Q1 2027 Motorcar Parts of America Inc Earnings Call
Operator 1: Hello, everyone. Thank you for joining us, and welcome to the Motorcar Parts of America Incorporated Fiscal 2027 First Quarter Conference Call. After today's prepared remarks, we will host a question and answer session. If you would like to ask a question, please press star one to raise your hand. To withdraw your question, press star one again. I will now hand the conference over to Gary Maier, Vice President of Corporate Communications and Investor Relations. Please go ahead.
Operator: Hello, everyone. Thank you for joining us, and welcome to the Motorcar Parts of America Incorporated Fiscal 2027 Q1 Conference Call. After today's prepared remarks, we will host a question and answer session. If you would like to ask a question, please press star one to raise your hand. To withdraw your question, press star one again. I will now hand the conference over to Gary Maier, Vice President of Corporate Communications and Investor Relations. Please go ahead.
Speaker #2: Everyone, thank you for joining us, and welcome to the Motorcar Parts of America, Inc. fiscal 2027 first quarter conference call. After today's prepared remarks, we will host a question and answer session.
Speaker #2: If you would like to ask a question, please press star one to raise your hand. To withdraw your question, press star one again. I will now hand the conference over to Gary Maier, Vice President of Corporate Communications and Investor Relations.
Speaker #2: Please go ahead.
Speaker #3: Thank you. Thank you, Caleb, and thanks, everyone, for joining us. Before I turn the call over to Selwyn Joffe, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, and David Lee, the company's Chief Financial Officer, I'd like to remind everyone of the safe harbor statement included in today's press release.
Gary Maier: Thank you. Thank you, Caleb, and thanks everyone for joining us. Before I turn the call over to Selwyn Joffe, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, and David Lee, the company's Chief Financial Officer, I'd like to remind everyone of the safe harbor statement included in today's press release. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor for certain forward-looking statements, including statements made during today's conference call. Such forward-looking statements are based on the company's current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments, and there are potential effects on the company. There can be no assurance that future developments affecting the company will be those anticipated by Motorcar Parts of America. Actual results may differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements.
Gary Maier: Thank you. Thank you, Caleb, and thanks everyone for joining us. Before I turn the call over to Selwyn Joffe, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, and David Lee, the company's Chief Financial Officer, I'd like to remind everyone of the safe harbor statement included in today's press release. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor for certain forward-looking statements, including statements made during today's conference call. Such forward-looking statements are based on the company's current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments, and there are potential effects on the company. There can be no assurance that future developments affecting the company will be those anticipated by Motorcar Parts of America. Actual results may differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements.
Speaker #3: The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor for certain forward-looking statements, including statements made during today's conference call. Such forward-looking statements are based on the company's current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments and their potential effects on the company.
Speaker #3: There can be no assurance that future developments affecting the company will be those anticipated by Motorcar Parts of America. Actual results may differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements.
Speaker #3: These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond the control of the company and are subject to change based upon various factors.
Gary Maier: These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond the control of the company and are subject to change based upon various factors. In particular, expectations about anticipated future growth and opportunities with customers may not be achieved. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise or update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. For a more detailed discussion of some of the ongoing risks and uncertainties of the company's business, I refer you to the company's various filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. With that said, I would now like to begin the call and turn it all over to Selwyn Joffe.
Gary Maier: These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond the control of the company and are subject to change based upon various factors. In particular, expectations about anticipated future growth and opportunities with customers may not be achieved. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise or update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. For a more detailed discussion of some of the ongoing risks and uncertainties of the company's business, I refer you to the company's various filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. With that said, I would now like to begin the call and turn it all over to Selwyn Joffe.
Speaker #3: In particular, expectations about anticipated future growth and opportunities with customers may not be achieved. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise or update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
Speaker #3: For a more detailed discussion of some of the ongoing risks and uncertainties of the company's business, I refer you to the company's various filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Speaker #3: With that said, I would now like to begin the call and turn it over to Selwyn Joffe.
Speaker #4: Okay. Thank you, Gary. I appreciate everyone joining us today. As stated in our earnings release issued this morning, we are still on target to meet our expectations for fiscal 2027, notwithstanding anticipated headwinds we and the industry experienced during the fiscal first quarter.
Selwyn Joffe: Okay. Thank you, Gary. I appreciate everyone joining us today. As stated in our earnings release issued this morning, we are still on target to meet our expectations for fiscal 2027, notwithstanding anticipated headwinds we and the industry experienced during the fiscal Q1. Our confidence is bolstered by numerous new sales commitments, business developments, and opportunities phasing in throughout fiscal 2027. Some of which are being enhanced by the changing competitive landscape. Regarding the latter, let me start with a brief discussion of our recently announced Centric Parts brake brands acquisition, which we expect to relaunch by the current fiscal year end. We are excited about the strategic growth opportunities that we expect from the introduction of our new original Centric brake brands product lines.
Selwyn Joffe: Okay. Thank you, Gary. I appreciate everyone joining us today. As stated in our earnings release issued this morning, we are still on target to meet our expectations for fiscal 2027, notwithstanding anticipated headwinds we and the industry experienced during the fiscal Q1. Our confidence is bolstered by numerous new sales commitments, business developments, and opportunities phasing in throughout fiscal 2027. Some of which are being enhanced by the changing competitive landscape. Regarding the latter, let me start with a brief discussion of our recently announced Centric Parts brake brands acquisition, which we expect to relaunch by the current fiscal year end. We are excited about the strategic growth opportunities that we expect from the introduction of our new original Centric brake brands product lines.
Speaker #4: Our confidence is bolstered by numerous new sales commitments, business developments, and opportunities phasing in through our fiscal 2027, some of which are being enhanced by the changing competitive landscape.
Speaker #4: Regarding the latter, let me start with a brief discussion of our recently announced Centric Parts brake brands acquisition, which we expect to relaunch by the current fiscal year-end.
Speaker #4: We're excited by the strategic growth opportunities that we expect from the introduction of our new, original-centric brake brands product lines. Preliminary customer feedback indicates pent-up demand and confidence in our ability to offer quality products with strong consumer brand recognition, and the benefit of an industry-leading team to reestablish market position.
Selwyn Joffe: Preliminary customer feedback indicates pent-up demand and confidence in our ability to offer a quality product with strong consumer brand recognition and the benefit of an industry-leading team to reestablish market position. At the heart of Centric success were two enduring strengths. Uniformly consistent, excellent consumer satisfaction with the brand and best-in-class catalog accuracy. Installers have consistently praised the brake pads, not to mention all the other brake-related products as being industry-leading. We are particularly excited to have the product with the original brake pad formulations. These strengths will be powerfully amplified by Motorcar Parts of America's proven manufacturing, engineering, cataloging, and related capabilities. We are excited to bring these customers the original magic sauce formulation they loved, reunited with their recognized brand. Together, these attributes have established a deep history and foundation of customer confidence built on the consistent delivery of the highest quality brake products.
Selwyn Joffe: Preliminary customer feedback indicates pent-up demand and confidence in our ability to offer a quality product with strong consumer brand recognition and the benefit of an industry-leading team to reestablish market position. At the heart of Centric success were two enduring strengths. Uniformly consistent, excellent consumer satisfaction with the brand and best-in-class catalog accuracy. Installers have consistently praised the brake pads, not to mention all the other brake-related products as being industry-leading. We are particularly excited to have the product with the original brake pad formulations. These strengths will be powerfully amplified by MPA's proven manufacturing, engineering, cataloging, and related capabilities. We are excited to bring these customers the original magic sauce formulation they loved, reunited with their recognized brand. Together, these attributes have established a deep history and foundation of customer confidence built on the consistent delivery of the highest quality brake products.
Speaker #4: At the heart of Centric's success were two enduring strengths: uniformly consistent, excellent consumer satisfaction with the brand, and best-in-class catalog accuracy. Installers have consistently praised the brake pads—not to mention all the other brake-related products—as being industry-leading.
Speaker #4: We are particularly excited to have the product with the original brake pad formulations. These strengths will be powerfully amplified by MPA's proven manufacturing, engineering, cataloging, and related capabilities.
Speaker #4: We're excited to bring these customers the original magic source formulation they loved, reunited with their recognized brand. Together, these attributes have established a deep history and foundation of customer confidence.
Speaker #4: Built on the consistent delivery of the highest-quality brake products, this commitment to quality and precision will be reestablished to drive stronger consumer satisfaction and loyalty.
Selwyn Joffe: This commitment to quality and precision will be reestablished to drive stronger consumer satisfaction and loyalty, positioning Centric for projected strong growth and long-term sustainability. As you probably know, we have been strategically focused on expanding our position within brake-related product categories for several years. Clearly, the Centric brake brands purchase complements this strategy. I should mention that at its peak, we believe Centric generated approximately $400 million in gross annualized sales, indicative of the meaningful opportunities we anticipate moving forward. Even before the opportunities we expect from the Centric purchase, brake related product sales have, from the Centric purchase, brake related product sales have climbed, resulting in a second mega category built upon our 50-plus-year flagship rotating electrical category and industry reputation.
Selwyn Joffe: This commitment to quality and precision will be reestablished to drive stronger consumer satisfaction and loyalty, positioning Centric for projected strong growth and long-term sustainability. As you probably know, we have been strategically focused on expanding our position within brake-related product categories for several years. Clearly, the Centric brake brands purchase complements this strategy. I should mention that at its peak, we believe Centric generated approximately $400 million in gross annualized sales, indicative of the meaningful opportunities we anticipate moving forward. Even before the opportunities we expect from the Centric purchase, brake related product sales have, from the Centric purchase, brake related product sales have climbed, resulting in a second mega category built upon our 50-plus-year flagship rotating electrical category and industry reputation.
Speaker #4: Positioning is centric for projected strong growth and long-term sustainability. As you probably know, we have been strategically focused on expanding our position within brake-related product categories for several years.
Speaker #4: Clearly, the Centric brake brands purchase complements this strategy. I should mention that at its peak, we believe Centric generated approximately $400 million in gross annualized sales.
Speaker #4: Indicative of the meaningful opportunities, we anticipate moving forward. Even before the opportunities, we expect from the centric purchase brake-related product sales have from the centric purchase, brake-related product sales have climbed resulting in a second mega-category built upon our 50-plus-year flagship rotating electrical category and industry reputation.
Speaker #4: The market opportunities within the nondiscretionary 'wear' categories are significant, enhanced by multiple replacement sales during the life of the vehicle, with our repairs being done by either the do-it-yourselfer or the do-it-for-me professional service provider.
Selwyn Joffe: The market opportunities within the non-discretionary wear categories are significant, enhanced by multiple replacement sales during the life of a vehicle, whether repairs being done by do it yourself or do it for me professional service provider. In either case, we have a growing presence in both markets across the big three automotive retailers, along with NAPA and the major traditional warehouse distributors. In short, we have the capacity, financial strength, and strategic vision to achieve meaningful market share gains across all of our non-discretionary aftermarket categories. We offer our retail and traditional customers great products, industry-leading SKU coverage, and order fill rates supported by value-added merchandising and marketing support. As I have highlighted before, the average age of US light vehicles continues to rise. Most recent industry data indicates that the average age has risen to approximately 13 years, from 12.6 years in 2024.
Selwyn Joffe: The market opportunities within the non-discretionary wear categories are significant, enhanced by multiple replacement sales during the life of a vehicle, whether repairs being done by do it yourself or do it for me professional service provider. In either case, we have a growing presence in both markets across the big three automotive retailers, along with NAPA and the major traditional warehouse distributors. In short, we have the capacity, financial strength, and strategic vision to achieve meaningful market share gains across all of our non-discretionary aftermarket categories. We offer our retail and traditional customers great products, industry-leading SKU coverage, and order fill rates supported by value-added merchandising and marketing support. As I have highlighted before, the average age of US light vehicles continues to rise. Most recent industry data indicates that the average age has risen to approximately 13 years, from 12.6 years in 2024.
Speaker #4: In either case, we have a growing presence in both markets—across the big three automotive retailers, along with NAPA and the major, traditional warehouse distributors.
Speaker #4: In short, we have the capacity, financial strength, and strategic vision to achieve meaningful market share gains across all of our nondiscretionary aftermarket categories. We offer our retail and traditional customers great products, industry-leading SKU coverage, and order fill rates, supported by value-added merchandising and marketing support.
Speaker #4: As I've highlighted before, the average age of U.S.-like vehicles continues to rise. The most recent industry data indicates that the average age has risen to approximately 13 years, from 12.6 years in 2024.
Speaker #4: In addition, the number of vehicles on the road climbed to 289 million, up from 286 million just a year ago. We expect increased replacement opportunities for the life of vehicles.
Selwyn Joffe: In addition, the number of vehicles on the road climbed to 289 million from 286 million just a year ago. We expect increased replacement opportunities for the life of vehicles, particularly with consumers holding onto their vehicles longer. This trend is also supported by broader aftermarket and new vehicle affordability data. According to Auto Care Association and Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association data provided to S&P Global Market Intelligence, the US light duty aftermarket is projected to grow 5.2% in 2026, reflecting continued strength in hard parts, fluids, and service labor, and is forecasted to exceed $500 billion by 2029. At the same time, new vehicle affordability remains a constraint for many consumers, with Kelley Blue Book reporting that the average new vehicle transaction price exceeded $50,000 for the first time in September 2025. We believe these dynamics reinforce the consumer's tendency to maintain and repair existing vehicles rather than accelerate new car purchases.
Selwyn Joffe: In addition, the number of vehicles on the road climbed to 289 million from 286 million just a year ago. We expect increased replacement opportunities for the life of vehicles, particularly with consumers holding onto their vehicles longer. This trend is also supported by broader aftermarket and new vehicle affordability data. According to Auto Care Association and Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association data provided to S&P Global Market Intelligence, the US light duty aftermarket is projected to grow 5.2% in 2026, reflecting continued strength in hard parts, fluids, and service labor, and is forecasted to exceed $500 billion by 2029. At the same time, new vehicle affordability remains a constraint for many consumers, with Kelley Blue Book reporting that the average new vehicle transaction price exceeded $50,000 for the first time in September 2025. We believe these dynamics reinforce the consumer's tendency to maintain and repair existing vehicles rather than accelerate new car purchases.
Speaker #4: Particularly with consumers holding on to their vehicles longer. This trend is also supported by broader aftermarket and new vehicle affordability data. According to AutoCare Association and MEMA data, provided to S&P Global Market Intelligence, the U.S. light-duty aftermarket is projected to grow 5.2% in 2026, reflecting continued strength in hard parts, fluids, and service labor, and is forecasted to exceed $500 billion by 2029.
Speaker #4: At the same time, new vehicle affordability remains a constraint for many consumers. With Kelly Blue Book reporting that the average new vehicle transaction price exceeded $50,000 for the first time in September for the first time in September 2025.
Speaker #4: We believe these dynamics reinforce the consumer's tendency to maintain and repair existing vehicles rather than accelerate new car purchases. This supports long-term demand for nondiscretionary aftermarket categories.
Selwyn Joffe: This supports long-term demand for non-discretionary aftermarket categories. In short, industry dynamics are favorable, and we are all committed and focused on our customers, offering quality products and services with rational pricing. Our heavy-duty rotating electrical strengths also offer great opportunities going forward. We are continuing to leverage our reputation and industry position in this market while focusing on opportunities to further enhance operating efficiencies and margins. In this regard, I should highlight the relocation of our heavy-duty operations to Mexico from Canada that started in the latter part of fiscal 2026 as part of our ongoing commitment for continuous improvement, which is near completion. We look forward to further opportunities to enhancing operating efficiencies as we near the completion of this transaction. Industry reports indicate that fleet operators are holding on to vehicles longer, which bodes well for our business because of our ability to offer dependable replacement parts.
Selwyn Joffe: This supports long-term demand for non-discretionary aftermarket categories. In short, industry dynamics are favorable, and we are all committed and focused on our customers, offering quality products and services with rational pricing. Our heavy-duty rotating electrical strengths also offer great opportunities going forward. We are continuing to leverage our reputation and industry position in this market while focusing on opportunities to further enhance operating efficiencies and margins. In this regard, I should highlight the relocation of our heavy-duty operations to Mexico from Canada that started in the latter part of fiscal 2026 as part of our ongoing commitment for continuous improvement, which is near completion. We look forward to further opportunities to enhancing operating efficiencies as we near the completion of this transaction. Industry reports indicate that fleet operators are holding on to vehicles longer, which bodes well for our business because of our ability to offer dependable replacement parts.
Speaker #4: In short, industry dynamics are favorable, and we are all committed and focused on our customers, offering quality products and services with rational pricing. Our heavy-duty rotating electrical strengths also offer great opportunities going forward.
Speaker #4: We are continuing to leverage our reputation and industry position in this market, while focusing on opportunities to further enhance operating efficiencies and margins.
Speaker #4: In this regard, I should highlight the relocation of our heavy-duty operations to Mexico from Canada. That started in the latter part of fiscal '26.
Speaker #4: As part of our ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, which is near completion, we look forward to further opportunities to enhance operating efficiencies as we approach the completion of this transaction.
Speaker #4: Industry reports indicate that fleet operators are holding on to vehicles longer, which bodes well for our business because of our ability to offer dependable replacement parts.
Speaker #4: These dynamics also support our vision to leverage the reputation of our quality-built brand name. We anticipate this will build momentum and enhance our market position.
Selwyn Joffe: These dynamics also support our vision to leverage the reputation of our quality built brand name. We anticipate this will build momentum and enhance our market position, particularly with regards to supplying alternators and starters to our channel partners who are leaders in the heavy-duty aftermarket segment and the overall heavy-duty rotating electrical market. In addition, we continue to experience increased demand for our aftermarket parts in Mexico, which complements our existing strategic, operational, and distribution footprint there. As our US-based retailers and warehouse distributor customers expand through Latin and South America, we are well-positioned to benefit while supporting their growth. Regarding our diagnostic business, our JBT1 benchtop tester leads the industry, and the installed base is continuing to grow. We also expect more opportunities outside North America as the business evolves, including potential new applications that complement and leverage our technology.
Selwyn Joffe: These dynamics also support our vision to leverage the reputation of our quality built brand name. We anticipate this will build momentum and enhance our market position, particularly with regards to supplying alternators and starters to our channel partners who are leaders in the heavy-duty aftermarket segment and the overall heavy-duty rotating electrical market. In addition, we continue to experience increased demand for our aftermarket parts in Mexico, which complements our existing strategic, operational, and distribution footprint there. As our US-based retailers and warehouse distributor customers expand through Latin and South America, we are well-positioned to benefit while supporting their growth. Regarding our diagnostic business, our JBT1 benchtop tester leads the industry, and the installed base is continuing to grow. We also expect more opportunities outside North America as the business evolves, including potential new applications that complement and leverage our technology.
Speaker #4: Particularly with regard to supplying alternatives and starters to our channel partners, who are leaders in the heavy-duty aftermarket segment and the overall heavy-duty rotating electrical market.
Speaker #4: In addition, we continue to experience increased demand for our aftermarket parts in Mexico, which complements our existing strategic operational and distribution footprint there. As our U.S.-based retailers and warehouse distributor customers expand through Latin and South America, we are well positioned to benefit while supporting their growth.
Speaker #4: Regarding our diagnostic business, our JVT1 benchtop tester leads the industry, and the installed base continues to grow. We also expect more opportunities outside North America as the business evolves.
Speaker #4: Including potential new applications that complement and leverage our technology. In short, we believe the outlook is bright for our nondiscretionary aftermarket parts, both for passenger vehicles and for heavy-duty applications.
Selwyn Joffe: In short, we believe the outlook is bright for our non-discretionary aftermarket parts, both for passenger vehicles and for heavy-duty applications. We are focused on leveraging our capability and capacity to offer a broad range of SKUs for all makes and models with newer or older vehicles. As I previously mentioned, deferment is not really a long-term option for our non-discretionary products. If your car or heavy-duty vehicle doesn't start or stop, you're not driving. We believe we have meaningful opportunities for further growth and profitability as the competitive landscape continues to change. I'd now like to turn the call over to David.
Selwyn Joffe: In short, we believe the outlook is bright for our non-discretionary aftermarket parts, both for passenger vehicles and for heavy-duty applications. We are focused on leveraging our capability and capacity to offer a broad range of SKUs for all makes and models with newer or older vehicles. As I previously mentioned, deferment is not really a long-term option for our non-discretionary products. If your car or heavy-duty vehicle doesn't start or stop, you're not driving. We believe we have meaningful opportunities for further growth and profitability as the competitive landscape continues to change. I'd now like to turn the call over to David.
Speaker #4: And we are focused on leveraging our capability and capacity to offer a broad range of SKUs for all makes and models, whether newer or older vehicles.
Speaker #4: As I've previously mentioned, the ferment is not really a long-term option for our nondiscretionary products. If your car or heavy-duty vehicle doesn't start or stop, you're not driving.
Speaker #4: We believe we have meaningful opportunities for further growth and profitability, as the competitive landscape continues to change. I'd now like to turn the call over to David Lee.
Speaker #2: Thank you so much, and good morning, everyone. Let me begin by outlining several topics I want to discuss. We will go over analytics for the fiscal first quarter; sales momentum and opportunities; gross margin; cash flow, balance sheet, liquidity, and debt leverage; share repurchases; potential strategic alternatives for our EV emulator business; and reaffirming guidance for the current fiscal 2027 year ending March 31, 2027.
David Lee: Thank you, Selwyn, and good morning, everyone. Let me begin by outlining several topics I want to discuss. We will go over analytics for the fiscal Q1, sales momentum and opportunities, gross margin, cash flow, balance sheet liquidity and debt leverage, share repurchases, potential strategic alternatives for our EV emulator business, and reaffirming guidance for the current fiscal 2027 year-ending 31 March 2027. Let's start with analytics for the fiscal Q1. Fiscal Q1 ended 30 June 2026, net sales of $168 million, as expected, were impacted by timing of orders. As the fiscal year progresses, we believe higher sales and a continued focus on efficiency and cost reductions will favorably contribute to fiscal 2027 results.
David Lee: Thank you, Selwyn, and good morning, everyone. Let me begin by outlining several topics I want to discuss. We will go over analytics for the fiscal Q1, sales momentum and opportunities, gross margin, cash flow, balance sheet liquidity and debt leverage, share repurchases, potential strategic alternatives for our EV emulator business, and reaffirming guidance for the current fiscal 2027 year-ending 31 March 2027. Let's start with analytics for the fiscal Q1. Fiscal Q1 ended 30 June 2026, net sales of $168 million, as expected, were impacted by timing of orders. As the fiscal year progresses, we believe higher sales and a continued focus on efficiency and cost reductions will favorably contribute to fiscal 2027 results.
Speaker #2: Let's start with analytics for the fiscal first quarter. The fiscal first quarter ended June 30, 2026. Net sales of $168 million, as expected, were impacted by the timing of orders.
Speaker #2: As the fiscal year progresses, we believe higher sales and a continued focus on efficiency and cost reductions will favorably contribute to fiscal 2027 results. From a sales perspective, as sales momentum increases—combined with new business commitments that someone referenced earlier, as well as other meaningful opportunities—we believe the company will benefit in several ways in the near term.
David Lee: From a sales perspective, as sales momentum increases, combined with new business commitments that Selwyn referenced earlier, as well as other meaningful opportunities, we believe the company will benefit in several ways near term, including favorable impact to gross margin, continued annual cash flow generation, net bank debt reduction, and opportunities to increase shareholder value. In short, the fundamentals of our business are strong. Regarding gross margin, let me first discuss the Q1 in more detail. Gross margin was 16.2% compared with 18% a year earlier. Gross margin was impacted by non-cash expenses of 2.4% and one-time items of 1.6%, as detailed in Exhibit 2 of this morning's earnings press release. Excluding these non-cash and certain one-time cash items, gross margin was 20.2%.
David Lee: From a sales perspective, as sales momentum increases, combined with new business commitments that Selwyn referenced earlier, as well as other meaningful opportunities, we believe the company will benefit in several ways near term, including favorable impact to gross margin, continued annual cash flow generation, net bank debt reduction, and opportunities to increase shareholder value. In short, the fundamentals of our business are strong. Regarding gross margin, let me first discuss the Q1 in more detail. Gross margin was 16.2% compared with 18% a year earlier. Gross margin was impacted by non-cash expenses of 2.4% and one-time items of 1.6%, as detailed in Exhibit 2 of this morning's earnings press release. Excluding these non-cash and certain one-time cash items, gross margin was 20.2%.
Speaker #2: Including favorable impact to gross margin, continued annual cash flow generation, net bank debt reduction, and opportunities to increase shareholder value. In short, the fundamentals of our business are strong.
Speaker #2: Regarding gross margin, let me first discuss the first quarter in more detail. Gross margin was 16.2%, compared with 18% a year ago.
Speaker #2: Gross margin was impacted by non-cash expenses of 2.4%, and one-time items of 1.6%, as detailed in Exhibit 2 of this morning's earnings press release.
Speaker #2: Excluding these non-cash and certain one-time cash items, gross margin was 20.2%. In addition, gross margin was impacted by unfavorable foreign exchange rates of approximately 2%, or approximately $3.5 million, due to the weakening of the U.S. dollar versus the Mexican peso.
David Lee: In addition, gross margin was impacted by unfavorable foreign exchange rates of approximately 2% or approximately $3.5 million due to the weakening of the US dollar versus the Mexican peso. Gross margin was also impacted by lower sales due to timing of orders. Fiscal 2027 gross margin is expected to continue to be favorably impacted by increased sales, overhead absorption, and overall cost reductions and efficiencies. Overall, regarding gross margin, we remain focused on overall margin accretion, supported by strong momentum and greater utilization of brake-related capacity. We are also focused on positive impacts to overall margin from further improvements in operating efficiencies supported by benefiting from our tariff mitigation initiatives, better pricing for scrap sales as we gain more market share for our products, additional opportunities to relocate certain operations to our low-cost facilities globally, including Mexico, and further strategic cost reductions.
David Lee: In addition, gross margin was impacted by unfavorable foreign exchange rates of approximately 2% or approximately $3.5 million due to the weakening of the US dollar versus the Mexican peso. Gross margin was also impacted by lower sales due to timing of orders. Fiscal 2027 gross margin is expected to continue to be favorably impacted by increased sales, overhead absorption, and overall cost reductions and efficiencies. Overall, regarding gross margin, we remain focused on overall margin accretion, supported by strong momentum and greater utilization of brake-related capacity. We are also focused on positive impacts to overall margin from further improvements in operating efficiencies supported by benefiting from our tariff mitigation initiatives, better pricing for scrap sales as we gain more market share for our products, additional opportunities to relocate certain operations to our low-cost facilities globally, including Mexico, and further strategic cost reductions.
Speaker #2: Gross margin was also impacted by lower sales due to the timing of orders. Fiscal 2027 gross margin is expected to continue to be favorably impacted by increased sales, over-absorption, and overall cost reductions and efficiencies.
Speaker #2: Overall, regarding gross margin, we remain focused on overall margin accretion, supported by strong momentum and greater utilization of break-related capacity. We are also focused on the positive impact to overall margin from further improvements in operating efficiencies, supported by benefiting from our tariff mitigation initiatives, better pricing for scrap sales as we gain more market share for our products, additional opportunities to relocate certain operations to our low-cost facilities globally, including Mexico, and further strategic cost reductions. These initiatives are expected to positively impact overall gross margin.
David Lee: These initiatives are expected to positively impact overall gross margin. Regarding our cash flow balance sheet and liquidity for the quarter, as a result of working capital use impacted by an inventory ramp-up for new business, we used cash in operating activities of $11.3 million for the first quarter. After share repurchases of $1.9 million for the fiscal 2027 first quarter, the company's revolver loan of $118.8 million, less cash of $19.1 million at 30 June 2026, resulted in net bank debt of $99.7 million. The company has $20.1 million remaining to repurchase shares under its current authorized share repurchase program. For the prior three years ended 31 March 2026, the company generated cash from operating activities of approximately $103.8 million. Our liquidity remains strong with total cash and availability of approximately $112.4 million as of 30 June 2026.
David Lee: These initiatives are expected to positively impact overall gross margin. Regarding our cash flow balance sheet and liquidity for the quarter, as a result of working capital use impacted by an inventory ramp-up for new business, we used cash in operating activities of $11.3 million for the first quarter. After share repurchases of $1.9 million for the fiscal 2027 first quarter, the company's revolver loan of $118.8 million, less cash of $19.1 million at 30 June 2026, resulted in net bank debt of $99.7 million. The company has $20.1 million remaining to repurchase shares under its current authorized share repurchase program. For the prior three years ended 31 March 2026, the company generated cash from operating activities of approximately $103.8 million. Our liquidity remains strong with total cash and availability of approximately $112.4 million as of 30 June 2026.
Speaker #2: Regarding our cash flow, balance sheet, and liquidity for the quarter, as a result of working capital use impacted by an inventory ramp-up for new business, we used cash in operating activities of $11.3 million for the first quarter.
Speaker #2: After share repurchases of $1.9 million for the fiscal 2027 first quarter, the company's revolver loan of $118.8 million, less cash of $19.1 million at June 30, 2026, resulted in net bank debt of $99.7 million.
Speaker #2: The company has $20.1 million remaining to repurchase shares under its current authorized share repurchase program. For the prior three years ended March 31, 2026, the company generated cash from operating activities of approximately $103.8 million.
Speaker #2: Our liquidity remains strong with total cash and availability of approximately $112.4 million as of June 30, 2026. We remain focused on increasing operating profit and gross margin, and generating positive cash flow, supported by growth and operating efficiencies from our global footprint.
David Lee: We remain focused on increasing operating profit and gross margin and generating positive cash flow, supported by growth and operating efficiencies from our global footprint. In addition to our goal of generating increased operating profits, including benefits from our gross margin expansion initiatives previously explained, we expect further opportunities to neutralize working capital supported by customer product demand planning, enhanced inventory management, extending our vendor payment terms, including growing our supply chain finance program offer to our vendors. Regarding debt leverage, based on information in our filing today, EBITDA for the 12 months ended 30 June 2026, was $60 million. EBITDA before the impact of non-cash and one-time cash expenses was $79.1 million for the same period.
David Lee: We remain focused on increasing operating profit and gross margin and generating positive cash flow, supported by growth and operating efficiencies from our global footprint. In addition to our goal of generating increased operating profits, including benefits from our gross margin expansion initiatives previously explained, we expect further opportunities to neutralize working capital supported by customer product demand planning, enhanced inventory management, extending our vendor payment terms, including growing our supply chain finance program offer to our vendors. Regarding debt leverage, based on information in our filing today, EBITDA for the 12 months ended 30 June 2026, was $60 million. EBITDA before the impact of non-cash and one-time cash expenses was $79.1 million for the same period.
Speaker #2: In addition to our goal of generating increased operating profits, including benefits from our gross margin expansion initiatives previously explained, we expect further opportunities to neutralize working capital.
Speaker #2: Supported by customer product demand planning, enhanced inventory management, and extending our vendor payment terms, including growing our supply chain finance program offered to our vendors.
Speaker #2: Regarding debt leverage, based on information in our filing today, EBITDA for the 12 months ended June 30, 2026, was $60 million. EBITDA before the impact of non-cash and one-time cash expenses was $79.1 million for the same period.
Speaker #2: To recap, our net bank debt was $99.7 million at June 30, 2026, compared with EBITDA, before the impact of non-cash and one-time cash expenses mentioned above, of $79.1 million for the 12 months ended June 30, 2026, resulting in a net bank debt to EBITDA ratio of 1.26.
David Lee: To recap, our net bank debt was $99.7 million at 30 June 2026, compared with EBITDA before the impact of non-cash and one-time cash expenses mentioned above of $79.1 million for the 12 months ended 30 June 2026, resulting in a net bank debt to EBITDA ratio of 1.26. In addition, the company recently announced the renewal of its loan agreement, extension of the maturity date of the revolver credit facility to August 2031, led by PNC Bank. The renewal recognizes the company's milestones, solid position within the automotive aftermarket, and management's commitment to strategic growth and profitability. We are also committed to further opportunities to increase share repurchases. For the fiscal first quarter, the company repurchased 129,523 shares for $1.9 million at an average share price of $14.98.
David Lee: To recap, our net bank debt was $99.7 million at 30 June 2026, compared with EBITDA before the impact of non-cash and one-time cash expenses mentioned above of $79.1 million for the 12 months ended 30 June 2026, resulting in a net bank debt to EBITDA ratio of 1.26. In addition, the company recently announced the renewal of its loan agreement, extension of the maturity date of the revolver credit facility to August 2031, led by PNC Bank. The renewal recognizes the company's milestones, solid position within the automotive aftermarket, and management's commitment to strategic growth and profitability. We are also committed to further opportunities to increase share repurchases. For the fiscal first quarter, the company repurchased 129,523 shares for $1.9 million at an average share price of $14.98.
Speaker #2: In addition, the company recently announced the renewal of its loan agreement and the extension of the maturity date of the revolver credit facility to August 2031, led by PNC Bank.
Speaker #2: The renewal recognizes the company's milestones, solid position within the automotive aftermarket, and management's commitment to strategic growth and profitability. We are also committed to further opportunities to increase share repurchases.
Speaker #2: For the fiscal first quarter, the company repurchased 129,523 shares for $1.9 million, at an average share price of $14.98. Regarding our EV emulator business, which is a non-core asset, we are continuing to explore strategic alternatives to capitalize on its proprietary, industry-leading technology, including a state-of-the-art, next-generation emulator.
David Lee: Regarding our EV emulator business, which is a non-core asset, we are continuing to explore strategic alternatives to capitalize on its proprietary industry-leading technology, including a state-of-the-art next generation emulator. While we continue to explore strategic alternatives, we continue to secure prestigious new OE customer commitments for our emulator business. Regarding guidance, Motorcar Parts of America reaffirms guidance and expects net sales for the fiscal year ending 31 March 2027, to increase between 7.5% to 10.2% year-over-year growth, reflecting the exclusion of certain non-recurring items, including tariff pass-throughs due to the reduction of import tariffs and non-recurring core revenue, representing net sales of between $780 million to $800 million. Current guidance includes new business commitments that are expected to ramp up in the second half of the fiscal year.
David Lee: Regarding our EV emulator business, which is a non-core asset, we are continuing to explore strategic alternatives to capitalize on its proprietary industry-leading technology, including a state-of-the-art next generation emulator. While we continue to explore strategic alternatives, we continue to secure prestigious new OE customer commitments for our emulator business. Regarding guidance, Motorcar Parts of America reaffirms guidance and expects net sales for the fiscal year ending 31 March 2027, to increase between 7.5% to 10.2% year-over-year growth, reflecting the exclusion of certain non-recurring items, including tariff pass-throughs due to the reduction of import tariffs and non-recurring core revenue, representing net sales of between $780 million to $800 million. Current guidance includes new business commitments that are expected to ramp up in the second half of the fiscal year.
Speaker #2: While we continue to explore strategic alternatives, we continue to secure prestigious new OE customer commitments for our emulator business. Regarding guidance, Motorcar Parts of America reaffirms guidance and expects net sales for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2027, to increase between 7.5% to 10.2% year-over-year, reflecting the exclusion of certain non-recurring items, including tariff pass-throughs due to the reduction of import tariffs, and non-recurring core revenue—representing net sales of between $780 million and $800 million.
Speaker #2: Current guidance includes new business commitments that are expected to ramp up in the second half of the fiscal year. The timing of this ramp-up has been somewhat impacted by customers taking advantage of liquidated inventory purchased from a previous supplier.
David Lee: The timing of the ramp-up has been somewhat impacted by customers taking advantage of liquidated inventory purchased from a previous supplier. In addition, we expect to add more than $100 million of additional annualized net sales by the end of fiscal 2027, which is not included in the guidance due to the uncertainty of the timing. In summary, annualized net sales are expected to be more than $900 million by the end of fiscal 2027. Operating income is expected to be between $86 million and $91 million, representing between 12.3% and 18.8% year-over-year growth. These estimates reflect the expected impact of tariffs enacted as of 10 August 2026, and do not include certain non-cash items and one-time expenses. Depreciation and amortization are projected to be approximately $9 million. Based on the above, EBITDA is expected to be between $95 million and $100 million.
David Lee: The timing of the ramp-up has been somewhat impacted by customers taking advantage of liquidated inventory purchased from a previous supplier. In addition, we expect to add more than $100 million of additional annualized net sales by the end of fiscal 2027, which is not included in the guidance due to the uncertainty of the timing. In summary, annualized net sales are expected to be more than $900 million by the end of fiscal 2027. Operating income is expected to be between $86 million and $91 million, representing between 12.3% and 18.8% year-over-year growth. These estimates reflect the expected impact of tariffs enacted as of 10 August 2026, and do not include certain non-cash items and one-time expenses. Depreciation and amortization are projected to be approximately $9 million. Based on the above, EBITDA is expected to be between $95 million and $100 million.
Speaker #2: In addition, we expect to add more than $100 million of additional annualized net sales by the end of fiscal 2027, which is not included in the guidance due to the uncertainty of the timing.
Speaker #2: In summary, annualized net sales are expected to be more than $900 million by the end of fiscal 2027. Operating income is expected to be between $86 million and $91 million, representing between 12.3% and 18.8% year-over-year growth. These estimates reflect the expected impact of tariffs enacted as of August 10, 2026, and do not include certain non-cash items and one-time expenses.
Speaker #2: Depreciation and amortization are projected to be approximately $9 million. Based on the above, EBITDA is expected to be between $95 million and $100 million.
Speaker #2: For details on the results, please refer to the earnings press release issued this morning. I would now like to open the line for questions.
David Lee: For details on the results, refer to the earnings press release issued this morning. I would now like to open the line for questions.
David Lee: For details on the results, refer to the earnings press release issued this morning. I would now like to open the line for questions.
Speaker #1: We will now begin the question-and-answer session. If you would like to ask a question, please press star one to raise your hand.
Operator 1: We will now begin the question-and-answer session. If you would like to ask a question, please press star one to raise your hand. To withdraw your question, please press star one again. We ask that you pick up your handset when asking a question to allow for optimum sound quality. If you are muted locally, please remember to unmute your device. Please stand by while we compile the Q&A roster. There are no questions at this time. I will now turn the call back to Selwyn Joffe for closing remarks.
Operator: We will now begin the question-and-answer session. If you would like to ask a question, please press star one to raise your hand. To withdraw your question, please press star one again. We ask that you pick up your handset when asking a question to allow for optimum sound quality. If you are muted locally, please remember to unmute your device. Please stand by while we compile the Q&A roster. There are no questions at this time. I will now turn the call back to Selwyn Joffe for closing remarks.
Speaker #1: To withdraw your question, please press star one again. We ask that you pick up your handset when asking a question to allow for optimum sound quality.
Speaker #1: If you are muted locally, please remember to unmute your device. Please stand by while we compile the Q&A roster. There are no questions at this time.
Speaker #1: I will now turn the call back to Selwyn Joffe for closing remarks.
Speaker #3: Okay. In summary, we are bullish about our outlook. Our position within the nondiscretionary automotive aftermarket continues to strengthen. The changing competitive landscape bodes well for our short- and long-term industry position, which is being meaningfully enhanced by our expanding presence within brake-related categories.
Selwyn Joffe: Okay. In summary, we are bullish about our outlook. Our position within the non-discretionary automotive aftermarket continues to strengthen. The changing competitive landscape bodes well for our short and long-term industry position, which is being meaningfully enhanced by expanding presence within brake-related categories. Equally important, the number of vehicles on the road continues to climb and age. In short, while seasonality and customer ordering dynamics can impact quarters, our year-over-year expectations are exciting. We remain laser-focused on further efficiencies and fully benefiting from a not easily duplicated global platform to meet demand and grow market share for our non-discretionary products, as well as for our diagnostic testing business. Our liquidity is strong, our leverage is low, and we have the resources, capacity, and capability to further enhance shareholder value.
Selwyn Joffe: Okay. In summary, we are bullish about our outlook. Our position within the non-discretionary automotive aftermarket continues to strengthen. The changing competitive landscape bodes well for our short and long-term industry position, which is being meaningfully enhanced by expanding presence within brake-related categories. Equally important, the number of vehicles on the road continues to climb and age. In short, while seasonality and customer ordering dynamics can impact quarters, our year-over-year expectations are exciting. We remain laser-focused on further efficiencies and fully benefiting from a not easily duplicated global platform to meet demand and grow market share for our non-discretionary products, as well as for our diagnostic testing business. Our liquidity is strong, our leverage is low, and we have the resources, capacity, and capability to further enhance shareholder value.
Speaker #3: Equally important, the number of vehicles on the road continues to climb and age. In short, while seasonality and customer ordering dynamics can impact quarters, our year-over-year expectations are exciting.
Speaker #3: We remain laser-focused on further efficiencies and fully benefiting from a not-easily-duplicated global platform to meet demand and grow market share for our nondiscretionary products.
Speaker #3: As well as for our diagnostic testing business. Our liquidity is strong, our leverage is low, and we have the resources, capacity, and capability to further enhance shareholder value.
Speaker #3: In closing, we appreciate the contributions of all our team members, who are continuously focused on providing the highest level of service. We are all committed to being the industry leader for parts and solutions that move our world, today and tomorrow.
Selwyn Joffe: In closing, we appreciate the contributions of all our team members who are continuously focused on providing the highest level of service. We are all committed to being the industry leader for parts and solutions that move our world today and tomorrow.
Selwyn Joffe: In closing, we appreciate the contributions of all our team members who are continuously focused on providing the highest level of service. We are all committed to being the industry leader for parts and solutions that move our world today and tomorrow.
Speaker #1: This concludes today's call. Thank you for attending. You may now disconnect.
Operator 1: This concludes today's call. Thank you for attending. You may now disconnect.
Operator: This concludes today's call. Thank you for attending. You may now disconnect.
Speaker #3: Thank you.
Selwyn Joffe: Thank you.
Selwyn Joffe: Thank you.
Speaker #2: Thank you.
David Lee: Thank you.
David Lee: Thank you.
Speaker #1: This event has now concluded. Thank you for joining MOTORCAR PARTS OF AMERICA INCORPORATED, fiscal 2027 first quarter conference call and webcast. The line will disconnect automatically.
Operator 1: This event has now concluded. Thank you for joining Motorcar Parts of America Inc. Fiscal 2027 Q1 Conference Call and Webcast. The line will disconnect automatically.