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Investing.com -- Travis Perkins PLC (LON:TPK) shares sank over 10% on Tuesday after reporting a 4.7% decline in group revenue for its 2024 financial year, which fell to £4,607 million from £4,831 million the previous year.
This decline, primarily due to price deflation and reduced demand impacting the Merchanting segment.
While FY24 adjusted EBIT met expectations, the overall trading environment was difficult. Group operating profit decreased to £2 million compared to £161 million the previous year, with adjusted operating profit at £152 million versus £198 million.
The Group reported a loss after tax of £77 million compared to a £38 million profit the previous year, resulting in a basic loss per share of 36.6 pence.
Toolstation UK was a positive, showing strong growth with a 48% increase in adjusted operating profit due to robust sales and efficiencies.
The Group also strengthened its financial position, reducing net debt before leases by £123 million.
Travis Perkins acknowledged the challenging trading conditions, stating, "Trading conditions have continued to be challenging in the Merchanting businesses with pricing now stabilized but volumes in modest decline."
RBC Capital Markets cited macroeconomic uncertainty and labor cost pressures, leading to lowered Adjusted EPS estimates.
J.P. Morgan analysts found the FY25 guidance "quite disappointing and below expectations," noting it implies an approximate 18% downgrade to consensus expectations.
They flagged that Travis Perkins’ FY25 guidance implies an approximate 18% downgrade to consensus expectations.
Jefferies analysts were particularly critical, stating that the implied cut to consensus for 2025 operating profit "will come as a surprise, especially given the magnitude (c.25% cut to 2025 operating profit)."
They also pointed to market share losses and low confidence in cost pass-through, and added that “Today’s release will likely exacerbate investor concerns given the recent resignation of the CEO due to ill health with a new appointment still pending.”
RBC Capital Markets maintains a positive long-term outlook, citing potential for improved free cash flow and return on invested capital, but has adjusted its price target for Travis Perkins, trimming it to 1,050p from 1,075p.
The Merchanting segment’s revenue decreased by 6.2% to £3,786 million for 2024, attributed to reduced UK construction activity and competition. Toolstation’s revenue increased by 2.5% to £821 million for 2024.
While Toolstation UK performed strongly, Toolstation France was closed as part of a realignment.
Following challenges like declining demand, weakened consumer confidence, and the need to optimize capital allocation, complicated by CEO transition, Travis Perkins is focusing on rebuilding through operational efficiencies, enhanced customer service, and cost management
Travis Perkins anticipates continued challenging trading conditions. "The Board expects FY25 adjusted operating profit excluding property profits to be broadly in line with FY24 (excluding property profits)," the company said.