
Financial Performance - The company generated net sales of 4.9 trillion by 2027[25]. - For the year ended December 31, 2024, net sales decreased by 5% to 1.8 billion, reflecting a 6% increase from 2023, with a record gross margin of 20.3%, up approximately 210 basis points[179]. - Earnings from operations decreased to 249.7 million, with diluted net earnings per share at 281.3 million and 632.8 million, with net repayments of 500.0 million in Senior Notes issued[183]. - Interest expense increased by 41% to 7.1 billion, driven by a 10% decline in hardware sales, partially offset by a 3% increase in software sales and a 7% increase in services[192]. - EMEA net sales decreased by 10% to 233,021 thousand in 2024, with services and software sales rising by 8% and 5%, respectively, while hardware sales decreased by 19%[196]. Strategic Initiatives and Acquisitions - The company completed several strategic acquisitions, including Amdaris in 2023 and Infocenter in 2024, to enhance its capabilities in cloud services and digital transformation[28]. - The company acquired Infocenter in May 2024 to enhance digital transformation capabilities, leveraging their expertise in ServiceNow[179]. - The company aims to drive profitable growth by focusing on high performance, operational excellence, and aligning sales capabilities with client needs[33]. Workforce and Culture - As of December 31, 2024, the company employed 14,324 teammates, with 11,019 in North America, 2,809 in EMEA, and 496 in APAC[63]. - The company has a diverse workforce with over 1,600 active members in eleven teammate resource groups[61]. - The company offers robust leadership training centered around creating clarity, inspiring people, demonstrating thought leadership, and delivering results[61]. - The company maintains strong relationships with teammates and has never experienced a labor-related work stoppage[64]. Risks and Challenges - The company faces aggressive pricing competition in the industry, which is expected to continue, potentially leading to reduced market share and operating margins[93]. - Competitors may have greater resources and quicker responses to market changes, which could adversely affect the company's ability to compete effectively[94]. - Economic conditions, including potential recessions and reduced IT spending, could adversely impact the company's business and financial condition[100]. - Government spending policies and budget cuts may lead to reduced purchases from public sector clients, affecting revenue[101]. - International operations expose the company to various risks, including currency fluctuations and changes in foreign regulations, which could impact profitability[112]. - Disruptions in the supply chain due to manufacturing delays or natural disasters could hinder the company's ability to meet client demands[114]. - The company is subject to risks associated with its IT systems; disruptions could affect service delivery and incur additional expenses[118]. Financial Obligations and Debt - As of December 31, 2024, the company had 217.6 million in obligations under inventory financing agreements[136]. - 500.0 million in senior unsecured notes due 2032 and can borrow an additional 1.8 billion available under its senior secured credit facility, which may be affected by interest rate fluctuations[139]. - Compliance with financial covenants is crucial to avoid events of default, impacting the company’s ability to operate effectively[140]. Technology and Innovation - The company has a strong emphasis on cybersecurity solutions, which enhance resilience and mitigate risks for clients[39]. - The company’s digital workplace solutions aim to create productive, flexible, and secure work environments for clients[43]. - The company has invested in digital marketing capabilities over the past few years and plans to continue these investments to enhance marketing effectiveness[57]. - The company does not maintain a traditional research and development group but recognizes the importance of intellectual property, protecting it through various legal means[69]. - Rapid technological advancements in areas such as cloud, AI, and IoT require the company to invest in new technologies to maintain a competitive advantage[99]. - The development and use of Gen AI technologies may lead to increased liability exposure and competitive risks due to technical challenges[129]. Performance Metrics and Adjustments - The company’s solutions mix includes approximately 43% product and 57% services in gross profit for 2024, compared to 46% and 54% in 2023[47]. - Adjusted earnings from operations increased by 2% to 421,977 thousand[210]. - The company uses adjusted non-GAAP earnings to evaluate financial performance against budgeted amounts and to assist in forecasting future performance[218]. - Non-GAAP financial measures provide greater transparency and facilitate comparisons to prior periods and competitors' results[218]. - The company believes that non-GAAP measures are useful for investors but should not be considered a substitute for GAAP measures[218].