Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company delivered profitable growth of 8% for the full year 2024 despite a challenging backdrop [36] - Income from operations increased by 6.5% in Q4, excluding foreign currency impacts, driven by gross margin improvements and lower general and administrative expenses [37] - Global retail sales grew approximately 6% for the year, with Q4 total retail sales increasing by 2.3% in the US [38][39] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - US retail sales grew by 5.3% in 2024, with positive order count growth attributed to the revamped rewards program and entry into the aggregator channel [10][11] - Same-store sales growth in the carryout business was over 6% for the year, while delivery saw a decline of 1.4% [38] - The company added 84 net new stores in Q4, bringing the US system store count to 7,014 [42] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved a market share gain of about 1% in the US QSR Pizza segment [8] - International retail sales grew 6.4% in Q4, with same-store sales slightly ahead of expectations at 2.7% [43] - The company expects international same-store sales growth to be in the range of 1% to 2% for 2025 [45] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The "Hungry for More" strategy focuses on delivering renowned value, operational excellence, and product innovation [7][12] - The company plans to launch at least two new products in 2025 to build on momentum [15] - The aggregator channel is seen as a significant growth opportunity, with expectations of a billion dollars in incremental sales over time [26][120] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management anticipates continued pressure on consumer spending and a value-driven QSR marketplace in 2025 [9] - The company is focused on driving market share gains and believes it is well-positioned to succeed in a challenging environment [9][30] - The long-term algorithm for growth remains at 7% or more annual global retail sales growth and operating profit growth of 8% or more [55] Other Important Information - The company announced a 15% increase in its dividend and repurchased approximately 259,000 shares totaling 162,000, which remains best in class [41] Q&A Session Summary Question: 2025 guidance for US same-store sales - Management discussed the expected lower performance in the first half of 2025 compared to the back half, driven by aggregator platform initiatives and marketing strategies [60][62] Question: International same-store sales expectations - Management reiterated the conservative guidance for international same-store sales growth of 1% to 2% due to macroeconomic volatility [72] Question: US unit growth confidence - Management expressed confidence in achieving the target for 2025, citing strong demand for new units and best-in-class economics [80] Question: Price point strategy - Management confirmed that the brand can sustain promotions around the $10 price point while maintaining profitability for franchisees [88] Question: Long-term same-store sales growth - Management emphasized the brand's track record and strategies to sustain growth, including expanding aggregator partnerships and loyalty programs [100][106] Question: International unit growth and market consolidation - Management highlighted strong growth potential in China and India, despite challenges from the Australian master franchisee [141]
Domino’s Pizza(DPZ) - 2024 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript