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Central Garden & Pet (NASDAQ: CENT) lifts 2026 EPS outlook, plans TRIXIE deal

Filing Impact
(High)
Filing Sentiment
(Neutral)
Form Type
8-K

Rhea-AI Filing Summary

Central Garden & Pet Company reported fiscal 2026 third-quarter results with net sales of $882 million versus $961 million a year ago, an 8% decline driven by the exit of the pet distribution business. Organic net sales, excluding acquisitions and divestitures, rose 2% to $862 million. Gross margin expanded to 35.9%, and operating income was $126 million versus $135 million. GAAP diluted EPS was $1.45 compared with $1.52, while non-GAAP diluted EPS was $1.54 versus $1.56. Adjusted EBITDA was $162 million with margin improving to 18.3%.

Pet segment net sales were $400 million, down 19% but with 2% organic growth and stronger margins, while Garden segment net sales increased 3% to $482 million and operating income grew 9%. Liquidity remained strong with $997 million of cash and cash equivalents, total debt of about $1.2 billion, gross leverage of 2.8x and net leverage of 0.5x, and $128 million still available for share repurchases.

Following quarter-end, Central agreed to acquire an 80% interest in TRIXIE for €340 million in cash at closing plus up to €60 million in earn-out payments, for total consideration of up to €400 million, with closing expected in the first half of fiscal 2027. Management now expects fiscal 2026 non-GAAP diluted EPS of $2.85 or better, raised from $2.70 or better, and projects about $50 million of capital expenditures for the year.

Positive

  • Fiscal 2026 outlook raised: non-GAAP diluted EPS guidance increased from $2.70 or better to $2.85 or better, reflecting management’s confidence in margins, growth initiatives and portfolio actions.
  • Strategic TRIXIE acquisition: agreement to acquire an 80% stake for up to €400 million is expected to expand Central’s European presence and lift non-U.S. sales to about 10% of net sales.

Negative

  • None.

Filing Explained

The reported third-quarter figures are preliminary because Central Garden & Pet had not yet filed its Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 27, 2026; necessary accounting adjustments or changes in estimates could still change them.

Item 2.02 Results of Operations and Financial Condition Financial
Disclosure of earnings results, typically an earnings press release or preliminary financials.
Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits Exhibits
Financial statements, pro forma financial information, and exhibit attachments filed with this report.
Q3 2026 Net Sales $882 million Net sales for fiscal 2026 third quarter versus $961 million in Q3 fiscal 2025
Q3 2026 Organic Net Sales $862 million Organic net sales in Q3 fiscal 2026 versus $842 million in Q3 fiscal 2025, up 2%
Q3 2026 GAAP Diluted EPS $1.45 GAAP diluted EPS for Q3 fiscal 2026 versus $1.52 in Q3 fiscal 2025
Q3 2026 Non-GAAP Diluted EPS $1.54 Non-GAAP diluted EPS for Q3 fiscal 2026 versus $1.56 in Q3 fiscal 2025
Adjusted EBITDA Q3 2026 $162 million Adjusted EBITDA in Q3 fiscal 2026 versus $167 million in Q3 fiscal 2025; margin 18.3%
Cash and Cash Equivalents $997 million Cash and cash equivalents at June 27, 2026, versus $713 million a year earlier
Total Debt $1.2 billion Total debt at June 27, 2026, consistent with the prior-year period
TRIXIE Consideration up to €400 million €340 million cash at closing plus up to €60 million earn-out for 80% interest
organic net sales financial
"Organic net sales, which take into account the exit of the pet distribution business"
Organic net sales represent the revenue generated from a company's core business activities, excluding the effects of acquisitions, divestments, or currency changes. It shows how well the company is growing through its existing products and services, similar to tracking how a plant grows from its own roots rather than by adding new plants. Investors use this measure to assess the true growth and health of a company's ongoing operations.
adjusted EBITDA financial
"Adjusted EBITDA was $162 million, compared with $167 million, a decrease of $5 million"
Adjusted EBITDA is a way companies measure how much money they make from their core operations, like running a business, by removing certain costs or income that aren’t part of regular business activities. It helps investors see how well a company is doing without distractions from unusual expenses or gains, making it easier to compare companies or track performance over time.
earn-out payments financial
"plus up to €60 million in additional earn-out payments, for total consideration"
Earn-out payments are extra sums promised to the seller of a business that are paid later only if the company meets agreed performance targets, such as revenue or profit levels. They matter to investors because they shift some acquisition risk from the buyer to the seller, affect future cash flow and reported purchase price, and can change how much value is ultimately paid for an acquisition—think of it like a performance bonus tied to how well the bought business performs.
gross leverage financial
"Gross leverage, calculated using the definitions for Indebtedness and EBITDA in Central's credit agreement"
Gross leverage is a measure of how much a company or fund is exposed to borrowed money and other obligations before subtracting any cash, liquid assets, or hedging positions. It shows total debt and exposure relative to the size of the business (often versus equity or assets) and matters to investors because higher gross leverage typically means greater sensitivity to interest costs, market swings and unexpected losses—like a household with large mortgages and no rainy-day savings.
non-GAAP diluted EPS financial
"Raises fiscal 2026 outlook for non-GAAP diluted EPS from $2.70 or better to $2.85 or better"
Non-GAAP diluted EPS (Earnings Per Share) is a measure of a company's profit allocated to each share of stock, calculated using adjusted earnings that exclude certain items like one-time expenses or gains. It provides a view of ongoing performance by removing irregular or non-recurring factors. Investors use it to better understand the company's core profitability and compare performance across different periods or companies.
Net sales $882 million 8% decrease versus Q3 fiscal 2025
GAAP diluted EPS $1.45 vs $1.52 in Q3 fiscal 2025
Non-GAAP diluted EPS $1.54 vs $1.56 in Q3 fiscal 2025
Organic net sales growth 2% Q3 fiscal 2026 organic net sales increase versus Q3 fiscal 2025
Adjusted EBITDA $162 million $5 million decrease versus Q3 fiscal 2025
FY 2026 non-GAAP EPS outlook $2.85 or better raised from $2.70 or better
Guidance

For fiscal 2026, management expects non-GAAP diluted EPS of $2.85 or better and capital expenditures of approximately $50 million, assuming a competitive retail environment, a value-oriented consumer, existing tariffs and stable key commodities, and excluding additional acquisitions, divestitures or restructuring.

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FAQ

How did Central Garden & Pet (CENT) perform in Q3 fiscal 2026?
Central Garden & Pet reported Q3 2026 net sales of $882 million, down 8% year over year, mainly from exiting its pet distribution business. Organic net sales rose 2% to $862 million, GAAP diluted EPS was $1.45, and non-GAAP diluted EPS was $1.54.

What earnings guidance did Central Garden & Pet (CENT) provide for fiscal 2026?
Central raised its fiscal 2026 non-GAAP diluted EPS outlook to $2.85 or better, up from $2.70 or better. The guidance assumes a competitive, value-focused consumer environment, stable key commodities, about $50 million of capital spending, and excludes impacts from additional acquisitions or restructuring.

What are the key details of Central Garden & Pet’s acquisition of TRIXIE?
Central agreed to acquire an 80% interest in TRIXIE for €340 million in cash at closing plus up to €60 million in earn-out payments, totaling up to €400 million. The deal is expected to close in the first half of fiscal 2027 and increase non-U.S. sales to about 10%.

How did Central Garden & Pet’s Pet and Garden segments perform in Q3 2026?
In Q3 2026, the Pet segment generated $400 million in net sales, down 19%, but delivered 2% organic growth and margin expansion. The Garden segment posted $482 million in net sales, up 3%, with operating income increasing 9% and operating margin improving to 18.7%.

What is Central Garden & Pet’s (CENT) liquidity and leverage position after Q3 2026?
Central reported $997 million in cash and cash equivalents and total debt of about $1.2 billion. Gross leverage was 2.8x, below its 3.0–3.5x target range, and net leverage was 0.5x. The company also had $128 million remaining under its stock repurchase authorization.

How did organic net sales and margins trend for Central Garden & Pet in Q3 2026?
Organic net sales increased 2% to $862 million, despite reported sales declining due to the pet distribution exit. Consolidated gross margin improved by 130 basis points to 35.9%, and adjusted EBITDA margin expanded to 18.3%, indicating better profitability on the remaining business.
0000887733FALSE00008877332026-08-052026-08-050000887733us-gaap:CommonStockMember2026-08-052026-08-050000887733us-gaap:CommonClassAMember2026-08-052026-08-05

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 8-K
CURRENT REPORT
Pursuant To Section 13 of 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported)August 5, 2026
CENTRAL_GARDEN & PET_B_Lge - Cropped.jpg
Central Garden & Pet Company
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware001-3326868-0275553
(State or other jurisdiction
of incorporation)
(Commission File
Number)
(IRS Employer
 Identification No.)
1340 Treat Boulevard, Suite 600, Walnut Creek, California 94597
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
(925) 948-4000
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Not Applicable
(Former name or former address if changed since last report)
Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions (see General Instruction A.2. below):
☐
Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)
☐
Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)
☐
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))
☐
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each classTrading Symbol(s)Name of each exchange on which registered
Common StockCENTThe NASDAQ Stock Market LLC
Class A Common StockCENTAThe NASDAQ Stock Market LLC
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange act of 1934 (§240.12b-2 of this chapter).
Emerging growth company    ☐
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐


Item 2.02 Results of Operations and Financial Condition.

On August 5, 2026, Central Garden & Pet Company issued a press release announcing its financial results for the third quarter fiscal year 2026 ended June 27, 2026. A copy of the press release is attached as Exhibit 99.1.


Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits.


Exhibit NumberDescription
Exhibit 99.1
Press release dated August 5, 2026.
Exhibit 104Cover Page Interactive Data File – the cover page iXBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document




SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

CENTRAL GARDEN & PET COMPANY



By: /s/ BRADLEY G. SMITH
Bradley G. Smith
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
Dated: August 5, 2026




Exhibit 99.1
CENTRAL GARDEN & PET ANNOUNCES Q3 FISCAL 2026 FINANCIAL RESULTS

Reports fiscal 2026 Q3 net sales decline of 8%, with organic sales growth of 2%
Delivers fiscal 2026 Q3 GAAP diluted EPS of $1.45 versus $1.52 in the prior year, and non-GAAP EPS of $1.54 versus $1.56
Raises fiscal 2026 outlook for non-GAAP diluted EPS from $2.70 or better to $2.85 or better

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. – Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) (“Central”), a leading consumer goods company in the pet and garden industries, today announced financial results for its fiscal 2026 third quarter ended June 27, 2026.
"Third quarter results showed continued strength across the business with improvements in both organic sales and margins versus last year, reflecting sharp execution and favorable margins due primarily to the exit of the pet distribution business earlier this year. Following the quarter, we entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a majority interest in TRIXIE, the leading European pet supplies and pet snacks company, a significant step in expanding our presence in Europe," said Niko Lahanas, CEO of Central Garden & Pet. "As we enter the final phase of the garden season, and given the strength we've seen across the business, we're raising our fiscal year outlook."

Fiscal 2026 Third Quarter Financial Results
(All comparisons versus Q3 FY 2025)
Net sales were $882 million compared with $961 million, a decrease of 8%. Organic net sales, which take into account the exit of the pet distribution business at the beginning of the quarter, were $862 million compared with $842 million, an increase of 2%.
Gross profit was $317 million, compared with $332 million, a decrease of 5%, with gross margin expanding by 130 basis points to 35.9% from 34.6%.
SG&A was $191 million, compared with $197 million, a decrease of 3%. Non-GAAP SG&A was $182 million, compared with $193 million, a decrease of 6%.
Operating income totaled $126 million, compared with $135 million, a decrease of 7%, with operating margin expanding by 20 basis points to 14.3% from 14.1%. On a non-GAAP basis, operating income totaled $136 million, compared with $139 million, a decrease of only 2%, with operating margin expanding by 90 basis points to 15.4% from 14.5%.
Other income was $2 million, slightly above the prior year.
Net interest expense was $8 million, lower than a year ago.
Net income was $90 million, compared with $95 million, a decrease of 5%, or $1.45 per diluted share compared with $1.52, a decrease of $0.07. On a non-GAAP basis, net income was $96 million, compared with $98 million, a decrease of 2%, or $1.54 per diluted share compared with $1.56, a decrease of $0.02.
Adjusted EBITDA was $162 million, compared with $167 million, a decrease of $5 million, with margin expanding by 100 basis points to 18.3% from 17.3%.


Exhibit 99.1
Pet Segment Third Quarter Fiscal 2026 Results
(All comparisons versus Q3 FY 2025)
Net sales in the Pet segment were $400 million, compared with $493 million, a decrease of 19% reflecting the exit of the pet distribution business. Organic net sales in the Pet segment were $380 million, an increase of 2%.
Operating income was $67 million, compared with $76 million, a decrease of 12%, with margin of 16.7% versus 15.5%, up 120 basis points. Non-GAAP operating income was $76 million, compared with $78 million, a decrease of 2%, with margin of 19.0% versus 15.8%, up 320 basis points.
Adjusted EBITDA was $86 million, compared with $88 million, a decrease of $2 million, with margin of 21.4% versus 17.9%, up 350 basis points.

Garden Segment Third Quarter Fiscal 2026 Results
(All comparisons versus Q3 FY 2025)
Net sales in the Garden segment were $482 million, compared with $468 million, an increase of 3%. The increase was primarily driven by Wild Bird, Fertilizer and Controls, and Grass Seeds.
Operating income was $90 million, compared with $83 million, an increase of 9%, with margin expanding by 100 basis points to 18.7% from 17.7%. Non-GAAP operating income was $91 million, compared with $85 million, an increase of 7%, with margin of 18.9% versus 18.2%, up 70 basis points.
Adjusted EBITDA was $101 million, compared with $96 million, an increase of $5 million, with margin of 20.9% versus 20.4%, up 50 basis points.

Liquidity and Debt
(All comparisons versus Q3 FY 2025)
Cash provided by operations was $327 million, compared with $265 million, primarily reflecting seasonal changes in working capital.
Cash and cash equivalents at June 27, 2026, totaled $997 million, compared with $713 million.
Total debt was $1.2 billion, consistent with the prior year period, with strong liquidity supporting continued investment capacity and financial flexibility.
Gross leverage, calculated using the definitions for Indebtedness and EBITDA in Central's credit agreement, ended the third quarter at 2.8x, compared with 2.9x in the prior year and below the target range of 3.0 to 3.5x. Net leverage was 0.5x.
As of June 27, 2026, $128 million remained available for future stock repurchases.

Acquisition of TRIXIE
Following the close of the quarter, Central entered into a definitive agreement to acquire an 80% interest in TRIXIE Heimtierbedarf GmbH & Co. KG (“TRIXIE”), the leading European pet supplies and pet snacks company, for €340 million in cash at closing plus up to €60 million in

Exhibit 99.1
additional earn-out payments, for total consideration of up to €400 million. Together, Central and TRIXIE will create the leading global player in pet supplies.
TRIXIE serves over 30,000 pet retail stores internationally with a broad portfolio of pet products, approximately 90% of which are own-brand. The transaction will give Central a differentiated presence with approximately 10% of net sales generated outside of the United States and establish a scaled platform to consolidate the fragmented European pet specialty market. Members of TRIXIE's leadership team will retain a minority stake and continue in key roles. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of fiscal 2027.

Fiscal 2026 Guidance
Reflecting year-to-date results and improved visibility into the balance of the year, Central raises its outlook for fiscal 2026 non-GAAP diluted EPS from $2.70 or better to $2.85 or better, driven by continued margin discipline, ongoing investment in growth initiatives, and portfolio optimization.
The outlook incorporates current assumptions regarding a competitive and promotional retail environment, a value-oriented consumer, existing tariffs, and inflation in select commodities. It also assumes continued stability across key commodities despite a dynamic macroeconomic and geopolitical backdrop.
Capital expenditures for fiscal 2026 are projected to be approximately $50 million, focused on maintenance, productivity initiatives, and targeted growth investments across both segments.
This outlook excludes any potential impacts from further acquisitions, divestitures, or restructuring activities that may occur during the remainder of fiscal 2026, including projects under Central's Cost and Simplicity agenda, as well as further tariff refunds.
Conference Call
Central will hold a conference call today at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time (1:30 p.m. Pacific Time), hosted by CEO Niko Lahanas and CFO Brad Smith, to discuss these results and to provide a general business update. The conference call and related materials can be accessed at http://ir.central.com.
Alternatively, to listen to the call by telephone, dial (201) 689-8345 (domestic and international) using confirmation #13760653.
About Central Garden & Pet
Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) is a leading consumer goods company in the pet and garden industries. Guided by the belief that home is central to life, the company's purpose is to proudly nurture happy and healthy homes. For over 45 years, its innovative and trusted solutions have helped lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier, and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a diversified portfolio of market-leading brands including Amdro®, Aqueon®, Best Bully Sticks®, Cadet®, C&S®, Farnam®, Ferry-Morse®, Kaytee®, Nylabone®, Pennington®, Sevin® and Zoёcon®. With fiscal 2025 net sales of $3.1 billion, the company has strong manufacturing and logistics capabilities supported by a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture that incorporates sustainability. Central is headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, and employs more than 6,000 people, primarily across North America. Visit www.central.com to learn more.

Exhibit 99.1
Safe Harbor Statement
“Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: The statements contained in this release which are not historical facts, including statements concerning evolving consumer demand and unfavorable retailer dynamics, productivity initiatives, estimated capital spending, earnings guidance for fiscal 2026, the expected timing of the closing of the acquisition of TRIXIE, and our ability to successfully manage and grow TRIXIE’s business, are forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in or implied by forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are based upon Central's current expectations and various assumptions. There are a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained in this release including, but not limited to, the following factors:
•economic uncertainty and other adverse macroeconomic conditions, including a potential recession or inflationary pressure;
•impacts of further tariffs or a trade war and our ability to receive tariff refunds;
•risks associated with international sourcing;
•the failure to obtain certain required regulatory approvals or the failure to satisfy any of the other closing conditions to the completion of the TRIXIE transaction;
•our ability to close the TRIXIE acquisition in a timely basis or at all;
•our ability to integrate the acquired company and realize the potential benefits of the TRIXIE transaction to Central and our customers;
•fluctuations in energy prices, fuel and related petrochemical costs;
•the impact of the new pet distribution partnership on our financial results and ability to distribute and promote our pet branded products;
•declines in consumer spending and the associated increased inventory risk;
•seasonality and fluctuations in our operating results and cash flow;
•adverse weather conditions and climate change;
•the success of our Central to Home strategy and our Cost and Simplicity agenda;
•fluctuations in market prices for seeds and grains and other raw materials, including the impact of significant declines in grass seed market prices on our inventory valuation;
•risks associated with new product introductions, including the risk that our new products will not produce sufficient sales to recoup our investment;
•dependence on a small number of customers for a significant portion of our business;
•consolidation trends in the retail industry;
•supply shortages in pet birds, small animals and fish;
•potential credit risk associated with certain brick and mortar retailers in the pet specialty segment;
•reductions in demand for our product categories;
•competition in our industries;
•continuing implementation of an enterprise resource planning information technology system;
•regulatory issues;
•potential environmental liabilities;

Exhibit 99.1
•access to and cost of additional capital;
•the impact of product recalls;
•risks associated with our acquisition strategy, including our ability to successfully integrate acquisitions and the impact of purchase accounting on our financial results;
•potential goodwill or intangible asset impairment;
•the potential for significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting, particularly of acquired companies;
•our dependence upon our key executives;
•our ability to recruit and retain members of our management team and employees to support our businesses;
•potential costs and risks associated with actual or potential cyberattacks;
•our ability to protect our trademarks and other proprietary rights;
•litigation and product liability claims;
•the impact of new accounting regulations and the possibility our effective tax rate will increase as a result of future changes in the corporate tax rate or other tax law changes;
•potential dilution from issuance of authorized shares; and
•the voting power associated with our Class B stock.

These and other risks are described in greater detail in Central’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 27, 2025, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 26, 2025. Central has not filed its Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended June 27, 2026. As a result, all financial results described here should be considered preliminary, and are subject to change to reflect any necessary adjustments or changes in accounting estimates that are identified prior to the time the Company files the Form 10-Q. Central assumes no obligation to publicly update these forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events, or any other development.

Investor & Media Contact
Friederike Edelmann
VP, Investor Relations & Corporate Sustainability
(925) 412-6726
fedelmann@central.com

# # #
(Tables Follow)


CENTRAL GARDEN & PET COMPANY
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts, unaudited)
June 27, 2026June 28, 2025September 27, 2025
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$996,710 $713,049 $882,488 
Restricted cash15,504 14,690 15,945 
Accounts receivable (less allowance for credit losses of $8,884, $8,585 and $8,011)
460,243 522,712 325,297 
Inventories, net631,649 718,267 722,106 
Prepaid expenses and other30,593 31,497 30,294 
Total current assets2,134,699 2,000,215 1,976,130 
Plant, property and equipment, net349,324 366,362 363,188 
Goodwill545,841 554,692 554,692 
Other intangible assets, net426,901 455,100 447,643 
Operating lease right-of-use assets189,559 220,182 222,863 
Other assets143,629 60,771 61,127 
Total$3,789,953 $3,657,322 $3,625,643 
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable$217,277 $210,926 $234,618 
Accrued expenses295,689 294,395 247,213 
Current lease liabilities50,686 56,779 56,865 
Current portion of long-term debt55 81 62 
Total current liabilities563,707 562,181 538,758 
Long-term debt1,193,003 1,191,179 1,191,641 
Long-term lease liabilities164,849 188,307 191,739 
Deferred income taxes and other long-term obligations121,493 125,125 118,572 
Equity:
Common stock ($0.01 par value; 9,650,221 shares outstanding at June 27, 2026, June 28, 2025 and September 27, 2025)
97 97 97 
Class A common stock ($0.01 par value: 51,290,706, 51,556,941 and 51,618,682 shares outstanding at June 27, 2026, June 28, 2025 and September 27, 2025, respectively)
513 516 516 
Class B stock ($0.01 par value: 1,602,374 shares outstanding at June 27, 2026, June 28, 2025 and September 27, 2025)
16 16 16 
Additional paid-in capital573,770 566,236 571,392 
Retained earnings1,175,716 1,024,902 1,015,096 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(4,442)(3,532)(3,849)
Total Central Garden & Pet Company shareholders’ equity1,745,670 1,588,235 1,583,268 
Noncontrolling interest1,231 2,295 1,665 
Total equity1,746,901 1,590,530 1,584,933 
Total$3,789,953 $3,657,322 $3,625,643 


Exhibit 99.1
CENTRAL GARDEN & PET COMPANY
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands, except per share amounts, unaudited)
Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
June 27, 2026June 28, 2025June 27, 2026June 28, 2025
Net sales$882,362 $960,913 $2,405,887 $2,450,886 
Cost of goods sold 565,444 628,903 1,598,797 1,650,094 
Gross profit316,918 332,010 807,090 800,792 
Selling, general and administrative expenses191,074 196,884 550,777 544,350 
Operating income125,844 135,126 256,313 256,442 
Interest expense(14,279)(14,360)(42,858)(43,340)
Interest income6,512 5,517 18,240 17,409 
Other income1,511 1,069 1,342 96 
Income before income taxes and noncontrolling interest119,588 127,352 233,037 230,607 
Income tax expense29,596 31,941 56,214 56,208 
Income including noncontrolling interest89,992 95,411 176,823 174,399 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest136 404 705 1,750 
Net income attributable to Central Garden & Pet Company$89,856 $95,007 $176,118 $172,649 
Net income per share attributable to Central Garden & Pet Company:
Basic$1.46 $1.53 $2.87 $2.72 
Diluted$1.45 $1.52 $2.84 $2.69 
Weighted average shares used in the computation of net income per share:
Basic61,452 61,980 61,409 63,557 
Diluted61,947 62,610 61,925 64,283 


Exhibit 99.1
CENTRAL GARDEN & PET COMPANY
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands, unaudited)
Nine Months Ended
June 27, 2026June 28, 2025
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income$176,823 $174,399 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization60,977 64,063 
Amortization of deferred financing costs1,879 2,021 
Non-cash lease expense43,725 45,118 
Stock-based compensation15,699 15,572 
Gain on divestiture(2,479)— 
Deferred income taxes4,481 4,587 
Other operating activities1,898 (1,851)
Changes in assets and liabilities (excluding businesses acquired):
Accounts receivable(130,770)(195,704)
Inventories22,268 39,800 
Prepaid expenses and other assets2,522 (3,992)
Accounts payable8,189 (1,471)
Accrued expenses47,630 48,390 
Other long-term obligations(1,548)2,831 
Operating lease liabilities(43,699)(43,983)
Net cash provided by operating activities207,595 149,780 
Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment(33,851)(30,580)
Payments to acquire companies, net of cash acquired(57,720)(3,318)
Proceeds from divestiture30,644 — 
Other investing activities(50)(150)
Net cash used in investing activities(60,977)(34,048)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayments of long-term debt(53)(202)
Repurchase of common stock, including shares surrendered for tax withholding(28,822)(154,734)
Distribution to noncontrolling interest(1,139)(1,346)
Payment of financing costs(2,329)— 
Net cash used in financing activities(32,343)(156,282)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents(494)(114)
Net increase/(decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash113,781 (40,664)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year898,433 768,403 
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period$1,012,214 $727,739 
Supplemental information:
Cash paid for interest$48,291 $48,778 
Cash paid for income taxes – net of refunds$35,295 $44,281 
Lease liabilities arising from obtaining right-of-use assets$9,519 $56,833 




Exhibit 99.1
Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
We report our financial results in accordance with GAAP. However, to supplement the financial results prepared in accordance with GAAP, we use non-GAAP financial measures including non-GAAP net income and diluted net income per share, non-GAAP operating income, organic net sales and adjusted EBITDA. Management uses these non-GAAP financial measures that exclude the impact of specific items (described below) in making financial, operating and planning decisions and in evaluating our performance. Also, management believes that these non-GAAP financial measures may be useful to investors in their assessment of our ongoing operating performance and provide additional meaningful comparisons between current results and results in prior operating periods. While management believes that non-GAAP measures are useful supplemental information, such adjusted results are not intended to replace our GAAP financial results and should be read in conjunction with those GAAP results.
We have also provided organic net sales, a non-GAAP measure that excludes the impact of businesses purchased or exited in the prior 12 months, because we believe it permits investors to better understand the performance of our historical business without the impact of recent acquisitions or dispositions.
Adjusted EBITDA is defined by us as income before income tax, net other expense, net interest expense and depreciation and amortization and stock-based compensation expense (or operating income plus depreciation and amortization expense and stock-based compensation expense). Adjusted EBITDA further excludes charges related to facility closures. We present adjusted EBITDA because we believe that adjusted EBITDA is a useful supplemental measure in evaluating the cash flows and performance of our business and provides greater transparency into our results of operations. Adjusted EBITDA is used by our management to perform such evaluations. Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for cash flow from operations, income from operations or other income statement measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. We believe that adjusted EBITDA is frequently used by investors, securities analysts and other interested parties in their evaluation of companies, many of which present adjusted EBITDA when reporting their results. Other companies may calculate adjusted EBITDA differently and it may not be comparable.
The reconciliations of these non-GAAP measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP are shown in the tables below.
Non-GAAP financial measures reflect adjustments based on the following items:
•Facility closures and business exit: we have excluded charges related to the closure of distribution and manufacturing facilities and our decisions to exit businesses as they represent infrequent transactions that impact the comparability between operating periods.
•Tariff refunds: we have excluded the impact of tariff refunds received for certain tariffs previously imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act which were deemed unconstitutional. We believe the tariff refund amounts we have received represent infrequent transactions that impact the comparability between operating periods.
•Business contribution to partnership formation: we have excluded the gain related to the divestiture of the pet distribution business and its contribution to the formation of a partnership as it represents an infrequent transaction that impacts the comparability between operating periods.
From time to time in the future, there may be other items that we may exclude if we believe that doing so is consistent with the goal of providing useful supplemental information to investors and management.
We have not provided a reconciliation of non-GAAP measures to the corresponding GAAP measures on a forward-looking basis as we cannot do so without unreasonable efforts due to the potential variability and limited visibility of excluded items; these excluded items may include facility closures and exit costs, impairment charges and restructuring costs, among others.
1.During the third quarter of fiscal 2026, we recognized incremental expense of $13.8 million in the consolidated statement of operations, of which $13.0 million in our Pet segment related to the exit of a minor business and the closure of two facilities, and $0.8 million in our Garden segment related to the closure of three distribution centers in fiscal 2025 and 2024.
2.During the third quarter of fiscal 2026, we recognized incremental income in our Pet segment of $3.6 million for tariff refunds received.
3.During the third quarter of fiscal 2026, we recognized incremental income of $2.5 million in Other Income from the contribution of our pet distribution business to the formation of a new partnership.
4.During the first six months of fiscal 2026, we recognized incremental expense of $8.0 million in the condensed consolidated statement of operations, of which $7.3 million in our Garden segment related to the closure of three distribution centers in fiscal 2025 and 2024 and $0.7 million in our Pet segment related to the closure of a sales and logistics facility in Pennsylvania.

Exhibit 99.1
5.During the third quarter of fiscal 2025, we recognized incremental expense of $3.9 million in the consolidated statement of operations, $2.2 million in our Garden segment related to closing a distribution facility in Ontario, California and beginning the consolidation of our Western distribution network and an incremental $1.7 million in our Pet segment related to the decision to winddown our operations in the U.K.
6.During the second quarter of fiscal 2025, we recognized incremental expense of $5.3 million in the condensed consolidated statement of operations, related to the decision to wind-down our operations in the U.K. and the related facility there as we move to a direct-export model.


Net Income and Diluted Net Income Per Share
GAAP to Non-GAAP ReconciliationThree Months EndedNine Months Ended
June 27, 2026June 28, 2025June 27, 2026June 28, 2025
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
GAAP net income attributable to Central Garden & Pet Company

$89,856 $95,007 $176,118 $172,649 
Facility closures(1) (4) (5) (6)13,757 3,915 21,729 9,254 
Tariff refunds(2)(3,606)— (3,606)— 
Pet distribution business divestiture(3)(2,479)— (2,479)— 
Tax effect of adjustments(1,900)(1,003)(3,770)(2,258)
Non-GAAP net income attributable to Central Garden & Pet Company$95,628 $97,919 $187,992 $179,645 
GAAP diluted net income per share$1.45 $1.52 $2.84 $2.69 
Non-GAAP diluted net income per share$1.54 $1.56 $3.04 $2.79 
Shares used in GAAP and non-GAAP diluted net earnings per share calculation61,947 62,610 61,925 64,283 

Operating Income
GAAP to Non-GAAP ReconciliationThree Months Ended June 27, 2026Nine Months Ended June 27, 2026
GAAP
Non-GAAP adjustments
Non-GAAPGAAP
Non-GAAP adjustments
Non-GAAP
(in thousands)
Net sales$882,362$1,354$883,716$2,405,887$1,354$2,407,241
Cost of goods sold565,444129 565,5731,598,797646 1,599,443
Gross profit$316,918$1,225 $318,143$807,090$708 $807,798
Selling, general and administrative expenses191,074(8,926)182,148550,777(17,415)533,362
Income from operations(1) (2) (4)$125,844$10,151 $135,995$256,313$18,123 $274,436
Gross margin35.9%36.0%33.5%33.6%
Operating margin14.3%15.4%10.7%11.4%


Exhibit 99.1
Operating Income
GAAP to Non-GAAP ReconciliationThree Months Ended June 28, 2025Nine Months Ended June 28, 2025
GAAP
Non-GAAP adjustments
Non-GAAPGAAP
Non-GAAP adjustments
Non-GAAP
(in thousands)
Net sales$960,913$—$960,913$2,450,886$—$2,450,886
Cost of goods sold628,903(248)628,6551,650,094(4,661)1,645,433
Gross profit$332,010$248 $332,258$800,792$4,661 $805,453
Selling, general and administrative expenses196,884(3,667)193,217544,350(4,593)539,757
Income from operations(5) (6)$135,126$3,915 $139,041$256,442$9,254 $265,696
Gross margin34.6%34.6%32.7%32.9%
Operating margin14.1%14.5%10.5%10.8%


Pet Segment Operating Income
GAAP to Non-GAAP ReconciliationThree Months EndedNine Months Ended
June 27, 2026June 28, 2025June 27, 2026June 28, 2025
(in thousands)
GAAP operating income$66,818$76,199$194,440$188,070
Facility closures(1) (4) (5) (6)12,9631,67113,6967,010
Tariff refunds received(2)(3,606)—(3,606)—
Non-GAAP operating income$76,175$77,870$204,530$195,080
GAAP operating margin16.7%15.5%15.0%13.7%
Non-GAAP operating margin19.0%15.8%15.8%14.2%

Garden Segment Operating Income
GAAP to Non-GAAP ReconciliationThree Months EndedNine Months Ended
June 27, 2026June 28, 2025June 27, 2026June 28, 2025
(in thousands)
GAAP operating income$90,051$82,989$146,340 $144,143 
Facility closures(1) (4) (5)7942,2448,033 2,244 
Non-GAAP operating income$90,845$85,233$154,373 $146,387 
GAAP operating margin18.7%17.7%13.2%13.4%
Non-GAAP operating margin18.9%18.2%13.9%13.6%


Exhibit 99.1
Organic Net Sales
GAAP to Non-GAAP ReconciliationThree Months Ended June 27, 2026Nine Months Ended June 27, 2026
Net sales (GAAP)Effect of acquisitions & divestitures on net salesNet sales organicNet sales (GAAP)Effect of acquisitions & divestitures on net salesNet sales organic
(in millions)
Q3 FY 26$882.4$20.2$862.2$2,405.9$237.2$2,168.7
Q3 FY 25960.9118.7842.22,450.9351.72,099.2
$ increase (decrease)$(78.5)$20.0$(45.0)$69.5
% increase (decrease)(8.2)%2.4%(1.8)%3.3%


Organic Pet Segment Net Sales
GAAP to Non-GAAP ReconciliationThree Months Ended June 27, 2026Nine Months Ended June 27, 2026
Net sales (GAAP)Effect of acquisitions & divestitures on net salesNet sales organicNet sales (GAAP)Effect of acquisitions & divestitures on net salesNet sales organic
(in millions)
Q3 FY 26$400.5 $20.2 $380.3$1,293.1$237.2 $1,055.9
Q3 FY 25492.5 118.7 373.81,373.7351.7 1,022.0
$ increase (decrease)$(92.0)$6.5$(80.6)$33.9
% increase (decrease)(18.7)%1.7%(5.9)%3.3%


Adjusted EBITDA
GAAP to Non-GAAP ReconciliationThree Months Ended June 27, 2026
PetGardenCorporateTotal
(in thousands)
Net income attributable to Central Garden & Pet Company

$— $— $— $89,856 
Interest expense, net

— — — 7,767 
Other income

— — — (1,511)
Income tax expense

— — — 29,596 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest

— — — 136 
Income (loss) from operations

66,818 90,051 (31,025)$125,844 
Depreciation & amortization9,418 9,987 229 19,634 
Noncash stock-based compensation— — 6,245 6,245 
Facility closures and tariff refunds received(1) (2)9,357 794 — 10,151 
Adjusted EBITDA$85,593 $100,832 $(24,551)$161,874 


Exhibit 99.1
Adjusted EBITDA
GAAP to Non-GAAP ReconciliationThree Months Ended June 28, 2025
PetGardenCorporateTotal
(in thousands)
Net income attributable to Central Garden & Pet Company$— $— $— $95,007 
Interest expense, net— — — 8,843 
Other income— — — (1,069)
Income tax expense— — — 31,941 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest— — — 404 
Income (loss) from operations76,199 82,989 (24,062)$135,126 
Depreciation & amortization10,391 10,383 709 21,483 
Noncash stock-based compensation— — 6,044 6,044 
Facility closures & business exit(5)1,671 2,244 — 3,915 
Adjusted EBITDA$88,261 $95,616 $(17,309)$166,568 

Adjusted EBITDA
GAAP to Non-GAAP ReconciliationNine Months Ended June 27, 2026
PetGardenCorporateTotal
(in thousands)
Net income attributable to Central Garden & Pet Company

$— $— $— $176,118 
Interest expense, net

— — — 24,618 
Other income

— — — (1,342)
Income tax expense

— — — 56,214 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest

— — — 705 
Income (loss) from operations

194,440 146,340 (84,467)$256,313 
Depreciation & amortization30,017 30,252 708 60,977 
Noncash stock-based compensation— — 15,699 15,699 
Facility closures and tariff refunds received(1) (2) (4)10,090 8,033 — 18,123 
Adjusted EBITDA$234,547 $184,625 $(68,060)$351,112 


Exhibit 99.1
Adjusted EBITDA
GAAP to Non-GAAP ReconciliationNine Months Ended June 28, 2025
PetGardenCorporateTotal
(in thousands)
Net income attributable to Central Garden & Pet Company$— $— $— $172,649 
Interest expense, net— — — 25,931 
Other income— — — (96)
Income tax expense— — — 56,208 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest— — — 1,750 
Income (loss) from operations188,070 144,144 (75,772)$256,442 
Depreciation & amortization29,969 31,957 2,137 64,063 
Noncash stock-based compensation— — 15,572 15,572 
Facility closures and business exit(5) (6)7,010 2,244 — 9,254 
Adjusted EBITDA$225,049 $178,345 $(58,063)$345,331 

Source: View Original Filing on SEC EDGAR

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