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VSE Corporation Announces Third Quarter 2024 Results

Businesswire ·  Nov 6 13:00

Record Revenue and Record Profitability for Aviation Segment

Raising Full Year 2024 Aviation Revenue Guidance

ALEXANDRIA, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--VSE Corporation (NASDAQ: VSEC, "VSE", or the "Company"), a leading provider of aftermarket distribution and repair services, announced today results for the third quarter 2024.



THIRD QUARTER 2024 RESULTS(1)

(As compared to the Third Quarter 2023)

  • Total Revenues of $273.6 million increased 18.3%
  • GAAP Net Income of $11.7 million decreased 3.8%
  • GAAP EPS (Diluted) of $0.63 decreased 21.3%
  • Adjusted EBITDA(2) of $33.2 million increased 2.6%
  • Adjusted Net Income(2) of $13.1 million decreased 5.3%
  • Adjusted EPS (Diluted)(2) of $0.71 decreased 22.8%

1 From continuing operations

2 Non-GAAP measure. See additional information at the end of this release regarding non-GAAP financial measures

MANAGEMENT COMMENTARY

"We are very pleased to announce our third quarter 2024 results, marked by the strongest quarterly performance in our Aviation segment's history, achieving a revenue milestone of over $200 million," stated John Cuomo, President and CEO of VSE Corporation. "The 34% year-over-year revenue growth, combined with record profitability, reflects balanced contributions across our Aviation business units. The key drivers to our growth include the successful execution of new distribution awards, the expansion of our maintenance, repair, and overhaul ("MRO") capabilities, the launch of our new OEM-licensed manufacturing program, and contributions from our recent acquisition of Turbine Controls ("TCI")."

Mr. Cuomo continued, "Additionally, during the quarter, we completed the integration of Desser Aerospace's U.S. distribution business, launched a new Aviation e-commerce platform, made substantial progress in establishing our OEM-licensed manufacturing capabilities, and began distributing new products through our European Distribution Center of Excellence in Hamburg, Germany. The Aviation segment continues to perform successfully during a year of repositioning and focused execution.

"In our Fleet segment, we continue to advance our customer diversification strategy, with our commercial customers representing 64% of segment revenue as of the third quarter. Following a temporary reduction in activity with the United States Postal Service ("USPS") due to their system integration, activity levels have stabilized at the quarter's end, positioning us for improved revenue and profitability in the fourth quarter as compared to the third quarter," Mr. Cuomo concluded.

"Our third quarter 2024 results reflect our commitment to financial discipline," stated Adam Cohn, Chief Financial Officer of VSE Corporation. "During the quarter, we generated positive free cash flow, reduced our debt, and maintained an adjusted net leverage ratio within our target range of 3.0 to 3.5 times. Following our successful October 2024 equity offering, the Company has ample financial liquidity and flexibility to complete the acquisition of Kellstrom Aerospace in the fourth quarter and capitalize on the significant growth opportunities that lie ahead. As we look out to the fourth quarter, we expect to drive stronger free cash flow supported by ongoing operational execution on the strategic inventory investments made earlier this year. As I step into my role as CFO, I am excited to join such a dynamic team and look forward to building on VSE's impressive track record. In the months ahead, I am committed to enhancing shareholder value as we continue to execute on our strategic priorities."

STRATEGIC UPDATE

KELLSTROM AEROSPACE ACQUISITION:

  • On October 15, 2024, VSE announced it signed a definitive agreement to acquire Kellstrom Aerospace Group, Inc. ("Kellstrom Aerospace"), a leading full-service aftermarket solutions provider of value-added distribution and technical services for the commercial aerospace aftermarket. Kellstrom's portfolio of engine-focused products and MRO services, coupled with its technical advisory capabilities, expands VSE Aviation's portfolio of product and service solutions in the high-growth commercial aftermarket.
  • Kellstrom generated approximately $175 million of revenue for the trailing-twelve-month period ended September 2024. The Company expects to generate run-rate synergies of approximately $4 million within 18 months of close. The total consideration for the acquisition is approximately $200 million, comprised of approximately $185 million in cash and approximately $15 million of common shares of the Company, subject to working capital adjustments. The acquisition is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2024, pending customary closing conditions, including regulatory review.

AVIATION NEW PROGRAM EXECUTION AND INTEGRATION UPDATE:

  • The Aviation segment continues to scale the new European distribution Center of Excellence in Hamburg, Germany, supporting the Pratt & Whitney Canada Europe, Middle East and Africa ("EMEA") aftermarket product support program. The program is expected to be at a full year run-rate by the end of the fourth quarter of 2024.
  • The OEM-licensed manufacturing fuel control program continues to outpace expectations and contribute to the segment's profitability. The Kansas facility expansion supporting the fuel control program is expected to be operational in the first quarter of 2025.
  • The integration of Desser Aerospace's U.S. distribution business was completed in the third quarter of 2024. Desser Aerospace's tire, tube, brake and battery product lines are now being sold under the VSE Aviation name, and tires are now being sold in Europe through the Company's new distribution facility in Hamburg, Germany.
  • VSE Aviation's new e-commerce site was successfully launched in the third quarter of 2024, focused on initial offerings including legacy Desser Aerospace products.

FLEET UPDATE:

  • The USPS transition to a new Fleet Management Information System ("FMIS") platform was completed in the third quarter of 2024. Post-implementation, the Company expects an increase in repair activity, and subsequently, an increase in the usage of parts.
  • The e-commerce fulfillment distribution center continues to scale and support above-market growth and additional market share opportunities.
  • The Fleet segment strategic review remains in process, and the Company expects to provide an update in the coming months.

CORPORATE UPDATE:

  • In October 2024, VSE completed a follow-on equity offering of 1,982,757 shares of common stock at $87.00 per share, resulting in net cash proceeds of approximately $163.8 million.
  • The net proceeds from the offering will be used to finance a portion of the Kellstrom Aerospace acquisition.

THIRD QUARTER SEGMENT RESULTS

Aviation segment revenue increased 34% year-over-year to a record $203.6 million in the third quarter of 2024. The year-over-year revenue improvement was attributable to strong program execution of new and existing distribution awards, an expanded portfolio of MRO capabilities, and contributions from the TCI acquisition. Aviation distribution and MRO revenue increased 12% and 86%, respectively, in the third quarter of 2024, versus the prior-year period. The Aviation segment reported operating income of $25.4 million in the third quarter, compared to $21.0 million in the same period of 2023. Segment Adjusted EBITDA increased by 29% in the third quarter to $32.6 million, versus $25.3 million in the prior-year period. Adjusted EBITDA margin was 16.0%, a decline of approximately 60 basis points versus the prior-year period, driven by lower margin contributions from the TCI acquisition.

Fleet segment revenue decreased 11% year-over-year to $70.0 million in the third quarter of 2024. Revenue from the USPS declined approximately 40% on a year-over-year basis. This revenue decline was primarily driven by USPS' transition to a new Fleet Management Information System ("FMIS") platform, which has resulted in a temporary reduction in maintenance related activities and reduced part requirements. The FMIS conversion was completed in the third quarter of 2024, supporting a modest recovery beginning in the fourth quarter of 2024. Revenue from commercial customers increased 20% on a year-over-year basis, driven by growth in e-commerce fulfillment and commercial fleet sales. Commercial, or non-USPS, revenue represented 64% of total Fleet segment revenue in the period. The Fleet segment reported operating income of $2.5 million in the third quarter, compared to $8.5 million in the same period of 2023. Segment Adjusted EBITDA decreased 59% year-over-year to $3.8 million, and Adjusted EBITDA margin declined approximately 620 basis points to 5.4%, primarily driven by the decline in USPS revenue.

FINANCIAL RESOURCES AND LIQUIDITY

As of September 30, 2024, the Company had $189 million in cash and unused commitment availability under its $350 million revolving credit facility maturing in 2026. The Company generated approximately $4 million of free cash flow in the third quarter of 2024. As of September 30, 2024, VSE had a total net debt outstanding of $442 million. Adjusted net leverage was approximately 3.3 times trailing-twelve-month Adjusted EBITDA as of the end of the third quarter.

GUIDANCE

VSE is increasing its full-year 2024 revenue growth and maintaining Adjusted EBITDA margin percentage guidance for its Aviation segment. The guidance is as follows:

  • Aviation segment full-year 2024 revenue guidance is increasing from 34% to 38% growth to 39% to 41%, as compared to the prior year revenue. Revenue contributions from the Kellstrom acquisition, which is expected to close in the in the fourth quarter of 2024, are not included in our updated guidance.
  • Aviation segment maintains full-year 2024 Adjusted EBITDA margin guidance of 15.5% to 16.5%.

VSE is revising its full-year 2024 revenue and maintaining Adjusted EBITDA margin guidance for its Fleet segment. The guidance is as follows:

  • Fleet segment full-year 2024 revenue guidance is decreasing from 0% to 5% to (5)% to (10)%, as compared to the prior year revenue.
  • Fleet segment maintains full-year 2024 Adjusted EBITDA margin guidance of 6% to 8%.

THIRD QUARTER RESULTS

Three months ended September 30,

Nine months ended September 30,

(in thousands, except per share data)

2024

2023

% Change

2024

2023

% Change

Revenues

$

273,613

$

231,353

18.3%

$

781,111

$

625,163

24.9%

Operating income

$

23,698

$

25,264

(6.2)%

$

54,004

$

62,677

(13.8)%

Net income from continuing operations

$

11,650

$

12,111

(3.8)%

$

20,973

$

30,318

(30.8)%

EPS (Diluted)

$

0.63

$

0.80

(21.3)%

$

1.22

$

2.22

(45.0)%

THIRD QUARTER SEGMENT RESULTS

The following is a summary of revenues and operating income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and September 30, 2023:

Three months ended September 30,

Nine months ended September 30,

(in thousands)

2024

2023

% Change

2024

2023

% Change

Revenues:

Aviation

$

203,642

$

152,355

33.7%

$

558,853

$

390,319

43.2%

Fleet

69,971

78,998

(11.4)%

222,258

234,844

(5.4)%

Total revenues

$

273,613

$

231,353

18.3%

$

781,111

$

625,163

24.9%

Operating income:

Aviation

$

25,435

$

20,951

21.4%

$

72,214

$

52,397

37.8%

Fleet

2,471

8,531

(71.0)%

11,299

22,284

(49.3)%

Corporate/unallocated expenses

(4,208)

(4,218)

(0.2)%

(29,509)

(12,004)

145.8%

Operating income

$

23,698

$

25,264

(6.2)%

$

54,004

$

62,677

(13.8)%

The Company reported $5.8 million and $17.4 million of total capital expenditures for three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, respectively.

NON-GAAP MEASURES

In addition to the financial measures prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"), this earnings release also contains Non-GAAP financial measures. These measures provide useful information to investors, and a reconciliation of these measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measures and other information relating to these Non-GAAP measures is included in the supplemental schedules attached.

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Adjusted Net Income from Continuing Operations and Adjusted EPS

Three months ended September 30,

Nine months ended September 30,

(in thousands)

2024

2023

% Change

2024

2023

% Change

Net income from continuing operations

$

11,650

$

12,111

(3.8)%

$

20,973

$

30,318

(30.8)%

Adjustments to income from continuing operations:

Non-recurring professional fees

300

(100.0)%

300

(100.0)%

Debt issuance costs

266

(100.0)%

266

(100.0)%

Acquisition, integration and restructuring costs

1,973

1,700

16.1%

6,010

3,800

58.2%

Severance costs

372

—%

372

—%

Lease abandonment and termination (benefits) costs (1)

(612)

—%

12,245

—%

Divestiture-related restructuring costs

178

—%

4,039

—%

13,561

14,377

(5.7)%

43,639

34,684

25.8%

Tax impact of adjusted items

(477)

(566)

(15.7)%

(5,655)

(1,090)

418.8%

Adjusted net income from continuing operations

$

13,084

$

13,811

(5.3)%

$

37,984

$

33,594

13.1%

Weighted average dilutive shares

18,479

15,050

22.8%

17,212

13,639

26.2%

Adjusted EPS (Diluted)

$

0.71

$

0.92

(22.8)%

$

2.21

$

2.46

(10.2)%

(1) Includes consulting costs incurred in conjunction with lease termination.

EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA

Three months ended September 30,

Nine months ended September 30,

(in thousands)

2024

2023

% Change

2024

2023

% Change

Net income from continuing operations

$

11,650

$

12,111

(3.8)%

$

20,973

$

30,318

(30.8)%

Interest expense

8,983

8,459

6.2%

27,996

21,805

28.4%

Income taxes

3,065

4,694

(34.7)%

5,035

10,554

(52.3)%

Amortization of intangible assets

4,809

3,203

50.1%

12,550

10,743

16.8%

Depreciation and other amortization

2,734

1,836

48.9%

7,561

4,869

55.3%

EBITDA

31,241

30,303

3.1%

74,115

78,289

(5.3)%

Non-recurring professional fees

300

(100.0)%

300

(100.0)%

Acquisition, integration and restructuring costs

1,973

1,700

16.1%

6,010

3,800

58.2%

Severance costs

372

—%

372

—%

Lease abandonment and termination (benefits) costs

(612)

—%

12,245

—%

Divestiture-related restructuring costs

178

—%

4,039

—%

Adjusted EBITDA

$

33,152

$

32,303

2.6%

$

96,781

$

82,389

17.5%

Adjusted EBITDA Summary

(in thousands)

Three months ended September 30,

Nine months ended September 30,

2024

2023

% Change

2024

2023

% Change

Aviation

$

32,594

$

25,320

28.7%

$

91,250

$

63,453

43.8%

Fleet

3,786

9,193

(58.8)%

14,596

26,894

(45.7)%

Adjusted Corporate expenses (1)

(3,228)

(2,210)

46.1%

(9,065)

(7,958)

13.9%

Adjusted EBITDA

$

33,152

$

32,303

2.6%

$

96,781

$

82,389

17.5%

(1) Includes certain adjustments not directly attributable to any of our segments.

Segment EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA

Three months ended September 30,

Nine months ended September 30,

(in thousands)

2024

2023

% Change

2024

2023

% Change

Aviation

Operating income

$

25,435

$

20,951

21.4%

$

72,214

$

52,397

37.8%

Depreciation and amortization

6,951

4,329

60.6%

17,919

11,016

62.7%

EBITDA

32,386

25,280

28.1%

90,133

63,413

42.1%

Acquisition, integration and restructuring costs

150

40

275.0%

1,059

40

2,547.5%

Severance costs

58

—%

58

—%

Adjusted EBITDA

$

32,594

$

25,320

28.7%

$

91,250

$

63,453

43.8%

Fleet

Operating income

$

2,471

$

8,531

(71.0)%

$

11,299

$

22,284

(49.3)%

Depreciation and amortization

710

662

7.3%

2,188

4,452

(50.9)%

EBITDA

3,181

9,193

(65.4)%

13,487

26,736

(49.6)%

Acquisition, integration and restructuring costs

291

—%

795

158

403.2%

Severance costs

314

—%

314

—%

Adjusted EBITDA

$

3,786

$

9,193

(58.8)%

$

14,596

$

26,894

(45.7)%

Free Cash Flow

Three months ended September 30,

Nine months ended September 30,

(in thousands)

2024

2023

2024

2023

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

$

10,176

$

15,320

$

(86,412)

$

(49,771)

Capital expenditures

(5,765)

(4,658)

(17,439)

(10,795)

Free cash flow

$

4,411

$

10,662

$

(103,851)

$

(60,566)

Net Debt

(in thousands)

September 30, 2024

December 31, 2023

Principal amount of debt

$

453,000

$

433,000

Debt issuance costs

(2,659)

(3,656)

Cash and cash equivalents

(7,907)

(7,768)

Net Debt

$

442,434

$

421,576

Net Leverage Ratio

($ in thousands)

September 30, 2024

December 31, 2023

Net Debt

$

442,434

$

421,576

TTM Adjusted EBITDA (1)

$

128,225

$

113,833

Net Leverage Ratio

3.5 x

3.7 x

TTM Acquisition Adjusted EBITDA (2)

$

134,970

$

124,304

Adjusted Net Leverage Ratio

3.3 x

3.4 x

(1) TTM Adjusted EBITDA is defined as Adjusted EBITDA for the most recent twelve (12) month period.

(2) TTM Acquisition Adjusted EBITDA includes Turbine Controls EBITDA for the trailing twelve months that are not included in historical results.

The non-GAAP Financial Information set forth in this document is not calculated in accordance with GAAP under SEC Regulation G. We consider Adjusted Net Income, Adjusted EPS (Diluted), EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Acquisition Adjusted EBITDA, net debt, adjusted net leverage ratio and free cash flow as non-GAAP financial measures and important indicators of performance and useful metrics for management and investors to evaluate our business' ongoing operating performance on a consistent basis across reporting periods. These non-GAAP financial measures, however, should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for performance measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. Adjusted Net Income represents Net Income adjusted for acquisition-related costs, other discrete items, and related tax impact. Adjusted EPS (Diluted) is computed by dividing net income, adjusted for the discrete items as identified above and the related tax impacts, by the diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding. EBITDA represents net income before interest expense, income taxes, amortization of intangible assets and depreciation and other amortization. Adjusted EBITDA represents EBITDA (as defined above) adjusted for discrete items as identified above. Acquisition Adjusted EBITDA represents Adjusted EBITDA plus the pre-acquisition portion of EBITDA for the trailing twelve months. Net debt is defined as principal amount of debt less debt issuance costs and less cash and cash equivalents. Free cash flow represents operating cash flow less capital expenditures. Adjusted net leverage ratio is calculated as net debt divided by trailing twelve month Acquisition Adjusted EBITDA.

The Company has presented forward-looking statements regarding Adjusted EBITDA margin. This non-GAAP financial measure is derived by excluding certain amounts, expenses or income, from the corresponding financial measure determined in accordance with GAAP. The determination of the amounts that are excluded from this non-GAAP financial measure is a matter of management judgment and depends upon, among other factors, the nature of the underlying expense or income amounts recognized in a given period in reliance on the exception provided by item 10(e)(1)(i)(B) of Regulation S-K. We are unable to present a quantitative reconciliation of forward-looking Adjusted EBITDA margin to its most directly comparable forward-looking GAAP financial measure because such information is not available, and management cannot reliably predict all of the necessary components of such GAAP measure without unreasonable effort or expense. In addition, we believe such reconciliation would imply a degree of precision that would be confusing or misleading to investors. The unavailable information could have a significant impact on the company's future financial results. This non-GAAP financial measure is a preliminary estimate and is subject to risks and uncertainties, including, among others, changes in connection with quarter-end and year-end adjustments. Any variation between the company's actual results and preliminary financial data set forth above may be material.

CONFERENCE CALL

A conference call will be held Wednesday, November 6, 2024 at 8:30 A.M. ET to review the Company's financial results, discuss recent events and conduct a question-and-answer session.

A webcast of the conference call and accompanying presentation materials will be available in the Investor Relations section of VSE's website at . To listen to the live broadcast, go to the site at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time in order to register, download and install any necessary audio software.

To participate in the live teleconference:

Domestic Live:

(844) 826-3035

International Live:

(412) 317-5195

Audio Webcast:

To listen to a replay of the teleconference through November 20, 2024:

Domestic Replay:

(844) 512-2921

International Replay:

(412) 317-6671

Replay PIN Number:

10189934

ABOUT VSE CORPORATION

VSE is a leading provider of aftermarket distribution and repair services. Operating through its two key segments, VSE significantly enhances the productivity and longevity of its customers' high-value, business-critical assets. The Aviation segment is a leading provider of aftermarket parts distribution and maintenance, repair, and overhaul ("MRO") services for components and engine accessories to commercial, business, and general aviation operators. The Fleet segment specializes in part distribution, engineering solutions, and supply chain management services catered to the medium and heavy-duty fleet market. For more detailed information, please visit VSE's website at .

Please refer to the Form 10-Q that will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on or about November 6, 2024 for more details on our third quarter 2024 results. Also, refer to VSE's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 for further information and analysis of VSE's financial condition and results of operations. VSE encourages investors and others to review the detailed reporting and disclosures contained in VSE's public filings for additional discussion about the status of customer programs and contract awards, risks, revenue sources and funding, dependence on material customers, and management's discussion of short- and long-term business challenges and opportunities.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This document contains certain forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements, which are included in accordance with the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, may involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause VSE's actual results and performance in future periods to be materially different from any future results or performance suggested by the forward-looking statements in this document. Although we believe the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, we can give no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from these expectations.


Contacts

INVESTOR CONTACT
Michael Perlman
VP, Investor Relations & Treasury
T: (954) 547-0480 M: (561) 281-0247
investors@vsecorp.com


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