HACKETT GROUP INC
For the period ended Dec 27, 2024. Filed Feb 28, 2025.
View on SEC.govAbout this filing
A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2024 · Filed Feb 28, 2025
What changed in Management’s Discussion and Analysis?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2023-12-29; filed 2024-03-01.
0000950170-24-023702
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-12-27; filed 2025-02-28.
0000950170-25-030037
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 71 previous paragraphs and 81 current paragraphs.
28 unchanged; 30 reworded; 22 added; 13 removed; 0 previous and 1 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 5 previous and 7 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (22)
Current report
We believe Gen AI will fundamentally change the way companies operate as well as the way consulting services are sold and delivered. We believe the Gen AI platform capabilities we have developed in AI XPLR which were expanded with ZBrain, which we acquired as part of the LeewayHertz acquisition, is highly differentiating and we expect will enable us to effectively compete in this emerging and important space.
Current report
Impact of Macroeconomic Conditions on Our Business
Current report
The level of revenue we achieve is based on our ability to deliver market leading services and solutions and to deploy skilled teams of professionals quickly. Our results of operations are affected by economic conditions, including macroeconomic conditions and levels of business confidence. Any deterioration in the current macroeconomic environment or economic downturn as a result of weak or uncertain economic conditions due to inflation, high interest rates, national or geopolitical events or other factors impacting economic activity or business confidence could adversely affect our clients' financial condition or outlook which may reduce the clients' demand for our services.
Current report
Business Combinations
Current report
For transactions that are considered business combinations, we utilize fair values in determining the carrying values of the purchased assets and assumed liabilities, which are recorded at fair value at acquisition date, and identifiable intangible assets are recorded at fair value. Costs directly related to the business combinations are recorded as expenses as they are incurred. Fair values are subject to refinement for up to one year after the closing date of an acquisition as information relative to closing date fair values become available. A bargain purchase gain on an acquisition occurs when the net of the estimated fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed exceeds the consideration paid.
Current report
On September 23, 2024, the Company acquired 100% of the equity of LeewayHertz Technologies Private Limited (“LeewayHertz”), a technology consulting company based in India, focused on AI technology solutions for a provisional purchase consideration of $7.8 million subject to a working capital achievement. LeewayHertz’s founder, one of LeewayHertz’s owners, was hired by the Company to serve as its executive vice president of the AI practice.
Current report
Since the acquisition was only recently completed, the allocation of the purchase price is preliminary and will likely change in future periods as fair value estimates of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are finalized, including those primarily related to working capital, property and equipment, intangible assets, and taxes. The final determination of the fair values will be completed within the one-year measurement period.
Current report
The following table summarizes the provisional fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Current report
As a result, the provisional excess of the purchase price over the assets acquired resulted in goodwill of $5.9 million. Additionally, the Company recognized provisional intangible assets of $2.5 million, with a remaining weighted average useful life of 4.6 years. The fair values of identifiable intangible assets acquired were prepared by a third-party valuation specialist and incorporate significant unobservable inputs, judgment, and estimates, including the amount and timing of future cash flows. The intangible assets will be amortized in accordance with the Company’s accounting policies. The following table summarizes the provisional value of the intangible assets acquired:
Current report
Also, in connection with the acquisition, the Company and LeewayHertz’s founder are creating a joint venture whereby The Hackett Group will contribute its AI XPLR platform and LeewayHertz will contribute its ZBrain platform. The integration of AI XPLR and the ZBrain Gen AI orchestration solution will enable the joint venture to provide advanced and tailored Gen AI solutions to its clients. The joint venture is expected to be formed by the middle of the Company's 2025 fiscal year and we expect its results will be consolidated into our financial statements.
Current report
Goodwill
Current report
Goodwill is tested at least annually for impairment at the reporting unit level utilizing the market approach. In assessing the recoverability of goodwill and intangible assets, the Company utilizes the market approach and makes estimates based on assumptions regarding various factors to determine if impairment tests are met. The market approach utilizes valuation multiples based on operating data from publicly traded companies within the same industry. Multiples derived from guideline companies provide an indication of how much a market participant would be willing to pay for a company. These multiples are then applied to the Company’s reporting units to arrive at an indication of value. This approach contains management’s judgment, using appropriate and customary assumptions available at the time.
Current report
We performed our annual impairment test of goodwill in the fourth quarter of fiscal years 2024, 2023 and 2022 and determined that goodwill was not impaired.
Current report
Stock Based Compensation
Current report
We recognize compensation expense for awards of equity and liability instruments, which have only a service condition, to employees based on the grant-date fair value of those awards, over the requisite service period, with limited exceptions.
Current report
In September 2024, a stock price award program was offered to certain leaders. These equity awards were granted with both a market condition (three tranches, each with varying market share price thresholds) and service conditions. The Company measured these equity awards using the Monte Carlo valuation model to determine the fair value as of the grant date. The Monte Carlo valuation model, using different share price paths, calculated a derived service period which is the median share price path on which the market condition is satisfied for each tranche. The assumptions utilized in the model are as of a point in time and may differ from the actual value of the equity awards. The requisite service period was determined to be service conditions as the service conditions are greater than the derived service period. For each of the three tranches, stock compensation expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. The Company has elected to account for forfeitures as incurred. If an employee forfeits nonvested shares subsequent to meeting a service condition, the previously recognized expense is not reversed. See Note 10, "Stock Based Compensation," for additional information.
Current report
Global S&BT total revenue decreased to $171.1 million in 2024, as compared to $171.9 million in 2023. The revenue decrease was primarily due to weakness in our eProcurement and OneStream implementation offerings. This was partially offset by growth in our Gen AI consulting and implementation offerings, driven by the capabilities of our AI XPLR platform and our recently acquired ZBrain platform and LeewayHertz consulting and implementation team.
Current report
Oracle Solutions total revenue increased to $85.7 million in 2024, as compared to $77.8 million in 2023. The segment has continued the momentum it has experienced since the second quarter of 2023, as we have continued to see strong overall EPM activity resulting from Oracle’s re-establishment of their dedicated EPM salesforce.
Current report
SAP Solutions total revenue increased to $57.1 million in 2024, from $46.9 million in 2023. The revenue growth in 2024 was due to the strong software-related sales resulting from the increased sales investments we made in late 2023.
Current report
Global S&BT segment profit decreased to $51.6 million in 2024, as compared to $54.4 million in 2023 primarily due to the revenue growth in our Gen AI consulting and implementation offerings, which were offset by weakness in our eProcurement and OneStream implementation offerings.
Current report
SAP Solutions segment profit increased to $18.7 million in 2024, as compared to $11.9 million in 2023, primarily due to the value-added reseller activity in the year, partially offset by higher commissions and sales related costs.
Current report
As part of the LeewayHertz acquisition, the Company has committed to fund up to $10.0 million of development costs related to ZBrain AI subject to the business plans approved by the JV Board of Directors. Our capital expenditures primarily consist of investments related to the continued development of our Hackett Connect Executive Advisory member platform, our QL benchmark, Digital Transformation technologies and our Gen AI platform, AI XPLR. During the years ended December 27, 2024, and December 29, 2023, our capital expenditures were $4.1 million for both years. We expect an increase in capital expenditures related to the continued development of the ZBrain AI orchestration platform and the integration of AI XPLR.
Removed paragraphs (13)
Previous report
Segment Reporting
Previous report
Segments are defined as components of a company that engage in business activities from which they may earn revenues and incur expenses, and for which separate financial information is available and is evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker, or decision-making group, in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. The Company assesses its operating segments under the management approach in accordance with ASC 280, Segment Reporting (ASC 280) and has determined that it has three operating segments: Global Strategy & Business Transformation ("Global S&BT"), Oracle Solutions and SAP Solutions. Global S&BT includes S&BT Consulting, Benchmarking, Executive Advisory Services, IPaaS, OneStream and Coupa. Oracle Solutions and SAP Solutions support the two fundamentally distinct ERP systems: Oracle and SAP. See Note 15 “Segment Information and Geographic Data” for detailed segment information.
Previous report
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Previous report
Income Taxes
Previous report
Management’s judgement is required in the calculation of the income tax provision. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured by using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those differences are expected to reverse. A valuation allowance is provided if management believes it is more likely than not that all or some portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. An increase or decrease in the valuation allowance may result from a change in circumstances, and therefore a change in management’s judgment about the realizability of the related deferred tax asset.
Previous report
Management adopted a more-likely-than-not threshold for financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return in regards to the de-recognition of income tax assets and liabilities, classification of current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities, accounting for interest and penalties associated with tax positions, accounting for income taxes in interim periods and income tax disclosures.
Previous report
Global S&BT total revenue increased to $171.9 million in 2023, as compared to $169.7 million in 2022. This segment has been impacted by slowing economic growth resulting in extended client decision making in our business transformation engagements.
Previous report
Additionally, the prior periods comparisons were against the accelerated post pandemic demand that we experienced throughout the first half of 2022. Global S&BT represented 58% of the Company's total revenue. In addition to solid performance from our transformation consulting groups, our IP-based higher-margin Executive Advisory and IPaaS offerings grew 7%. The success and market opportunity for our IP offerings highlight the reasons why we have accelerated our sales and product development investments in this area.
Previous report
Oracle Solutions total revenue increased to $77.8 million in 2023, as compared to $76.3 million in 2022, primarily due to the segment's continued momentum that began in the second quarter of 2023, with strong double digit growth over the last two quarters of 2023, as compared to the prior year periods. This is being driven by increasing activity across our EPM offerings within this segment.
Previous report
SAP Solutions total revenue decreased to $46.9 million in 2023, from $47.8 million in 2022, primarily due to lower sales of SAP cloud software, as compared to the prior year.
Previous report
Global S&BT segment profit decreased to $54.4 million in 2023, as compared to $61.3 million in 2022. This decrease was primarily a result of the incremental investments we are making in program development and additional dedicated sales resources for Benchmark, Executive Advisory, Market Intelligence and our other IPaaS offerings.
Previous report
SAP Solutions segment profit decreased to $11.9 million in 2023, as compared to $12.8 million in 2022, primarily due to the lower sales of SAP cloud software, as well as sales related investments made during the year.
Previous report
There were no material commitments for capital expenditures as of December 29, 2023. Our capital expenditures primarily consist of investments related to the continued development of our QL, DTP and Hackett Connect platforms and laptop purchases. During the years ended December 29, 2023, and December 30, 2022, our capital expenditures were $4.1 million and $4.7 million, respectively. We expect capital expenditures for the year ended December 27, 2024, to approximate the capital expenditures in 2023.
Reworded paragraphs (30)
Previous wording
Hackett is a global IP-based executive advisory, strategic consulting and digital transformation firm. The Hackett Group provides dedicated expertise in Gen AI strategy, operations, finance, human capital management, strategic sourcing, procurement, and information technology, including its highly recognized Oracle, SAP, OneStream and Coupa implementation offerings.
Current wording
Hackett is a global IP platform-based GenAI strategic consulting and executive advisory digital transformation firm. strategic consulting and digital transformation firm. The Hackett Group provides dedicated expertise in Gen AI enabled enterprise transformation services across front, mid and back office areas, including its highly recognized Oracle, SAP, OneStream and Coupa implementation offerings.
Previous wording
The firm recently launched our AI XPLR offering which helps define an organizations’ Gen AI enablement opportunities. Using AI XPLR, our AI assessment platform, our experienced professionals guide organizations to harness the power of Gen AI to digitally transform their operations and seek to achieve quantifiable, breakthrough results, allowing us to be key architects of our clients' Gen AI journey.
Current wording
In early 2024, we launched our AI assessment platform, AI XPLR which helps clients identify, evaluate and design Gen AI enablement opportunities. Using AI XPLR, our experienced professionals guide organizations to harness the power of Gen AI solutions designed to digitally transform their operations to achieve quantifiable, breakthrough results, allowing us to be key architects of our clients' Gen AI journey.
Previous wording
The Hackett Group has completed over 26,600 benchmarking and performance studies with major organizations. These studies are executed utilizing our Quantum Leap platform which drives our DTP. This includes the firm's benchmarking metrics, best practices repository, and best practice configuration and process flow accelerators, which enables our clients and partners to achieve digital world-class performance.
Current wording
The Hackett Group has completed over 27,500 benchmarking and performance studies with major organizations. These studies are executed utilizing our Quantum Leap platform which drives our DTP. This includes the firm's benchmarking metrics, best practices repository, and best practice configuration and process flow accelerators, which enables our clients and partners to achieve digital world-class performance.
Previous wording
Our expertise is grounded in best practices insights from benchmarking the world’s leading businesses – including 97% of the Dow Jones Industrials, 89% of the Fortune 100, 70% of the DAX 40 and 55% of the FTSE 100, which are delivered through our Hackett Connect, QL and DTP platforms.
Current wording
Our transformation expertise is grounded in best practices insights from benchmarking the world’s leading businesses – including 97% of the Dow Jones Industrials, 90% of the Fortune 100, 70% of the DAX 40 and 51% of the FTSE 100, which inform and are delivered utilizing our platforms.
Previous wording
For acquisitions accounted for as a business combination, goodwill represents the excess of the cost over the fair value of the net assets acquired. The Company has organized its operating and internal reporting structure to align with its primary market solutions. In accordance with ASC 280, management made the determination to present three operating segments, three reportable segments and three reporting units as follows: (1) Global S&BT, (2) Oracle Solutions, and (3) SAP Solutions. A reporting unit is an operating segment or one level below an operating segment to which goodwill is assigned. The goodwill has been allocated to the reporting unit based on the reporting unit's relative fair value. The carrying amount of goodwill by reporting unit is as follows (in thousands):
Current wording
For acquisitions accounted for as a business combination, goodwill represents the excess of the cost over the fair value of the net assets acquired. The Company has organized its operating and internal reporting structure to align with its primary market solutions. In accordance with ASC 280, management made the determination to present three operating segments, three reportable segments and three reporting units as follows: (1) Global S&BT, (2) Oracle Solutions, and (3) SAP Solutions. A reporting unit is an operating segment or one level below an operating segment to which goodwill is assigned. The goodwill has been allocated to the reporting unit based on the reporting unit's relative fair value. The provisional goodwill related to LeewayHertz has been included in Global S&BT segment. The carrying amount of goodwill by reporting unit is as follows (in thousands):
Previous wording
Overview. For fiscal year 2023, total revenue increased to $296.6 million, as compared to $293.7 million in 2022, primarily driven by increased total revenue from our Global S&BT segment of $2.3 million and our Oracle Solutions segment of $1.5 million, as compared to 2022.
Current wording
Overview. For fiscal year 2024, total revenue increased to $313.9 million, as compared to $296.6 million in 2023, primarily driven by increased total revenue from our SAP Solutions segment of $10.2 million and our Oracle Solutions segment of $7.9 million, as compared to 2023.
Previous wording
In 2023 one customer accounted for 6% of our total revenue and in 2022 one customer accounted for 7% of our total revenue.
Current wording
In 2024, one customer accounted for 11% of our total revenue and in 2023 one customer accounted for 6% of our total revenue.
Previous wording
Segment revenue. We have three reportable segments: Global S&BT, Oracle Solutions and SAP Solutions. Global S&BT includes S&BT Consulting, Benchmarking, Advisory Services, IPASS, OneStream and our Coupa offerings. Oracle Solutions and SAP Solutions support the two fundamentally distinct ERP systems: Oracle and SAP.
Current wording
Segment revenue. We have three reportable segments: Global S&BT, Oracle Solutions and SAP Solutions. Global S&BT includes S&BT Consulting, Benchmarking, Advisory Services, IPASS, Gen AI Consulting and Implementation, OneStream and our Coupa offerings. Oracle Solutions and SAP Solutions support the two fundamentally distinct ERP systems: Oracle and SAP.
Previous wording
Reimbursements as a percentage of total revenue were 1.8% in 2023 and 1.4% in 2022. Reimbursements are project travel-related expenses passed through to a client with no associated operating margin.
Current wording
Reimbursements as a percentage of total revenue were 2.2% in 2024 and 1.8% in 2023. Reimbursements are project travel-related expenses passed through to a client with no associated operating margin.
Previous wording
Personnel costs before reimbursable expenses, increased slightly to $174.9 million in 2023, as compared to $174.1 million in 2022. The higher costs in 2023 were primarily a result of increased utilization of subcontractors to support business growth, partially offset by lower incentive compensation accruals when compared to the prior year resulting from Company performance. Personnel costs as a percentage of total revenue were 59% in both 2023 and 2022.
Current wording
Personnel costs before reimbursable expenses, increased to $183.8 million in 2024, as compared to $174.9 million in 2023. The higher costs in 2024 were primarily a result of increased salaries relating to increased headcount, higher utilization of subcontractors and increases in non-cash stock compensation expense. Personnel costs as a percentage of total revenue were 59% in both 2024 and 2023.
Previous wording
Non-cash stock-based compensation expense, included in personnel costs before reimbursable expenses, was $6.2 million in both 2023 and 2022.
Current wording
Non-cash stock-based compensation expense, included in personnel costs before reimbursable expenses, was $10.5 million in 2024 and $6.2 million in 2023. This increase was primarily related to the stock price award program and the acquisition related non-cash stock compensation expense related to LeewayHertz. See Notes 1 and 10, "Basis of Presentation and General Information” and “Stock Based Compensation”, respectively, to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information.
Previous wording
SG&A costs increased 8%, to $65.9 million in 2023, as compared to $61.0 million in 2022. This increase in the costs was primarily due to the increased investments in dedicated sales resources for our IP-based offerings in our Global S&BT segment, partially offset by lower incentive compensation commensurate with Company performance. SG&A costs as a percentage of total revenue were 22% and 21% during 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Current wording
SG&A costs increased 19%, to $78.5 million in 2024, as compared to $65.9 million in 2023. This increase in the costs during 2024 was primarily due to increased commissions and sales related expenses, increased incentive compensation commensurate with Company performance and increased non-cash stock based compensation related to the stock price award program. SG&A costs as a percentage of total revenue were 25% and 22% during 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Previous wording
Non-cash stock-based compensation expense, included in SG&A, was $4.5 million in 2023, as compared to $4.1 million in 2022.
Current wording
Non-cash stock-based compensation expense, included in SG&A, was $9.0 million in 2024, as compared to $4.5 million in 2023. The increase in 2024 primarily related to the non-cash stock compensation expense from the stock price award program. See Note 10, “Stock Based Compensation,” to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information.
Previous wording
There was no amortization expense included in SG&A in 2023, however, there was $0.2 million of amortization expense in 2022. The amortization expense related to the amortization of the intangible asset acquired in our acquisitions and the buyout of our partner’s joint venture interest in the CGBS Training and Certification Programs in 2017. The intangible assets related to the acquisitions were fully amortized as of the second quarter of 2022.
Current wording
Amortization Expense. There was $148 thousand of amortization expense in 2024. There was no amortization expense included in SG&A in 2023. The amortization expense related to the amortization of the intangible asset acquired in our acquisition of Leeway Hertz in September 2024. See Note 1, “Basis of Presentation and General Information,” to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information.
Previous wording
Segment Profit. Segment profit consists of the revenue generated by the segment, less the direct costs of revenue and selling, general and administrative expenses that are incurred directly by the segment. Items not allocated to the segment level include corporate costs related to administrative functions that are performed in a centralized manner that are not attributable to a particular segment. These administrative function costs include corporate general and administrative expenses, non-cash compensation, depreciation and amortization expense, interest expense and the restructuring and asset impairment reversals.
Current wording
Segment Profit. Segment profit consists of the revenue generated by the segment, less the direct costs of revenue and selling, general and administrative expenses that are incurred directly by the segment. Items not allocated to the segment level include corporate costs related to administrative functions that are performed in a centralized manner that are not attributable to a particular segment. These administrative function costs include corporate general and administrative expenses, non-cash compensation, depreciation and amortization expense and interest expense.
Previous wording
Oracle Solutions segment profit increased to $18.1 million in 2023, as compared to $15.3 million in 2022, primarily due to lower salaries and benefits and higher revenue, partially offset by the higher utilization of subcontractors.
Current wording
Oracle Solutions segment profit increased to $19.1 million in 2024, as compared to $18.1 million in 2023, primarily due to higher revenue, partially offset by increased headcount and increased usage of subcontractors.
Previous wording
Legal Settlement and Related Costs. In May 2023, Gartner, Inc. ("Gartner") filed a lawsuit seeking a preliminary injunction and damages against the Company and two ex-Gartner employees that were hired by us. On February 17, 2024, we, Gartner and the two ex-Gartner employees entered into a settlement agreement whereby we made a settlement payment of $985,000 to Gartner, Inc. in exchange for a dismissal of the lawsuit and a release of all claims. In addition, we incurred incremental legal costs related to the settlement.
Current wording
Legal Settlement and Related Costs. In May 2023, Gartner, Inc. ("Gartner") filed a lawsuit seeking a preliminary injunction and damages against the Company and two ex-Gartner employees that were hired by us. On February 17, 2024, we, Gartner and the two ex-Gartner employees entered into a settlement agreement whereby we made a settlement payment of $985,000 to Gartner in exchange for a dismissal of the lawsuit and a release of all claims which is reflected in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 29, 2023. In addition, we incurred incremental legal costs related to the settlement which were recorded as expenses in the period incurred.
Previous wording
Income Taxes. During 2023, we recorded $11.9 million of income tax expense related to certain federal, state and foreign taxes which reflected an effective tax rate of 25.8%. During 2022, we recorded $14.3 million of income tax expense related to certain federal, state and foreign taxes which reflected an effective tax rate of 26.0%.
Current wording
Income Taxes. During 2024, we recorded $13.4 million of income tax expense related to certain federal, state and foreign taxes which reflected an effective tax rate of 31.1%. During 2023, we recorded $11.9 million of income tax expense related to certain federal, state and foreign taxes which reflected an effective tax rate of 25.8%. The increase in the effective tax rate is primarily due to the limitation of executive compensation deductions related to executive compensation, primarily driven by the stock price award program. See Note 10, “Stock Based Compensation,” to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information.
Previous wording
As of December 29, 2023 and December 30, 2022, we had $21.0 million and $30.3 million, respectively, of cash, and $32.7 million,and $59.7 million, respectively, outstanding under our Credit Facility, net of deferred debt costs. We currently believe that available funds, including the cash on hand and funds available for borrowing under our Credit Facility, and cash flows generated by operations will be enough to fund our cash requirements, including working capital, debt payments, lease obligations and capital expenditures for at least the next twelve months and beyond. We may decide to raise additional funds in order to fund expansion, to develop new or further enhance products and services, to respond to competitive pressures, or to acquire complementary businesses or technologies. There is no assurance that additional financing would be available when needed or desired.
Current wording
As of December 27, 2024 and December 29, 2023, we had $16.4 million and $21.0 million, respectively, of cash, and $12.7 million and $32.7 million, respectively, outstanding under our Credit Facility, net of deferred debt costs. We currently believe that available funds, including the cash on hand and funds available for borrowing under our Credit Facility, and cash flows generated by operations will be enough to fund our cash requirements, including working capital, debt payments, lease obligations and capital expenditures for at least the next twelve months and beyond. We may decide to raise additional funds in order to fund expansion, to develop new or further enhance products and services, to respond to competitive pressures, or to acquire complementary businesses or technologies. There is no assurance that additional financing would be available when needed or desired.
Previous wording
Net cash provided by operating activities was $37.4 million in 2023, as compared to $58.9 million in 2022. In 2023, the net cash provided by operating activities was primarily due to net income adjusted for non-cash items, partially offset by a decrease in the income tax liabilities and contract liabilities and an increase in accounts receivable. In 2022, the net cash provided by operating activities was primarily due to net income adjusted for non-cash items and an increase in the income tax liabilities, partially offset by the decrease in accrued liabilities and other accruals.
Current wording
Net cash provided by operating activities was $47.7 million in 2024, as compared to $37.4 million in 2023. In 2024, the net cash provided by operating activities was primarily due to net income adjusted for non-cash items, partially offset by increases in accounts receivable and contract assets. In 2023, the net cash provided by operating activities was primarily due to net income adjusted for non-cash items, partially offset by increases in accounts receivable and contract assets and decreases in accrued liabilities, other accruals and income taxes payable.
Previous wording
Net cash used in investing activities was $4.1 million in 2023, as compared to $4.7 million in 2022. During both periods, cash flows used in investing activities primarily related to investments for the development of our Hackett Connect Executive Advisory member platform and continued development of our QL benchmark and DTP technologies.
Current wording
Net cash used in investing activities was $10.6 million in 2024, as compared to $4.1 million in 2023. During the third quarter of 2024, the Company acquired LeewayHertz for $6.5 million, net of cash acquired. See Note 1 , “Basis of Presentation and General Information”, to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information. During both periods, cash flows used in investing activities primarily related to investments for the development of our Hackett Connect Executive Advisory member platform and continued development of our QL benchmark, DTP technologies and our Gen AI platform, AI XPLR.
Previous wording
Net cash used in financing activities was $42.6 million in 2023, as compared to $69.7 million in 2022. The usage of cash in 2023 was primarily related to the net pay down of our Credit Facility $27.0 million, dividend payments of $12.0 million and employee net vesting related tax withholding requirements of $3.8 million. The usage of cash in 2022 was primarily related to the repurchase of Company common stock under our share repurchase program of $116.6 million, inclusive of the tender offer transaction related costs, employee net vesting related tax withholding requirements of $3.2 million, and dividend payments of $10.4 million, partially offset by the $60.0 million drawdown of our Credit Facility.
Current wording
Net cash used in financing activities was $41.7 million in 2024, as compared to $42.6 million in 2023. The usage of cash in 2024, primarily related to the repayment of borrowings of $20.0 million related to our Credit Facility, dividend payments of $12.1 million, employee net vesting related tax withholding requirements of $4.1 million and the repurchase of $6.4 million of the Company's common stock. The usage of cash in 2023 was primarily related to the net pay down of our Credit Facility $27.0 million, dividend payments of $12.0 million and employee net vesting related tax withholding requirements of $3.8 million.
Previous wording
On November 7, 2022, we amended and restated our credit agreement in order to extend the maturity date of our Credit Facility and provide the Company with an additional $55 million in borrowing capacity, for an aggregate amount of up to $100 million. See Note 8, “Credit Facility,” to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information. As of December 29, 2023, we had $32.7 million of outstanding borrowings, net of deferred debt costs, under our revolving line of credit, leaving us with borrowing capacity of approximately $67.0 million. See Note 8 for more information.
Current wording
On November 7, 2022, we amended and restated our credit agreement in order to extend the maturity date of our Credit Facility and provide the Company with an additional $55.0 million in borrowing capacity, for an aggregate amount of up to $100 million. See Note 8, “Credit Facility,” to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information.
Previous wording
There were no material capital commitments as of December 29, 2023. The following table summarizes our future principal payments under our future Credit Facility and lease commitments under our non-cancelable operating leases as of December 29, 2023 (in thousands):
Current wording
The following table summarizes our future principal payments under our future Credit Facility and lease commitments under our non-cancelable operating leases as of December 27, 2024 (in thousands):
Previous wording
(1) Excludes interest charges on borrowings, the fee on the amount of any unused commitment that we may be obligated to pay under our revolving Credit Facility as such amounts vary and the deferred debt costs. See Note 8, in the notes to consolidated financial statements for additional information.
Current wording
(1) Excludes interest charges on borrowings, the fee on the amount of any unused commitment that we may be obligated to pay under our revolving Credit Facility as such amounts vary and the deferred debt costs. See Note 8, “Credit Facility”, to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information
Previous wording
Cash paid for income taxes was $13.3 million and $4.6 million for the years ended December 29, 2023, and December 30, 2022, respectively. The increase in the income tax payments related to the 2021 tax deduction for the exercise of the 2.9 million SARs. As a result of the transaction, the Company carried an income tax receivable on its Consolidated Balance Sheet in 2022 until the fourth quarter of 2022. See Note 9, “Income Taxes” to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information.
Current wording
Cash paid for income taxes was $11.6 million and $13.3 million for the years ended December 27, 2024, and December 29, 2023, respectively. See Note 9, "Income Taxes," to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information.
Previous wording
During the fiscal year 2023, our Board of Directors approved four quarterly dividends payments of $0.11 per share totaling $12.0 million. We expect dividend payments in 2024 to be approximately $12.0 million.
Current wording
During the fiscal year 2024, our Board of Directors approved four quarterly dividends payments of $0.11 per share totaling $12.1 million. Subsequent to December 27, 2024, our Board of Directors approved a 9% increase in the dividend, increasing the annual dividend amount to $0.48 per share. We expect dividend payments in 2025 to be approximately $13.2 million.
Previous wording
We have an ongoing authorization from our Board of Directors to repurchase shares of our common stock. During 2023, we repurchased 37 thousand shares of common stock from members of our Board of Directors at an average price per share of $18.96, for a total cost of $0.7 million. As of December 29, 2023, we had $13.9 million share repurchase authorization remaining. Subsequent to fiscal year end, we repurchased 43 thousand shares of the Company’s common stock from members of our Board of Directors for a total of $1.1 million, or $24.34 per share. Including these repurchases, we had approximately $12.9 million available for future repurchases under the plan as of March 1, 2024.
Current wording
We have an ongoing authorization from our Board of Directors to repurchase shares of our common stock. During 2024, we repurchased 43 thousand shares of common stock from members of our Board of Directors at an average price per share of $24.34, for a total cost of $1.1 million. In addition, we repurchased 182 thousand shares of common stock on the open market at an average price per share of $29.46, for a total cost of $5.4 million. As of December 27, 2024, we had $27.5 million share repurchase authorization remaining. Subsequent to fiscal year end, we repurchased 50 thousand shares of the Company’s common stock from our Chief Financial Officer and members of our Board of Directors for a total of $1.6 million, or $30.78 per share. Including these repurchases, we had approximately $26.0 million available for future repurchases under the plan.
Previous wording
Shares purchased under the repurchase plan do not include shares withheld to satisfy withholding tax obligations. These withheld shares are never issued and in lieu of issuing the shares, taxes were paid on our employee’s behalf. In 2023, 0.2 million shares were withheld and not issued for a cost of $3.8 million, bringing the total cumulative cash used to repurchase stock in 2023 to $4.5 million. In 2022, 0.2 million shares were withheld and not issued for a cost of $3.2 million, bringing the total cumulative cash used to repurchase stock in 2022 to $119.8 million, including the tender offer transaction and related transaction fees.
Current wording
Shares purchased under the repurchase plan do not include shares withheld to satisfy withholding tax obligations. These withheld shares are never issued and in lieu of issuing the shares, taxes were paid on our employee’s behalf. In 2024, 0.2 million shares were withheld and not issued for a cost of $4.1 million, bringing the total cumulative cash used to repurchase stock in 2024 to $10.5 million. In 2023, 0.2 million shares were withheld and not issued for a cost of $3.8 million, bringing the total cumulative cash used to repurchase stock in 2023 to $4.5 million.
Previous wording
For discussion of recently issued accounting standards, see Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Current wording
For discussion of recently issued accounting standards, see Note 1, “Basis of Presentation and General Information”, to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information.
Rearranged current paragraphs (1)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
As of December 27, 2024, we had $13.0 million of outstanding borrowings, excluding deferred debt costs, under our revolving line of credit, leaving us with borrowing capacity of approximately $87.0 million. See Note 8, “Credit Facility,” to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information.