The chart below shows how KRT performed 10 days before and after its earnings report, based on data from the past quarters. Typically, KRT sees a -1.48% change in stock price 10 days leading up to the earnings, and a -0.51% change 10 days following the report. On the earnings day itself, the stock moves by +0.03%. This data can give you a slight idea of what to expect for the next quarter's release.
Positive
Sales Growth Performance: Sales volume grew 14% and net sales grew 6.3% over the prior year quarter, indicating strong demand and market performance.
Gross Margin Improvement: Achieved a gross margin of 39.2% in the fourth quarter, up from 35.7% in the prior year, reflecting improved cost management and pricing strategies.
Supply Chain Diversification Strategy: Reduced reliance on China for imports to approximately 20%, shifting sourcing to countries with favorable trade conditions, enhancing supply chain resilience.
Eco-Friendly Product Sales Growth: Sales of Eco Friendly products increased 11% year over year, representing 34.5% of total sales, driven by growing demand for sustainable products.
Regional Sales Growth: Positive sales trends observed in California and strong growth in the Midwest, indicating successful market penetration and recovery in key regions.
Distribution Center Expansion: Signed a new lease for a 187,000 square foot distribution center, nearly doubling distribution capacity in California to support anticipated growth.
Automation and AI Investment: Investing in automation and AI to enhance productivity and operational efficiency, indicating a commitment to long-term growth and innovation.
Increased Quarterly Cash Dividend: Board of Directors approved an increase in quarterly cash dividend to $0.45 per share, reflecting strong cash flow and commitment to shareholder returns.
Sales Growth Expectations: Expecting robust sales growth in January and February 2025, with positive momentum anticipated to continue throughout the year.
Negative
Sales Volume vs. Net Sales: Despite a 14% growth in sales volume, net sales only grew by 6.3%, indicating potential pricing pressures or market saturation.
Pricing Impact Challenges: The company experienced a $5.4 million unfavorable pricing impact year-over-year, which could indicate challenges in maintaining margins.
Retail Channel Sales Decline: Sales to the retail channel decreased by 1.4%, suggesting a decline in performance in this segment.
Decline in Online Sales: Online sales were down 6.1%, reflecting a negative trend in this channel compared to the previous year.
Rising Operating Expenses: Operating expenses increased by 10.4%, which could indicate rising costs that may impact profitability going forward.
Rising Administrative Expenses: General and administrative expenses rose significantly, driven by increased labor costs and higher stock-based compensation, which could pressure margins.
Gross Margin Decline Anticipated: The company anticipates a decline in gross margin for 2025, with guidance suggesting a drop of 200 basis points from the previous year, indicating potential challenges in cost management.
Tariff Impact on Pricing: There is uncertainty regarding tariffs and their potential impact on costs, which could affect pricing strategies and margins in the future.
Earnings call transcript: Karat Packaging Q4 2024 misses EPS forecast
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