Gross Profit Percentage Increases to 76%, Operating Expenses Down 10%
“These results show improvements in fundamental parts of our business. I’m excited to show where we’ll be in Q2, Q3 and as we finish what appears to be a pivotal year for our business,” said Steve Reinharz, Founder and CEO of AITX.
Highlights from Q1 of Fiscal Year 2024:
During Q1, total operating expenses for the three months ended May 31, 2023, were $3,242,674, representing a 10% decrease from the total of $3,588,089 for the three months ended May 31, 2022. The reduction in operating costs is attributed to lower general and administrative expenses as the Company successfully reduced stock-based compensation, wages and salaries, and travel expenses. The remaining impact of the Company’s cost-saving measures implemented in FY 2023 will be reflected in the Q2 FY 2024 statements for the period ending August 31, 2023.
Gross profit percentage increased to 76%, up from a reported GPM% of 24% in Q1 FY 2023. This gross profit margin (GPM) increase is the result of a higher percentage of RMR (Recurring Monthly Revenue) via subscriptions vs. capital purchases in the quarter, improvements in supply chain issues and upgraded production processes.
The sales over total assets ratio witnessed a slight increase from 0.06 for the three-month period ended May 31, 2022, to 0.07 for the three-month period ended May 31, 2023. While this growth may seem modest, it indicates a positive trend towards better utilization of the Company’s assets. The upward movement in the ratio indicates that the Company has improved its ability to generate sales revenue in relation to its asset base, reflecting enhanced efficiency in asset utilization.
Notably, the Company increased the outstanding share count by a modest 4%, specifically 280,929,190 common shares, during the three months ended May 31, 2023. The Company plans to raise up to $30 million through the issuance of additional shares over the next year. These funds will be used by the Company for its growth initiatives and to reduce its debt.
“Our team, channel partners, customers and investors have demonstrated immense commitment and support, leading to these impressive growth metrics,” added Reinharz. “However, there is still a significant amount of work ahead of us to fully accomplish our objectives.”
The Company recommends investors and prospective investors review the full filing here: EDGAR Filing Documents.
The Company reported orders during the quarter of 29 ROSA autonomous security devices and 6 AVA access control solutions. Additionally, the Company has reported adding an additional 6 authorized dealers during the quarter. The Company’s primary subsidiary Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD), distributes its products through a combination of direct sales to end-users and opportunities developed through the dealer channel.
During the quarter, RAD successfully deployed its software and hardware-based safety solution, RAD Light My Way at a large regional hospital in the Southeast. The Company expects additional details to be released regarding the deployment’s status and enrollment participation level in the near future.
AITX also announced the deployment of the first of three artificial intelligence powered large language models to enhance investor engagement and provide simplified access for investor’s due diligence and fact-checking as it relates to the Company. RAD is presently rolling out an AI-driven technical assistance platform designed to provide instant, accurate solutions to the technical challenges that RAD’s clients may face.
RAD won a contract with HPS, a group purchasing organization (GPO) that supports schools, healthcare, and senior living organizations across 33 states. HPS is presently introducing RAD to its 4,300 plus members with the intent to improve facility safety and security through RAD’s suite of security robots, both stationary and mobile.
The Company’s and RAD’s public exposure experienced a dramatic uplift during Q1 FY 2023. RAD participated in the production of FOX TV’s ‘Stars on Mars’ reality competition show, which is presently airing 12 episodes. RAD provided 5 RADDOG units and a robotics technician in support of the TV series’ production from mid-April into May 2023. RAD devices are expected to appear in 3 motion pictures getting a theatrical release. ‘The Blue Beetle’, premiering August 18, 2023, from DC Studios and Warner Brothers, is expected to feature multiple RAD ROAMEO and SCOT units. Two additional movies featuring RAD devices are expected to announce their release dates soon.
“RAD’s proactive measures to streamline operations and sharpen focus have positioned us exceptionally well for the anticipated growth on the horizon,” said Mark Folmer, CPP, PSP, FSyI, President of RAD. “With our strategic initiatives, solid foundation, strong sales pipeline, and an unwavering team, we are poised to achieve remarkable success.”