Cooper Standard(CPS) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - First quarter 2025 sales were $667.1 million, a slight decrease of 1.4$58.7 million, compared to $29.3 million in the first quarter of last year, driven by lean initiatives and restructuring savings [14][17] - Net income for the first quarter of 2025 was$1.6 million, compared to a net loss of $31.7 million in the first quarter of 2024 [15] - Capital expenditures totaled$17.5 million, or 2.6% of sales, consistent with the previous year [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved $20 million in savings through lean initiatives and$8 million from restructuring initiatives in the first quarter [7][8] - The company awarded 55 million in net new business during the first quarter, indicating strong customer demand for new technologies [8][9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The global production forecast for hybrid vehicles has significantly increased, with expectations raised by nearly 4 million units for 2030 and nearly 7 million units for 2035 [23][24] - The hybrid vehicle trend is expected to drive higher average content per vehicle, benefiting the company's fluid business [24][26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on driving profitable growth through sustainable technologies that enhance vehicle efficiency and reduce carbon footprint [22] - The strategic imperatives include innovation, operational efficiency, and corporate responsibility, aiming for double-digit adjusted EBITDA margins and returns on invested capital [20][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in mitigating the impact of tariffs and expects to recover the majority of costs associated with them [28][37] - The company anticipates that clarity around trade policies will improve by the end of the second quarter, allowing for a more meaningful update on full-year guidance [29] - Management remains optimistic about the ability to adapt to market conditions and expects continued support from customers [30][60] Other Important Information - The company was recognized as GM Supplier of the Year for the eighth consecutive year, reflecting its commitment to customer value [9] - The company aims to achieve carbon neutrality in Europe by 2040 and globally by 2050, highlighting its commitment to sustainability [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Is the 2 million in duties and tariffs a timing issue? - Yes, it was a minor impact due to uncertainty about the implementation date, and the company expects to recover these costs [35][36] Question: Is the trajectory of hybrids coming at the expense of electric vehicles? - The increase in hybrid production is driven by consumer preference, and hybrids offer greater content opportunities for the company [40][41] Question: Is the company withdrawing guidance? - No, the company is maintaining its guidance and will provide updates after the second quarter [43][44] Question: What are the key assumptions for achieving a net leverage ratio of around two turns by the end of 2027? - The assumptions include normalized volume production, continued execution of cost reduction initiatives, and profitable growth [72][74]