Q2 2025 ACCO Brands Corp Earnings Call
Ezra: Hello everyone, and welcome to the ACCO Brands Q2 2025 conference call. My name is Ezra, and I will be your coordinator today. If you would like to ask a question, please press star, followed by one on your telephone keypad. If you change your mind, please press star, followed by two. We will be taking questions after the prepared remarks. I will now hand over to Chris McGinnis, Head of Investor Relations, to begin. Please go ahead.
Chris McGinnis: Good morning, and welcome to the ACCO Brands Q2 2025 conference call. This is Chris McGinnis, Senior Director of Investor Relations. Speaking on the call today is Tom Tedford, President and Chief Executive Officer of ACCO Brands Corporation. Tom will provide an overview of our second quarter results and provide an update on our 2025 priorities. Also speaking today is Deborah O'Connor, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, who will provide greater detail on our second quarter results and our outlook for the third quarter and full year. We will then open the line for questions. Slides that accompany this call have been posted to the Investor Relations section of accobrands.com. When speaking about our results, we may refer to adjusted results.
Hello everyone, and welcome to the ACCO Brands second quarter 2025 conference call. My name is Ezra, and I will be your coordinator today. If you would like to ask a question, please press star followed by 1 on your telephone keypad. And if you change your mind, please press star followed by 2. We will be taking questions after the prepared remarks. I will now hand over to Christopher McGinnis, head of investor relations, to begin. Please go ahead.
Good morning and welcome to the echo Brands. Second quarter 2025 conference call.
This is Chris mcginness senior director of investor relations.
Speaking on the call today is Tom Tedford president and chief executive officer of AO Brands Corporation.
Tom will provide an overview of our second quarter results and provide an update on our 2025 priorities.
Also speaking today is Deebo Conor Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer who will provide greater detail on our second quarter results. And our outlook for the third quarter and full year,
We will then open the line for questions.
Slides that accompany this call have been posted to the investor relations section of echo. Brands.com
Chris McGinnis: Adjusted results exclude amortization and restructuring costs, non-cash, goodwill, and intangible asset impairment charges, and other non-recurring items and unusual tax items, and include adjustments to reflect the estimated annual tax rate on quarterly earnings. Schedules of adjusted results and other non-GAAP financial measures and a reconciliation of these measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measures are in the earnings release and slides that accompany this call. Due to the inherent difficulty in forecasting and quantifying certain amounts, we do not reconcile our forward-looking non-GAAP measures. Forward-looking statements made during the call are based on the beliefs and assumptions of management based on information available to us at the time the statements are made. Our forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, and our actual results could differ materially. Please refer to our earnings release and SEC filings for an explanation of certain risk factors and assumptions.
When speaking about our results, we made refer to adjusted results.
Adjusted results exclude Amorous and restructuring costs. Non-cash Goodwill. And intangible asset impairment charges and other non-recurring items and unusual, tax items and include adjustments to reflect the estimated annual tax rate on quarterly earnings.
Schedules of adjustments to the results and other non-GAAP financial measures, as well as a reconciliation of these measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measures, are in the earnings release and slides that accompany this call.
Due to the inherent, difficulty in forecasting and quantifying certain amounts. We do not reconcile, our forward-looking non-gaap measures,
Or looking statements made during the call are based on the beliefs and assumptions of management, based on information available to us at the time the statements are made.
Our forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties and our actual results could differ materially.
Chris McGinnis: Our forward-looking statements are made as of today, and we assume no obligation to update them going forward. Now, I will turn the call over to Tom Tedford.
Tom Tedford: Thank you, Chris. Good morning, everyone, and welcome to ACCO Brands Q2 2025 earnings call. Last night, we reported second quarter sales and adjusted EPS in line with our outlook. Sales in the quarter improved sequentially as customers and consumers digested the evolving global trade environment. We continue to make excellent progress on our $100 million multi-year cost reduction program, realizing additional savings in the second quarter that brought the cumulative program total to over $40 million. We are also making great progress on our tariff mitigation actions. As a multinational company, approximately 60% of sales are outside the U.S., which are not impacted by U.S. tariffs. For those markets, our current supply chain provides excellent value. As we mentioned last quarter, our proactive China Plus One approach in the U.S. has positioned us well to navigate the evolving trade landscape.
Please refer to our earnings release and SEC filings for an explanation of certain risk factors and assumptions. Our 4 looking statements are made as of today, and we assume no obligation to update them going forward. Now, I will turn the call over to Tom tetford.
Thank you, Chris.
Good morning everyone and welcome to Echo Brands, second quarter 2025 earnings call.
Last night, we reported second-quarter sales and adjusted EPS in line with our Outlook.
Sales in the quarter. Improved sequentially as customers and consumers, digested the evolving global trade environment.
We continue to make excellent progress on our 100 million, multi-year cost Reduction Program.
Realizing additional savings in the second quarter, that brought the cumulative program total to over $0 million.
We are also making great progress on our tariff mitigation actions.
As a multinational company, approximately 60% of sales are outside the US.
Which are not impacted by us tariffs.
For those markets, our current supply chain, provides excellent value.
Tom Tedford: To date, we have announced two strategic price increases while maintaining our competitive position, secured improved terms with third-party manufacturing partners, and accelerated production shifts to cost-competitive countries for U.S.-bound products. These efforts are critical to protect profitability and to ensure ACCO Brands has a balanced supply chain optimized for cost, quality, and service. Now turning to our second quarter performance. Consolidated second quarter comparable sales were down 10.5% and within our guidance range. As expected, sales in the Americas segment were disrupted due to the tariff announcements in the U.S., particularly early in the quarter, as our customers adjusted their purchasing plans and monitored the impact to the consumer. Gaming accessories grew modestly in the segment, driven by our leading third-party accessory product assortment, supporting the release of Nintendo's Switch 2 console. Sales for back-to-school products were down in the quarter, as U.S.
As we mentioned last quarter, our proactive China plus 1 in the US has positioned us. Well to navigate the evolving trade landscape.
Today, we have announced 2 strategic price increases while maintaining our competitive position.
Secured improved terms with third-party manufacturing partners and accelerated production shifts to cost-competitive countries for U.S.-bound products.
These efforts are critical to protect profitability and to ensure Aiko brands has a balanced supply chain optimized for cost quality and service.
now, turning to our second quarter performance,
sales, were down 10 and a half percent, and within our guidance range,
As expected sales in the America, segment, were disrupted, due to the Tariff announcements in the US.
Particularly early in the quarter, as our customers adjusted their purchasing plans and monitored the impact to the consumer.
gaining accessories, glue modestly in the segment, driven by our leading, third-party accessory product, assortment supporting the release of Nintendo's, switch to console,
Tom Tedford: retailers were cautious with their early season orders. We forecast our U.S. and Canada back-to-school season to be down mid to high single digits, but it is still early in the season, and stronger consumer demand could improve the forecasted results. We have sufficient inventory to support potential upside from replenishment orders, and our teams are working closely with customers to support their back-to-school demand. In Latin America, sales were weaker than expected, particularly in Mexico, due to a constrained consumer and competition at lower price points. However, we were encouraged by the recent performance, with trends improving in June. In Brazil, sales were down modestly in what is a seasonally low sales quarter. Back-to-school sales occur later in the year in Brazil, and we are closely watching order input and remain positive about our expanded product offering for the upcoming season.
Sales for back to school products were down in the quarter as us retailers were cautious with their early season orders.
We forecast our US and Canada back to school, season to be down, mid to high single digits.
But it is still early in the season and stronger consumer demand could improve the forecasted results.
We have sufficient inventory to support potential upside from replenishment orders, and our teams are working closely with customers to support their back-to-school demand.
In Latin, America sales were weaker than expected. Particularly in Mexico due to a constrained consumer and competition at lower price points.
However, we were encouraged by the recent performance with Trends improving in June.
And Brazil sales were down modestly and what is a seasonally low sales quarter.
Tom Tedford: We are also paying close attention to an increase in low-priced product entering Latin America from China, and we will react accordingly with price and assortment. In the international segment, sales declined, but at an improved rate compared to the first quarter. Gaming accessories grew mid-single digits, driven by the Nintendo Switch 2 launch and our continued international expansion. While sales of office products remained soft in certain European markets like Germany, the U.K., and France, we maintained our grew share in most categories across the region. Looking at our global technology businesses, Kensington Computer Accessories sales declined modestly in the quarter. We expect improving trends in the second half of the year, led by a stabilized market dynamic, a growing pipeline, and revenue from new product introductions.
Back to school sales, occur later in the year, in Brazil, and we are closely watching, order, input and remain positive about our expanded product offering for the upcoming season.
We are also paying close attention to an increase in low-priced products entering Latin America from China.
And we will react accordingly with price and assortment.
And the international segment sales declined.
But at an improved rate compared to the first quarter.
Gaming accessories grew mid-single digits, driven by the Nintendo Switch 2 launch and our continued international expansion.
While sales of office products remained soft in certain European markets, like Germany, the UK, and France.
We maintained our group share in most categories across the region.
Looking at our global technology, businesses, Kensington Computer Accessories sales declined modestly in the quarter.
We expect improving Trends in the second half of the Year led by a stabilized Market Dynamic, a growing Pipeline and revenue from new product. Introductions
Tom Tedford: In gaming accessories, PowerA delivered modest growth across both segments this quarter, highlighted by our role as a Nintendo licensed third-party manufacturer of accessories for the Switch 2 console, which launched globally on June 5th. Our comprehensive product assortment at launch included a wide range of controllers, cases, and other accessories. Many of these products have exclusive IP related to Nintendo games. While Switch 2 related sales were modest in the second quarter, given the timing of the June release, we expect more meaningful sales in the coming quarters as adoption increases and as our product portfolio expands. Global sales of office products were soft in the quarter. We have good syndication of our product assortment, and the lower rate of sales is from our core offerings and due to lower demand. We continue to refine our new product development approach to enhance our category positions and enter faster-growing adjacencies.
in gaming accessories, power a delivered modest growth across both segments this quarter highlighted by our role as an Nintendo licensed, third-party manufacturer of accessories for the switch to console, which launched globally on June 5th.
Our comprehensive product, assortment at launch included, a wide range of controllers cases, and other accessories.
Many of these products have exclusive IP related to Nintendo games.
While Switch 2 related sales were modest in the second quarter, given the timing of the June release, we expect more meaningful sales in the coming quarters as adoption increases and as our product portfolio expands.
Global sales of office products were soft in the quarter.
We have good syndication of our product, assortment, and the lower rate of sales is from our core offerings and due to lower demand.
We continue to refine our new product development approach to enhance our category positions.
And enter faster. Growing adjacencies.
Tom Tedford: Now, let me highlight the progress we're making on our revenue growth initiatives. Within computer accessories, we've improved our innovation pipeline with a number of new product introductions set to double in 2025 compared to 2024. One key product I would like to highlight is our new Thunderbolt 5 docking station supporting Apple users. This feature-rich docking station expands our reach into the premium Apple ecosystem. We are focused on strategically expanding our assortment into higher growth categories through organic and inorganic efforts. The Rapid Tools product line in Europe has entered the Work Lights category, offering professional-grade solutions for do-it-yourself enthusiasts and small business owners. These products leverage our highly trusted Rapid brand while maintaining competitive price points.
Now, let me highlight the progress. We're making on our Revenue growth initiatives.
Within computer accessories, we've improved our innovation pipeline with the number of new product introductions set to double in 2025 compared to 2024.
1 key product, I would like to highlight is our new Thunderbolt 5 docking station supporting Apple users.
This feature-rich docking station expands our reach into the premium Apple ecosystem.
We are focused on strategically expanding our assortment into higher growth categories, through organic and inorganic efforts.
The Repeat Tools product line in Europe has entered the work lights category, offering professional-grade solutions for do-it-yourself enthusiasts and small business owners.
Tom Tedford: Additionally, in Europe, we are expanding our successful ergonomics product portfolio with the innovative New Compaxit Stand Desktop series, specifically designed for the hybrid work environment, along with other complementary ergonomic accessories. Our recent acquisition of Bureau Seating has been fully integrated, strengthening our position in Australia and New Zealand. Given this success, we are evaluating expansion opportunities in additional markets where we see potential for the brand in the product category. Let me update you on our multi-year cost reduction program. In the quarter, we realized $8 million in cost savings, and since the program's inception, have achieved annualized cost savings totaling more than $40 million. Savings have primarily come from optimizing our manufacturing footprint, headcount reductions, and delayering the organizational structure. As a part of these planned efforts, we have recently announced changes to our leadership team with key appointments.
These products. Leverage our highly trusted repeat brand while maintaining competitive price points.
Additionally, in Europe, we're expanding our successful ergonomics product portfolio with the innovative new compact sit-stand desktop series.
specifically designed for the hybrid work environment, along with other complimentary ergonomic accessories.
Our recent acquisition of Bureau Seating has been fully integrated, strengthening our position in Australia and New Zealand.
Given the success, we are evaluating expansion opportunities and additional markets where we see potential for the brand and the product category.
Now, let me update. You on our multi-year cost Reduction Program.
In the quarter, we realized 8 million dollars in cost savings and since the program's Inception have achieved annualized cost savings totaling more than 40 million dollars.
Savings have primarily come from optimizing, our manufacturing footprint, headcount reductions and delaying the organizational structure.
Tom Tedford: Jed Teters and Ruben Spassos assumed leadership positions for North America and Latin America, respectively, effective in July. AJ Spikervett will lead our international segment beginning in 2026. They bring a vast amount of commercial experience, deep product knowledge, and a strong customer relationship that will help accelerate our transformation. These important initiatives, combined with improving demand trends and favorable FX tailwinds, position us for sequential improvement in the third quarter, with sales declines moderating from current levels. The foundational work we are doing today, streamlining our operations, investing in higher growth categories, and optimizing our cost structure, is building a platform for sustainable, profitable growth. While we remain focused on navigating the current market dynamics with discipline and agility, I am confident we are making the right strategic decisions to enhance our competitive position and improve our revenue performance.
As a part of these planned efforts, we have recently announced changes to our leadership team with key appointments.
Jet teachers and Reuben's Passos assumed leadership positions for North America and Latin America respectively effective in July.
And AJ, Spiker Vet will lead our international segment beginning in 2026.
They bring a vast amount of commercial experience.
Deep product knowledge and a strong customer relationships that will help accelerate our transformation.
These important initiatives combined, with improving demand Trends and favorable. FX Tailwind position us for sequential Improvement in the third quarter. With sales, declines moderating from current levels,
The foundational work we're doing today.
Streamlining, our operations investing in higher growth categories and optimizing our cost structure is building a platform for sustainable profitable growth.
While we remain focused on navigating the current market dynamics with discipline and Agility.
I'm confident we're making the right strategic decisions to enhance our competitive position and improve our Revenue performance.
Tom Tedford: Before I hand the call over to Deb, I would like to thank the employees of ACCO Brands for their tireless efforts in support of our strategy. I am proud of our team and the work we are doing to transform our company. I will come back to answer your questions. Deb?
Before I hand the call over to Deb, I would like to thank the employees of AO brands for their tireless efforts in support of our strategy.
I am proud of our team and the work we are doing to transform our company.
I will come back to answer your questions.
Deb.
Deborah O'Connor: Thank you, Tom, and good morning, everyone. As Tom mentioned, second quarter sales and adjusted EPS were in line with the outlook we provided in May. Reported sales in the second quarter decreased 10%, with a slightly favorable FX impact. This decline reflects a quickly changing U.S. marketplace, given the tariff announcement. Initially, there was uncertainty about the environment and the ultimate cost of goods, and many customers ceased purchasing until some clarity developed. This uncertainty lessened as the reciprocal tariffs were delayed and as we progressed throughout the quarter. Overall demand remained soft for our consumer and business products, as well as for computer accessories. Gross profit for the second quarter was $130 million, a decrease of 15%, with the margin rate contracting about 200 basis points to 32.9%.
Thank you, Tom, and good morning, everyone.
As Tom mentioned, second quarter sales and adjusted EPS are in line with the outlook we provided in May.
Reported sales in the second quarter decreased 10% with a slightly favorable FX impact.
This decline reflects a quickly changing us Marketplace, given the Tariff announcements.
Initially, there was uncertainty about the environment and the ultimate cost of goods, and many customers seized purchasing until some clarity developed.
This uncertainty lessened as reciprocal tariffs were delayed. As we progressed throughout the quarter,
Overall, demand remains soft for our consumer and business products as well as for computer accessories.
Deborah O'Connor: The decline was driven by the impact of the tariff announcements and a combination of lower volumes and reduced fixed cost absorption. Due to the strength of our first quarter margin rate, our year-to-date margin rate is down much less, an 80 basis points decline. SG&A expense of $83 million was down versus the prior year due to cost reduction actions and lower incentive compensation expense. Adjusted operating income for the second quarter was $47 million versus $65 million a year ago. The operating income ratio of sales has been impacted by the lower volumes deleveraging our SG&A costs. Now let's turn to our segment results for the second quarter. In the Americas segment, comparable sales declined 14%, largely due to the purchasing disruption I mentioned earlier, as well as soft demand in most of our categories.
Gross profit. For the second quarter was $130 million. A decrease of 15% with the margin rate. Contracting about 200 basis points to 32.9%
The decline was driven by the impact, of the Tariff announcement and a combination of lower volumes and reduced fixed cost absorption.
Due to the strength of our first quarter margin rate, our year-to-date margin rate is down much less, at an 80 basis point decline.
As Gina expense of 83 million was down versus the prior year due to cost reduction actions and lower incentive compensation expense.
Adjusted operating incomes for the second quarter was 47 million versus 65 million. A year ago.
The operating income ratio of sales has been impacted by the lower volumes deleveraging our sgna costs.
Deborah O'Connor: The Americas adjusted operating income margin for the second quarter was 17.4%, below last year. The margin rate in the quarter was impacted by softer volumes, lower fixed cost absorption, and the impact from tariffs, more than offsetting cost savings. Before moving to the international segment, I want to call out that we have successfully settled the longstanding tax assessments in Brazil. Our reserve of $20 million has been completely resolved for $7 million. We are pleased to have this matter behind us. Now let's turn to our international segments. For the second quarter, comparable sales declined 4%, an improvement from the first quarter. Demand was soft in Europe, especially in Germany, U.K., and France, which are the largest markets in EMEA due to continuing pressure on business essential products. Australia benefited from the Barrilito acquisition, and we saw good growth in Asia.
Now, let's turn to our segment results for the second quarter in the America segment. Comparable sales, decline, 14% largely due to the purchasing disruption, I mentioned earlier, as well as soft demand in most of our categories.
The America's adjusted operating income margin for the second quarter was 17.4% below last year.
The margin rate in the quarter was impacted by softer volume, lower fixed cost absorption, and the impact from tariffs, more than offsetting cost savings.
Before moving to the international segment, I want to call out that we have successfully settled, the long-standing tax Assessments in Brazil.
Our reserve of 20 million dollars has been completely resolved for 7 million dollars.
We are pleased to have this matter behind us.
Segments.
For the second quarter comparable, sales declined 4% and improvement from the first quarter.
Demand was soft in Europe especially in Germany, UK and France, which are the largest markets in Amia due to continuing pressure and business essential products.
Australia benefited from the burrow seating acquisition and we saw good growth in Asia.
Deborah O'Connor: International adjusted operating income margin for the second quarter increased to 8.5% due to the benefit of pricing, cost savings, and lower incentive compensation expense, more than offsetting the volume decline. Year-to-date adjusted free cash flow was an outflow of $24 million, which was in line with our expectations. This includes $17 million in cash proceeds from the sale of two owned facilities. The second quarter is historically the peak of our borrowing needs to support the seasonal aspects of our business. We began generating positive cash flow late in the third quarter and throughout the rest of the year. During the quarter, we returned $7 million to shareholders in the form of dividends. While we continue to believe a balanced capital allocation is appropriate, in the near term, we will be focused on paying down debt.
International adjusted operating income margin for the second quarter, increase to 8 and a half percent due to the benefit of pricing, cost savings and lower incentive. Compensation expense more than offsetting the volume declines.
Year to date adjusted free cash flow was an outflow of 24 million which was in line with our expectations.
This includes 17 million dollars in cash proceeds from the sale of 2 owned facilities.
The second quarter is historically, the peak of our borrowing needs to support the seasonal aspects of our business.
We begin generating positive cash flow late in the third quarter and throughout the rest of the year.
During the quarter, we returned 7 million dollars to shareholders in the form of dividends.
While we continue to believe a balanced Capital, allocation is appropriate in the near term. We will be focused on paying down debt.
Deborah O'Connor: At quarter end, we had approximately $200 million available for borrowing under our revolver, and we finished the quarter with a consolidated leverage ratio of 4.3 times. Given the impact of tariffs on second quarter results and a high level of uncertainty in the markets, we decided to be prudent and get additional cushion in our leverage covenant. We amended our Bank of America credit agreement, increasing our leverage covenant by 50 basis points for the remainder of 2025 and by 25 basis points throughout 2026. Turning to the outlook, we are providing an outlook for both the third quarter and the full year. The evolving tariff environment continues to lead to an uncertain demand environment and muted economies, especially for our Americas segment. We expect this uncertainty to continue for the remainder of the year.
At quarter end, we had approximately 200 million dollars available for borrowing under our revolver and we finish the quarter with a Consolidated leverage ratio of 4.3 times.
Given the impact of tariffs on second quarter results and a high level of uncertainty in the markets.
We decided to be prudent and get additional cushion in our leverage covenants.
we amended our bank credit agreement, increasing our leverage Covenant by 50 basis points for the remainder of 2025 and by 25 basis points throughout 2026
now, turning to the Outlook, we are providing an outlook for both the third quarter and the full year
The evolving tariff environment continues to lead to an uncertain demand environment and muted economies, especially for our Americas segments.
We expect this uncertainty to continue for the remainder of the year.
Deborah O'Connor: Our outlook reflects our price increases, which will cover the tariff costs and maintain margin. Pricing was announced in the second quarter and takes effect in the third and fourth quarters. We anticipate our pricing actions will partially mitigate the continued softness in consumer and business spending, with the rate of decline improving in the second half of the year. For the full year, we expect reported sales to be down 7% to 8.5% and adjusted EPS to be within the range of $0.83 to $0.90. We expect adjusted free cash flow to be approximately $100 million, including the proceeds from the sale of assets. We anticipate a leverage ratio of 3.8 to 3.9 times at year end. For the third quarter, we expect reported sales to be down 5% to 8%, with FX having a positive impact from the weakening of the U.S. dollar.
Our Outlook reflects our price increases which will cover the Tariff costs, and maintain margin.
Pricing was announced in the second quarter and takes effect in the third and fourth quarters.
We anticipate our pricing actions will partially mitigate the continued softness and consumer and business spending with the rate of decline, improving in the second half of the year.
For the full year, we expect reported sales to be down 7 to 8 and a half percent.
And adjusted EPS to be within the range of 83 to 90 cents.
We expect adjusting free cash flow to be approximately $100 million, including the proceeds from the sale of assets.
We anticipate a leverage ratio of 3.8 to 3.9 times at year end.
Deborah O'Connor: We anticipate adjusted EPS to be in the range of $0.21 to $0.24. Even though the current year poses challenges, we remain confident in the long-term future of our company and our ability to navigate this dynamic period. We have a strong balance sheet with no debt maturities until 2029 and a long history of productivity savings and cost management. We continue to anticipate that in the longer term, we can grow sales modestly from organic and inorganic initiatives, with a target gross margin rate of 33% to 34% and consistent cash flow generation. Now let's move on to Q&A, where Tom and I will be happy to take your questions. Operator?
For the third quarter, we expect reported sales to be down 5% to 8% with FX, having a positive impact from the weakening of the US dollar.
We anticipate adjusting EPS to be in the range of $0.21 to $0.24.
Even though the current year poses challenges, we remain confident in the long term future of our company and our ability to navigate this Dynamic period.
We have a strong balance sheet with no debt maturities until 2029 and a long history of productivity savings and cost management.
We continue to anticipate that, in the longer term, we can grow sales modestly from organic and inorganic initiatives.
With a target gross margin rate of 33% to 34%.
And consistent cash flow generation.
Now, let's move on to Q&A where Tom and I will be happy to take your questions.
Operator.
Ezra: Thank you very much. If you would like to ask a question, please press star, followed by one on your telephone keypad now. Please ensure your device is unmuted locally. If you change your mind or your question has already been answered, please press star, followed by two. Our first question comes from Greg Burns with Sidoti & Co. Greg, your line is now open. Please go ahead.
Thank you very much. If you would like to ask a question, please press star. Followed by 1 on your telephone keypad. Now, please ensure your devices and muted locally, and if you change your mind or your question, has already, been answered, please. Press star, followed by 2.
Our first question comes from Greg burns with sedoti. And Co Greg, your line is now open. Please go ahead.
Greg Burns: Morning. When we look at how the back-to-school season is playing out, could you just quantify how much of the decline you would attribute to? I think last quarter you mentioned that maybe there was some pre-buying or early buying to the first quarter, and then also the tariff demand dynamic that you mentioned at the beginning of the quarter versus maybe just lower market demand for the product categories that you are selling. Also, when we look at how the full season is going to play out, how are channel inventories at your retailers, and are they such that you think that maybe the back-to-school season gets spread out maybe more over the second and third quarter versus maybe more localized in the second quarter? Thank you.
um, and then also, um, the the Tariff demand Dynamic that you mentioned at the beginning of the quarter versus maybe, just, um,
Lower market demand for for the the product categories that that you're selling. And and also when we look at how the the the full season is going to play out how our Channel inventories at your retailers and are they such that, you think that maybe the the
Back to school season gets spread out maybe more over the second and third quarter. Versus maybe more localized in the the second quarter. Thank you.
Tom Tedford: Okay. Good morning. This is Tom. First, let me address kind of the decline question. The decline really is a mix of different things compared to our expectations. Certainly, we mentioned the shifts into the first quarter. We also did see some softness with the orders from our customers, including cancellations. Then we saw some shifts, very modest shifts into the third quarter. If you compare it to our expectations, those were the three primary drivers of the kind of changes in expectations.
Okay, good morning. This is Tom.
Tom Tedford: As we think about looking ahead, we are early in the season. We are less than 10% through the sell-through season, which really will dictate any demand replenishment that we get later in the season. We have ensured that we have good inventory positions in the event that our customers' demand increases above expectations or above forecast. We are hopeful that that will be the case, but at this point, it is uncertain, and it would probably be premature to comment. Lastly, I will say our customers continue to manage inventory tightly. Their replenishment expectations are relatively low in our forecast, but we hope that that will obviously materialize differently, and we will see. Right? Again, it is early in the season, and it is too early to tell exactly what our customers are going to do.
So, uh, first, let me address kind of the, the decline question. Um, and the client really is a mix of different things, uh, compared to our expectations. So certainly we mentioned the shifts, uh, into the first quarter. Um, we also did see some softness, uh, with the orders from our customers including cancellations, uh, and then we saw some shifts, uh, very modest shifts into the third quarter. So if you compare it to our expectations, those were the 3 primary drivers of of the kind of changes in in expectations. Um, as we think about looking ahead we're early in the season, we're we're less than 10%, uh, through the South through season which really will dictate. Uh, any demand replenishment that we
Get later in the season. We've ensured that we have good inventory positions in the event that our customers' demand increases above expectations or above forecast.
Um, we're hopeful that that will be the case, but at this point it's uncertain, and it would probably be premature to comment.
Lastly, I will say our customers continue to manage inventory tightly. Their replenishment expectations are relatively low in our forecast.
Um, but we hope that that will will obviously materialize differently, uh, and we'll see. Alright, again, it's early in the season and it's too early to tell exactly what our customers are going to do.
Greg Burns: Okay. Thanks. Then in terms of new product development, you highlighted a couple of products that you are going to be bringing out in the second half. As we think about those products contributing to revenue in the second half, is it more of a 2026 kind of upside from these products as you see the market, or will there be benefit in the second half?
Okay, thanks. And then in terms of the new product development, um, you highlighted a couple of um,
Products that you're, you're going to be bringing out in the second half. How should we think about those products contributing to, um, Revenue in the second half? Is it, is it more of a
A 2026 kind of upside from these products as you see the market or what will there be benefit in the second half?
Tom Tedford: The benefit will be very modest, Greg. It takes time for us to get syndication of product, get listings of product. We should see some benefit from the switch to accessories that are entering the market in the second half. But beyond that, it is really 2026 and beyond where we will see impact from revenue with the new product introductions that are happening this year.
Yeah, the benefit will be very modest Greg. Um it it takes time for us to get syndication of product, get listings of product.
Um, you know, we should see some benefit from the switch to accessories that are entering the market in the second half. But beyond that, it's really 2026 and beyond where we'll see impact from revenue with the new product introductions that are happening this year.
Greg Burns: Okay. Thank you.
Okay, thank you.
Ezra: Our next question comes from Kevin Steinke with Barrington Research. Kevin, your line is now open. Please go ahead.
Our next question comes from.
Kevin.
Think with barington research. Kevin, your line is now open. Please go ahead.
Kevin Steinke: Yeah. Good morning. So, just going back to back-to-school, I'm wondering if you can make adjustments with your product assortment in terms of price points, etc., given the demand environment. If that's something you think about in light of, again, the current trends.
Yeah, it's morning. So um,
Just going back to school. I'm wondering if, um,
You know, you, uh, can make adjustments with your product assortment, uh, in terms of price points, uh, Etc, uh, given, you know, given the demand environment, if that's something. Uh,
uh uh, you think about uh, in light of uh, you know, again the current current trends
Tom Tedford: Yeah. So, Kevin, good morning. That is a good question. We feel consistently that we have a good offering of price choices in our portfolio supported by our Mead and Five Star brand here in the U.S. and our Hilroy and Five Star brand in Canada. So we think North America, we have a good offering that touches on each one of the price points. We collaborate with our customers at the beginning of the season to ensure that we are hitting the price targets that they think will move during the season. We have done a nice job of that this year again. Our performance will really depend upon consumer demand. Right now, it is kind of wait and see. We are still early in the season, as I mentioned earlier.
Yeah so Kevin good morning. It's a good question. You know we feel consistently that we have a good offering of uh price choices in our portfolio supported by our meet and 5-star brand here in in the us and our Hill Roy and 5-star brand in Canada. So we think North America we have a good offering.
Tom Tedford: As it relates to back-to-school and other markets, which are important, such as Brazil, we are going to have to reposition some of our product and make sure that we are competitive in evolving price points as lower-cost competitors from China, particularly, are entering the market aggressively. We are doing so right now. So we are adjusting those assortments. We are making sure that we have the features that the consumers need at those price points. Those offerings will be in market this BTS in Brazil.
Uh, that touches on each 1 of the price points. We collaborate with our customers at the beginning of the season, to ensure that we're hitting the price targets that they think will move during the season. And we've done a nice job of that this year. Again it really will our performance will really depend upon uh consumer demand. Um and you know right now it's kind of wait and see. We we're still early in the season as I mentioned earlier.
Sign a particularly or entering the market aggressively. Um and we're doing so right now, so we're adjusting those assortments. We're making sure that we have the features that the consumers need at those price points. And those offerings will be in Market this BTS in Brazil.
Kevin Steinke: Okay. On that Chinese competition, is that something that you expect to persist, or what do you think is driving that? Is it just the environment that is opening the door for lower-cost competitors, or just wondering about the sustainability of that trend, I guess?
Okay, uh, on that, that uh,
Chinese competition. I mean, is that
something that you expect to persist or what kind of what do you think is driving? That is it just the the environment that's opening the door for, you know, lower cost competitors. Or, um, just just wondering, you know, about the sustainability or, uh,
you know, that Trend I guess.
Tom Tedford: That is a hard one for us to predict. We certainly see low-cost competitors entering and exiting markets all across the globe consistently. This may be a little different because of the trade dynamics particularly impacting the U.S. market for Chinese suppliers. We will just have to wait and see. The key for us is just reacting, making sure that we have the right product, the right price, the right assortment to compete in every market that we sell product in.
Yeah, that's a hard one for us to predict. I mean, we certainly see low-cost competitors entering and exiting markets all across the globe consistently.
This may be a little different because of the trade dynamics, particularly impacting the U.S. market for Chinese suppliers. We'll just have to wait and see. The key for us is just reacting and making sure that we have the right product, the right price, and the right assortment to compete in every market that we sell product in.
Kevin Steinke: Okay. You mentioned that you expect your price increases to, I think, fully offset tariff costs in the second half of the year. Just kind of thinking about gross margin, you talked about that 33% to 34% target. I know you typically have seasonal strength in the fourth quarter in gross margin, but I guess we should expect some improvement in the second half in gross margin. I do not know if we might be trending towards the lower end of that 33%, 34% range, or how you are thinking about that.
Okay. Um,
and um,
You mentioned uh that you expect the your price increases to I think fully offset.
Pair of costs in the second half of the year. Um just kind of thinking about gross margin. Um you talked about that 33 to 34% Target.
I know you typically have seasonal strength in the fourth quarter in gross margin, but, you know,
I guess we should expect some improvement in the second half of gross margin, and I don't know if we might be trending towards the lower end of that 33 to 34% range or how you're thinking about that.
Deborah O'Connor: Yeah, I think that is right. I think you know we are expecting it to modestly improve in the back half gross margin. We have put our pricing initiatives out there so that we are covering the cost of the tariff as well as maintaining our margin. As we think about the full year, you know we took a couple of hits here in the first half, but back half, we do expect to come back.
Yeah I think that's right. I think um you know we're expecting it to its modestly improved in the back half um gross margin. And we have put our pricing initiatives out there so that we are covering the cost of the Tariff as well as maintaining our margin. Um, so
As we think about the full year, you know, we took a couple hits here in the first half, but back half, we do expect to, um, come back.
Kevin Steinke: Okay. Thanks. Then just lastly, did you mention the benefit from foreign currency that you baked into the sales outlook for both the third quarter and the full year?
okay, thanks and then this lastly um,
did you mention the, uh,
the benefits from, uh, foreign currency that you've baked into the
Uh, sales outlook for both the third quarter and the full year.
Deborah O'Connor: Yes, we did. If you kind of go back to our slides and stuff, you'll see that out there. But we do expect a favorable benefit from FX, primarily or particularly in Q4, but Q3 as well.
Right? Yes, we did. And if you if you kind of go back to our slides and stuff, you'll see that out there. But we do expect a favorable benefit from FX
Primarily, or particularly, in the fourth quarter, but third as well.
Kevin Steinke: Okay. It's in the slides. Okay. All right. All right. Thanks. That's all I had. Thank you.
Okay, it's in the slides. Okay.
All right, all right, thanks.
Uh, that's all I had. Thank you.
Tom Tedford: Thank you, Kevin.
Thank you. Kevin.
Ezra: Thank you very much. Our next question comes from Joe Gomez with Noble Capital. Your line is now open. Please go ahead.
Thank you very much. Our next question comes from Joe Gomez with Noble Capital. Your line is now open. Please go ahead.
Joe Gomez: Good morning. My first question on PowerA, the Nintendo Switch was the fastest-selling console in U.S. history when it came out here a month and a half ago or so. Same in Japan. Just trying to get some more color on how that is impacting your PowerA subsidiary. Are you seeing that same kind of, I know it is early days, but we have had at least the month of July there, demand for your products?
Good morning.
Hey, first question on, you know, the Nintendo
Good morning. Um, the Nintendo Switch was the fastest-selling console.
And US history when it came out here in a month or a half ago or so, same in Japan. Um, you know, just trying to get it, you know, a better some more color on you know, how that
Is impacting, your guys, power a subsidiary. Are you seeing that same kind? I know it's early days, but we've had, you know, at least a month of July there, uh, demand for for your products.
Tom Tedford: Yeah, Joe, great question. We are really pleased with our partnership with Nintendo and our PowerA team. They have done a great job of getting product to market as quickly as possible. As we noted in our prepared remarks, the launch was on June 5th. Second quarter was really not impacted much by the switch to accessory sales. The big season for us is holiday. You will see Q4 being a strong PowerA quarter for ACCO Brands. We are well positioned to capitalize on the demand. We understand how the demand curve works as consoles get launched, get into market. First party typically realizes sales early in the maturity cycle, and third party then steps in shortly thereafter. We feel like we are very well positioned. We are excited about the accessories that we are bringing to market, and we are in a great position with Nintendo.
Tom Tedford: Again, really pleased with our team and have high expectations for our accessories business supporting the launch.
Typically, realizes sales early and the maturity cycle, and third party, then steps in shortly thereafter. So we feel like we're very well positioned. We're excited about the accessories that we're bringing to Market and we're we're in a great position with Nintendo. So um, again really pleased with our team and and and have high expectations for, um, our accessories business supporting the launch.
Joe Gomez: Great. Thanks for that. On the $100 million cost reduction program, as you mentioned, you have gotten $40 million since the beginning of the program. What do you think is possible for the second half of this year?
Great, thanks for that. And then on the the hundred million dollar cost Reduction Program. Um, as you mentioned, you've gotten 40 million since the beginning of the program, you know?
What do you think is possible for the second half of this year?
Deborah O'Connor: If you think about the first half, we have about $16 million in because we had about $8 million in the first and $8 million in the second. So if you just think of that kind of playing out through the rest of the year, Joe, you are probably pretty close, maybe a little bit more, just because of the later impact of some of our actions.
Yeah, well if you think about the first half, we've got about 16 million in because we had about 8 in the first and 8 in the second. So if you just think of that kind of playing out through the rest of the Year, Joe, you're probably pretty close maybe a little bit more um just because of the later impact of some of our actions.
Joe Gomez: Okay, great. In the release, you talked about an asset sale. Maybe you just give us a little bit more color of what that was, or are you planning on having any more asset sales?
Okay, great. And then
in in, um,
The the release you talk about, you know, an asset sale, maybe you just give us a little bit more color. What that was? It be planning on on having any more asset sales.
Deborah O'Connor: No, we don't have any on the horizon. What that really was is the majority of it was our New York location that, if you remember, Joe, we took a charge for this year as we were shutting that up as part of our footprint rationalization, as part of the cost savings initiative. So that facility was closed and sold at a nice gain and a nice cash flow profit. That's primarily what was in there.
No, we don't have any on the horizon. Um what that really was is the majority of it was our uh, New York location that. If you remember, Joe, we took a charge for this year as we were, um, shutting that up. Um, as part of our footprint rationalization as part of the cost savings initiative, um, so that facility was closed and sold at, um, a nice, a nice gain and a nice, uh, cash flow process.
That's primarily what was in there.
Joe Gomez: Okay. Great. Thanks. I'll get back in queue.
Okay, great thanks. I'll get back to you.
Ezra: Our next question comes from Hale Holden with Barclays. Your line is now open. Please go ahead.
Our next question comes from hail Holden with Barkley's. Your line is now open, please go ahead.
Greg Burns: Just two quick ones. Deb, the Brazilian tax release, is that sort of cash that comes back to you or just an accounting credit?
Um, just 2 quick ones, uh Deb the Brazilian uh tax reliefs.
Um, is that sort of cash that comes back to you or just uh, an accounting credit?
Deborah O'Connor: Actually, you know, we resolved it. If you remember, the reserve was really large a couple of years ago, and we have been dwindling it down with negotiations and with government coming out with new laws. But it ended up being about $20 million of a liability on our books. And we are going to end up paying about $7 million out. So that $13 million that is going through the income statement is just an accounting adjustment, but we will have $7 million go out over the next year to the government.
Greg Burns: Got it. The second question was on the blended pricing increases that you have taken to offset tariffs. Any sense on a percentage basis, like what the consumer would see on shelf versus maybe where you were last year or your enterprise customers?
Um actually you know, we resolved it if you remember the reserve was really large a couple years ago and we've been dwindling it down with negotiations and with uh government coming out with new laws. But it ended up being about 20 million dollars of a liability on our books. And we are going to end up paying about 7 million out, so that 13 million that's going through the income. Statement is just an accounting adjustment, but we'll have 7 million go out over the next year, um, to the, to the government.
Got it.
Um, and then the second question was, um, on the, on the Blended pricing increases that you've taken to offset tariffs. Um,
Any sense that a percentage basis, like what the consumer would see on shelf, um, versus maybe where you were last year or or your Enterprise customers.
Deborah O'Connor: Yeah. You know, it is hard to say because we have got the China and the non-China product coming in that we are pricing accordingly for. We are not pricing really every single item because we do have on-hand inventory as well. So, you know, we are passing on a good price increase, as I said, to cover the cost and to cover, you know, to make sure we maintain our margin.
Yeah, you know, it's hard. Um, it's hard to say because we've got the China and the non-china, um, product coming in that we're pricing accordingly for and we're not pricing really every single item because we do have on hand inventory as well. So, you know, we're passing on a good price increase as I said to cover the cost and the cover, you know, to make sure we maintain our margin.
Greg Burns: Maybe put another way is, would you guys expect kind of elasticity here, or do you think you are going to be able to sort of realize most of it back to you?
Maybe maybe put another way is, um, would you guys expect an elasticity hit or do you think you're going to be able to to sort of realize most of it back to you?
Tom Tedford: Yeah. Hey, this is Tom. That's sometimes difficult to address because there's so many other macro issues that go into modeling elasticity. We do model a modest volume decline as we put through price increases. To give specific numbers, it's too speculative from my perspective. So the forecast that we've given appropriately balances price elasticity in it, particularly here in the U.S.
Yeah. Hey this is Tom, um, that that that's sometimes difficult to to, to address because there's so many other macro issues that that go into modeling elasticity. Um, we do, we do Model A Modest, uh, volume decline, as we put through price increases. Um, but to give specific numbers, it's too speculative from my perspective. So uh the the the forecast that we've given appropriately, balances, uh, price elasticity in it. A particularly here in the US.
Greg Burns: Great. I definitely can respect that. I appreciate it. Thank you.
Great. Uh, I definitely can respect that. I appreciate it. Thank you.
Tom Tedford: Thank you.
Thank you. Our
Ezra: Our next question comes from William Reuter with Bank of America. Your line is now open. Please go ahead.
Our next question comes from William router with Bank of America, your line is now open. Please go ahead.
Joe Gomez: Good morning. First, given the stressed consumer environment, have you seen your U.S. customers allocating a different amount of shelf space for back-to-school products or traditional office products to the non-branded competition that is out there?
Senior us, customers allocating, um, a different amount of shelf space for back to school products, or traditional Office Products to the non-branded, um, competition that that that's out there.
Tom Tedford: You know, that ebbs and flows, Bill, every year. So, the decisions to set BTS typically happen before the turn of the calendar year. So those decisions were made well in advance of the Liberation Day tariff announcements. I would say this year, our listings are pretty constant to the prior year. In fact, they are up modestly. What we believe is going to impact our sales a little more is just the conservative nature in which our retailers are approaching inventory with all the uncertainties that they are trying to manage through. And so that is why we think BTS sales will be a little depressed compared to our past performance.
Yeah, you know, that that es and flows um bill every year. Um so you know, the decisions to set DTS uh typically happen. Um,
You know, before the turn of the calendar year, so those decisions were made well in advance of The Liberation day tariff announcements. Um, you know, I would say this year, our listings are pretty constant to the prior year. In fact, they're up modestly. What we believe, um, is going to impact our sales. Um, a little more, is just the conservative nature in which, our retailers are approaching inventory with all the uncertainties that they're trying to manage through. And so, that's why we think BTS sales will be a little depressed compared to our, um, past performance.
Joe Gomez: Got it. I know you said that only 10% of sell-through has occurred to this point. This is maybe a difficult question to answer, but do you believe that in the U.S. you will have gained or lost market share this season for back-to-school?
Got it. And then, um, I I mean, I know you said that only 10% of, uh, sell through has occurred to this point. So this may be difficult question to answer, but do you believe that in the US you will have gained or or lost market share this season?
Tom Tedford: Yeah, Bill, it's way too premature to project whether or not we will or we will not. We're well positioned, I can tell you that. Our brands historically have performed very, very well in back-to-school, particularly Five Star. We're confident in our feature-rich assortment and our price points. We think we hit all the major price points, and we have great relationships with our customers. So the things that we can control, we think we've executed against very well going into this season. Now we just have to see how it plays out.
Uh, for back to school. Yeah.
yeah, bill that it's way too premature to
Uh, to project whether or not we will or we, we will, we will not we're well positioned. Uh, I can tell you that our Brands historically have performed very, very well in back to school, particularly 5-star, uh, we're confident in our feature-rich. Um, assortment and our price points. Uh, we think we hit all the major price points and we have great relationships with our customers. So the things that we can control, we think we've executed against very well going into this season. Now we just have to see how it plays out.
Joe Gomez: Got it. Lastly for me, I'm not sure what you might be willing to provide or not provide, but can you give us any sense for magnitude of the dollar of incremental sales of gaming accessories you might see either in Q1 of this year or I'm sure in the fiscal year of 2026, based upon all of the momentum behind Switch? Just trying to figure out kind of, is this like a $10 million opportunity, $20 million? I don't have a sense for context.
Got it. And then, lastly, for me, I'm not sure what you might be willing to provide or not provide, but can you, um, give us any sense for magnitude of the dollar of incremental, sales of gaming accessories, you might see either in the first quarter of this year or I'm sure in the in this week or 26 based upon all the momentum behind switch just trying to figure out kind of is this like a 10 million dollar opportunity? 20 I I I don't know if this sounds for context.
Tom Tedford: Yeah. Again, it's a little early on that topic as well. Holiday season is our biggest season in support of the Switch 2 launch. We're starting to get orders in now. We have a demand forecast provided to us. We're excited about that, but I think it would be premature for us to give a specific dollar amount simply because we don't really know yet. But so far, reception has been very strong with our assortment.
Yeah, again, it's a little early on that topic as well. The holiday season is our biggest season in support of the Switch to launch. We're starting to get orders in now. We have a demand forecast provided to us. We're excited about that, but I think it would be premature for us to give a specific dollar amount simply because we don't really...
know yet, but so far, uh, reception has been very strong with our our assortment
Joe Gomez: Got it. All right. That's all for me. Thank you.
Got it. All right. That's all for me. Thank you.
Ezra: Thank you very much. We currently have no further questions, so I will hand back over to Tom for any closing remarks.
Thank you very much. We currently have no further questions so I will hand back over to Tom for any closing remarks.
Tom Tedford: Thank you, everyone, for joining us. We are pleased to have delivered second quarter sales and adjusted EPS in line with our outlook. I am confident that our proactive actions are better positioning us for long-term profitable growth. We have a strong balance sheet and generate consistent cash flows, which we will use to invest in revenue growth opportunities. We appreciate your interest in ACCO Brands and look forward to talking with you when we report our third quarter results in October.
Thank you everyone for joining us. We are pleased to have delivered second, quarter sales and adjusted EPS, in line with our Outlook.
I am confident that our proactive actions are better positioning us for long-term profitable growth.
We have a strong balance sheet and generate consistent cash flows, which we will use to invest in Revenue growth opportunities.
We appreciate your interest in Echo Brands and look forward to talking with you. When we report our third quarter results in October
Ezra: Thank you very much, Tom, and thank you, Deb and Chris, for being our speakers on today's call. We appreciate everyone for joining. You may now disconnect your lines.
Thank you very much, Tom and thank you Deb. And Chris for being our speakers on today's call, we appreciate everyone for joining you may now disconnect your lines