Q4 2025 Greif Inc Earnings Call

Speaker #2: Good day and thank you for standing by . Welcome to the great Fourth Quarter 2020 Earnings call . At this time , all participants are in a listen only mode .

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Speaker #2: Please be advised that today's conference call is being recorded . I would now like to hand the conference over to your first speaker today .

Speaker #2: Bill DOnofrio Vice President of Investor Relations and Corporate Development . Please go ahead .

Speaker #3: Good morning , everyone , and thank you for joining Griff's fiscal fourth quarter 2020 earnings conference call . Today . Our CEO , Ole Rosgaard , will provide a strategy and market update , followed by our CFO , Larry Hildesheimer , with a review of our financial results and 2026 guidance .

Bill D'Onofrio: Good morning, everyone, and thank you for joining Greif's fiscal Q4 2025 earnings conference call. Today, our CEO, Ole Rosgaard, will provide a strategy and market update, followed by our CFO, Larry Hilsheimer, with a review of our financial results and 2026 guidance. Please turn to slide 2. In accordance with Regulation Fair Disclosure, please ask questions regarding topics you consider important because we are prohibited from discussing material non-public information with you on an individual basis. During today's call, we will make forward-looking statements involving plans, expectations, and beliefs related to future events. Actual results could differ materially from those discussed. Additionally, we will be referencing certain non-GAAP financial measures and the reconciliation to the most directly comparable GAAP metrics that can be found in the appendix of today's presentation. Two important reporting clarifications for this quarter. First, our containerboard business was sold on 31 August.

Speaker #3: Please turn to slide two . In accordance with regulation Fair disclosure , please ask questions regarding topics you consider important . Because we are prohibited from discussing material non-public information with you on an individual basis .

Speaker #3: During today's call , we will make forward looking statements involving plans , expectations and beliefs related to future events . Actual results could differ materially from those discussed .

Speaker #3: Additionally , we will be referencing certain non-GAAP financial measures and the reconciliation to the most directly comparable GAAP metrics that can be found in the appendix of today's presentation to important reporting clarifications for this quarter .

Speaker #3: First , our Containerboard business was sold on August 31st . As such , that business is presented as discontinued operations for its one month contribution to the quarter , unless otherwise noted , all financial results and commentary discussed today will relate to continuing operations only .

Bill D'Onofrio: As such, that business is presented as discontinued operations for its one-month contribution to the quarter. Unless otherwise noted, all financial results and commentary discussed today will relate to continuing operations only. Second, due to our fiscal year-end change, Q4 reflects a two-month reporting period, August and September. For consistency, all prior year comparatives in today's presentation are also shown on a two-month basis for August and September. I'll now hand the call over to Ole on slide three.

Speaker #3: Second , due to our fiscal year end change , Q4 reflects a two month reporting period . August and September for consistency , all prior year comparatives in today's presentation are also shown on a two month basis for August and September .

Speaker #3: I'll now hand the call over to Ollie . On slide three .

Speaker #4: Thanks , Bill , and thank you all for listening in today and for your interest in gripe with the short 2025 fiscal year .

Ole Rosgaard: Thank you all for listening in today and for your interest in Greif. With the short 2025 fiscal year due to our fiscal year change, the 2-month Q4, the sale of our containerboard business this quarter, and the ongoing cost optimization program, we know there's significant amount of change and noise for this quarter. This shows up in our tax results, which Larry will be discussing in a moment. Thank you for bearing with us. We are excited for the long-term earnings growth and value creation our strategy is unlocking. We closed fiscal 25 as a more focused, more agile, and more strategically aligned company than at any time in our history. Our transformation is accelerating, and the results are beginning to show. On 1 October, we finalized the sale of our Land Management business, generating $462 million in proceeds.

Speaker #4: Due to our fiscal year change , the two month fourth quarter , the sale of our Containerboard business this quarter , and the ongoing cost optimization program , we know there's significant amount of change and noise for this quarter .

Speaker #4: This shows up in our tax results , which Larry will be discussing in a moment . Thank you for bearing with us . We are excited for the long , long term earnings growth and value creation .

Speaker #4: Our strategy is unlocking . We closed fiscal 25 as a more focused . More agile and more strategically aligned company that at any time in our history .

Speaker #4: Our transformation is accelerating and the results are beginning to show . On October 1st , we finalized the sale of our land management business , generating 462 million in proceeds .

Speaker #4: Those funds were used immediately to reduce debt and our performer leverage ratio is now under one times . We have entered fiscal 2026 with a meaningfully stronger balance sheet with enhanced capital efficiency , built for resilience , together with the divestiture of our Containerboard business in the fourth quarter .

Ole Rosgaard: Those funds were used immediately to reduce debt, and our pro forma leverage ratio is now under 1x. We have entered fiscal 2026 with a meaningfully stronger balance sheet with enhanced capital efficiency built for resilience. Together with the divestiture of our containerboard business in Q4, we have reshaped Greif's portfolio to concentrate our efforts where we have the greatest opportunity to grow EBITDA, expand margins, generate cash, reduce cyclability, and deliver durable returns for our shareholders. We are pleased to report our latest Net Promoter Score survey result of 72, an improvement of 3 points from last year, and further extending our world-class customer service performance. That improvement is a direct reflection of the trust our customers place in us and our ability to deliver for them.

Speaker #4: We have reshaped drives portfolio to concentrate our efforts where we have the greatest opportunity to grow EBITDA , expand margins , generate cash , reduce cyclability and deliver durable returns for our shareholders .

Speaker #4: We are pleased to report our latest Net Promoter Score survey result of 72 , an improvement of three points from last year and further extending our world class customer service performance that improvement is a direct reflection of the trust our customers place in us , and our ability to deliver for them .

Speaker #4: The best companies build stronger relationships when things are difficult and our NPS reflects our conviction that we will capture significant value when demand returns .

Ole Rosgaard: The best companies build stronger relationships when things are difficult, and our NPS reflects our conviction that we will capture significant value when demand returns. As Larry will touch on in a moment, our full year 2026 guidance, despite being low end, reflects continued earnings growth and a free cash flow conversion rate of 50%, demonstrating our progress towards the long-term objectives laid out at Investor Day in December. We are proud of how we ended fiscal 2025, but even more energized by what lies ahead. Our Build to Last strategy is firmly embedded in our organization. We are shaping and sharpening our portfolio, strengthening our balance sheet, and investing for sustainable growth. Please turn to slide 4. Our commitment to value creation shows in how we manage cost.

Speaker #4: As Larry will touch on in a moment , our full year 26 guidance , despite being low end reflects , continued earnings growth and a free cash flow conversion rate of 50% , demonstrating our progress towards the long term objectives laid out at Investor Day in December .

Speaker #4: We are proud of how we ended fiscal 2025 , but even more energized by what lies ahead . Our built to last strategy is firmly embedded in our organization .

Speaker #4: We are shaping and sharpening our portfolio , strengthening our balance sheet , and investing for sustainable growth . Please slide four . Our commitment to value creation shows in how we manage cost in fiscal 25 .

Ole Rosgaard: In fiscal 2025, we achieved $50 million in run rate savings from our cost optimization program, more than double our stated full year 2025 commitments. To date, we have achieved approximately $15 million in savings related to network design and operating efficiency. This is not limited to strategic footprint actions. It also includes deploying AI solutions to reduce scrap and improve OEE, strategic planning actions to minimize freight and maximize on-time deliveries, and structural improvements to our global procurement strategy. The remaining run rate savings are related to SG&A. Our updated business model has enabled much more efficient decision-making. It has also led to difficult but necessary decisions to eliminate areas of redundant cost in the updated model. As of quarter-end, we have eliminated approximately 8% of professional roles within the company or 190 positions.

Speaker #4: We achieved $50 million in run rate savings from our cost optimization program , more than double our stated full year 25 commitments to date .

Speaker #4: We have achieved approximately 15 million in savings related to network design turn to and operating efficiency . This is not limited to strategic footprint actions .

Speaker #4: It also includes deploying AI solutions to reduce scrap and improve OE strategic planning actions to minimize freight and maximize on time deliveries and structural improvements to our global procurement strategy .

Speaker #4: The remaining run rate savings are related to SG and a , our updated business model has enabled much more efficient decision making . It has also led to difficult , but necessary decisions to eliminate areas of redundant cost .

Speaker #4: In the updated model . As of quarter end , we have eliminated approximately 8% of professional roles within the company , or 190 positions .

Speaker #4: These changes have been carefully considered over this past year and were acted on in Q4 . In a manner which allowed us to communicate to impacted colleagues .

Ole Rosgaard: These changes have been carefully considered over this past year and were acted on in Q4 in a manner which allowed us to communicate to impacted colleagues our heartfelt appreciation for their contributions to Greif. These actions drove the significant acceleration beyond our previous full year 2025 commitments. Due to our progress to date, we are raising our anticipated fiscal 2026 cumulative cost-saving run rate commitments from $50 to $60 million to $80 to $90 million. We will also expand our anticipated full year 2027 cumulative run rate commitment from $100 to $120 million. Our cost optimization program has continued to evolve since the start of the year. What began as a top-down initiative is now being fueled from the ground up. Across the organization, our colleagues are embracing the challenge, identifying new opportunities, driving local action, and creating meaningful change.

Speaker #4: Our heartfelt appreciation for their contributions to growth . These actions drove the significant acceleration beyond our previous full year 25 commitments due to our progress to date .

Speaker #4: We are raising our anticipated fiscal 26 cumulative cost saving run rate commitments from 50 to 60 million to 80 to 90 million . We will also expand our anticipated full year 27 cumulative run rate commitment from 100 million to 120 million .

Speaker #4: Our cost optimization program has continued to evolve since the start of the year . What began as a top down initiative is now being fueled from the ground up , across the organization .

Speaker #4: Our colleagues are embracing the challenge , identifying new opportunities , driving local action and creating meaningful change . This work is making grief a more focused and agile organization , better positioned to capture value as demand returns .

Ole Rosgaard: This work is making Greif a more focused and agile organization, better positioned to capture more value as demand returns. Importantly, this isn't just about taking costs out. It's about building an agile next-generation Greif. The Greif Business System enables repeatable excellence across more than 250 sites in 40 countries, allowing us to do more with fewer resources. We are removing unnecessary layers to empower local leaders and speed up decision-making, and we are embedding a mindset of efficiency, responsiveness, and value creation across every function and facility. This isn't a one-time initiative. It's a structural shift in how we operate, compete, and grow. Excuse me. Please turn to slide 5. A significant finding from our cost optimization program, which is now realizable as the divestment of Container Board, are the clear and meaningful synergies in operating adhesives and recycled fiber as part of Sustainable Fiber Solutions.

Speaker #4: Importantly , this isn't just about taking cost out . It's about building an agile next generation growth . The growth business system enables repeatable excellence across more than 250 sites in 40 countries , allowing us to do more with fewer resources .

Speaker #4: We're removing unnecessary layers to empower local leaders and speed up decision making . And we are embedding a mindset of efficiency , responsiveness and value creation across every function and facility .

Speaker #4: This isn't a one time initiative . It's a structural shift in how we operate , compete , and grow . Excuse me . Please turn to slide five .

Speaker #4: A significant finding from our cost optimization program , which is now realizable as the divestment of container boards are the clear and meaningful synergies in operating adhesives and recycled fiber .

Speaker #4: As part of sustainable fiber solutions . Therefore , beginning in fiscal 26 , those products will be reported within our fiber segment . Results .

Ole Rosgaard: Beginning in fiscal 2026, those products will be reported within our fiber segment results. These changes are designed to enhance our go-to-market approach while also benefiting our cost optimization program. This leaves the Integrated Solutions segment as primarily closures. Effective 1 October, we are renaming that segment to Innovative Closure Solutions, which is a highly profitable and critical growth focus for us. Please turn to slide 6. Our Q4 results reinforce our strategic focus on 4 target end markets. In customized polymer solutions, volumes were flat year-over-year. However, small containers continued positive volume momentum driven by the agrochemicals end markets. This is an area where we have been investing to grow both organically and through M&A. Mid-single-digit declines in both IBC and large polymer drums driven by softness in industrial markets in EMEA during the quarter offset the positive growth in small containers.

Speaker #4: These changes are designed to enhance our go to market approach . While also benefiting our cost optimization program . This leaves the integrated Solutions segment as primarily closures .

Speaker #4: Effective October 1st . We are renaming that segment to Innovative Closure Solutions , which is a highly profitable and critical growth focus for us .

Speaker #4: Please turn to slide six . Our Q4 results reinforce our strategic focus on four targeted end markets in customized polymer solutions . Volumes were flat year over year .

Speaker #4: However, small containers continued positive volume momentum driven by the agrochemicals end markets. This is an area where we have been investing to grow both organically and through M&A.

Speaker #4: Mid-single digit declines in both IBC and last polymer drums , driven by softness in industrial markets in EMEA during the quarter , offset the positive growth in small containers in durable metals .

Ole Rosgaard: In durable metals, volumes declined 6.6%, reflecting softness across industrial end markets. Our team remains focused on managing the business for cash flow and optimizing cost while maintaining a strong position that will capitalize on growth as demand returns. Sustainable fiber volumes declined 7.7%, reflecting approximately 1.7 or 1.7 million tons of URB economic downtime during September. Converting was also negatively impacted by continued soft fiber demand. Sorry, soft fiber drum demand. Integrated Solutions continues to see volume improvements driven by closures. These products generating 30%-plus gross margin continue to win new business through innovation and cross-selling, including on our Greif+ digital platform. In wrapping up my section, I'll close by pointing to a few items which clearly demonstrate through the noisiness of full year 2025 the value creation occurring under our strategy.

Speaker #4: Volumes declined 6.6% , reflecting softness across industrial end markets . Our team remains focused on managing the business for cash flow and optimizing cost , while maintaining a strong position that will capitalize on growth as demand returns .

Speaker #4: Sustainable fiber volumes declined 7.7% , reflecting approximately 1.7 or 1.7 million tons of IRB economic downtime during September . Converting was also negatively impacted by continued soft fiber demand on soil .

Speaker #4: Soft fiber drum demand . Integrated solutions continues to see volume improvements driven by closures . These products are generating 30% plus gross margin .

Speaker #4: Continue to win new business through innovation and cross-selling , including on our Drive Plus Plus digital platform . In wrapping up my section , I'll close by pointing to a few items which clearly demonstrate through the noise of full year 25 .

Speaker #4: The value creation occurring under our strategy . Our polymers and closure business are growing . Our cost optimization is well ahead of plan , and it has expanded to 120 million of anticipated total commitments .

Ole Rosgaard: Our polymers and closure business are growing. Our cost optimization is well ahead of plan, and it has expanded to $120 million of anticipated total commitments. Our free cash conversion was nearly 50% in 2025 and expected to be at 50% in 2026. Pro forma leverage is below 1x. Greif is a strong, durable company, and we are accelerating our value creation. I'll now turn it over to Larry for the financials on slide 7.

Speaker #4: Our free cash conversion was nearly 50% in 2025 , and expected to be at 50% in 2026 . Our performance performer leverage is below one times .

Speaker #4: Price is a strong , doable company , and we accelerating our value creation . I'll now turn it over to Larry for the financials on slide seven .

Speaker #5: Thank you everyone . Thank you Ollie . Hello everyone . As a reminder , our results are presented excluding the Containerboard divestment except for free cash flow which compares total operations to the prior year .

Larry Hilsheimer: Thank you, everyone. Or thank you, Ole. Hello, everyone. As a reminder, our results are presented excluding the containerboard divestment, except for free cash flow, which compares total operations to the prior year. Due to our fiscal year change, Q4 reflects a 2-month reporting period, August and September. For consistency, all prior year comparatives in today's presentation are also shown on a 2-month basis. Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $99 million, which was 7.4% above the prior year. EBITDA margins also expanded year-over-year by 140 basis points due to better price cost across all segments and the building momentum of our cost optimization. Adjusted free cash flow also improved year-over-year by over 24.3% due to the increase in EBITDA and our team's strong working capital management to close year.

Speaker #5: Additionally , due to our fiscal year Q4 reflects a two month reporting period . August and September for consistency , all prior year comparatives in today's presentation are also shown on a two month basis .

Speaker #5: Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $99 million , which was 7.4% above the prior year EBITDA margins also expanded year over year by 140 basis points due to better price costs across all segments , and the building momentum of our cost optimization .

Speaker #5: Adjusted free cash free cash flow also improved year over year by over 24.3% due to the increase in EBITDA and our team's strong working capital management to close the year .

Speaker #5: As noted in our presentation , SG&A includes $28 million of operating costs , specifically related to the Containerboard divestment , which are excluded from EBITDA .

Larry Hilsheimer: As noted in our presentation, SG&A includes $28 million of operating costs specifically related to the containerboard divestment which are excluded from EBITDA. Excluding these costs, SG&A was slightly above the prior year quarter, due primarily to the 2-month quarter, including certain annual or quarterly costs which were occurred over a shorter year. Adjusted EPS for the quarter was $0.01 relative to $0.59 in the prior year quarter. Our Q4 tax expense was impacted by non-recurring items affecting pre-tax income and the residual nature of continuing operations after removing discontinued operations. Tax expense also includes various taxes, either not based on income or not directly correlated to current period income, the impact of which is magnified due to the lower income reported in this 2-month period. Finally, the tax expense was also influenced by the mix of earnings across the jurisdictions in which we do business.

Speaker #5: Excluding these costs , change , or quarterly costs , which occurred over a shorter year . Adjusted EPs for the quarter was $0.01 relative to $0.59 in the prior year quarter .

Speaker #5: Our Q4 tax expense was impacted by non-recurring items affecting pre-tax income and the residual nature of continuing operations, after removing discontinued operations.

Speaker #5: Tax expense also includes various taxes , either not based on income or not directly correlated to current period income . The impact of which is magnified due to the lower income reported in this two month period .

Speaker #5: Finally , the tax expense was also influenced by the mix of earnings across the jurisdictions in which we do business . Please turn to slide eight .

Larry Hilsheimer: Please turn to slide 8. In Polymers, growth was led by small containers, consistent with our long-term strategic focus on less cyclical, margin-accretive end markets. Sales and gross profit were both up year-over-year, with margin tailwinds from mix pricing and operational discipline. In Metals, results reflected volume softness in industrial end markets. Sales and volume declined, but we continued to generate healthy cash flow and remained focused on cost reduction and enhancing agility to react as demand recover. In Fiber, the decline in sales was tied to volume, with URB mill downtime late in the quarter. Despite that, gross profit dollars and margin improved year-over-year due to continued benefits from price cost and tight cost management. Integrated Solutions sales and gross profit dollars declined year-over-year due primarily due to lower published OCC prices in our recycled fiber group.

Speaker #5: In polymers , growth was led by small containers , consistent with our long term strategic focus on less cyclical margin accretive and markets .

Speaker #5: Sales and gross profit were both up year over year , with margin tailwinds from mix , pricing and operational discipline in metals . Results reflected volume softness in industrial and markets .

Speaker #5: Sales and volume declined , but we continued to generate healthy cash flow and remain focused on cost reduction and enhancing agility to react as demand recovers .

Speaker #5: In fiber , the decline in sales was tied to volume , with IRB male mill downtime late in the quarter . Despite that , gross profit , dollars and margin improved year over year due to continued benefits from price , cost and tight cost management .

Speaker #5: Integrated solution sales and gross profit dollars declined year over year due primarily due to . Lower published prices in our recycled fiber group .

Speaker #5: Volumes in recycled fiber enclosures were both solid , and the products impact of closures led to higher gross margins year over year . Please turn to slide nine .

Larry Hilsheimer: Volumes in recycled fiber and closures were both solid, and the products mix impact of closures led to higher gross margins year-over-year. Please turn to slide 9. Given the continued demand environment we are operating in, we believe it is prudent to present low-end guidance to begin fiscal 2026. Our low-end scenario assumes flat to low single-digit volume declines in metals and fiber. It also assumes low single-digit volume improvement in polymers and closures from growth in our target end markets. The net impact of these volumes assumption is flat volume-related EBITDA performance to prior year. Transportation and manufacturing costs were also assumed flat, representing cost savings on our cost optimization offsetting normal inflationary cost increases. The two major positive drivers in our bridge are SG&A and price cost, both of which reflect the accelerated progress on our cost optimization program.

Speaker #5: Given the continued demand environment , we are operating in , we believe it is prudent to present low end guidance to begin fiscal 26 .

Speaker #5: Our low end scenario assumes flat to low single digit volume declines in metals and fiber . It also assumes low single digit volume improvement in polymers .

Speaker #5: Enclosures from growth in our target end markets . The net impact of these volumes assumption is flat volume related EBITDA performance to prior year transportation and manufacturing costs were also assumed flat , representing cost savings on our cost optimization , offsetting normal inflationary cost increases .

Speaker #5: The two major positive drivers in our bridge are SG&A and price costs , both of which reflect the accelerated progress on our cost optimization program .

Speaker #5: SG&A of $45 million reflects $39 million of incremental cost optimization , of which 17 million is within the fiscal year 25 run rate and 19 million is within the fiscal 26 run rate , both of which are expected to benefit fiscal 26 .

Larry Hilsheimer: SG&A of $45 million reflects $39 million of incremental cost optimization, of which $17 million is within the fiscal year 2025 run rate, and $19 million is within the fiscal 2026 run rate, both of which are expected to benefit fiscal 2026. The additional $9 million represents lower variable costs, including incentives. Price cost reflects $12 million of incremental cost optimization. This is primarily in the form of sourcing benefits in polymers and closures, while metals cost base is assumed flat. Price cost also reflects an $18 million incremental benefit of URB pricing recognized in fiscal 2025 and lower expected OCC costs. Lastly, to round out our bridge, a $10 million EBITDA headwind from the lack of Land Management and a benefit of a $7 million +FX driven by the weakening of the US dollar.

Speaker #5: The additional 9 million represents lower variable costs , including incentives , price costs , reflects 12 million of incremental cost optimization . This is primarily in the form of sourcing benefits in polymers and closures .

Speaker #5: While metals cost base is assumed flat price costs also reflects an $18 million incremental benefit of IRB pricing recognized in fiscal 25 and lower expected costs .

Speaker #5: Lastly , to round out our bridge , a $10 million EBITDA headwind from the lack of land management and a benefit of a $7 million positive FX driven by the weakening of the US dollar .

Speaker #5: Our free cash flow , low end guidance is 315 million , a 50% conversion ratio demonstrating our progress towards our long term objectives .

Larry Hilsheimer: Our free cash flow low-end guidance is $315 million, a 50% conversion ratio demonstrating our progress towards our long-term objectives. We expect to spend approximately $155 million on CapEx this year. Our lower cash interest cost reflects our strong balance sheet, and our other cash use includes approximately $40 million of cash restructuring related to the cost optimization as well as pension costs. Working capital assumes a source of $50 million, driven by both low-end volume assumptions and optimization gains. Please turn to slide 10. With our pro forma leverage below 1.0 and strong cash flow guidance of $315 million, we anticipate minimal cash needs for debt service costs in the year ahead. Similarly, after divesting our most capital-intensive business earlier this year, our maintenance CapEx needs are approximately $25 million lower.

Speaker #5: We expect to expand , expect to spend approximately 155 million on CapEx this year . Our lower cash interest cost reflects our strong balance sheet and our other cash use includes approximately 40 million of cash restructuring related to the cost optimization , as well as pension costs , working capital assumes a source of 50 million , driven by both low end volume assumptions and optimization gains .

Speaker #5: Please turn to slide ten . With our pro forma leverage below 1.0 . And strong cash flow guidance of 315 million . We anticipate minimal cash needs for debt service costs in the year ahead .

Speaker #5: Similarly , after divesting our most capital intensive business earlier this year , our maintenance CapEx needs are approximately $25 million lower . Given the strength of our balance sheet and a strong and durable free cash flow generation , our capital allocation outlook demonstrates the value creation driven by our business model .

Larry Hilsheimer: Given the strength of our balance sheet and strong and durable free cash flow generation, our capital allocation outlook demonstrates the value creation driven by our business model. As a result of our fiscal year-end change, our scheduled board of directors meeting is now 1 month following each quarterly earnings release, still aligned to the previous fiscal calendar. Our dividend payments will be considered as usual by the board on that same cadence, with the next meeting occurring on 9 December. Based on our strong conviction in our own ability to meet our long-term commitments and our belief that our stock currently presents compelling value, we plan to execute as quickly as possible on an approximately $150 million open market repurchase plan utilizing our available authorization of approximately 2.5 million shares.

Speaker #5: As a result of our fiscal year end change , our scheduled Board of Directors meeting is now one month following each quarterly earnings release , still aligned to the previous fiscal calendar .

Speaker #5: As such , our dividend payments will be considered as usual by the board on that same cadence with the next meeting occurring on December 9th .

Speaker #5: Further , based on our strong conviction in our own ability to meet our long term commitments and our belief that our stock currently presents compelling value , we plan to execute as quickly as possible on an approximately $150 million open market repurchase plan , utilizing our available authorization of approximately 2.5 million shares .

Speaker #5: Additionally , we intend to seek board approval of a new stock repurchase authorization that will enable continued repurchases as part of our go forward capital allocation strategy , which we expect to include regular stock repurchases of up to 2% per year of our outstanding equity value .

Larry Hilsheimer: Additionally, we intend to seek board approval of a new stock repurchase authorization that will enable continued repurchases as part of our go-forward capital allocation strategy, which we expect to include regular stock repurchases of up to 2% per year of our outstanding equity value. While that leaves ample capacity for growth capital, we're going to be prudent in allocating it while maintaining our strong balance sheet. Where we do deploy growth capital, we will prioritize thoughtful and focused organic investments which drive high returns on capital. Please turn to slide 11 for a closing from Ole.

Speaker #5: While that leaves ample capacity for growth , capital , they're going to be prudent in allocating it while maintaining our strong balance sheet where we do deploy growth capital , we will prioritize thoughtful and focused organic investments , which drive high returns on capital .

Speaker #5: Please turn to slide 11 for a closing from Ollie .

Speaker #4: Thank you again for your interest in growth . We acknowledged that the last 11 months have been bumpy , given all the change occurring and that showed up in this quarter .

Ole Rosgaard: Thank you again for your interest in Greif. We acknowledge that the last 11 months have been bumpy given all the change occurring. That showed up in this quarter in our tax results. As always, my commitment to you is transparency and candor. We are proud of how we finished fiscal 2025. More focused, more efficient, and more aligned with our long-term strategy. We're also excited for a cleaner outlook in full year 2026. We'll continue to communicate progress on our strategy with as much clarity as possible. The divestment of Containerboard and Land Management have meaningfully reshaped our business. We're now positioned with a sharper portfolio, lower capital intensity, and stronger financial flexibility than ever before. Our cost optimization program is ahead of plan, with an expanded $120 million commitments by the end of 2027.

Speaker #4: In our tax results . As always , my commitment to you is transparency and candor . We are proud of how we finished fiscal 2025 .

Speaker #4: More focused , more efficient , and more aligned with our long term strategy . We also excited for our cleaner outlook in full year 26 and will continue to communicate progress on our strategy with as much clarity as possible .

Speaker #4: The divestment of Containerboard and land management have meaningfully reshaped our business . We now positioned with a sharper portfolio , lower capital intensity and stronger financial flexibility than ever before .

Speaker #4: Our cost optimization program is ahead of plan , and with an expanded 120 million commitment by the end of 2027 , we are building a stronger business , one that creates value in any environment and delivers accelerating performance as volumes return .

Ole Rosgaard: We are building a stronger business, one that creates value in any environment and delivers accelerating performance as volumes return. Thank you for your continued support. Operator, please open the lines for questions.

Speaker #4: Thank you for your continued support . Operator . Please open the lines for questions .

Speaker #2: Certainly , as a reminder to ask a question , please press star one . One on your phone and wait for your name to be announced .

Operator: Certainly. As a reminder, to ask a question, please press star one one on your phone and wait for your name to be announced. To withdraw your question, please press star one one again. Please stand by while we compile our Q&A roster. One moment for our first question, which will be coming from Ghansham Panjabi of Baird. Your line is open.

Speaker #2: To withdraw your question , please press star one . One . Again , please stand by while we compile our Q&A roster . One moment for our first question , which will be coming from Ghanshyam Panjabi of Baird .

Speaker #2: Your line is open .

Speaker #6: Hey , guys . Good morning . Good morning . So I guess first off on , you know , polymers and your comments about growth in some of the target markets that you've realigned towards .

Ghansham Panjabi: Hey, guys. Good morning.

Ole Rosgaard: Morning, Ghansham.

Ghansham Panjabi: Morning. I guess first off on, you know, polymers and your comments about growth in some of the target markets that you've realigned towards, can you just give us some more color on that, Ole? I mean, you know, many of these end markets you referenced, ag and, you know, flavors, et cetera, are still quite challenged just based on what's happening, you know, at the CPG level, et cetera. What is driving that improvement? Is it share gains? Is it just commercial, you know, success? What, what's going on there?

Speaker #6: Can you just give us some more color on that early ? I mean , you know , many of these end markets , you referenced AG and , you know , flavors etc.

Speaker #6: are still quite challenged , just based on what's happening , you know , at the CPG level , etc. . So , so what is driving that improvement ?

Speaker #6: Is it share gains ? Is it just commercial ? You know , success ? What's going on there .

Speaker #7: Yeah .

Ole Rosgaard: First, let me just, Ghansham, give you some sort of general comments. Our macro environment is, as you know, in a prolonged down cycle, and that's amplified by trade and tariff uncertainties. Demand softness remains a major driver for our customers' demands. For example, weak end markets in construction and manufacturing are hurting volumes. In terms of the ag sector, we decided, as part of our Build to Last strategy, to invest in end segments that grows faster than GDP. One of them was the agrochemicals market that is serviced by small containers and jerry cans. We consolidated that market to become a global leader, and that has really paid off, and it's in that market particularly where we have seen significant growth.

Speaker #4: Let me first give you some sort of general comments . So our macro environment is , as you know , in a prolonged down cycle and that's amplified by trade and tariffs uncertainties , demand softness remains a major driver for our customers .

Speaker #4: Demand . And for example we end markets in construction and manufacturing are hurting volumes in terms of the egg sector . We decided as part of our build to last strategy to go into the or invest in in segments that grows faster than GDP .

Speaker #4: One of them was the agrochemicals market . That is serviced by small containers and jerrycans . And we consolidated that market to become a global leader .

Speaker #4: And that has really paid off . And it's in that market , particularly , we have seen significant growth . But when you look at these factors , you know , our operational excellence , cost , discipline , cost out program and all the actions we just mentioned , that means that that portfolio has become even more valuable , valuable to us in the near term .

Ole Rosgaard: When you look at these factors, you know, our operational excellence, cost discipline, cost out program, and all the actions we just mentioned, that means that portfolio has become even more valuable to us in the near term.

Speaker #6: Got it . And then in terms of fiscal year 26 guidance , specific to EBITDA , how should we think about the sequencing of that ?

Ghansham Panjabi: Got it. Then in terms of fiscal year 2026 guidance, you know, specific to EBITDA, how should we think about the sequencing of that, you know, on a year-over-year basis? Is it sort of flat to down in the H1 and then an improvement the H2? What's your baseline assumption at this point?

Speaker #6: You know , on a year over year basis ? Is it sort of flat to down in the first half and then an improvement in the back half ?

Speaker #6: What's your baseline assumption at this point ?

Larry Hilsheimer: Ghansham, it's, you know, as usual, Q1 will be the weakest and, you know, let's talk about it roughly 20% of the year, and then the rest of the quarters will be 25% to 30% each, sort of modeled the same way after prior year.

Speaker #5: It's , you know , as usual , the first quarter will be the weakest . And you know , let's talk about it .

Speaker #5: Roughly 20% of the year . And then the rest of the quarters will be 25 to 30% each . So of modeled the same way after prior year .

Speaker #6: Got it . And then just one final one , Larry , you know , as it relates to the low end , if you will , guidance , characterization .

Ghansham Panjabi: Got it. Just one final one, Larry. You know, as it relates to the low end, if you will, guidance on characterization, is it just purely volumes that would be the determinant as it relates to maybe the upper end bandwidth? Is that how we should think about that?

Speaker #6: Is it just purely volumes ? That would be determined as it relates to maybe the upper end bandwidth ? Is that is that how we should think about that ?

Speaker #7: I think volumes would be the big.

Larry Hilsheimer: I think volumes would be the big driver for certain, but also we have found acceleration in our cost optimization program. As Ole mentioned in his prepared remarks, this is really catching fire among our colleagues, and we have a program of identifying ideas from the ground up. We also think there's upside in our cost optimization numbers for the year as well.

Speaker #5: Driver for certain . But also we have found acceleration in our cost optimization program as only mentioned in his prepared remarks . This is really catching fire among our colleagues , and we have a program of identifying ideas from the ground up .

Speaker #5: So we also think there's upside in in our cost optimization numbers for the year as well .

Speaker #6: Got it . Thanks so much .

Ghansham Panjabi: Good. Thanks so much.

Speaker #2: And our next question will be coming from Mike Rocklin of Truist Securities . Your line is open .

Operator: Our next question will be coming from Michael Roxland of Truist Securities. Your line is open.

Michael Roxland: Thank you Ole, Larry, Bill, and Dan, for taking my questions, and congrats on all the progress.

Speaker #8: Thank you all . Larry , Bill , Dana , for taking my questions . And congrats on all the progress .

Speaker #5: Thanks , Mike .

Larry Hilsheimer: Thanks, Michael.

Michael Roxland: Just wanted to follow up on Ghansham's question in terms of the 2026 guide. Larry, you know, if volumes come in weaker, 'cause certainly we've heard about weaker volumes from a majority of our companies this earnings season thus far, is cost the leverage that you have available to pull to offset incremental volume weakness to meet your guide for 2026?

Speaker #8: Just wanted to follow up on question in terms of the the 26 guide . So , Larry , if volumes come in weaker because certainly we've heard about weaker volumes from a majority of our companies this earnings season thus far is is cost the leverage that you have available to pull to offset incremental volume weakness to meet your guide for 2026 ?

Speaker #5: Yeah , I would say two things . The bottom line answer to your question is yes , we can always pull back further on shifts .

Larry Hilsheimer: Yeah. I would say, two things. The bottom line answer to your question is yes, we can always pull back further on shifts and, you know, temporary furloughs and those kind of things. However, this is what we said, it's low-end guidance. This is pretty pessimistic on the volume assumptions already. We don't anticipate that being an item, Michael. Yes, we still could pull incremental levels on a variable cost basis if we needed to.

Speaker #5: And , you know , temporary furloughs and those kind of things . However , this is what we said . It's low end guidance .

Speaker #5: This is pretty pessimistic on the volume assumptions already . So we don't anticipate that being an item , Michael . But yes , we still could pull incremental levels on a variable cost basis if we needed to .

Speaker #5: Hey , Michael , just .

Ole Rosgaard: Hey, Michael, just to remind you that, you know, throughout the year, pricing has been under pressure, and that's due to oversupply and weak demand. Despite of that, we have increased our margins and performed solidly, and you know, I don't think that will change going into 2026.

Speaker #4: Remind you that , you know , throughout the year , pricing has been under pressure and that's due to oversupply and weak demand .

Speaker #4: And despite of that , we have increased our margins and performed solidly . And , you know , I don't think that would change going into 2026 .

Speaker #8: Got a very helpful in terms of the cost optimization program . Obviously , you guys have raised that for 27 by $20 million .

Michael Roxland: Got it. Very helpful. In terms of the cost optimization programs, you guys raised that for 2027 by $20 million. As you've gone through the portfolio, can you comment on whether there's even more upside to be had or additional cost opportunities that you've come across that maybe you haven't, you know, specified right now, but you've really scrutinized and you think that even there is an additional amount above and beyond the incremental $20?

Speaker #8: As you've gone through the portfolio , do you can you comment on whether there's even more upside to be had or additional cost opportunities that you've come across that maybe you haven't specified right now , but you really scrutinized and you think that even there is an additional amount above and beyond the incremental 20 .

Speaker #4: Obviously , our sites are , you know , much further and much higher , but we we use the word commitment here . And at the moment we are very , very comfortable committing to the 120 million we talked about .

Ole Rosgaard: Obviously, our sights are, you know, much further and much higher, but we use the word commitment here. At the moment we are very, very comfortable committing to the $120 million we talked about. Obviously, as Larry just alluded to, you know, that number could go up as we go through the year. We wanna get a little bit closer before we would be able to increase our commitments. We are very bullish about that.

Speaker #4: But obviously , as Larry just alluded to , you know , that number could go up as we go through the year , but we want to get a little bit closer before we would be able to increase our commitments .

Speaker #4: But we are very bullish about that .

Speaker #5: Yeah , Mike , we have a stage gate process that where there's a lot of discipline before we get to something , we classify as stage gate three and four , which is where we're more certain .

Larry Hilsheimer: Yeah, Mike, we have a stage gate process to where there's a lot of discipline before we get to something we classify in stage gate 3 and 4, which is where we're more certain. Yeah, we believe there's potential upside.

Speaker #5: But yeah , we believe there's potential upside .

Speaker #8: Got it . And the final question before turning it over last quarter you mentioned a few times on the call that some of your larger chemical chemicals companies or customers .

Michael Roxland: Got it. Final questions before turning it over. Last quarter you mentioned a few times on the call that some of your larger chemical companies or customers, excuse me, were not doing so well. You see that through even when, you know, in earnings. Your IBC volumes declined mid-single digits this quarter. They were down mid-single digits last quarter and have been weak for some time now. You know, realizing that chemicals is a cyclical business, have any of those customers indicated to you that they intend to, like, maybe close capacity permanently or rightsize their businesses? If so, what does that ultimately mean for your IBC business longer term?

Speaker #8: Scuse me . We're not doing so well . You see that through even in earnings . Your IVC volumes declined mid-single digits this quarter .

Speaker #8: They were down mid-single digits last quarter and had been weak for some time now . Now , realizing the chemicals is a cyclical business .

Speaker #8: I need those customers . Indicated to you that they intend to maybe close capacity permanently or rightsize their businesses , and if so , what does that mean ?

Speaker #8: Ultimately mean for your your IVC business ? Longer term ?

Speaker #9: I .

Ole Rosgaard: I mean, as I said, like, the demand softness is out there as a major driver for our customers, and they have adjusted their business. They are a lot of them are relying, in terms of chemicals, on, you know, construction and manufacturing as end markets. I don't think that it'll get any worse. That's my personal opinion when I speak to customers and see the numbers. Big question is, when will it get better?

Speaker #4: Mean , I mean , as I said , that . demand softness is is is out there . It's a major driver for our customers .

Speaker #4: And they have adjusted their business, and a lot of them are relying, in terms of chemicals, on construction and manufacturing as end markets.

Speaker #4: I don't think that it'll get any worse . That's my personal opinion . When I speak to customers and and sees the numbers .

Speaker #4: But big question is when will when will it get better ? Yeah . And we're not sitting here waiting for it to get better .

Larry Hilsheimer: Yeah.

Ole Rosgaard: We're not sitting here waiting for it to get better. As you've seen, you know, we are acting. We are highly focused on organic growth. We're deploying capital for organic growth in the specific segments that we have alluded to. We are taking cost out of our business, and our business is generating a lot of cash, and we're doing our share buyback of $150 million. We're helping ourselves. We're controlling what we can control, and we're not in a waiting position. Of course, when volumes return, you know, that would be nice, and we will take that as an extra benefits.

Speaker #4: It's just as you've seen , you know , we are acting . We are highly focused on organic growth . We're deploying capital for organic growth in the specific segments that we have alluded to .

Speaker #4: We are taking cost out of our business , and our business is generating a lot of cash , and we're doing our share buyback of 150 million .

Speaker #4: So so we're helping ourselves . We're controlling what we can control . And we're not in a waiting position . Of course , when when volumes return , you know , that would be nice .

Speaker #4: And we will take that as an extra benefit.

Speaker #5: Yeah . Michael I would supplement O'Reilly's comments if this makes sense . We're hearing less bad comments , less bad than they were .

Larry Hilsheimer: Yeah. Michael, if I would supplement, Ole's comments, if this makes sense, we're hearing less bad comments. Less bad than they were. The other thing that's somewhat encouraging is the trending down of mortgage rates. You know, as, you know, most housing industry analysts, investors believe that if you get with a 5, something interest rate, pent-up demand in existing homes, sales will take off. That's a big driver for the chemical companies and therefore for us.

Speaker #5: And the other thing that's somewhat encouraging is the trending down of of mortgage rates , you know , as you know , most , most housing industry analysts , investors believe that if you get with a five something interest rate , pent up demand and existing homes , sales will take off , that's a big driver for the chemical companies .

Speaker #5: And therefore for us . Yeah , we .

Ole Rosgaard: Yeah, we are encouraged by the two times rate cuts we've seen. It's not gonna change anything overnight. If we see more rate cuts, you know, it will have a positive effect on demand, we believe.

Speaker #4: Encouraged by the two two times rate cuts we've seen . But it's not going to change anything overnight . But if we see more rate cuts you know it will have a positive effect on on demand .

Speaker #4: We believe .

Speaker #8: Got a very clear appreciate the color and good luck in fiscal 26 .

Michael Roxland: Got it. Very clear. Appreciate the color and good luck in fiscal 2026.

Speaker #5: Thank you Michael . Thanks .

Larry Hilsheimer: Thank you, Michael.

Ole Rosgaard: Thanks.

Speaker #2: And our next question will be coming from Matt Roberts of Raymond James . Matt , your line is open .

Operator: Our next question will be coming from Matt Roberts of Raymond James. Matt, your line is open.

Speaker #9: Hey , Larry . Good morning . I appreciate all the color . Can you hear me ? Okay .

Matt Roberts: Hey, Ole, Larry, good morning. I appreciate all the color. Can you hear me okay?

Speaker #5: Yes , yes .

Ole Rosgaard: Yes.

Larry Hilsheimer: Yes.

Speaker #9: Okay . Great . Yeah . Thanks . Thanks for the color . It's good to see the cost coming through and all your color on capital allocation and on capital allocation .

Matt Roberts: Okay, great. Yeah, thanks for all the color. It's good to see the cost coming through and all your color on capital allocation. You know, on capital allocation, balance sheet's in a great spot. You initiated the open market repurchase for $150 million. Given that low leverage and the now newly discussed long-term repurchasing intentions of, I believe it was 2% per year, does that change how much capacity remains for M&A or has the hurdle rate for M&A changed versus your view of, I think what you said was stock offering compelling value? All those things considered, where do you expect leverage to shake out by year-end 2026?

Speaker #9: So balance sheets are in a great spot . The the open market repurchase for 150 million . So given that low leverage and now newly discussed long term repurchasing intentions of I believe it's 2% per year , does that change how much capacity remains for M&A ?

Speaker #9: Or has the hurdle rate for M&A changed versus your view of . I think what you said was stock offering compelling value and all those things considered , where do you expect leverage to shake out by year end ?

Speaker #4: 26 let me just answer the first one . And Larry , deal with the leverage one . So , so on M&A , I mean , first of all , our focus is on growing much faster organically .

Ole Rosgaard: Let me just answer the first one, then let Larry deal with the leverage one. On M&A, I mean, first of all, our focus is on growing much faster organically, and we are deploying CapEx for that. We have a number of areas we have invested in for organic growth. In terms of M&A, we've said many times we have a very solid pipeline. We keep working on the pipeline. We don't expect any, you know, transformational M&A to happen. We have our focus on what we would call target M&A to complement what we're doing organically. Our criteria's, they've remained the same. We are looking at M&A with EBITDA margins, you know, in the 20s, 50% free cash flow conversion, and primarily within polymers and primarily within the closure segments.

Speaker #4: And we are deploying CapEx for that . We have a number of areas . We have invested in for organic growth in terms of M&A .

Speaker #4: We've said many times we have a very solid pipeline . We keep working on on the pipeline . We don't expect any , you know , transformational M&A to happen .

Speaker #4: We have our focus on what we would call targeted M&A to complement what we're doing organically and our criteria remain the same . We are looking at M&A with EBITDA margins .

Speaker #4: You know , in the 20s , 50% free cash flow conversion and primarily within polymers and primarily within within the closure segments .

Speaker #5: Yeah , you might want to supplement that only maybe talk to him about talk to the group about hunters and farmers . And also about Eisenkraft maybe .

Larry Hilsheimer: Yeah, you might want to supplement that, Ole. Maybe talk to the group about hunters and farmers, and also about IronCraft maybe.

Ole Rosgaard: Yeah. We have reorganized our entire commercial organization globally, and from being We've been farmers in the past and taking really good care of our existing customers, but we've changed that to become more hunters now. We've changed the incentive program. We've changed the way we operate commercially. We are targeting around 8% organic growth. That's part of, you know, that part is securing additional volume, extra share of wallet, but it's also deploying CapEx in terms of new capacity where we see that. We have also invested in a new. It started off as a startup out of a university in Germany.

Speaker #5: Yeah .

Speaker #4: So we have reorganized our entire commercial organization globally and every from being we've been we've been we've been farmers in the past and taking really good care of our existing customers .

Speaker #4: But we've changed that to become more hunters . Now . We've changed the incentive program . We've changed the way we operate commercially , and we are targeting around 8% organic growth .

Speaker #4: That's part of that . Part is securing additional volume , extra share of wallet . But it's also deploying CapEx in terms of new capacity , where we see that we have also invested in a new it started off as a start up out of a university in Germany .

Ole Rosgaard: We created a partnership with this startup. We're now investing in that. We're deploying a very unique proprietary form of barrier technology that only we have. We're just ramping that up right now. We have three lines on order. We are negotiating further lines. This is something that's exclusive to us. We will see that start to come through towards the end of 2026 and really ramping up in 2027.

Speaker #4: We created a partnership with this startup , and we are now investing in that . And we're deploying a very unique proprietary . Form of barrier technology that only we have .

Speaker #4: And we're just ramping that up right now . We have three lines on order , and we are negotiating further lines . And this is something that's exclusive to us .

Speaker #4: And we will see that start to come through towards the end of 26 . And really ramping up in 27 .

Speaker #5: Yeah . And Matt , you know , purpose of that , obviously the focus that we are really driving a different growth pattern than we have in the past .

Larry Hilsheimer: Yeah. Matt, you know, purpose of that, obviously the focus that we are really driving a different growth pattern than we have in the past. Relative to our leverage ratio, we're obviously in a really good place. With the free cash flow generation that we're talking about, you know, I think it's very highly likely we'll even with our stock repurchase and things we do, very highly likely we'll remain under 1.5 times, you know, by the end of next year. It's possible if some things came up that were attractive, we'd be higher than that, I don't see any scenario where we'd be over 2 at any chance. Really we'll remain in that range for the foreseeable future.

Speaker #5: But relative to our leverage ratio , we're obviously in a really good place . And with the free cash flow generation that we're talking about , you know , I think it's very highly likely we'll even with our stock repurchase and things we do .

Speaker #5: Very highly likely we'll remain under one and a half times the , you know , by the end of next year , it's possible if some things came up that were attractive , we'd be higher than that .

Speaker #5: But I don't see any scenario where we'd be over two at any chance . So really , we'll remain in that , in that range for the for the foreseeable future .

Speaker #9: Very helpful . Thank you both for all the color there . Second , on the the closures . So isolating that as a standalone segment , I know you did touch on this .

Matt Roberts: Very helpful. Thank you both for all the color there. Secondly, on the closures. So isolating that as a standalone segment, Ole, I know you did touch on this for the pre prepared remarks, so I apologize if I missed any of that. Are there operational changes here or more of a symbolic shift as closures have been a growth focus and, now with as lower recycled fiber has been a drag on the margins and Integrated Solutions, how should we think about the margin profile and growth of that segment going forward? Thank you again for taking the questions.

Speaker #9: For the prepared remarks . So I apologize . I if I missed any of that . But are there operational changes here or more of a symbolic shift ?

Speaker #9: As closures have been a growth focus and now with the lower recycled fiber has been a drag on the margins and integrated solutions , how should we think about the margin profile and growth of that segment going forward ?

Speaker #9: Thank you again for taking the questions . .

Ole Rosgaard: I mean, Closure has always been very attractive for us. It's a unique part of our business that comes with very high and attractive margins. There's a lot of growth opportunities out in the market for Closures. For example, with the 3 acquisitions we made in polymers, most of them were using Closures from other companies than our own, so there was a big synergy there we'll be executing on. Closures, we've separated that out now in a separate segment really to put extreme focus on this segment. We have a new leader in that business as well, his focus will be growth, M&A growth, but importantly also organic growth. We'll deploy CapEx accordingly to that. You Hopefully, you will see us in the many quarters to come growing that segment significantly.

Speaker #4: Closure has always been very attractive for us . It's a unique part of our business that comes with very high and attractive margins .

Speaker #4: There's a lot of growth opportunities out in the market for closures and for example , with the the three acquisitions we made in polymers , most of them were using closures from other companies that are owned .

Speaker #4: So that was a big synergy there . We executing on us closures . We separated that out . Now in a separate segment .

Speaker #4: Really to put extreme focus on this segment , we we have a new leader in in that business as well . And his focus will will be growth M&A growth .

Speaker #4: But importantly also organic growth and we'll deploy CapEx accordingly to that . So hopefully you will see us in the many to come growing that that segment significantly .

Speaker #9: Excellent . Thank you all again .

Matt Roberts: Excellent. Thank you all again.

Speaker #2: And our next question will be coming from George Staphos of Bank of America Securities Inc. . Your line is open . George .

Operator: Our next question will be coming from George Staphos of Bank of America Securities, Inc. Your line is open, George.

Speaker #10: Thanks so much . Hi , everyone . Good morning . Thanks , guys . Hey , I also just I just want to give you some credit here .

George Staphos: Thanks so much. Hi, everyone. Good morning. Thanks for the call guys.

Ole Rosgaard: Hey, George.

George Staphos: Hey, I just wanna give you some credit here. You know, buy, sell, or hold, the company has really done a wonderful job transforming itself over the last 10 years. You know, moving to a more, if you will, common fiscal quarter end, I think really helps everybody on the street. We thank you for that, guys, and we know it wasn't an easy undertaking. Thanks so much for that. I guess my first question: Can you talk about, Larry and Ole, the growth rates that you saw relative to your guidance entering fiscal 2026?

Speaker #10: You know , buy , sell or hold . The company has really done a wonderful job transforming itself over the last ten years .

Speaker #10: And , you know , moving to a a more , if you will , common fiscal quarter end . I think really helps everybody on the street .

Speaker #10: So we thank you for that guys . We know it wasn't an easy undertaking . So thanks so much for that . I guess my first question , can you talk about Larry and Ollie the the growth rates that you saw relative to your guidance ?

Speaker #10: Entering fiscal 26 ? I assume your assumptions are consistent with what the exit rates are , but were there any exit rates that were maybe trending below what's embedded in your guidance ?

George Staphos: I assume your assumptions are consistent with what the exit rates are, but were there any exit rates that were maybe trending below what is embedded in your guidance, recognizing you have got a lot of leverage to pull, et cetera, as was talked about earlier on the call?

Speaker #10: Recognizing you've got a lot of levers to pull , etc. ? As was talked about earlier on the call ?

Speaker #9: Yeah .

Larry Hilsheimer: Yeah. I mean, when you look across our portfolio within the fiber segment, probably one of the weakest lines that we had is our fiber drums. Fiber drums were down double digits, which was more than we expected them to be down. We expected them to be down, you know, less than that, high single digits. That was a trend that was worse. On the other hand, small polymers did better than we expected. Those were the two primary ones that were different than our expectations going into the quarter, George.

Speaker #5: I mean , when you look across our portfolio within the fiber segment , probably one of the weakest lines that we had is our fiber drums .

Speaker #5: So fiber drums were down double digits , which was more than we expected them to be down . We expected them to be down .

Speaker #5: You know , less than that . High single digits . So that was a trend that was worse . On the other hand , small polymers did better than we expected .

Speaker #5: So those were the two primary ones that were different than our expectations going into the quarter . George . Very good . .

George Staphos: Very good.

Larry Hilsheimer: And, and our guidance-

Speaker #10: Our . guidance .

George Staphos: Well, please go ahead, Larry.

Speaker #5: Our guidance going forward is is essentially aligned to what we started to see . So and in our low end guidance , as we said , we've got low single digit up up on polymers and on closures with more in the small polymers than in the large polymers .

Larry Hilsheimer: Our guidance going forward is essentially aligned to what we started to see. In our low-end guidance, as we said, we've got low single digits up on polymers and on closures, with more in the small polymers than in the large polymers. Within metals and fiber, we've got low single-digit declines just as a low-end guidance assumption.

Speaker #5: And then within metals and fiber , we've got slow , low single digit declines , just as a low end guidance assumption . .

Speaker #10: Understood . Okay . Thanks for that . And you're saying drums at this juncture fiber drums . Those have gotten back to kind of your guidance range .

George Staphos: Understood. Okay. Thanks for that. You're saying drums at this juncture, fiber drums, those have gotten back to kind of your guidance range or even though they started pretty weak. Would that be fair?

Speaker #10: Or even though they started pretty weak . Would that be fair .

Speaker #5: Yeah . They're they're just really off right now . And it's all tied to the whole chemical industry sector . So yeah , we're not bullish on any kind of significant growth in that one right now .

Larry Hilsheimer: No, they're just really off right now, and it's.

George Staphos: Okay

Larry Hilsheimer: it's all tied to the whole chemical industry, sector. Yeah, we're not bullish on any kind of significant growth in that one right now.

Speaker #5: .

Speaker #10: Okay . Thanks for that Larry . I was hoping you could go a little bit further into the SG&A pickup that you're expecting for sure .

George Staphos: Okay. Thanks for that, Larry. I was hoping you could go a little bit further into the SG&A pickup that you're expecting for this year. Again, thank you for the bridge and the discussion on the $45 million. Can you talk about what's in sort of the activity that you took in from fiscal 2025 into fiscal 2026? What, if anything, is different about what's in for this year on the fiscal 2026 actions? Just any other color on the $45 would be great.

Speaker #10: Again , thanks . Thank you for the for the bridge and the discussion on the 45 million . Can you talk about what's in sort of the activity that you took in from fiscal 25 into fiscal 26 ?

Speaker #10: What , if anything , is different about what's in for this year on the fiscal 26 actions ? And just any other color on the 45 would be great ?

Speaker #5: Yeah . The predominance of our our SG&A takeouts are related to the headcount numbers that Ollie gave on the 8% of our overall professional headcount .

Larry Hilsheimer: Yeah. The predominance of our SG&A takeouts are related to the headcount numbers that Ole gave on the 8% of our overall professional headcount. The majority of those actions were taken in Q4. They play out into the entire year going forward. We also have a lot of things where we've moved more things to low-cost countries. We've also taken in where we had contractors in our IT organization that you think are temporary, and then all of a sudden, they're around 8 years. Well, you're better off to hire them as employees, and then you're better off to offshore things. Our IT group has also done a fabulous job of rationalizing our IT licenses, which is a significant cost.

Speaker #5: And the majority of those actions were taken in the fourth quarter . So they play out into the entire year going forward . We also have a lot of things where we've moved more things to low cost countries .

Speaker #5: We've also taken in where we had contractors in our IT organization that you think are temporary , and then all of a sudden they're around eight years .

Speaker #5: Well , you're better off to hire them as employees . And and then you're better off offshore things . Our IT group has also done a fabulous job of rationalizing our IT licenses , which is a significant cost .

Speaker #5: We've restructured how we're doing our our AI activities and and going to a model that's basically pay for what you eat instead of a basic core per person license .

Larry Hilsheimer: We've restructured how we're doing our AI activities and going to a model that's basically pay for what you eat instead of a basic core per person license. There's a whole bunch of elements that go into those cost saves. Those are the predominant ones that are driving the major numbers.

Speaker #5: So there's a whole bunch of elements that go into those cost savings , but those are the predominant ones that are driving the major numbers .

Speaker #10: Okay . And on that point , Larry and Ollie , you know , you talk about changing the incentives and the approach to organic growth in the organization .

George Staphos: Okay. On that point, Larry and Ole, you know, you talk about changing the incentives and the approach to organic growth in the organization. That sounds exciting. At the same time, you know, for understandable reasons, and to benefit because you're getting savings from it, you're cutting headcount. Are there any areas where you're maybe a little bit more Maybe word's not the right term, but, you know, you've got to stretch a little bit further to get everything done on the front end of the business while you're re-engineering the back end. Any tension points there?

Speaker #10: That sounds exciting . And at the same time , you know , for for understandable reasons and to benefit because you're getting savings from it , you're cutting headcount .

Speaker #10: Are there any areas where you're maybe a little bit more , maybe words , not the right term , but , you know , you've got to stretch a little bit further to get everything done on the front end of the business .

Speaker #10: While you're re-engineering the back end . Any tension points there ?

Ole Rosgaard: Not really, George. I mean, we decided not to, you know, do the SG&A as like a thousand needles. That's why we took the axes in Q4 to get most of that behind us. In terms of the commercial organization, we have by and large protected that 'cause we're really focusing on organic growth. Although we have, you know, been rearranging that, as you say, with the incentive program. We're doing a lot of other things there as well in terms of how we manage performance in sales. We have I mean, Tim Bergwall, who's our Chief Commercial Officer, he's just doing a fantastic job with his team to do that.

Speaker #4: Not really George . I mean , we decided not to , you know , do the A as like a thousand needles . That's why we took the actions in Q4 to , to get most of that behind us .

Speaker #4: We in terms of the commercial organization , we have , by and large , protected that because we really focusing on organic growth , although we have , you know , been rearranging that as as you say , with , you know , with the incentive program .

Speaker #4: But we're doing a lot of other things there as well in terms of how we manage performance in the in sales . And we have a I mean , Tim Bergwall , who's our chief commercial officer , he's just doing a fantastic job with his team to , to to do to do that .

Speaker #4: And it doesn't happen overnight . And we still got a long way to go in that area .

Ole Rosgaard: It doesn't happen overnight, and we still got a long way to go in that area.

Speaker #10: Okay . My last question a couple parts and I'll turn it over out of courtesy . Sorry I've gone long here . One I assume the pricing change in integrated closures just the effect of oak .

George Staphos: Okay. My last question, a couple parts. I'll turn it over out of courtesy. Sorry, I've gone long here. One, I assume the pricing change in Integrated Solutions is just the effect of OCC. You know, can you talk about what the pricing change was actually within closures? You know, given you've done a lot of other things to simplify the organization, any thought perhaps at some point to simplifying the share structure, you know, between the Class A and Class B? Lastly, you know, with Greif resources and everything you've done to have the balance sheet where it is, you know, comes great responsibility. Where are your customers telling you they'd like you to most sort of grow inorganically from an end market standpoint so that you get the highest return going forward? Thanks, guys.

Speaker #10: But you know , can you talk about what the pricing change was actually within closures . You know , given you've done a lot of other things to simplify the organization .

Speaker #10: Any thought perhaps at some point to simplifying the share structure ? You know , between the class A and class B and then lastly , you know , with with great resources and everything you've done to , to , to have the balance sheet where it is , you know , comes great responsibility .

Speaker #10: Where are your customers telling you they'd like you to most sort of grow in from an end market standpoint so that you get the highest return going forward .

Speaker #10: Thanks, guys. Good luck in the quarter. I appreciate all the details, again.

George Staphos: Good luck in the quarter. Appreciate all the details again.

Speaker #4: There's a lot of questions .

Larry Hilsheimer: That was a lot of questions.

Speaker #10: We've been doing this a while . You know .

George Staphos: Yeah. We've been doing this a while, you know?

Larry Hilsheimer: I don't remember. I think the first one was the price impacts on the Integrated segment between RMG and closures. First of all, the reason for why we put the recycled fiber group and adhesives into the Sustainable Fiber Solutions group was that they're serving that group. That it's the same customer, and it's No, the adhesives is going into fiber also amongst customers. To have that managed by the same leader made sense, and that was part of that, you know, as part of that, we could take out a leadership level. That left sort of Integrated as a standalone closure business.

Speaker #5: I don't . yeah .

Speaker #11: The first one was the price impacts on the integrated segment between G and closures .

Speaker #5: Yeah .

Speaker #4: So first of all the reason for why we put the recycled fiber group and adhesives into the fiber solutions group was that they they're serving that group .

Speaker #4: It's the same customer . And it's not the adhesives is going into fiber . Also among customers . And to have that managed by the same leader made sense .

Speaker #4: And that was part of that . You know , as part of that , we could take out a leadership level . And that left sort of integrated as a standalone closure business .

Speaker #10: Oh yeah . What was the price change in closures , really ? What I'm asking .

George Staphos: Oh, yeah, Ole, what was the price change in closures really what I'm asking?

Speaker #5: Well , yeah , the price change in closures , George was basically $12 million of benefit from procurement activities . And that was in the polymers enclosure .

Larry Hilsheimer: Well, yeah, the price change in closures, George, was basically $12 million of benefit from procurement activities. That was in the polymers and closure. That's the segment. It's not the OCC side of it.

Speaker #5: That's the segment . It's not the oak side of it .

Speaker #10: Okay . Thank you .

George Staphos: Okay. Thank you.

Speaker #5: And then with respect to share structure , I mean , you know , that's something that we continue to dialogue and look at and but nothing on the in the near term on anything like that .

Larry Hilsheimer: With respect to share structure, I mean, you know, that's something that we continue to dialogue and look at, but nothing on the, in the near term on anything like that. What was the third question?

Speaker #5: And then what was the third question ?

George Staphos: Where are your customers telling you?

Speaker #10: Where are your customers telling you to .

Larry Hilsheimer: Where are our customers. Yeah. you know, on non-organic, you know, basically our, I mean, our customers, you know, like us to serve them in any of their needs that they have. Us getting broader enclosures where we might be able to serve more of their needs. Clearly, they've enjoyed us getting more into like the small plastics that we didn't use to serve on a global basis. That's been a positive. There's nothing else that they're out there asking us to get into right now, other than the one Ole went over on IonKraft, which is just a brand-new technology that is more highly recyclable, very favorable environmentally, and we just had UN approval on the first container with this stuff in. It's a very unique opportunity for us.

Speaker #5: Price . Yeah . On non-organic , you know , basically , I mean , our customers , you know , like us to serve them in any of their needs that they have .

Speaker #5: So us getting broader enclosures where we might be able to serve more of their needs , clearly they've enjoyed us getting more into , like the small plastics that we didn't used to serve on a global basis .

Speaker #5: That's been a positive , but there's nothing else that they're out there asking us to get into right now , other than the one only went over on Kraft , which is just a a brand new technology technology that is more highly recyclable , very favorable , environmentally .

Speaker #5: And and we just had UN approval on the first container with this stuff in . It's a very unique opportunity for us . Just , just just .

Larry Hilsheimer: George, just to remind that our NPS of 72 is just, you know, unheard of in our industry, and that gives you an idea of how close we are to our customers. I'll mention an unnamed customer who has been establishing new plants in several countries. Every time they do that, and this is a multinational, they come to us and ask if we could provide capacity on that particular location. We go in, we do a long-term agreement, and then we add lines or build a plant to service them. That's an example of what customers ask us for and how close we are to them.

Speaker #4: Remind that we our NPS of 72 is just , you know , unheard of in our industry . And that gives you an idea of how close we are to our customers .

Speaker #4: We are mention an unnamed customer who has been establishing new plants in in several countries . And every time they do that , and this is a multinational , they come to us and ask if we could provide capacity on that particular location .

Speaker #4: And we go in . We do a long term agreement and then we add lines or build a plant to to service them .

Speaker #4: And that's an example of , of of what customers ask us for and how close we are to them .

Speaker #10: Okay . Thank you guys . See you next quarter .

George Staphos: Thank you, guys. See you next quarter.

Speaker #5: Thanks , sir .

Larry Hilsheimer: Thanks, George.

Speaker #2: And as a reminder to ask a question , please press star one one on your phone and wait for your name to be announced .

Operator: As a reminder, to ask a question, please press star one one on your phone and wait for your name to be announced. Our next question will be coming from Gabe Hajde of Wells Fargo. Your line is open, Gabe.

Speaker #2: Our next question will be coming from Gabe Hatae of Wells Fargo . Your line is open . Gabe .

Speaker #12: Thank you . Good morning gentlemen . I had a I had a question about the durable metals business , which is is now going to be your largest .

Gabe Hajde: Thank you. Good morning, gentlemen.

Larry Hilsheimer: Good morning.

Gabe Hajde: I had a question about the durable metals business, which is now gonna be your largest. If memory serves, I don't know, 40% to 45% of that sits in Europe. Not to put you guys on the spot, but looking at a decent list of chemical plant closures across continental Europe, Eastern Europe, et cetera, I know you're talking about volumes being down, I think flat to down low single digits. Can you talk about just maybe, I know by region, historically kind of gave us performance in the legacy segments. Things have been changed around a little bit. I think you mentioned in your prepared remarks, Europe slowed down. Maybe just by region, sort of what your expectations are in that?

Speaker #12: And I if memory serves , I don't know , 40 to 45% of that sits in Europe . And not to put you guys on the spot , but looking at a decent list of chemical plant closures across continental Europe , Eastern Europe , etc.

Speaker #12: . I know you're talking about volumes being down . I think flat to down low single digits . Can you talk about just maybe I know by region historically kind of gave us performance in the legacy segments .

Speaker #12: Things have been changed around a little bit . But I think you mentioned your prepared remarks . Europe slowed down . And so maybe just by region , sort of what your expectations are in that , you know .

Larry Hilsheimer: Yeah. You know, Gabe, it's interesting. If you it's actually been a little bit of astounding to us. For example, you know, the North American steel business has been down similar levels to EMEA quarter by quarter. On a 2-year stack, EMEA steel was actually up every quarter this year. Every single quarter. They have consistently performed better than North America. Yeah. Gabe, we have also as and when customers reduce capacity, you know, we do the same. I mean, where plants where we have been operating a 2-shift, we now have gone down to 1 shift as an example. We do that 'cause we're managing that business for cash, basically.

Speaker #5: It's interesting if you it's it's actually been a little bit of astounding to us . So for example , you know , the the North American steel business has been down similar levels to the , to EMEA quarter by quarter .

Speaker #5: But on a two year stack . M.A. steel was actually up every quarter this year , every single quarter .

Speaker #4: They have consistently performed better than , than North America .

Speaker #5: Yeah .

Speaker #4: And then we have also as and when customers reduce capacity , you know , we do the same . I mean , where plants where we have been operating at two shift , we now have gone down to one shift as an example .

Speaker #4: And we do that because we're managing that business for cash . Basically . So , so the , the closest that has happened , they they have already been factored into our production capacity .

Gabe Hajde: Right

Larry Hilsheimer: The closures that has happened, they have already been factored into our production capacity.

Speaker #12: Okay . I guess the second question is kind of revisiting a little bit on the M&A front . Is there a scenario where maybe there are just kind of some tuck ins along the way ?

Gabe Hajde: Okay. I guess the second question is kind of revisiting a little bit on the M&A front. Is there a scenario where maybe there are just kind of some tuck-ins along the way? I think, Larry, you said you don't really envision a situation where you're above 2 times levered. So between now and 2027, I didn't see the $1 billion reiterated, and again, I know it's tough when you're moving assets around, but, is that still explicitly sort of the target, given sort of what you know about the M&A environment right now?

Speaker #12: And I think , Larry , you said you don't really envision a situation where you're above two times levered . And so between now and 2027 , I didn't see the billion dollars reiterated .

Speaker #12: And again , I know it's tough when you're moving assets around , but is that still explicitly sort of the target given sort of what you know about the the M&A environment right now ?

Speaker #11: Yeah , I .

Larry Hilsheimer: Yeah, I mean, for us, you know, on that, Gabe, I mean, it's still our objective to get there, but we're not going to solely deploy capital to get there. If you just walk through, you know, we gave low-end guidance, so obviously our hope is that we do better than our low-end guidance. If you take the $630 and you then look at our $120 commitment, that's a net another $45, so you're already up to $675. You know, we're hoping you see industrial volume recovery. Obviously, we're, you know, that's a big component. It's been a component of our original stack was $140. I mean, those things get it you up to $815. We do some tuck-in acquisitions.

Speaker #5: Mean , for us , you know , on that , Gabe , I mean , it's still our our objective to get there , but we're not going to solely deploy capital to get there .

Speaker #5: But if you if you just walk through , you know , we gave low end guidance . So obviously our our hope is to that we do better than our low end guidance .

Speaker #5: So if you take the 630 and you then look at our , our 120 commitment , that's a net . Another 45 . So you're already up to 675 .

Speaker #5: You know , we're we're hoping you see industrial volume recovery . Obviously we're you know that's a big component . It's been a component of our original stack was 140 .

Speaker #5: I mean those things get you up to 815 . We do some tuck in acquisitions . We invest in in organic CapEx in iron craft and other opportunities .

Larry Hilsheimer: We invest in organic CapEx and IonKraft and other opportunities. We still think there's a path to get there. It's not like, okay, we're gonna go chase M&A to get there and risk doing bad deals. We're just not gonna do that.

Speaker #5: We still think there's a path to get there , but it's not like , okay , we're going to go chase M&A to to get there and risk doing bad deals .

Speaker #5: We're just not going to do that .

Speaker #4: But the 140 are largely intact in terms of going back to the 2022 volumes .

Ole Rosgaard: The 140 are largely intact in terms of, going back to the 2022 volumes.

Speaker #12: Yep . Thank you .

Gabe Hajde: Yep. All right. Thank you.

Speaker #5: All right Gabe , thank you .

Larry Hilsheimer: All right, Gabe. Thank you.

Speaker #2: And this concludes our Q&A session . I would now like to turn the call back over to Ole Rosgaard for closing remarks .

Operator: This concludes our Q&A session. I would now like to turn the call back over to Ole Rosgaard for closing remarks.

Speaker #13: Thank you .

Ole Rosgaard: Thank you. Thank you for joining us today. Our disciplined focus on margin expansion, cash generation, and reducing cyclability is delivering meaningful, high-quality returns for our shareholders, further validating your investment and confidence in Greif. We really appreciate your time and your partnership. Thank you.

Speaker #4: Thank you for joining us today . Our disciplined focus on margin expansion , cash generation and reducing cyclability is delivering meaningful , high quality returns for our shareholders .

Speaker #4: Further validating your investment and confidence in drive . We really appreciate your time and your partnership . Thank you . .

Operator: This concludes today's program. Thank you for participating. You may now disconnect.