Spar Group Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

SPAR Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: SGRP), a leading provider of merchandising and marketing services, has announced the timing of its 2024 fiscal second quarter results release and conference call. The company will release its results on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, before the market opens. A conference call will be hosted by CEO Mike Matacunas and CFO Antonio Calisto Pato.

Investors can join the call by phone at 1-833-630-1542 (or 1-412-317-1821 for international callers) or via webcast through the company's Investor Relations website. A replay will be available until August 21st. Notably, management will not address questions regarding the letter of intent and pending transaction announced on June 5, 2024.

The latest SPAR Group (NASDAQ: SGRP) survey reveals that over 80% of consumers prefer in-store grocery shopping, with significant preferences for discount, convenience, and home improvement stores. Key motivators include trying on products and meal planning. Customer service, fast checkouts, and engaging atmospheres are important for 71%, 69%, and 51% of shoppers, respectively. Despite challenges like product availability and staffing, 70% plan to increase in-store shopping within six months. The survey highlights the need for retailers to enhance inventory management, staffing, and tech investments. Walmart leads in positive perceptions, with younger shoppers and females showing distinct preferences.

SPAR Group (NASDAQ: SGRP) has finalized the sale of its Brazilian holding company in a leveraged buyout for approximately $12 million USD to a minority shareholder. This move aims to simplify SPAR's operational structure and channel cash back into its business. Despite the sale, SPAR will maintain its relationship with the Brazilian venture to continue adding value to clients. CEO Mike Matacunas emphasized the company's focus on growth and profitability.

SPAR Group (NASDAQ: SGRP), a merchandising, marketing, and distribution services provider, has entered into a non-binding letter of intent (LOI) with Highwire Capital to go private through a merger transaction valued at $58 million, or $2.50 per share. The proposal has unanimous approval from the SPAR Board and a Special Committee of Independent Directors. If approved, this would represent a 19% premium over the 20-day average closing price and a 107% premium over the 12-month average closing price. The deal is subject to due diligence, regulatory approvals, and shareholder consent. The LOI includes a term of exclusivity and certain legal terms, but no definitive agreement has yet been executed.

SPAR Group (NASDAQ: SGRP) reported first-quarter 2024 revenues of $68.7 million, a 6.7% increase from the previous year. The company saw a 204% rise in operating income to $9.6 million, with a diluted EPS of $0.28, up 600% from last year's $0.04. This includes a $7.2 million pre-tax gain on a sale.

Net revenues were substantially driven by a 22% increase in U.S. and Canada, while the EMEA region saw a 14.7% decline. APAC revenues fell by 5.5%. Despite a gross profit decrease to $12.5 million, down from $14.1 million last year, SG&A expenses improved to $9.6 million.

SPAR's total liquidity stood at $21.0 million, with $16.6 million in cash. The company ended the quarter with net working capital of $38.2 million. Additionally, SPAR completed several strategic divestitures and a share repurchase plan.

SPAR Group, Inc. announces the timing of its 2024 fiscal first quarter results conference call, scheduled for May 15, 2024. The call will be hosted by CEO Mike Matacunas and CFO Antonio Calisto Pato, with a Q&A session following prepared remarks. Participants can join by phone or webcast, with a replay available through May 22nd.

SPAR Group, Inc. announces the sale of its majority share in South Africa's Meridian Group to Lindicom for around $10 million, simplifying its operating structure. The sale aims to create long-term shareholder value and provide cash for further growth, leveraging brand equity and capital to maximize opportunities and return on investment.

SPAR Group, Inc. completes the acquisition of the remaining minority interest in Resource Plus, a U.S.-based joint venture, resulting in 100% ownership of the U.S. business. The acquisition aims to optimize and simplify SPAR's business operations, achieving $500,000 in operating synergies within the first 12 months post-transaction. The company will pay $3 million USD in annual payments over a five-year period as per the joint venture agreement terms.