Release Date: December 11, 2024
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
Positive Points
- METRO AG (WBO:MEO, Financial) has demonstrated significant growth, with a 6% increase in sales, driven by both inflation and volume growth.
- The company has successfully increased its strategic customer share from 66% to 76% over three years, indicating a stronger focus on professional customers.
- METRO AG's own brand share has risen to 24%, enhancing customer loyalty and improving margins.
- The company has made substantial progress in digitalization, with 50% of FSD orders now coming in electronically, contributing to a 14% digital sales share.
- METRO AG has streamlined its operations by reducing SKUs from 900,000 to 500,000, improving working capital and inventory management.
Negative Points
- The company reported a negative earnings per share of minus $0.33, impacted by the sale of India and the campus.
- METRO AG's EBITDA is under pressure due to cost increases and transformation expenses, ending at the lower end of guidance.
- The company faces challenges from external factors such as inflation and geopolitical tensions, impacting cost structures.
- There is a need for significant investment in cybersecurity following a costly cyber attack, adding to operational expenses.
- METRO AG anticipates a negative free cash flow for the next year, leading to an increase in net debt.
Q & A Highlights
Q: You mentioned plans to reform the buying department. Can you elaborate on what changes are expected and how they will impact margins?
A: The focus is on centralizing nonfood sourcing, particularly for own brands, while maintaining local sourcing for ultra-fresh products. The aim is to leverage group buying power for commodities like olive oil and meat, without compromising local assortment competence. The margin improvement is expected from better price positioning and increased volume, not just margin enhancement alone. (Respondent: CEO)
Q: With the current negative earnings per share and expected increase in net debt, will there be a dividend payout next year?
A: The dividend policy remains unchanged, targeting a payout ratio of 40-55% of earnings. However, given the current negative earnings and free cash flow, a dividend payout is unlikely unless financial results improve. (Respondent: CFO)
Q: How does the current geopolitical situation, particularly in Russia, affect Metro's financial performance and stock price?
A: The situation in Russia continues to impact the stock price due to its influence on the free float and liquidity. Despite this, Metro is committed to its long-term strategy, which is supported by the supervisory board and anchor shareholders. (Respondent: CEO)
Q: Can you provide more details on the transformation costs and expected savings from the restructuring initiatives?
A: The transformation costs are primarily related to IT harmonization and centralization efforts, with expected savings of 300 million EUR by 2027/28. This includes reducing non-personnel expenses and optimizing structural costs across the organization. (Respondent: CFO)
Q: What is Metro's approach to ensuring supply security amid changing agricultural conditions in Europe?
A: Metro is actively opening new sourcing markets and maintaining flexibility in its supply chain to ensure both supply and price stability. This involves a strategic approach to sourcing commodities and working closely with suppliers to adapt to changing conditions. (Respondent: CEO)
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
