Key Points
- Revenue hit $166.4 million versus expectations of $167-$172 million.
- Net loss per share was worse than expected due to non-recurring charges
- Launch of the Roomba Combo 10 Max indicated continued innovation.
iRobot Corporation (IRBT -1.43%), maker of the well-known Roomba robotic vacuum cleaners, released its Q2 2024 earnings on August 6th. The results showed a missed revenue target, coming in at $166.4 million versus management's expectations of $167-$172 million. Key figures like gross margin and net loss per share were also below expectations, mainly due to significant non-recurring charges. Overall, the quarter reflected ongoing challenges but also demonstrated progress in cost reduction and new product launches.
| Metric | Q2 2024 Actual | Management's Expectations | Q2 2023 Actual | Change (Y/Y) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue (in millions) | $166.4 | $167 - $172 | $236.6 | -29.7% |
| GAAP Gross Margin | 16.5% | 23% - 24% | 22.6% | -6.1 pts |
| Non-GAAP Gross Margin | 16.7% | 24% - 25% | 23.2% | -6.5 pts |
| GAAP Operating Loss (in millions) | ($61.1) | ($57) - ($54) | ($71.1) | -14.1% |
| Non-GAAP Operating Loss (in millions) | ($48.2) | ($43) - ($40) | ($50.5) | -4.6% |
| GAAP Net Loss Per Share | ($2.41) | ($2.30) - ($2.23) | ($2.93) | -17.7% |
| Non-GAAP Net Loss Per Share | ($1.96) | ($1.81) - ($1.74) | ($1.42) | 38.0% |
| Cash and Cash Equivalents (in millions) | $108.5 | N/A | $118.4 (Q1 2024) | -8.4% |
| Source: Expectations based on management's guidance, as provided in 2024-05-07 earnings report. |
Understanding iRobot Corporation
Established in 1990, iRobot is renowned for its consumer robots, primarily its Roomba series. The company's core emphasis is on developing home robotics, featuring AI and machine learning advancements. Its recent focus includes restructuring to improve financial performance and competing in a crowded marketplace.
The company's iRobot Elevate strategy focuses on innovation, operational excellence, and a leaner cost structure. Key factors for success include continual product innovation, market position, and streamlined operations.
Q2 2024 Notable Developments
During Q2 2024, iRobot made significant strides in several areas despite facing considerable challenges.
First, the revenue for the quarter fell short at $166.4 million compared to management's forecast of $167-$172 million. This decline is attributed to macroeconomic challenges, competitive pressures, and currency impacts. Specifically, revenue declined by 35.6% in the U.S., 34.7% in Japan, and 21.6% inb EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) by 21.6%.
Second, the company launched the Roomba Combo 10 Max robot with an AutoWash Dock. This new product is a significant milestone in iRobot's product innovation roadmap. Despite these advancements, the shift in sales from mid-tier and premium robots to more affordable models has impacted product mix, with mid-tier and premium robots representing 76% of robot sales, down from 84% last year.
Third, the company's gross margin came in lower than expected. The GAAP gross margin was 16.5% against management's expectations of 23-24%, and the non-GAAP gross margin was 16.7% compared to the expected 24-25%. This was primarily due to a non-recurring charge affecting the transition to a new product development model, which reduced gross margin by 11.1 percentage points.
Fourth, operating losses exceeded estimates, registering a GAAP operating loss of $61.1 million versus $57-$54 million expected. Non-GAAP operating loss stood at $48.2 million compared to anticipated $43-$40 million. The same non-recurring charging impacting gross margins also influenced operating loss figures.
Finally, the company's cash position decreased to $108.5 million from $118.4 million in Q1 2024. The decrease is attributed to ongoing restructuring efforts, which reduced headcount by 35% year-over-year and decreased inventory by 41% compared to the previous year.
Looking Ahead
In its outlook for Q3 2024, iRobot expects revenue to range from $217 million to $223 million. The GAAP gross margin is forecasted at 33-34%, with a non-GAAP operating income expected to be between $7 million and $10 million. Additionally, GAAP net loss per share is anticipated between $0.40 - $0.30, and adjusted net loss per share between $0.11 - $0.01.
For the full year, the company has revised its outlook downward, projecting revenue of $765-$800 million. The GAAP gross margin is expected to be between 27-28%, and the GAAP operating loss is anticipated at $56-$42 million. Highlighting its commitment to future innovations, the company aims to focus on launching new products and technological enhancements, hoping these efforts will drive future growth.
