Knife River pany(KNF) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is positioned for its most profitable year in history, forecasting record revenue, net income, and adjusted EBITDA [5][22] - The first quarter results were in line with expectations, with a seasonal loss of approximately 8% of annual EBITDA due to recent acquisitions [8][10] - SG&A expenses increased by $13 million compared to the prior year, primarily due to acquisition-related costs and business development activities [29][30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Aggregate product line saw a 6% year-over-year increase in average selling price, but overall volumes were down 9% due to lower demand in Oregon and weather impacts [25][26] - Ready mix revenue increased by 9% driven by higher average selling prices and volume growth, with expectations for high teens volume growth for the full year [26][27] - Contracting services experienced higher revenues, particularly in the Mountain segment, but gross profit was lower compared to the previous year due to project types and incentives recognized [27][28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has a strong public project backlog, representing 87% of total backlog, with increased bidding activity noted in recent months [16][17] - The West segment saw revenue and EBITDA increases, particularly in Hawaii and California, while Oregon faced decreased demand due to funding issues [19][20] - The Mountain segment is benefiting from new transportation funding in Idaho, with positive signs for future growth [20][21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is actively pursuing an acquisition program, having closed on Strata Corporation and planning further deals focused on materials-led companies [6][10] - Investments in operational improvements and competitive edge strategies are expected to drive long-term profitable growth [6][12] - The company is committed to safety and operational excellence as part of its corporate culture [13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term strategy despite macroeconomic uncertainties, highlighting a resilient business model insulated from tariff impacts [6][7] - The company anticipates benefiting from significant infrastructure investment needs, with a strong funding backdrop for public projects [14][15] - Management remains optimistic about achieving record results for the full year, supported by recent acquisitions and ongoing operational improvements [22][32] Other Important Information - The company has approved$ 68 million for organic growth projects for the full year, with significant capital expenditures planned [30][31] - The company ended the quarter with $86 million in unrestricted cash and no borrowings on its revolver, indicating strong liquidity [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Resiliency in private construction markets - Management noted that Hawaii, California, and Texas are showing positive activity in private construction, while Oregon and Montana are experiencing pressure [38][40] Question: Update on Strata integration - The integration of Strata is progressing well, with expectations for positive contributions to margins and overall operations [41][44] Question: Volumes across segments - Management indicated that while the first quarter saw a 9% decline in aggregate volumes, 70% of states experienced increases, and they remain confident in achieving guidance numbers [49][50] Question: End market mix post-acquisitions - The company confirmed that 87% of construction contracting revenue is from public works, with Strata's addition slightly increasing private market influence [52][53] Question: SG&A clarification - Management provided a breakdown of the$ 13 million increase in SG&A, attributing $8 million to the step-up in investment and$ 4 million to acquisition-related costs [60][62] Question: Impact of delayed private projects - Delays are primarily in private projects, with expectations for many to resume in the third quarter, particularly in the West Coast region [96][100] Question: Future investment and margin targets - The $20 million step-up in SG&A is seen as an investment in future growth, with management confident in reaching long-term margin targets [92][95]