog to $5.3 billion, setting the stage for growth in 2026 [7][9] - Annual recurring revenue (ARR) ended at $148 million, slightly above the original guidance of $145 million [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Approximately half of the record $1.4 billion order intake in Q4 came from projects located in Australia, with expectations for the US market to be the largest contributor in fiscal 2026 [9][10] - The company has seen a significant increase in larger deals, with 38 projects of at least 1 gigawatt hour in the pipeline, more than double from the previous year [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on capitalizing on the accelerating demand for energy storage solutions, driven by declining capital costs and increasing electricity demand from renewables and data centers [9][10] - The introduction of the SmartStack product is expected to be a key differentiator, with plans for it to represent a majority of orders in the upcoming fiscal year [14][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in meeting delivery commitments and capturing revenue shortfalls in fiscal 2026, despite challenges faced in the previous year [8][16] - The company anticipates investing about $200 million in fiscal 2026, with a revenue guidance range of $3.2 billion to $3.6 billion, reflecting strong backlog coverage [24] Other Important Information - The company has made significant progress in addressing production issues at its Arizona facility and is on track to meet production targets by the end of the calendar year [16][22] - A second supplier for domestic battery cells has been secured, which is compliant with regulations, further supporting the company's growth strategy [17][18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Changes in the competitive environment - Management noted that while the international market remains competitive, there is a shift in the US towards customers preferring US or non-PFE manufacturers [34] Question: Future gross margin expectations - Management indicated that the goal is to continue improving gross margins beyond the 11-13% range in the coming years [36] Question: Data center market sizing and Fluence's market share - Management acknowledged that the total addressable market (TAM) for data centers is significantly higher than previously estimated, with ongoing discussions about capturing a larger share [42][49] Question: Q4 underperformance and manufacturing delays - Management expressed disappointment over Q4 performance, attributing it to staffing challenges at the enclosure manufacturing facility, which have since been addressed [58][62] Question: Incremental capacity from new cell supplier - Management confirmed that the new supplier will provide sufficient capacity to meet projected loads for the next couple of years without material deposit commitments [64] Question: Long-duration storage solutions - Management stated that SmartStack will be the primary solution for long-duration storage, emphasizing its competitive advantages [98] Question: Breakdown of opportunities for data centers - Management highlighted the ability of their technology to address multiple needs for data centers, including interconnection flexibility, backup power, and power quality [104]