Lifetime Brands Inc (LCUT) Q1 2025 Earnings Call Highlights: Navigating Challenges with ...

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Release Date: May 08, 2025

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.

Positive Points

  • Lifetime Brands Inc (NASDAQ:LCUT) achieved strong gains in e-commerce, the dollar channel, and club sectors, driven by new product introductions and good point of sale sell-through.

  • The company is on track to complete the relocation of 80% of its manufacturing out of China by the end of 2025, enhancing supply chain flexibility.

  • Lifetime Brands Inc (NASDAQ:LCUT) has successfully mitigated tariff risks by expanding its manufacturing footprint to countries like Mexico, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, and India.

  • The company has identified and eliminated over $10 million in annual costs, focusing on optimizing working capital through improved inventory terms and cash preservation.

  • Lifetime Brands Inc (NASDAQ:LCUT) has a strong balance sheet with approximately $90 million in liquidity, providing a solid foundation to navigate economic uncertainties.

Negative Points

  • Sales for the quarter were down slightly year over year, with a more pronounced impact on gross margin due to shifts in customer and product mix.

  • The company experienced declines in certain product categories within the mass channel, mirroring broader industry patterns.

  • Gross margin decreased to 36.1% from 40.5%, driven by customer and product mix changes.

  • The company decided not to issue formal guidance for the full year 2025 due to a lack of visibility in the current economic environment.

  • Distribution expenses increased due to higher employee costs and software expenses related to the new warehouse management system.

Q & A Highlights

Q: Can you provide additional numbers on the sales decline in mass retail and the increase in e-commerce, club, and dollar store channels? A: The sales decline in mass retail was around $15 million. (Larry Winoker, CFO)

Q: Did the Dolly Parton shipments shift from Q4 to Q1 as expected, and what are your thoughts on this program? A: Yes, the shipments occurred as expected, and the program remains strong, with continued growth anticipated at Dollar General and other retailers. (Rob Tay, CEO)

Q: What is the magnitude of the upcoming price increases, and what impact do you expect on volume? A: The price increases range from 6% to 16%, excluding the 145% tariff items. The impact on volume is uncertain, but the average ticket price remains affordable for consumers. (Rob Tay, CEO)

Q: Why did you decide not to provide guidance this quarter, and how does this compare to other companies? A: The decision was due to a lack of visibility in the current environment, making it difficult to provide accurate guidance. We chose to withhold guidance to avoid speculation. (Rob Tay, CEO)