VALMONT INDUSTRIES INC (VMI)

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Forward‑Looking Statements

Management’s discussion and analysis, along with other sections of this annual report, contain forward‑looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on assumptions that management has made in light of experience in the industries in which the Company operates, as well as management’s perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, anticipated future developments, and other factors deemed to be relevant. However, these statements are not guarantees of future performance or results. They are subject to risks, uncertainties (some beyond the Company’s control), and various assumptions.

Management believes these forward‑looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions. However, many factors could cause actual financial results to differ materially from expectations. These factors include, among others, risk factors described in the Company’s reports to the SEC, as well as future economic and market conditions, industry trends, Company performance and financial results, operational efficiencies, availability and pricing of raw materials, availability and market acceptance of new products, product pricing, domestic and international competition, and actions or policy changes by domestic and foreign governments.

The following discussion and analysis provide information that management considers relevant for assessing and understanding the Company’s consolidated results of operations and financial position. This discussion should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes.

This section primarily discusses fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2023, including year-over-year comparisons. Discussions regarding fiscal 2022 and associated comparisons, which are not included on Form 10-K, can be found in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in Part II, Item 7 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2023.

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FISCAL 2024 COMPARED WITH FISCAL 2023

Results of Operations

NM = not meaningful

Overview, Including Items Impacting Comparability

On a consolidated basis, net sales decreased in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023, primarily due to lower net sales in the Agriculture segment, while net sales in the Infrastructure segment remained relatively flat.

On a consolidated basis, both gross profit and gross profit as a percentage of net sales increased in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023. This growth was driven by higher gross profit in the Infrastructure segment, partially offset by a

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decline in the Agriculture segment. Favorable factors in the Infrastructure segment, including steel deflation, strong commercial execution, and effective pricing strategies, were partially offset by lower volumes and pricing in the Agriculture segment, particularly in Brazil.

During the third quarter of fiscal 2023, management initiated a plan to streamline segment support across the Company and reduce costs through an organizational realignment program (the “Realignment Program”). The Realignment Program provided for a reduction in force through a voluntary early retirement program and other headcount reduction actions, which were completed by the end of fiscal 2023. The Board of Directors authorized the incurrence of cash charges up to $36.0 million in connection with the Realignment Program of which $35.2 million were incurred in fiscal 2023. Severance and other employee benefit costs totaled approximately $17.3 million within the Infrastructure segment, $9.1 million within the Agriculture segment, and $8.8 million within Corporate expense.

Consolidated selling, general, and administrative expenses (“SG&A”) decreased in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023, primarily driven by lower compensation costs, largely attributable to the Realignment Program in fiscal 2023.

In fiscal 2023, SG&A in the Agriculture segment included $4.9 million in amortization of identified intangible assets and $7.1 million in stock-based compensation expense from the Prospera subsidiary acquired in fiscal 2021. In fiscal 2024, Prospera intangible asset amortization was $0.4 million and stock-based compensation expense was $4.1 million.

Consolidated operating income increased in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023, primarily due to the impairment of certain goodwill and intangible assets totaling $140.8 million and realignment charges totaling $35.2 million in fiscal 2023. The increase was further supported by lower SG&A resulting from the Realignment Program and increased gross profit.

Acquisitions and Divestitures

We continue to strategically enhance our portfolio through targeted acquisitions and divestitures, demonstrating our commitment to refining our business focus and driving value within our core segments.

Acquisitions

In the third quarter of fiscal 2023, we acquired HR Products, a leading wholesale supplier of irrigation parts in Australia, for $37.3 million, included in the Agriculture segment.

Divestitures

In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024, we divested George Industries, a coating and anodizing company in California previously included in the Infrastructure segment, resulting in a loss of $2.8 million recorded in “Other income (expenses)” in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024, we divested our extractive business, which included the manufacturing and distribution of screening products for the mining and quarrying sectors in Australia and New Zealand, previously included in the Infrastructure segment, resulting in a loss of $1.7 million recorded in “Other income (expenses)” in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

In the second quarter of fiscal 2023, we divested Torrent Engineering and Equipment Company, LLC, an Indiana-based integrator of prepackaged pump stations previously included in the Agriculture segment, resulting in a gain of $3.0 million recorded in “Other income (expenses)” in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

Macroeconomic and Geopolitical Impacts on Financial Results and Liquidity

We manufacture Utility structures in Mexico and ship them to customers in the U.S. In fiscal 2024, we imported approximately $230.0 million worth of fabricated steel structures from Mexico into the U.S. On February 10, 2025, President Trump announced a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports into the U.S., effective March 4, 2025. The U.S.-Mexico tariff situation remains highly fluid, and we are assessing the duration and scope of this presidential order. At this time, we cannot predict whether additional tariffs will be imposed. Any U.S. tariffs on fabricated steel structures we produce are expected to apply to transfer prices from Mexico. These potential tariffs, along with possible retaliatory measures from Mexico, could have a material adverse impact on our future cost of goods sold and operating income. The ultimate effect will depend on the magnitude and duration of the tariffs, and we are actively assessing options to mitigate any potential impact.

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We continue to monitor other macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainties that have impacted or may impact our business, including inflationary cost pressures, supply chain disruptions, currency fluctuations against the U.S. dollar, changing interest rates, ongoing international conflicts, and labor shortages. These factors could impact our operational costs, revenue, and financial stability. As conditions evolve, we are proactively adapting strategies to mitigate risks and ensure sufficient liquidity.

Reportable Segments

In addition to our two reportable segments, we had a business and related activities in fiscal 2022 that did not exceed 10% of consolidated sales, operating income, or assets. This included the offshore wind energy structures business, which was reported in the Other segment until its divestiture in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022. For additional information, see Note 20 in our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Backlog

As of December 28, 2024, the consolidated backlog of unshipped orders was approximately $1.4 billion, as compared to approximately $1.5 billion as of December 30, 2023. This decrease is attributed to slight decreases in both the Infrastructure and Agriculture segments.

Net Interest Expense

Consolidated net interest expense increased in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023, due to the increase in average outstanding borrowings on the revolving line of credit along with higher average interest rates.

Other Income / Expenses (Including Gain (Loss) on Deferred Compensation Investments)

Amounts in “Gain (loss) on deferred compensation investments” included changes in the market value of deferred compensation assets which were offset by an equal opposite amount included in SG&A for the corresponding change in the valuation of deferred compensation liabilities. Other items included in “Other income (expenses)” were pension expenses along with losses related to the sales of George Industries and the extractive business in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024 totaling approximately $4.5 million. Pension expense was $0.6 million and $0.2 million in fiscal 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Income Tax Expense

Our effective income tax rate in fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2023 was 25.2% and 38.1%, respectively. In fiscal 2024, the effective tax rate was the result of changes in the geographical mix of earnings. In fiscal 2023, the higher effective tax rate was the result of goodwill impairment charges for which no tax benefits were recorded.

Infrastructure Segment

Infrastructure segment sales in fiscal 2024 were comparable to those in fiscal 2023. A significant decline in Solar product line volumes was offset by higher volumes in the Utility product line and increased average selling prices, particularly in the Utility product line. Regionally, Infrastructure segment sales grew in North America in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023, but declined in international markets during the same period.

Sales in the Utility product line increased in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023, driven by a continued focus on commercial excellence and a favorable product mix, including higher volumes of distribution and substation products. These

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factors more than offset the impact of steel index deflation on average selling prices. The overall product line growth occurred amid strong demand in the utility market, fueled by ongoing investments in the global energy transition and grid hardening efforts.

Lighting and Transportation product line sales decreased in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023. This decline was due to lower sales volumes caused by continued softness in the lighting market, the timing of transportation projects, and an unfavorable currency translation effect totaling approximately $1.9 million.

Coatings product line sales decreased slightly in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023, primarily due to lower sales volumes in international markets. These declines were partially offset by increased average selling prices.

Telecommunications product line sales decreased in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023, driven by lower sales volumes in the first half of fiscal 2024. However, sales volumes rebounded in the second half of fiscal 2024, supported by increased carrier spending amid a stabilizing North American market environment.

Solar product line sales decreased significantly in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023. This decline was attributed to the non-recurrence of a large utility-scale project from fiscal 2023, a strategic decision in the second quarter of fiscal 2024 to exit certain low-margin projects, and an unfavorable foreign currency translation effect totaling approximately $1.4 million.

Infrastructure segment gross profit and gross profit as a percentage of net sales increased in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023. These improvements were driven by a favorable product mix and commercial excellence, which resulted in higher average selling prices that more than offset the impact of steel index deflation.

Infrastructure segment SG&A decreased in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023. This reduction was primarily due to lower compensation costs as a result of the Realignment Program.

Infrastructure segment operating income increased in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023. This improvement was driven by higher gross profit and lower SG&A. In addition, we incurred severance costs totaling $17.3 million within the Infrastructure segment in fiscal 2023 related to the Realignment Program.

Agriculture Segment

In North America, Agriculture segment sales declined in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023. This decrease was primarily driven by lower tubular steel product sales, reflecting weakness in the North American agriculture market. Although sales of replacement irrigation equipment increased due to severe weather events earlier in fiscal 2024, these gains were partially offset by continued softness in the agriculture market, influenced by lower grain prices. Additionally, average selling prices for irrigation equipment were slightly lower compared to the prior year.

In international markets, Agriculture segment sales decreased in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023. This was driven by significantly lower sales in Brazil, where normalizing backlog levels and lower grain prices impacted growers’ purchasing decisions. The decline was further exacerbated by unfavorable foreign currency translation effects of $12.6 million. However, sales growth in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region, along with incremental sales from the HR Products acquisition in fiscal 2023, partially offset these declines.

Sales of Technology Products and Services decreased in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023, primarily due to lower hardware sales volumes.

Our Agriculture business remains cyclical and is influenced by factors such as changes in net farm income, commodity prices, weather volatility, geopolitical events, and farmer sentiment regarding future economic conditions. We

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closely monitor these variables to assess their potential impacts on our financial performance, including estimated U.S. net farm income data released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In Brazil, we actively track fluctuations in grain prices and projected farm input costs to evaluate grower sentiment. Looking ahead, Irrigation Equipment and Parts sales in North America are expected to remain muted for fiscal 2025.

Agriculture segment gross profit decreased in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023, primarily due to lower sales volumes, particularly in North America and Brazil, as well as an unfavorable geographic sales mix.

Agriculture segment SG&A decreased in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023, primarily due to lower compensation costs, largely driven by the Realignment Program. Additionally, intangible asset amortization expenses declined as a result of the third quarter of fiscal 2023 impairment of certain Prospera amortizing proprietary technology.

Agriculture segment operating income increased in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023, primarily due to a $137.3 million impairment of certain goodwill and other intangible assets in fiscal 2023. This increase was partially offset by lower sales volumes and decreased gross profit. Furthermore, in fiscal 2023, we incurred $9.1 million in severance costs within the Agriculture segment related to the Realignment Program.

Corporate

Corporate SG&A decreased in fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023, primarily due to lower compensation costs resulting from the Realignment Program in fiscal 2023, as well as reduced incentive expenses. These reductions were partially offset by higher insurance expenses and increased technology costs.

In addition, in fiscal 2023, we incurred $8.8 million in severance and other employee benefit costs within Corporate expense as part of the Realignment Program.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Capital Allocation Philosophy

Our capital allocation priorities are intended to present a balanced approach to maintaining disciplined investments in organic and inorganic growth opportunities while delivering meaningful capital returns to shareholders over the next three to five years. These priorities are expected to be supported by our projected cash flow generation. We plan to allocate approximately 50% of operating cash flow to high-return growth opportunities, focused on:

We plan to allocate the remaining approximately 50% of operating cash flow to shareholder returns through the form of share repurchases and dividends.

We are committed to maintaining a capital structure that supports our investment-grade credit rating. As of the latest assessments, our credit ratings were Baa2 (stable outlook) by Moody’s Investors Service, Inc., BBB- (stable outlook) by Fitch Ratings, Inc., and BBB+ (stable outlook) by S&P Global Ratings. To support these ratings, we aim to manage our debt-to-invested capital ratio within levels that reinforce our investment-grade status.

As of December 28, 2024, we had approximately $66.0 million of remaining capacity under our share repurchase program. Since May 2014, we have repurchased approximately 8.2 million shares for a total of $1,334.0 million under the program. Subsequent to year end, on February 18, 2025, we announced the Board of Directors increased the program’s authorized capacity by an additional $700.0 million, with no stated expiration date. These purchases will be funded through available cash balances and ongoing cash flows and will be made subject to market and economic conditions. We are not obligated to make any repurchases and may discontinue the program at any time. Additionally, the Board of Directors approved a quarterly cash dividend on common stock of $0.68 per share, or an annualized rate of $2.72 per share, representing an increase of over 13%.

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Supplier Finance Program

We have established a supplier finance program with a financial institution, allowing qualifying suppliers the option to sell their receivables from us to the financial institution under independently negotiated terms. Participation in the program is entirely voluntary for suppliers and does not affect our payment terms, amounts, timing, or liquidity. We have no economic interest in a supplier’s decision to participate. As of December 28, 2024 and December 30, 2023, our accounts payable in the Consolidated Balance Sheets included $45.6 million and $41.9 million, respectively, related to obligations under this program.

Sources of Financing

As of December 28, 2024, our available debt financing primarily included senior unsecured notes and a revolving credit facility.

Senior Unsecured Notes

As of December 28, 2024, our senior unsecured notes consisted of:

We retain the option to repurchase these notes by paying a make-whole premium. Both tranches are guaranteed by certain subsidiaries.

Revolving Credit Facility

Our revolving credit facility, managed by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent, has a maturity date of October 18, 2026. The facility provides up to $800.0 million in unsecured revolving credit, with $400.0 million available for borrowings in foreign currencies. An additional $300.0 million may be added to the facility, subject to lender commitments.

Authorized borrowers include the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Valmont Industries Holland B.V. and Valmont Group Pty. Ltd. Obligations under this facility are guaranteed by the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Valmont Telecommunications, Inc., Valmont Coatings, Inc., Valmont Newmark, Inc., and Valmont Queensland Pty. Ltd.

The interest rate on our borrowings will be, at our option, either:

plus, in each case, 0 to 62.5 basis points, depending on our credit rating; or

Additionally, a commitment fee is applied to the average daily unused portion of the facility, ranging from 10 to 25 basis points, based on our credit rating.

As of December 28, 2024, we had no outstanding borrowings under this facility. As of December 30, 2023, we had outstanding borrowings of $377.9 million under this facility. The facility includes a financial covenant that may limit

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additional borrowing. As of December 28, 2024, we could borrow $799.8 million under the facility, after accounting for $0.2 million in standby letters of credit related to certain insurance obligations. Additionally, we maintain short‑term bank lines of credit totaling $30.9 million, with $29.2 million unused as of December 28, 2024.

Covenants and Compliance

Both our senior unsecured notes and revolving credit facility contain cross-default provisions, which allow for the acceleration of debt if we default on other indebtedness that also permits acceleration.

The revolving credit facility requires us to maintain a financial leverage ratio of 3.50 or lower, measured as of the last day of each fiscal quarter. A temporary increase to 3.75 is permitted for the four fiscal quarters following a material acquisition. The leverage ratio is defined as the ratio of: (a) interest-bearing debt, minus unrestricted cash in excess of $50.0 million (but not exceeding $500.0 million), to (b) earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization, adjusted for non-cash stock-based compensation and non-recurring non-cash charges or gains, subject to certain limitations (“Adjusted EBITDA”). Additionally, in the event of an acquisition or divestiture, Adjusted EBITDA shall be computed on a pro forma basis, reflecting the transaction as if it had occurred on the first day of the period.

Additional covenants restrict activities such as incurring indebtedness, placing liens, engaging in mergers, making investments, selling assets, paying dividends, conducting affiliate transactions, and making debt prepayments. Customary events of default may trigger the acceleration of obligations, subject to grace periods where applicable.

As of December 28, 2024, we were in compliance with all covenants related to these debt agreements. For detailed calculations of Adjusted EBITDA and the leverage ratio, please refer to the “Selected Financial Measures” section.

Cash Uses

Our primary cash needs include working capital, capital expenditures, debt service, taxes, and pension contributions. We may also pursue strategic investments, acquisitions, stock repurchases, or dividends, subject to market conditions and debt agreement restrictions.

In fiscal 2025, our primary cash requirements will include capital expenditures, pension contributions, lease payments, and interest on outstanding debt. We have committed to purchasing zinc, aluminum, and steel under unconditional purchase agreements aligned with our business needs. These contracts help stabilize costs amid fluctuating demand, and we plan to use the contracted amounts within the fiscal year. We expect fiscal 2025 capital expenditures to range from $140.0 million to $160.0 million. The increase in planned expenditures is driven by infrastructure-related growth opportunities. These investments will enhance output, improve adaptability to evolving needs, and expand manufacturing capacity, efficiency, and flexibility.

The following table outlines our material cash requirements, both current and long-term, as of December 28, 2024:

1 Interest expense amount assumes that long-term debt will be held to maturity.

Our business operates in cyclical markets, but our diverse portfolio—spanning various products, customers, and regions—has enabled us to navigate these cycles effectively while maintaining liquidity. Historically, we have consistently generated operating cash flows that exceed our capital expenditures, demonstrating our ability to manage cash effectively through economic cycles. For fiscal 2025 and beyond, we are confident in our liquidity position, supported by accessible credit facilities, capital markets, and a solid track record of positive operating cash flows.

As of December 28, 2024, we held $164.3 million in cash, including $135.6 million in non-U.S. subsidiaries. Distributions of this foreign cash would incur tax liabilities. Additionally, as of December 28, 2024, we had liabilities of $1.6 million for foreign withholding taxes and $0.5 million for U.S. state income taxes.

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Cash Flows

The table below summarizes our cash flow information for the fiscal years ended December 28, 2024, December 30, 2023, and December 31, 2022:

Operating Cash Flows and Working Capital – Cash provided by operating activities totaled $572.7 million in fiscal 2024, compared to $306.8 million in fiscal 2023. The change in operating cash flows reflects increased operating profits and favorable changes in working capital, mainly due to increased customer receipts, including deposits of $83.7 million from a large customer in fiscal 2024. This was partially offset by a $21.9 million increase in tax payments for fiscal 2024, as compared to fiscal 2023. Operating cash outflows for severance payments related to the Realignment Program totaled $12.5 million and $22.7 million for fiscal 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Investing Cash Flows – Cash used in investing activities totaled $78.9 million in fiscal 2024, compared to $115.3 million in fiscal 2023. Investing activities in fiscal 2024 included capital spending of $79.5 million partially offset by proceeds of $3.8 million from the divestitures of George Industries and the extractive business, net of cash divested. Investing activities in fiscal 2023 included capital spending of $96.8 million and the acquisition of HR Products, net of cash acquired, of $32.7 million, partially offset by proceeds of $6.4 million from the divestiture of Torrent Engineering and Equipment Company, LLC, net of cash divested, and proceeds of $7.5 million from property damage insurance claims.

Financing Cash Flows – Cash used in financing activities totaled $522.6 million in fiscal 2024, compared to $176.4 million in fiscal 2023. Our total interest‑bearing debt decreased to $757.9 million as of December 28, 2024, from $1,138.1 million as of December 30, 2023. Financing activities in fiscal 2024 included $45.1 million in borrowings on the revolving credit facility and short-term notes, offset by $424.6 million in principal payments of on our long-term debt and short-term borrowings, $48.4 million in dividend payments, $70.1 million in stock repurchases, $17.8 million in purchases of redeemable noncontrolling interests, and $6.4 million in net activity from stock option and incentive plans, including related tax payments. Financing activities in fiscal 2023 included $400.8 million in borrowings of on the revolving credit facility and short-term notes, offset by $168.8 million in principal payments of on our long-term debt and short-term borrowings, $49.5 million in dividend payments, $345.3 million in stock repurchases, and $12.9 million in net activity from stock option and incentive plans, including related tax payments.

Guarantor Summarized Financial Information

This information is provided in compliance with Rule 3-10 and Rule 13-01 of Regulation S-X, relating to our two tranches of senior unsecured notes. These senior notes are jointly, severally, fully, and unconditionally guaranteed—subject to certain customary release provisions, including the sale of the subsidiary guarantor or of all or substantially all of its assets—by certain of our current and future direct and indirect domestic and foreign subsidiaries (collectively, the “Guarantors”). The Parent serves as the Issuer of the notes and consolidates all Guarantors.

The financial information for the Issuer and Guarantors is presented on a combined basis, with intercompany balances and transactions between the Issuer and Guarantors eliminated. Any amounts due to or from the Issuer or Guarantors, as well as transactions with non-guarantor subsidiaries, are disclosed separately.

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The combined financial information for the fiscal years ended December 28, 2024, December 30, 2023, and December 31, 2022 was as follows:

The combined financial information as of December 28, 2024 and December 30, 2023 was as follows:

As of December 28, 2024 and December 30, 2023, non-current assets included a receivable from non-guarantor subsidiaries of $90,938 and $136,904, respectively. As of December 28, 2024 and December 30, 2023, non-current liabilities included a payable to non-guarantor subsidiaries of $243,465 and $216,633, respectively.

Selected Financial Measures

We are providing the following financial measures for the Company:

Return on Invested Capital – Return on invested capital (“ROIC”) and Adjusted ROIC are key operating ratios that enable investors to assess our operating performance relative to the investment needed to generate operating profit. These measures are also utilized to determine management incentives. ROIC is calculated by dividing after-tax operating income by the average of beginning and ending invested capital. Adjusted ROIC is calculated as after-tax operating income, adjusted for certain non-recurring charges or gains. The adjusted figure is then divided by the average of beginning and ending invested capital to determine Adjusted ROIC. Invested capital represents total assets minus total liabilities (excluding interest-bearing debt and redeemable noncontrolling interests).

ROIC and Adjusted ROIC are non-generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) measures. As such, invested capital, ROIC, and Adjusted ROIC should not be considered in isolation or as substitutes for net earnings, cash flows from operations, or other income or cash flow data prepared in accordance with GAAP, nor should they be viewed as indicators of our operating performance or liquidity. The following table shows how invested capital, ROIC, and Adjusted ROIC are calculated from our Consolidated Statements of Earnings and our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

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The calculation of these ratios for the fiscal years ended December 28, 2024, December 30, 2023, and December 31, 2022 was as follows:

1 The adjusted effective tax rate for fiscal 2022 excluded the effects of the $33.3 million loss from the divestiture of the offshore wind energy structures business, which was not deductible for income tax purposes. The effective tax rate including the loss on the divestiture was 29.9%.

2 The adjusted effective tax rate for fiscal 2023 excluded the effects of the impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets of $140.8 million, realignment charges of $35.2 million, non-recurring charges associated with major scope changes for two strategic projects initiated by departed senior leadership of $5.6 million, loss from Argentine peso hyperinflation of $5.1 million, and non-recurring tax benefit items of $3.6 million. The effective tax rate including these items was 38.1%.

3 The Company does not include adjustments for the Prospera subsidiary non-cash expenses for fiscal 2023 or going forward, as these amounts are no longer financially significant after the third quarter of fiscal 2023 impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets and realignment activities completed during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023.

ROIC and Adjusted ROIC, as presented, may not be directly comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies.

Adjusted EBITDA – Adjusted EBITDA is a key financial metric we use to assess our maximum borrowing capacity. Our bank credit agreements include a financial covenant that limits total interest-bearing debt to no more than 3.50 times Adjusted EBITDA (or 3.75 times Adjusted EBITDA following certain material acquisitions), calculated on a rolling four-fiscal-quarter basis. These agreements permit the inclusion of estimated earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and

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amortization (“EBITDA”) from acquired businesses for periods prior to ownership and the exclusion of EBITDA from divested businesses for periods during which we owned them.

Additionally, the agreements allow adjustments for non-cash stock-based compensation and non-recurring non-cash charges or gains, subject to certain limitations, which are factored into the calculation of Adjusted EBITDA. Failure to comply with this financial covenant may result in higher financing costs or early debt repayment requirements. As a non-GAAP measure, Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for net earnings, cash flows from operations, or other income or cash flow data prepared in accordance with GAAP. It also should not be interpreted as an indicator of operating performance or liquidity.

The calculation of Adjusted EBITDA for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2024 was as follows:

​

Adjusted EBITDA, as presented, may not be directly comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies.

Leverage Ratio – The leverage ratio is calculated by taking the sum of interest-bearing debt, minus unrestricted cash in excess of $50.0 million (but not exceeding $500.0 million), and dividing it by Adjusted EBITDA. This ratio is a key component of the covenants in our major debt agreements, which stipulate that the ratio must not exceed 3.50 (or 3.75 after certain material acquisitions), calculated on a rolling four-fiscal-quarter basis. If we violate these covenants, we could face increased financing costs or be required to repay debt before its maturity date. As a non-GAAP measure, the leverage ratio should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for net earnings, cash flows from operations, or other income or cash flow data prepared in accordance with GAAP. It should not be interpreted as an indicator of our operating performance or liquidity.

The calculation of the leverage ratio as of December 28, 2024 was as follows:

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The leverage ratio, as presented, may not be directly comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies.

MARKET RISK

Changes in Prices

We rely on certain key materials, including steel, aluminum, zinc, and natural gas, which are globally traded commodities. As a result, their prices fluctuate based on factors such as supply and demand shifts and the costs of steel‑making inputs. These fluctuations can significantly impact our operating performance and cost of goods sold. Additionally, recent trade policies and proposed tariffs could increase the cost of goods we and our suppliers purchase from Canada, China, and Mexico, potentially leading to higher manufacturing costs for Infrastructure structures.

Steel is particularly critical for our Utility product line, where it represents approximately 50% of net sales. In fiscal 2018, we began using hot-rolled steel coil derivative contracts on a limited basis to help mitigate the impact of rising steel prices on our operating income. For the fiscal year ended December 28, 2024, a hypothetical 20% change in steel prices could have impacted net sales in this product line by approximately $110.0 million, assuming a similar sales mix.

Similarly, natural gas prices have been highly volatile in recent years. To manage these risks, we employ strategies such as implementing fixed-price purchase contracts with our vendors to stabilize our purchasing costs and raising sales prices where feasible. Additionally, we use natural gas swap contracts on a limited basis to help offset the impact of rising natural gas prices on our operating income.

Risk Management

We are exposed to several principal market risks, including fluctuations in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, and commodity prices. To mitigate these risks, we selectively use derivative financial instruments. However, we do not use derivatives for trading purposes.

Interest Rate Risk: As of December 28, 2024, most our interest‑bearing debt was fixed rate. We have available to us a revolving credit facility, with no outstanding balance as of December 28, 2024. Our notes payable, revolving credit facility, and a minor portion of our long-term debt accrue interest at variable rates. As a result, changes in interest rates could affect our future borrowing costs.

Foreign Exchange Risk: Our exposure to transactions in currencies other than an entity’s functional currency is minimal. Consequently, potential exchange losses on future earnings, fair value, and cash flows are not material. However, we are exposed to investment risks related to our foreign operations. To manage these risks, we occasionally enter into foreign currency contracts. As of December 28, 2024, the Company had one outstanding fixed-for-fixed cross currency swap (“CCS”) agreement. This swap exchanges U.S. dollar principal and interest payments on a portion of the Company’s 5.00% senior unsecured notes due in fiscal 2044 for euro-denominated payments. The CCS was initiated in fiscal 2024 to mitigate foreign currency risk associated with our euro investments and to reduce interest expenses. The notional amount of the euro CCS is $80.0 million, and it matures in fiscal 2029.

In the first quarter of fiscal 2024, the Company early settled a euro net investment hedge entered into during fiscal 2019, resulting in the Company receiving proceeds of $2.7 million. In the third and fourth quarters of fiscal 2022, the Company settled a Danish krone net investment hedge entered into during fiscal 2019, resulting in the Company receiving proceeds of $3.5 million.

A significant portion of our cash in non-U.S. entities is held in foreign currencies, meaning fluctuations in exchange rates will impact our cash balances when converted to U.S. dollars. A 10% fluctuation in the U.S. dollar’s value would have affected our reported cash balance by approximately $8.7 million in fiscal 2024 and $13.2 million in fiscal 2023.

To manage our investment risk in foreign operations, we either borrow in the functional currencies of those foreign entities or utilize appropriate hedging instruments, such as foreign currency swaps. The following table shows the change in the recorded value of our most significant investments as of December 28, 2024 and December 30, 2023, assuming a hypothetical 10% change in the value of the U.S. dollar.

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Commodity Risk: Hot-rolled steel coil is a key input for both of our segments except the Coatings product line. Due to steel price volatility, we use derivative financial instruments to mitigate commodity price risks, particularly for fixed-price orders. In both fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2023, we entered into forward contracts and swaps for hot-rolled steel coil that qualified as cash flow hedges. These contracts help manage variability in cash flows from future steel purchases. As of December 28, 2024, we had open forward contracts and swaps with a notional amount of $13.5 million, covering the purchase of 17,000 short tons between January 2025 and September 2025.

Natural gas is another significant commodity used in our manufacturing processes, particularly in our Coatings product line, where it is used to heat tanks for the hot-dipped galvanizing process. Due to the volatility of natural gas prices, we mitigate this risk through derivative financial instruments. Our policy is to hedge 0% to 75% of our U.S. natural gas needs for the next 6 to 24 months using swaps tied to New York Mercantile Exchange futures. These swaps are designed to reduce the impact of sudden and significant increases in natural gas prices on our earnings. As of December 28, 2024, we had open natural gas swaps with a notional value of $1.4 million for 352,000 MMBtu from January 2025 to March 2026.

Diesel fuel is a major cost for our contracted carriers transporting our products. Diesel fuel prices are subject to volatility, which we manage through the use of derivative financial instruments. In fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2023, we entered into diesel fuel option contracts that qualified as cash flow hedges. These contracts help stabilize cash flows amid fluctuating diesel fuel costs charged by carriers. As of December 28, 2024, we had open option contracts with a notional amount of $0.6 million for the total purchase of 2,604,000 gallons of diesel fuel from December 2024 to June 2026.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES

The accounting policies described below involve significant judgments and estimates that are used in preparing our Consolidated Financial Statements. Management exercises substantial judgment in determining these estimates, which are essential to our financial reporting. The key areas that involve such estimates include impairments of goodwill and other intangible assets, income taxes, revenue recognition for product lines recognized over time, and inventory obsolescence. These estimates are based on our past experiences and other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable given the circumstances.

We continually re-evaluate these estimates as circumstances evolve, understanding that actual results may differ due to changes in assumptions or conditions. To ensure accuracy and transparency in our financial reporting, the selection and application of our critical accounting policies are reviewed annually by our Audit Committee.

Depreciation and Amortization

Our long-lived assets include property, plant, and equipment, right-of-use assets, and goodwill and other intangible assets acquired through business acquisitions. We assign useful lives to these assets based on their nature and expected usage, with ranges typically spanning from 2 to 30 years.

Impairment of Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

We evaluate goodwill for impairment annually during the third fiscal quarter, aligning this assessment with our strategic planning process. For the fiscal 2024 annual goodwill impairment test, we estimated the fair value of the twelve reporting units with recorded goodwill using a discounted cash flow model. This model factors in projected after-tax cash flows from operations, net of capital expenditures, discounted to their present value. Additionally, we perform sensitivity analyses to assess the impact of changes in key assumptions, such as discount rates and cash flow forecasts, on the valuation of the reporting units.

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For fiscal 2024, no reporting units had a fair value lower than their carrying value. However, in fiscal 2023, two reporting units had estimated fair values below their carrying values, resulting in impairments: $120.0 million for the Agriculture segment and $1.9 million for the Infrastructure segment.

Many of our reporting units serve cyclical markets, which can cause fluctuations in sales and profitability. For our Solar and International Irrigation reporting units, which have a combined goodwill of approximately $130.0 million, the amount of cushion or excess fair value above their carrying values was less than 15%. Despite this, we believe these reporting units will generate positive cash flows above their carrying values and will continue to monitor their performance and growth prospects.

We actively monitor the global economy for potential factors that could impact the operating results of our reporting units. Should adverse conditions arise, we will conduct an impairment test for any affected reporting units prior to our annual testing. When evaluating reporting units, we focus on their long-term prospects, recognizing that current performance may not always be indicative of future value, which requires management judgment, particularly regarding cash flow projections.

Our indefinite-lived intangible assets primarily consist of trade names, which are tested separately from goodwill. We use the relief-from-royalty method to value these assets, calculating the potential royalty a third party might pay to use the trade name, which is then discounted to present value and tax-effected. For fiscal 2024, the fair value of our trade names exceeded their carrying value. In fiscal 2023, however, one trade name’s carrying value exceeded its fair value, resulting in a $1.7 million impairment within the Infrastructure segment.

Additionally, in the third quarter of fiscal 2023, due to identified impairment indicators, we tested the recoverability of an amortizing proprietary technology intangible asset related to the Prospera subsidiary, which is part of the Agriculture segment. We determined the asset’s carrying value exceeded its total undiscounted estimated future cash flows. As a result, we recognized a $17.3 million impairment within the Agriculture segment.

Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost, determined on a first-in, first-out basis, or net realizable value. We assess the value of our inventory regularly and write down slow-moving or obsolete inventory. The write-down is calculated as the difference between the carrying value and our estimate of the reduced value. This estimate takes into account potential future uses of the inventory, the likelihood of selling overstocked inventory, and expected selling prices. If our assumptions about the realizability of slow-moving or obsolete inventory prove to be overly optimistic, we may be required to record additional inventory write-downs.

Income Taxes

We maintain valuation allowances to adjust deferred tax assets to amounts that we anticipate are more likely than not to be realized. In assessing the need for these allowances, we consider anticipated future taxable income and tax-planning strategies. If we determine that a deferred tax asset is not expected to be fully realized, we increase the valuation allowance, which reduces net earnings in that period. Conversely, if we later determine that all or part of a net deferred tax asset is realizable, reducing the valuation allowance would increase net earnings for that period.

As of December 28, 2024, we had approximately $56.2 million in deferred tax assets related to tax credits and loss carryforwards, with a valuation allowance of $38.8 million, including $7.0 million for capital loss carryforwards that are unlikely to be realized. Changes in circumstance surrounding deferred tax assets may require adjustments to this allowance, which could impact income tax expense and net income. Additionally, as the earnings of our non-U.S. subsidiaries (in which we own more than 50%) are not considered indefinitely reinvested, we have recorded a deferred tax liability of $2.1 million, representing taxes to be incurred upon repatriation of these earnings.

Our operations are subject to examination by tax authorities in the various countries in which we operate, with the years open to examination varying by jurisdiction. We regularly evaluate potential additional income tax assessments based on past audit experiences and our understanding of relevant tax issues. Any changes to accruals for potential tax deficiencies are included in current income tax expense. Discrepancies between our estimates and actual outcomes in this area could impact our income tax expense in a given fiscal period.

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Revenue Recognition

Revenue recognition for our contracts is determined by analyzing the specific type, terms, and conditions of each contract with customers. We do not have contracts that include variable consideration across any of our product lines.

For contracts involving Utility and certain Telecommunications customers, we recognize revenue over time. These contracts, particularly those for utility structures and telecommunication monopole structures, are engineered to meet customer specifications, making them unsuitable for alternative customers if canceled after production begins. The continuous transfer of control to the customer is evidenced by either contractual termination clauses or rights to payment for work performed to date, plus a reasonable profit, as the products do not have alternative uses to us. For these products, revenue is recognized over time based on progress toward completion of the performance obligation. However, for certain Telecommunications structures contracts where we lack the right to payment for work completed, revenue is instead recognized at the time of shipment.

The method for measuring progress toward completion requires judgment. For our Utility and Telecommunications products, revenue is recognized using an input-based method, where total production hours incurred to date are measured as a percentage of the total estimated hours for the order. The completion percentage is applied to the total contract revenue and estimated costs to calculate revenue, cost of goods sold, and gross profit. Our enterprise resource planning system tracks the total incurred costs and production hours to date, along with the estimated hours to complete. Previously, our offshore wind energy structures business (divested in fiscal 2022) recognized revenue using the cost-to-cost measure of progress, which is based on the ratio of incurred costs to total estimated costs.

Management relies on assumptions and estimates regarding manufacturing labor, materials, overhead, and burden recovery rates at each production facility. Production typically completes within three months once it begins, with profitability on open production orders reviewed monthly. We apply the practical expedient to omit disclosures for performance obligations expected to be completed within one year.

Occasionally, Utility customer orders may require up to three years to complete, often due to the number of structures involved. If actual costs deviate significantly from initial projections, burden rates and production hours per structure may be adjusted, recalibrating revenue recognition for future periods to reflect updated production schedules. For our offshore wind energy structures business before divestiture, we updated the total cost estimates quarterly, with any changes reflected in the current period’s revenue. During fiscal 2024, 2023, and 2022, no input or estimate adjustments were made that impacted revenue recognition for prior fiscal years. If a loss on a performance obligation is projected, a provision for loss is recognized, regardless of production status.

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS

OF OPERATIONS

Forward‑Looking Statements

Management’s discussion and analysis, and other sections of this annual report, contain forward‑looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward‑looking statements are based on assumptions that management has made in light of experience in the industries in which the Company operates, as well as management’s perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments, and other factors believed to be appropriate under the circumstances. These statements are not guarantees of performance or results. They involve risks, uncertainties (some of which are beyond the Company’s control), and assumptions. Management believes that these forward‑looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions. Many factors could affect the Company’s actual financial results and cause them to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward‑looking statements. These factors include, among other things, risk factors described from time to time in the Company’s reports to the SEC, as well as future economic and market circumstances, industry conditions, company performance and financial results, operating efficiencies, availability and price of raw materials, availability and market acceptance of new products, product pricing, domestic and international competitive environments, and actions and policy changes of domestic and foreign governments.

The following discussion and analysis provide information that management believes is relevant to an assessment and understanding of the Company’s consolidated results of operations and financial position. This discussion should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes.

This section of the Form 10-K generally discusses fiscal 2023 items, fiscal 2022 items, and year-to-year comparisons between fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2022. Discussions of fiscal 2021 items and year-to-year comparisons between fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2021 that are not included on Form 10-K can be found in "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in Part II, Item 7 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022.

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General

NM = not meaningful

​

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FISCAL 2023 COMPARED WITH FISCAL 2022

Overview

The decrease in net sales in fiscal 2023, as compared with fiscal 2022, was the result of lower sales in the Agriculture segment, partially offset by higher sales in the Infrastructure segment. Fiscal 2023 included 52 weeks, while fiscal 2022 included 53 weeks. The estimated impact on the Company's results of operations due to the extra week in fiscal 2022 was additional net sales of approximately $80.8 million and additional net earnings of approximately $5.3 million.

Volume impacts are estimated based on physical production or sales measure. Since products we sell are not uniform in nature, pricing and mix relate to a combination of changes in sales prices and the attributes of the products sold. Accordingly, pricing and mix changes do not necessarily result in operating income changes.

Steel prices for both hot rolled coil and plate have remained volatile over the past two fiscal years, especially in North America. Decreases in the average cost of consumed steel combined with recent customer pricing strategy mechanisms more than offset the overall decrease in volumes on a consolidated basis in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022.

During the third quarter of fiscal 2023, management initiated a plan to streamline segment support across the Company and reduce costs through an organizational realignment program (the “Realignment Program”). The Realignment Program provided for a reduction in force through a voluntary early retirement program and other headcount reduction actions, which were completed by the end of fiscal 2023. The Board of Directors authorized the incurrence of cash charges up to $36.0 million in connection with the Realignment Program of which $35.2 million were incurred in fiscal 2023. Severance and other employee benefit costs totaled approximately $17.3 million within the Infrastructure segment, $9.1 million within the Agriculture segment, and $8.8 million within Corporate expense.

Items Impacting Comparability

Items of note impacting the comparability of results from net earnings for fiscal 2023 included:

Items of note impacting the comparability of results from net earnings for fiscal 2022 included:

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Acquisitions

The Company acquired the following businesses in fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2022:

Divestitures

The Company divested the following businesses in fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2022:

Macroeconomic Impacts on Financial Results and Liquidity

We continue to monitor several macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainties that have impacted or may impact our business, including inflationary cost pressures, supply chain disruptions, changes in foreign currency exchange rates against the U.S. dollar, rising interest rates, ongoing international armed conflicts, and labor shortages.

Reportable Segments

In addition to the two reportable segments, the Company had a business and related activities in fiscal 2022 that were not more than 10% of consolidated sales, operating income, or assets. This business, the offshore wind energy structures business, was reported in the Other segment until its divestiture in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022. All prior period information has been recast to reflect this change in reportable segments. See Note 21 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Backlog

The consolidated backlog of unshipped orders was approximately $1.5 billion as of December 30, 2023 as compared to approximately $1.7 billion as of December 31, 2022. The decrease is attributed to the Agriculture segment, while Infrastructure segment backlog remains comparable to the prior year end.

Gross Profit, Selling, General, and Administrative Expenses (“SG&A”), and Operating Income

On a consolidated basis, gross profit and gross profit as a percentage of sales increased in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022. Gross profit and gross profit as a percentage of sales increased for both the Infrastructure and Agriculture segments in fiscal 2023 primarily due to increased average selling prices and activities executed to improve overall costs of goods sold, partially offset by decreased volumes.

Consolidated SG&A increased in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, due to increased employment costs and increased professional fees, partially offset by slightly decreased incentive expenses.

Consolidated operating income in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, was impacted by the impairment of certain goodwill and intangible assets totaling $140.8 million primarily within the Agriculture Technology reporting unit and realignment charges totaling $35.2 million, along with higher SG&A partially offset by increased gross profit.

Net Interest Expense

Consolidated interest expense increased in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, primarily due to additional borrowings on the revolving line of credit along with increased interest rates.

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Other Income / Expenses (including Gain (Loss) on Investments – Unrealized)

Amounts in “Gain (loss) on investments - unrealized" included changes in the market value of deferred compensation assets which were offset by an equal opposite amount included in SG&A for the corresponding change in the valuation of deferred compensation liabilities. Other items included in “Other income (expenses)” were pension expense, a gain related to the sale of Torrent Engineering and Equipment in the second quarter of fiscal 2023 totaling approximately $3.0 million, and a loss related to Argentine peso hyperinflation totaling approximately $5.1 million. Pension expense in fiscal 2023 was $0.2 million compared to a pension benefit of $10.1 million in fiscal 2022.

Income Tax Expense

Our effective income tax rate in fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2022 was 38.1% and 29.9%, respectively. In fiscal 2023, the effective tax rate was the result of goodwill impairment charges for which no tax benefits were recorded. In fiscal 2022, the effective tax rate was the result of a change in geographical earnings and the approximately $33.3 million loss from divestiture of the offshore wind energy structures business which had no associated income tax benefit.

Loss (Earnings) Attributable to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests

Loss (earnings) attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests reflects the operating results of the subsidiaries the Company does not own 100%. Two of the subsidiaries not 100% owned generated net losses in fiscal 2023 whereas these two subsidiaries generated net earnings in fiscal 2022.

Infrastructure Segment

Infrastructure segment sales increased in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, due to increased average selling prices across all product lines and increased volumes in TD&S and Solar, partially offset by unfavorable foreign currency translation effects and much lower volumes in Telecommunications. Infrastructure segment sales increased in North America in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, while decreasing slightly internationally in the same period.

Transmission, Distribution, and Substation product line sales increased in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, due to increased average selling prices and increased sales volumes, partially offset by unfavorable foreign currency translation effects totaling approximately $4.0 million.

Lighting and Transportation product line sales increased in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, due to increased average selling prices and increased sales volumes, partially offset by an unfavorable currency translation effect totaling approximately $8.1 million.

Coatings product line sales decreased in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, due to decreased sales volumes along with an unfavorable currency translation effect totaling approximately $6.5 million partially offset by increased average selling prices.

Telecommunications product line sales decreased in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, due to decreased sales volumes partially offset by increased average selling prices and incremental sales from the second quarter of fiscal 2022 acquisition of ConcealFab totaling $12.2 million. We expect sales for Telecommunications to remain lower until network enhancement spending of the major carriers returns to more elevated levels. As the continued rollout and expansion of 5G wireless technology accelerates globally, sales for our products are expected to grow.

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Solar product line sales increased in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, due to increased sales volumes primarily attributable to increased market share and throughput in the North American and European markets.

We expect Infrastructure segment sales to increase mid-single digits in fiscal 2024 from growth in the TD&S and Solar product lines attributed to the grid hardening efforts in the U.S. and the global energy transition.

Infrastructure segment gross profit and gross profit margin increased in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, due to contractual customer pricing mechanisms and selling price management leading to increased average selling prices and deliberate actions to improve overall costs of goods sold. These items, partially offset by a decrease in sales volumes in the Telecommunications product line, resulted in an overall increase in the amount of gross profit.

Infrastructure segment SG&A increased in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, due to increased compensation and incentive costs, increased bad debt reserve charges including approximately $2.7 million related to a Telecommunications customer that became insolvent, increased research and development expenses, and incremental SG&A from the June 2022 acquisition of ConcealFab.

We incurred severance and other employee benefit costs totaling $17.3 million within the Infrastructure segment in fiscal 2023 related to the Realignment Program.

Infrastructure segment operating income increased in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, due to gross profit improvements, driven by favorable pricing and deliberate actions to improve overall costs of goods sold more than offsetting increased SG&A.

Agriculture Segment

Agriculture segment sales decreased in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022. In North America, the decrease in sales in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, was primarily due to notably lower sales volumes of irrigation equipment. This was impacted by lower net farm income, growers’ decisions to delay capital investments due to general economic uncertainty, and a number of macroeconomic factors including higher interest rates, continued inflationary pressures, and recessionary fears. International sales growth was driven by higher project sales and incremental sales from the HR Products acquisition totaling $14.0 million partially offset by lower sales volumes in Brazil due to muted farmer sentiment attributed to lower agricultural commodity prices. Sales of technology-related products and services in fiscal 2023 were similar to fiscal 2022.

Our Agriculture business is cyclical and is impacted by changes in net farm income, commodity prices, weather volatility, geopolitical factors, and farmer sentiment related to future economic uncertainty. We continue to monitor potential impacts of these factors on our financial results including estimated U.S. net farm income, as released periodically by the USDA. In Brazil, we also actively track changes in soybean and other crop prices and projected farm input costs to evaluate grower sentiment.

Irrigation equipment and aftermarket part sales in North America are expected to remain below prior year levels in fiscal 2024. The previous three fiscal years benefited from record levels of disaster relief and pandemic-related stimulus for farmers in North America which contributed to higher demand.

Agriculture segment gross profit increased in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, due to deflation in the cost of steel and other favorable changes in input costs more than offsetting the impact of lower sales volumes.

Agriculture segment SG&A increased in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, due to increased bad debt reserve charges, particularly in Brazil, and increased employment costs, partially offset by decreased incentive expenses.

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We incurred severance and other employee benefit costs totaling $9.1 million within the Agriculture segment in fiscal 2023 related to the Realignment Program.

Agriculture segment operating income decreased in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, primarily due to the impairment of certain goodwill and other intangible assets in the third quarter of fiscal 2023 totaling approximately $137.2 million, along with decreased sales volumes offset by gross profit improvements.

Other

In November 2022, we completed the sale of Valmont SM, an offshore wind energy structures business with operations in Denmark. We realized an approximate $33.3 million loss on the sale that was recorded in “Other income (expenses)” in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. The final payment of $2.2 million was received in January 2024, subsequent to the fiscal year ended December 30, 2023.

Corporate

Corporate SG&A increased in fiscal 2023, as compared to fiscal 2022, due to increased employment costs, increased professional fees, and incremental expense from changes in the valuation of deferred compensation plan liabilities. Charges related to changes in deferred compensation plan liabilities are offset by an opposite change in an equal amount included in “Other income (expenses)” for the change in deferred compensation plan assets.

We incurred severance and other employee benefit costs totaling $8.8 million within Corporate expense in fiscal 2023 related to the Realignment Program.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Capital Allocation Philosophy

We have historically funded our growth, capital spending, and acquisitions through a combination of operating cash flows and debt financing. The following are the capital allocation priorities for cash generated:

We intend to manage our capital structure to maintain our investment grade debt rating. Our most recent ratings were Baa3 by Moody’s Investors Service, Inc., BBB- by Fitch Ratings, Inc., and BBB+ by S&P Global Ratings. We would be willing to allow our debt rating to fall to BBB- to finance a special acquisition or other opportunity. We expect to maintain a ratio of debt to invested capital which will support our current investment grade debt rating.

In May 2014, the Board of Directors authorized the purchase of up to $500.0 million of the Company’s outstanding common stock from time to time over twelve months at prevailing market prices, through open market or privately negotiated transactions. The Board of Directors authorized an additional $250.0 million of share repurchases in February 2015 and again in October 2018, and authorized an additional $400.0 million of share repurchases in February 2023. These authorizations have no expiration date. The purchases are funded from available working capital and short-term borrowings and will be made subject to market and economic conditions. We are not obligated to make any repurchases and may discontinue the program at any time. As of December 30, 2023, we have acquired approximately 7.9 million shares for approximately $1,263.9 million under this share repurchase program.

In November 2023, we entered into an accelerated purchase agreement to repurchase $120.0 million of the Company’s outstanding common stock, under our previously announced share repurchase program described above. In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023, we pre-paid $120.0 million and received an initial delivery of a number of shares of common stock which represented 75% of the prepayment amount. The accelerated share repurchase will be completed during the first quarter of fiscal 2024.

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In February 2023, the Company announced that the Board of Directors approved an increase to the quarterly cash dividend on the common stock to $0.60 per share, or a rate of $2.40 per share on an annualized basis, an increase of 9% from the prior quarterly cash dividend of $0.55 per share.

Supplier Finance Program

We have a supplier finance program agreement with a financial institution which allows qualifying suppliers, at their election and on terms they negotiate directly with the financial institution, to sell their receivables from the Company. A supplier’s voluntary participation in the program does not change our payment terms, amounts paid, payment timing, or impact our liquidity, and we have no economic interest in a supplier’s decision to participate. As of December 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, our accounts payable on our Consolidated Balance Sheets included $41.9 million and $48.9 million, respectively, of our payment obligations under this program.

Sources of Financing

Our debt financing as of December 30, 2023 consisted primarily of long‑term debt and borrowings on our revolving credit facility. Our long‑term debt as of December 30, 2023, principally consisted of:

We are allowed to repurchase the notes subject to the payment of a make-whole premium. Both tranches of these notes are guaranteed by certain of our subsidiaries.

Our revolving credit facility with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent, and the other lenders party thereto, has a maturity date of October 18, 2026.

The revolving credit facility provides for $800.0 million of committed unsecured revolving credit loans with available borrowings thereunder to $400.0 million in foreign currencies. We may increase the credit facility by up to an additional $300.0 million at any time, subject to lenders increasing the amount of their commitments. The Company and our wholly-owned subsidiaries, Valmont Industries Holland B.V. and Valmont Group Pty. Ltd., are authorized borrowers under the credit facility. The obligations arising under the revolving credit facility are guaranteed by the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Valmont Telecommunications, Inc., Valmont Coatings, Inc., Valmont Newmark, Inc., and Valmont Queensland Pty. Ltd.

The interest rate on our borrowings will be, at our option, either:

plus, in each case, 0 to 62.5 basis points, depending on the credit rating of our senior unsecured long-term debt published by S&P Global Ratings and Moody’s Investors Service, Inc.; or

A commitment fee is also required under the revolving credit facility which accrues at 10 to 25 basis points, depending on the credit rating of our senior unsecured long-term debt published by S&P Global Ratings and Moody’s Investors Service, Inc., on the average daily unused portion of the commitments under the revolving credit agreement.

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As of December 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, we had outstanding borrowings of $377.9 million and $140.5 million, respectively, under the revolving credit facility. The revolving credit facility has a maturity date of October 18, 2026 and contains a financial covenant that may limit our additional borrowing capability under the agreement. As of December 30, 2023, we had the ability to borrow $421.9 million under this facility, after consideration of standby letters of credit of $0.2 million associated with certain insurance obligations. We also maintain certain short‑term bank lines of credit totaling $39.3 million, of which $36.1 million were unused as of December 30, 2023.

Our senior unsecured notes and revolving credit agreement each contain cross-default provisions which permit the acceleration of our indebtedness to them if we default on other indebtedness that results in, or permits, the acceleration of such other indebtedness.

The revolving credit facility requires maintenance of a financial leverage ratio, measured as of the last day of each of our fiscal quarters, of 3.50 or less. The leverage ratio is the ratio of: (a) interest-bearing debt minus unrestricted cash in excess of $50.0 million (but not exceeding $500.0 million) to (b) earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization, adjusted for non-cash stock-based compensation and non-cash charges or gains that are non-recurring in nature, subject to certain limitations (“Adjusted EBITDA”). The leverage ratio is permitted to increase from 3.50 to 3.75 for the four consecutive fiscal quarters after certain material acquisitions.

The revolving credit agreement also contains customary affirmative and negative covenants or credit facilities of this type, including, among others, limitations on us and our subsidiaries with respect to indebtedness, liens, mergers and acquisitions, investments, dispositions of assets, restricted payments, transactions with affiliates, and prepayments of indebtedness. The revolving credit agreement also provides for acceleration of the obligations thereunder and exercise of other enforcement remedies upon the occurrence of customary events of default (subject to customary grace periods, as applicable).

As of December 30, 2023, we were in compliance with all covenants related to these debt agreements.