Karl Green

Karl Green of RBC Capital Markets inquired about the profitability of the Education and Business & Industry segments compared to pre-pandemic levels, their future potential, and the per capita spending growth in the Sports & Leisure business.

Answer

CFO Jim Tarangelo noted that Education revenues are well above fiscal 2019 levels and that overall U.S. margins are approaching pre-pandemic benchmarks. CEO John Zillmer stated that per capita spending in Major League Baseball is running ahead of expectations and remains very strong.

Karl Green asked for the outlook on CapEx over the next 12-18 months and its effect on free cash flow. He also requested a breakdown of the 15% increase in sports per capita spending between pricing and service efficiencies.

Answer

CFO Jim Tarangelo projected that full-year capital expenditures would be approximately 3% of revenue, consistent with historical levels, despite being slightly higher year-to-date. He attributed the 15% per capita spending increase on MLB opening day to roughly one-third from price and two-thirds from operational efficiencies and increased transaction flow-through.

Karl Green asked for an update on the percentage of sales from own-label products and the group's gross margin evolution. He also inquired if the current interest rate environment is influencing the willingness of private business owners to sell, potentially impacting the M&A pipeline.

Answer

CEO Frank van Zanten stated that own-label and imported products now constitute about 26% of sales and have grown. He believes the M&A climate is positive, as the pandemic prompted many private owners to consider de-risking their wealth, leading to an active pipeline. CFO Richard Howes reported that the group gross margin is up to approximately 25.1%, supported by a favorable business mix and the introduction of more own-label products.

Karl Green from RBC Europe Ltd. asked for the regional allocation of the net provision benefit and the current outstanding balance sheet provision for loan losses and inventory, seeking a comparison to pre-COVID levels.

Answer

CFO Richard Howes stated that the majority of the provision impact was in North America. He confirmed the outstanding balance is high, comparable to 2008-2009 levels, reflecting pandemic-related disruptions. He noted that since the products are not perishable, he expects these provisions to be released over time as demand normalizes.