Release Date: February 13, 2025

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.

Positive Points

• Alico Inc (NASDAQ:ALCO) is undergoing a strategic transformation to focus on alternative agricultural operations and land modernization, which is expected to unlock significant value for shareholders.
• The company reported a 21% increase in revenue for the first fiscal quarter of 2025, driven by higher prices per pound solid due to a new agreement with Tropicana.
• Alico Inc (NASDAQ:ALCO) is in the process of closing several land sales expected to generate approximately $20 million in proceeds this fiscal year.
• The company has a strong financial position with $73.5 million in available credit and no significant debt maturities until 2029.
• Alico Inc (NASDAQ:ALCO) is exploring new agricultural opportunities, including sod production, sand mining, and seasonal crops, which could diversify and stabilize future revenue streams.

Negative Points

• Alico Inc (NASDAQ:ALCO) is winding down its citrus operations due to ongoing financial challenges from citrus greening disease and environmental factors, which have significantly impacted production.
• The company reported a net loss of $9.2 million for the first fiscal quarter of 2025, compared to a net income of $42.9 million in the same period the previous year.
• Harvest volumes for fiscal 2025 are expected to be lower than 2024 levels due to the effects of greening and Hurricane Milton.
• Operating expenses remain high, with total operating expenses reported at $25.1 million for the first fiscal quarter of 2025.
• Alico Inc (NASDAQ:ALCO) faces uncertainty regarding federal relief for the citrus industry, which could impact financial recovery efforts.

Q & A Highlights

• Warning! GuruFocus has detected 4 Warning Sign with ALCO.

Q: Can you elaborate on the strategic transformation Alico is undergoing and its impact on the company's operations? A: John Kiernan, President and CEO, explained that Alico is shifting away from capital-intensive citrus operations due to financial challenges and environmental factors. The company plans to focus on alternative agricultural operations and strategic land modernization opportunities. Approximately 75% of their land will remain agriculturally related, while 25% will be transitioned for non-agricultural purposes, aiming to unlock value for shareholders.

Q: What are the financial expectations for Alico in fiscal year 2025? A: John Kiernan stated that Alico expects to complete its final significant citrus harvest and generate approximately $20 million from land sales. The company anticipates having enough cash to meet operating expenses through fiscal years 2026 and 2027, supported by cash flow from land sales and non-citrus agricultural activities.

Q: How did the recent hurricanes impact Alico's citrus operations and financial results? A: John Kiernan noted that Hurricane Milton caused a decrease in citrus production due to increased fruit drop rates. Despite this, a 38.9% increase in the price per pound solid, due to a new agreement with Tropicana, led to a $2.5 million increase in revenue. Adjusted EBITDA improved to $700,000 in the first fiscal quarter, compared to a loss of $2.3 million in the previous year.

Q: What are Alico's plans for its land assets following the strategic transformation? A: John Kiernan mentioned that Alico is evaluating opportunities for commercial and residential development on certain parcels of land. The company is also exploring lease arrangements for sod production, sand mining, and seasonal crops. Additionally, Alico is considering conservation programs to enhance environmental outcomes and create value.

Q: How is Alico managing its financial flexibility and debt obligations? A: Bradley Heine, CFO, highlighted that Alico has $73.5 million available under its credit facilities and no significant debt maturities until 2029. The company has successfully monetized non-core assets and strengthened its balance sheet by repaying debt with proceeds from land sales, such as the $77.6 million sale of the Eco Ranch.

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.