10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2004

MCKESSON CORP Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Dec 31, 2003

Filed January 29, 2004For Securities:MCK

Summary

McKesson Corporation's third-quarter results for fiscal year 2004 showed robust revenue growth of 22% year-over-year, reaching $18.2 billion, driven primarily by its Pharmaceutical Solutions segment. However, net income saw a 10% decline to $120.2 million, and diluted EPS decreased by 11% to $0.41. This performance was impacted by several factors, including lower gross margins in Pharmaceutical Solutions due to an evolving business model and shifts in the timing of pharmaceutical price increases, as well as a significant contract loss provision in the Information Solutions segment. Despite these challenges, the company highlighted improved operating profit in its Medical-Surgical Solutions and Information Solutions segments, along with significant legal settlements that positively impacted other income.

Key Highlights

  • 1Revenue increased 22% to $18.2 billion in Q3 FY2004, driven by strong Pharmaceutical Solutions segment performance.
  • 2Net income decreased 10% to $120.2 million in Q3 FY2004, while diluted EPS fell 11% to $0.41.
  • 3Gross profit margin declined, primarily due to lower margins in the Pharmaceutical Solutions segment, reflecting industry changes and the impact of specific contracts.
  • 4Operating expenses as a percentage of revenue (excluding sales to customers' warehouses) decreased due to productivity improvements, though a $30.0 million bad debt provision for a customer bankruptcy was a notable item.
  • 5The company is pursuing strategic acquisitions, evidenced by the pending acquisition of Moore Medical Corp. for approximately $40 million.
  • 6Significant legal settlements, including an antitrust class action, provided a boost to 'Other Income'.
  • 7The company continues to manage its financial resources effectively, with a debt-to-capital ratio of 25.5% at the end of the quarter.

Frequently Asked Questions

McKesson's revenue growth of 22% to $18.2 billion was primarily driven by its Pharmaceutical Solutions segment, which accounted for over 94% of consolidated revenues. This growth was fueled by increases in U.S. healthcare revenues from market growth and new customer agreements, as well as higher Canadian pharmaceutical distribution revenues.

The decline in net income and diluted EPS was largely due to a decrease in gross profit margin, particularly within the Pharmaceutical Solutions segment. This was impacted by an evolving business model in pharmaceutical distribution, lower product sourcing and selling margins, and shifts in the timing of pharmaceutical price increases. Additionally, a $20.0 million contract loss provision in the Information Solutions segment also negatively affected profitability.

McKesson maintains a healthy financial position. While net cash used by operating activities was $275.8 million for the nine months ended December 31, 2003, the company has a debt-to-capital ratio of 25.5% and ample credit resources, including renegotiated revolving credit facilities and a receivables sale facility, to meet future obligations and fund operations.

McKesson faces various risks, including the outcome of pending shareholder litigation related to past accounting improprieties, changes in the U.S. healthcare environment and reimbursement policies, consolidation of competitors and customers, challenges in integrating acquisitions, and potential defaults or loss of major customers or suppliers. The company also highlights the dynamic nature of the pharmaceutical distribution industry and its impact on margins.