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Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage Reports Strong Q1 Fiscal 2025 Results

Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, Inc. (NYSE: NGVC) has announced impressive results for the first quarter of its fiscal year 2025, which concluded on December 31, 2024. The company demonstrated a robust growth trajectory, leveraging its commitment to high-quality natural and organic products that resonate with consumers.

Key Highlights from Q1 Fiscal 2025

The food retailer reported a 9.4% increase in net sales, totaling $330.2 million, when compared to the same period last year. This growth is reflected across various store categories and regions, with the daily average comparable store sales climbing 8.9%. Notably, the company has seen a substantial 15.1% increase from two years prior, signaling consistent demand for its products.

Kemper Isely, Co-President of Natural Grocers, expressed satisfaction regarding the company's performance, stating, "We are very pleased with the strong start to our fiscal year 2025. Our first quarter results saw accelerating growth and a continuation of positive trends experienced over the past two years. Our offerings are clearly resonating with health-conscious consumers looking for sustainable products."

Earnings and Profitability

In addition to sales growth, Natural Grocers reported a significant rise in net income. The company's profit increased by 28.1%, reaching $9.9 million, with diluted earnings per share up to $0.43. The adjusted EBITDA also showed promise, amounting to $22.8 million compared to $18.8 million in the previous year. This reflects effective expense management and operational efficiencies within the business, assisting in achieving a 4.0% operating margin for the quarter.

Optimistic Outlook for the Future

Given the strong performance in Q1, Natural Grocers has revised its fiscal 2025 outlook. The company now anticipates daily average comparable store sales growth between 5.0% and 7.0% and predicts diluted earnings per share of $1.57 to $1.65 for the year. With plans for several new store openings and relocations, Natural Grocers is poised for continued momentum in the upcoming quarters.

As of December 31, the retailer operated 167 stores across 21 states, marking a critical juncture in its expansion plans, alongside the relocation of two stores to better serve customers.

Community Engagement and Sustainability Initiatives

Natural Grocers is deeply committed to supporting health and sustainability within the communities it serves. Its approach focuses on offering USDA-certified organic products and educating consumers on making healthy dietary choices through robust nutrition programs, enhancing customer engagement while fostering a connection to wellness.

For the coming months, the retailer plans to continue leveraging its {N}power® rewards program, which significantly boosts customer engagement and helps in driving sales. The company's extensive marketing strategies are also expected to bolster its presence in the competitive natural food market.

Conclusion

In summary, the impressive financial results for Q1 of fiscal year 2025 showcase Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage's strong market position and its ability to adapt and thrive amidst changing consumer preferences. As the company continues to focus on its strategic growth initiatives and maintain its commitment to high-quality natural and organic products, it is well-positioned for sustained success moving forward.

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For further insights and updates from Natural Grocers, visit Natural Grocers Official Website.