Hayward reports Q4 EPS 20c, consensus 18c

Reports Q4 revenue $ $278.47M , consensus $271.92M.”Our fourth quarter results were consistent with expectations,” said Kevin Holleran, Hayward’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “We delivered net sales and earnings growth, record gross profit margins, and better than projected cash flow. 2023 was characterized by a normalization of supply chains, channel inventory destocking, and a return to established seasonal buying patterns. Despite the macroeconomic impact on the consumer, I am proud of the strong execution of our team, resulting in gross profit margin expansion, delivery of our SG&A cost reduction program, and robust cash flow growth. We accomplished many important strategic initiatives to strengthen our competitive advantages and drive profitable growth. This included advancing our technology leadership position with innovative connected pool solutions, leveraging our culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence, and expanding commercial relationships across sales channels. While economic conditions remain uncertain and our customers are taking a cautious approach ahead of the peak pool season, I am confident in our team’s ability to continue executing on our growth strategy and to create value for shareholders.”