10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2010

GARMIN LTD Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Mar 27, 2010

Filed May 5, 2010For Securities:GRMN

Summary

Garmin Ltd. reported its first quarter 2010 financial results, highlighting a challenging start to the year with a 1.3% decrease in net sales compared to the prior year, primarily driven by a significant 14.9% decline in the automotive/mobile segment. Despite the overall sales dip, the company saw robust growth in its Outdoor/Fitness and Aviation segments, indicating diversification benefits. Gross profit saw a substantial increase of 17.8%, bolstered by a significant warranty reserve adjustment and improved margins in key segments, though overall net income declined by 23.1% year-over-year, reflecting increased operating expenses and foreign currency headwinds. Financially, Garmin maintained a strong liquidity position with over $1.29 billion in cash and cash equivalents, enabling it to continue its share repurchase program and announce a significant acquisition in the marine sector post-quarter. The company's strategic focus on innovation and product development is evident in the increased investment in R&D, particularly as it navigates market shifts and a competitive landscape. Investors should note the significant foreign currency losses incurred, which impacted profitability, and the ongoing legal proceedings, though the company expresses confidence in its defense. The announced acquisition of Raymarine plc post-quarter signals a strategic move to strengthen its position in the marine market.

Financial Statements
Beta

Key Highlights

  • 1Net sales decreased slightly by 1.3% year-over-year to $431.1 million, largely due to a 14.9% drop in the automotive/mobile segment.
  • 2Outdoor/Fitness and Aviation segments demonstrated strong growth, increasing by 28.4% and 11.8% respectively, offsetting declines in other areas.
  • 3Gross profit surged by 17.8% to $230.9 million, with gross margin improving significantly due to a $21.8 million warranty reserve adjustment and better product mix.
  • 4Operating income saw a substantial 43.8% increase to $83.3 million, driven by improved gross margins and reduced advertising spend, despite higher R&D and SG&A costs.
  • 5Net income declined by 23.1% to $37.3 million ($0.19 per diluted share), impacted by a significant foreign currency loss of $46.5 million.
  • 6The company ended the quarter with a strong cash position of $1.29 billion and continues its $300 million share repurchase program, having spent $47.1 million in the quarter.
  • 7Garmin announced a cash offer to acquire Raymarine plc for approximately £12.5 million in late April 2010, signaling strategic expansion in the marine sector.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary driver for the 14.9% decline in the automotive/mobile segment sales was a combination of excess retailer inventory clearing the channel and the timing of orders from a major retail partner. This led to significant volume declines, which were not fully offset by average selling price improvements.

The substantial increase in gross profit was significantly boosted by a $21.8 million warranty reserve adjustment resulting from a change in estimate. Additionally, improved pricing and per-unit cost reductions, including the warranty benefit, especially in the automotive/mobile and outdoor/fitness segments, contributed to a higher gross profit margin.

The company incurred a substantial foreign currency loss of $46.5 million primarily due to the strengthening of the U.S. Dollar against the Euro and British Pound Sterling. This loss significantly impacted the operating income, leading to a 23.1% decrease in net income compared to the prior year's quarter.

Garmin ended the quarter with $1.29 billion in cash and cash equivalents, indicating a healthy liquidity position. The company intends to use its cash for continued capital expenditures, working capital requirements, share repurchases under its authorized $300 million program, and dividend payments. The post-quarter announcement of the acquisition of Raymarine plc also demonstrates strategic use of its cash reserves.