Dorman reported an outstanding Q1 2025, with consolidated net sales up 8% year-over-year to $508 million, adjusted operating margin expanding to 17% (up 310 basis points), and adjusted diluted EPS increasing 54% to $2.02; free cash flow was $40 million, enabling $20 million in debt repayment and $12 million in share repurchases.
The company reaffirmed its 2025 guidance for net sales growth of 3% to 5% and adjusted diluted EPS of $7.55 to $7.85, excluding any impact from newly enacted or proposed U.S. tariffs or potential retaliatory trade measures.
Dorman has significantly diversified its supply chain since previous tariff rounds, now sourcing approximately 30-40% from China, 30% from the U.S., and the remainder globally, positioning itself with a competitive advantage and reduced exposure compared to peers.
Segment performance: Light Duty saw strong growth (net sales up 14%, operating margin up to 19.9%), driven by new products and favorable macro trends; Heavy Duty faced continued market pressures with net sales down 11% and a slightly negative margin; Specialty Vehicles saw net sales decline 9% due to softer consumer spending and tariff uncertainty, with operating margin down to 10.2%.
Management highlighted that most of Dorman’s products are non-discretionary, supporting resilience in uncertain economic times, and stated that the company is well-positioned to mitigate tariff impacts through supplier negotiations, productivity initiatives, and potential price adjustments, with any tariff cost impacts expected to be seen roughly six months after implementation due to FIFO inventory accounting.