In a strategic move, ODP Corp (NASDAQ:ODP) has finalized the sale of its Varis Division to an affiliate of Arising Ventures, as stated in a recent 8-K filing with the SEC. The transaction, which took place on Monday, October 18, 2024, also sees ODP retaining a minority stake of 19.9% in Varis.
The sale is in line with ODP's strategy to conclude its capital commitment to Varis, while still maintaining an interest in the potential future success of the division. According to the terms of the stock purchase agreement, ODP will cover up to $4 million in expenses for Varis post-transaction, up until December 31, 2025. Beyond this financial provision, ODP has no additional capital obligations to Varis.
ODP's decision to sell Varis was made with the intention of optimizing its investment portfolio and focusing on core business areas. The completion of this divestiture does not have a materially different impact on ODP's financial statements than what was previously anticipated.
The information provided in the 8-K filing is not considered "filed" for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, nor is it subject to the liabilities of that section. It also will not be incorporated by reference into any filings made by the company under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Exchange Act unless explicitly referenced in such filings.
This transaction reflects ODP's continued efforts to streamline its operations and pursue strategic initiatives that align with its long-term business objectives. The details of the sale, including ODP's ongoing minority interest, highlight the company's approach to balancing immediate financial objectives with potential future opportunities.
In other recent news, Oil-Dri Corporation of America has announced record fourth-quarter revenue, although profits have taken a hit due to rising costs. The company's Q4 revenue reached $113.7 million, marking a 6% YoY increase and the 13th consecutive quarter of YoY sales growth. However, net income fell 28% to $8.5 million due to increased costs, despite a record gross profit of $33.0 million.
The revenue increase was attributed to the acquisition of Ultra Pet Company, higher pricing, and increased demand for fluid purification and animal health products. The Ultra Pet acquisition contributed $4.8 million in sales. However, domestic cost of goods sold per ton rose 10% YoY due to higher freight costs, inventory adjustments related to the Ultra Pet acquisition, and increased packaging costs.
For the full fiscal year 2024, Oil-Dri reported record revenue of $437.6 million, up 6% YoY, and record net income of $39.4 million, up 33% YoY. Looking ahead, the company anticipates advertising costs in fiscal 2025 to be lower than fiscal 2024, but expects additional expenses related to the Ultra Pet integration in Q1 2025. These are among the recent developments taking place at Oil-Dri Corporation of America.
InvestingPro Insights
ODP Corp's recent sale of its Varis Division aligns with the company's strategic focus, as highlighted by several InvestingPro metrics and tips. The company's market cap stands at $1.03 billion, with a revenue of $7.4 billion in the last twelve months as of Q2 2024. However, ODP has experienced a revenue decline of 10.71% during this period, which may have influenced the decision to divest non-core assets.
An InvestingPro Tip indicates that management has been aggressively buying back shares, suggesting confidence in the company's future prospects despite recent challenges. This aligns with ODP's strategy to optimize its investment portfolio and focus on core business areas.
Another relevant InvestingPro Tip notes that ODP is trading at a low revenue valuation multiple, which could be attractive for investors considering the company's restructuring efforts. The stock's price volatility, as mentioned in another tip, may reflect the market's reaction to strategic moves like the Varis Division sale.
For readers interested in a more comprehensive analysis, InvestingPro offers 12 additional tips for ODP Corp, providing deeper insights into the company's financial health and market position.
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