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Natalie.Sullivan


Waste Connections Excels in Q3 with Strong Financial Results and Strategic Acquisitions

2024-10-27

Waste Connections Inc., a prominent waste management company, conducted its Q3 2024 Earnings Conference Call on October 24, 2024. The call was attended by key figures such as Ronald Mittelstaedt, Mary Whitney, Kevin Chiang, Noah Kaye, and others. The company announced robust financial results for the third quarter, attributing the success to solid waste growth propelled by core pricing strategies and acquisitions, coupled with enhanced solid waste volumes. Waste Connections achieved an adjusted EBITDA margin of 33.7%, marking a 120 basis points increase compared to the previous year.

In the realm of acquisitions, Waste Connections concentrated on acquiring private companies within the solid waste sector, finalizing deals amounting to over $700 million in annualized revenue in 2024. The company underscored its effective integration of acquisitions, with the acquired operations surpassing expectations in Q3. Waste Connections also underscored its advancements towards sustainability goals, showcasing notable reductions in emissions intensity and voluntary turnover rates.

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The company's performance in Q3 surpassed expectations, with core pricing meeting set targets, reported volumes on the rise, and acquisitions delivering strong results. Waste Connections strategically acquired Royal Waste Services in New York City, bolstering its presence in the region. The shift of New York City to a franchise model proved advantageous for Waste Connections, fostering growth and operational efficiencies.

Looking forward, Waste Connections provided Q4 estimates, including projected revenue of approximately $2.24 billion, an anticipated adjusted EBITDA of around $740 million, and expectations concerning depreciation, interest expenses, and tax rates. The company reiterated its focus on margin expansion, operational efficiency enhancements, and strategic acquisitions to fuel growth in 2025.

During the earnings call, executives delved into various topics such as margin drivers for 2025, investments in landfill gas, cultural integration in acquisitions, and the impact of adverse weather conditions on business operations. Waste Connections expressed optimism regarding its future outlook, highlighting core margin expansion, growth driven by pricing strategies, and opportunities to enhance operational efficiencies in key regions like the Northeast.

In conclusion, Waste Connections Inc. continues to exhibit strong performance, strategic acquisitions, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability. The company's dedication to operational excellence, margin expansion, and growth through acquisitions positions it favorably for future success within the waste management industry. Investors and stakeholders can anticipate ongoing advancements and innovation from Waste Connections in the forthcoming quarters.