Release Date: February 24, 2025
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
Positive Points
- Topgolf Callaway Brands Corp (MODG, Financial) reported strong Q4 performance with growth in both golf equipment and Travis Matthew brands.
- Topgolf delivered better-than-expected same venue sales and record Q4 venue level margins.
- The company generated over $100 million in free cash flow, contributing to a total company free cash flow of $203 million, strengthening its financial position.
- Golf equipment maintained its leadership position in the US golf club market share and achieved record share in golf balls.
- Travis Matthew brand is expected to deliver year-over-year growth on both the top and bottom line in 2025.
Negative Points
- Topgolf Callaway Brands Corp (MODG) faces significant headwinds from foreign exchange, impacting core business EBITDA by approximately $75 million year over year.
- Same venue sales at Topgolf were down 8% in Q4, with continued pressure expected in Q1 2025 due to unfavorable weather conditions.
- The company anticipates a decline in 2025 revenue by approximately 3% year over year at the midpoint of guidance.
- Golf equipment revenues are forecasted to be down slightly year over year, primarily due to foreign exchange and competitive launches.
- The active lifestyle category is expected to see a decline in revenues due to foreign exchange and lower revenue projections for Jack Wolfskin.
Q & A Highlights
Q: Could you elaborate on same venue sales trends when the weather has been neutral at Top Golf? What constraints do you see from returning to positive same venue sales in the back half of the year?
A: Artie Starrs, CEO of Top Golf, explained that in neutral weather markets, sales are currently running down low to mid-single digits, showing improvement from Q4. He expressed optimism about consumer responses to value messaging and traffic numbers, indicating a strong conviction in the guidance provided.
Q: Can you speak to the initial reception of the elite launch in clubs and square to square in putters, and elaborate on drivers of the 2025 organic forecast in this segment?
A: Chip Brewer, President and CEO, stated that the elite product line has been well-received, though the year presents challenges due to simultaneous launches by major competitors. The square to square putter line has performed exceptionally well, indicating strong market interest.
Q: The corporate events comp accelerated nicely in the quarter. Can you talk about the key drivers there and the outlook for corporate events versus walk-ins for 2025?
A: Artie Starrs highlighted increased flexibility in product design and pricing for corporate events, which paid dividends. He noted that holiday events remain a strength and expects walk-ins to perform slightly better than events in 2025.
Q: Can you talk about the expectation for the core golf equipment business to be down year over year? Is it due to market share challenges or channel inventory levels?
A: Chip Brewer attributed the decline primarily to foreign exchange headwinds, with $60 million in impact. He also noted the competitive launch cadence and fewer planned launches in the second half of the year.
Q: Can you provide perspective on what’s changing in 2025 relative to the last several quarters for same venue sales, and how much is in your control versus needing macro help?
A: Artie Starrs emphasized a shift in strategy, focusing on providing value during high-demand times like Sundays and late nights. He noted that while macro improvements would help, the company is confident in driving sales through targeted promotions and pricing strategies.
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
