Trulieve’s Revenue Rise vs. Net Losses in Q4

The TDR Three Key Takeaways:

1. Revenue Growth: Trulieve reported a 4% revenue increase to $287 million in Q4 2023, with a gross margin of 54%.
2. Financial Losses: The company reported a net loss of $33 million, with an adjusted net loss of $23 million, signaling financial adjustments.
3. Expansion and Operations: Trulieve expanded its retail footprint and reported significant operational cash flow, with 32% of stores now outside Florida.

Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CSE: TRUL, OTCQX: TCNNF) released its earnings for the fourth quarter and the full fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 this morning. For the fourth quarter of 2023, Trulieve reported a revenue increase to $287 million, marking a 4% sequential growth, with a significant portion, 95%, derived from retail sales. This period witnessed the company achieving its highest revenue and gross margin for the year, with a reported GAAP gross margin of 54% and a gross profit of $154 million. Despite these positives, the company experienced a net loss of $33 million. An adjusted net loss figure was provided at $23 million, which excludes non-recurring charges, asset impairments, disposals, and discontinued operations, indicating a cautionary note for investors that these are not the unadjusted figures.

The company also highlighted its operational cash flow, reporting $131 million in cash flow from operations and $122 million in free cash flow for the quarter. EBITDA was reported at $73 million, constituting 25% of revenue, with adjusted EBITDA reaching $88 million, or 31% of revenue. These adjustments suggest the figures have been altered to exclude certain items, which may not reflect the company’s cash earnings accurately.

Operational achievements for the quarter included redemption of $130 million of senior secured notes due in June 2024, the closure of a $25 million five-year mortgage financing at an 8.31% interest rate, and the amendment of federal and state tax returns leading to significant refunds. The company also expanded its retail footprint, relocating one and opening four new dispensaries in Florida, ending the quarter with 32% of its retail locations outside Florida, indicating a strategic expansion beyond its initial market.

My Take as an Analyst

From an analytical standpoint, Trulieve has demonstrated positive momentum in terms of revenue growth and operational cash flow, signaling strong operational performance and financial health. However, the reported net losses, both GAAP and adjusted, raise concerns about the company’s profitability and expense management. Additionally, the reliance on adjusted financial metrics such as adjusted net loss and adjusted EBITDA may obscure the true financial condition of the company to investors. While these adjustments are common in financial reporting, they should be approached with caution as they can provide a skewed perception of financial health.

The company’s strategic expansions and successful tax amendments are positive indicators of effective management and operational efficiency. However, Trulieve must focus on improving its bottom line and addressing the concerns highlighted by its net losses to maintain sustainable growth and investor confidence. The expansion outside Florida is a positive move for market diversification, but it also requires careful management to ensure profitability and successful integration into new markets. Want to keep up to date with all of TDR’s research, subscribe to our daily Baked In newsletter.