The Top 5 Analyst Questions From Worthington’s Q4 Earnings Call

Worthington’s fourth quarter saw revenue growth outpace analysts’ expectations, but non-GAAP earnings per share fell short of consensus. Management highlighted that strong sales were driven by higher volumes in Building Products and the inclusion of the Elgen acquisition. CEO Joseph Hayek noted, “Our innovation around large ASME water tanks that help cool data centers has led to increasing opportunities and several new orders.” The company also experienced margin pressures from higher conversion costs and temporary limitations in Elgen’s operations, which impacted consolidated results. Management remained focused on cost controls and operational improvements to offset the impact of mixed market conditions and a cautious consumer environment.

Is now the time to buy WOR? Find out in our full research report (it’s free for active Edge members).

While we enjoy listening to the management's commentary, our favorite part of earnings calls are the analyst questions. Those are unscripted and can often highlight topics that management teams would rather avoid or topics where the answer is complicated. Here is what has caught our attention.

Our Top 5 Analyst Questions From Worthington’s Q4 Earnings Call

• Kathryn Thompson (Thompson Research) asked how the LSI and Elgen acquisitions would complement core operations and growth. CEO Joseph Hayek described M&A as a “force multiplier,” noting supply chain synergies and shared innovation priorities.
• Dan Moore (CJS Securities) sought clarity on LSI’s high margins and underlying market growth. CFO Colin Souza explained that LSI’s focus on retrofit metal roofing and longstanding customer relationships drive both resilience and margin sustainability.
• Susan Maklari (Goldman Sachs) questioned the durability of consumer product momentum, especially with new retail placements. Hayek explained that affordable, experience-driven products such as Balloon Time are gaining share and proving resilient even in a cautious consumer environment.
• Walter Liptak (Seaport Research) probed the impact of construction market mix and margin drivers, especially at ClarkDietrich. Souza responded that margins are currently pressured by competition in new construction, but the company’s broader mix in repair and remodel is supporting stability.
• Brian McNamara (Canaccord Genuity) asked about gross margin trends ex-Elgen and the timing for productivity gains from new hires. Hayek replied that Elgen accounted for most recent margin headwinds, with improvement expected to begin in the next quarter.

Catalysts in Upcoming Quarters

Over the next few quarters, the StockStory team will watch (1) the integration and performance of the LSI acquisition and its effect on margin trends, (2) margin recovery at Elgen as operational enhancements materialize, and (3) continued penetration of new products in data center and retail markets. Execution on SG&A reduction and gross margin improvement will also be important signposts for sustained growth.

Worthington currently trades at $52.78, down from $55.25 just before the earnings. In the wake of this quarter, is it a buy or sell? See for yourself in our full research report (it’s free for active Edge members).

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