Stanley Black & Decker(SWK) Prnewswire·2025-02-05 11:00Core Insights - Stanley Black & Decker reported its seventh consecutive quarter of organic growth, with a fourth quarter gross margin increase driven by a global cost reduction program [1][2][8] - The company generated strong cash flow in the fourth quarter, supporting its capital allocation priorities focused on shareholder dividends and debt reduction [1][2][10] Financial Performance - Fourth quarter revenues were 15.4 billion, down 3% from the prior year, with full year adjusted gross margin at 30% [4][10] Cash Flow and Debt Management - Fourth quarter cash from operating activities was 565 million, contributing to a total debt reduction of 2 billion in pre-tax run-rate cost savings by the end of 2025, with 1.5 billion coming from supply chain transformation [8][12] - The company is focused on mid-single digit organic revenue growth, streamlining operations, and investing in customer-centric initiatives [5][9] Segment Performance - Tools & Outdoor segment sales were 3.2 billion, with a 2% increase driven by volume, while the Industrial segment saw a 15% decline in sales [11][10] - The Tools & Outdoor segment margin was 9.2%, slightly down from the prior year, while the Industrial segment margin was 10.7% [11][10] Future Outlook - The company anticipates muted but stable market demand in the first half of 2025, with potential for positive growth later in the year, particularly in professional construction and aerospace [3][12] - Management plans to provide 2025 planning assumptions, including EPS expectations and strategies to mitigate tariff impacts [12][13]