Core & Main, Inc.

Previous wording

Core & Main is a leader in advancing reliable infrastructure with local service, nationwide. As a leading specialty distributor with a focus on water, wastewater, storm drainage and fire protection products, and related services, we provide solutions to municipalities, private water companies and professional contractors across municipal, non-residential and residential end markets, nationwide. Our products and services are used primarily in the maintenance, repair, replacement and new construction of water, wastewater, storm drainage and fire protection infrastructure. We reach customers through a nationwide network of approximately 335 branches across 48 states. Our products include pipes, valves, fittings, storm drainage products, fire protection products, meter products and other products for use in the construction, maintenance and repair of water and wastewater infrastructure systems. We complement our core products through additional offerings, including smart meter systems, fusible HDPE piping solutions, specifically engineered treatment plant products and geosynthetics and erosion control products. Our services and capabilities allow for integration with customers and form part of their sourcing and procurement function.

Current wording

Core & Main, Inc. (“Core & Main” and collectively with its subsidiaries, the “Company”) is a leading specialty distributor dedicated to advancing reliable infrastructure with local service, nationwide. With a focus on water, wastewater, storm drainage and fire protection products, and related services, we provide solutions to municipalities, private water companies and professional contractors across municipal, non-residential and residential end markets, nationwide. Our specialty products and services are used primarily in the maintenance, repair, replacement and new construction of water, wastewater, storm drainage and fire protection infrastructure. We reach customers through a network of over 370 branches across 49 U.S. states. Our products include pipes, valves, fittings, storm drainage products, fire protection products, meter products and other products. We complement our core products through additional offerings, including smart meter systems, fusible high-density polyethylene (“fusible HDPE “) piping solutions, specifically engineered treatment plant products, geosynthetics and erosion control products.

Previous wording

The Company is a holding company and its primary material assets are its direct and indirect ownership interest in Holdings and deferred tax assets associated with this ownership. Holdings has no operations and no material assets of its own other than its indirect ownership interest in Core & Main LP, a Florida limited partnership, the legal entity that conducts the operations of Core & Main. Because Core & Main is the general partner of Holdings, it operates and controls all of the business and affairs of Holdings and, through Holdings and its subsidiaries, conducts our business. Accordingly, the consolidated financial information of Core & Main presented herein, including the accompanying audited consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, includes the consolidated financial information of Holdings and its subsidiaries. The Partnership Interests in Holdings held by the Continuing Limited Partners is reflected as non-controlling interests in Core & Main’s consolidated financial statements.

Current wording

The Company is a holding company that indirectly owns Core & Main LP through its ownership interest in Core & Main Holdings, LP (“Holdings”). Core & Main’s primary material assets are its direct and indirect ownership interest in Holdings and deferred tax assets associated with such ownership. The consolidated financial information of Core & Main presented herein, including the accompanying audited consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, includes the consolidated financial information of Holdings and its subsidiaries. The limited partner interests of Holdings (“Partnership Interests”) not held by Core & Main are reflected as non-controlling interests in the condensed consolidated financial statements.

Previous wording

Our fiscal year is a 52- or 53-week period ending on the Sunday nearest to January 31 st. Quarters within the fiscal year include 13-week periods, unless a fiscal year includes a 53 rd week, in which case the fourth quarter of the fiscal year will be a 14-week period. The fiscal years ended January 28, 2024, January 29, 2023 and January 30, 2022 included 52 weeks. The next fiscal year ending February 2, 2025 (“fiscal 2024”) will include 53 weeks.

Current wording

Our fiscal year is a 52- or 53-week period ending on the Sunday nearest to January 31 st. Quarters within the fiscal year include 13-week periods, unless a fiscal year includes a 53 rd week, in which case the fourth quarter of the fiscal year will be a 14-week period. The fiscal year ended February 2, 2025 (“fiscal 2024”) included 53 weeks and the fiscal years ended January 28, 2024 (“fiscal 2023”) and January 29, 2023 (“fiscal 2022”) included 52 weeks. The next fiscal year ending February 1, 2026 (“fiscal 2025”) will include 52 weeks.

Previous wording

On February 9, 2024, Core & Main LP amended the terms of the credit agreement governing the senior asset-based revolving credit facility in order to extend the maturity of the Senior ABL Credit Facility from July 27, 2026 to February 9, 2029.

Current wording

On February 9, 2024, Core & Main LP amended the terms of the Senior ABL Credit Facility (as defined in Note 6 to the audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K) in order to extend the maturity from July 27, 2026 to February 9, 2029.

Previous wording

On February 9, 2024, Core & Main LP entered into an incremental $750 million term loan in conjunction with the 2031 Senior Term Loan, which matures on February 9, 2031. Proceeds of the 2031 Senior Term Loan were used or may be used in the future to, among other things, (a) repay total outstanding borrowings under the Senior ABL Credit Facility, (b) invest in organic growth and productivity initiatives, mergers and acquisitions, share repurchases or other initiatives aligned with Core & Main’s capital allocation strategy and (c) pay related fees, premiums and expenses.

Current wording

On February 9, 2024, Core & Main LP entered into a $750 million senior term loan, which matures on February 9, 2031 (the “2031 Senior Term Loan”). Proceeds of the 2031 Senior Term Loan were used to, among other things, (a) repay total outstanding borrowings under the Senior ABL Credit Facility, (b) invest in organic growth and productivity initiatives, M&A, share repurchases or other initiatives aligned with Core & Main’s capital allocation strategy and (c) pay related fees, premiums and expenses.

Previous wording

On February 12, 2024, Core & Main LP entered into an interest rate swap that has a starting notional amount of $750 million that increases to $1,500 million on July 27, 2026 through the instrument maturity on July 27, 2028. The instrument is intended to reduce the Company’s exposure to variable interest rates under the 2031 Senior Term Loan.

Current wording

On February 12, 2024, Core & Main LP entered into an interest rate swap that has a starting notional amount of $750 million that increases to $1,500 million on July 27, 2026 through the instrument maturity on July 27, 2028. The instrument is intended to reduce the Company’s exposure to variable interest rates under the senior term loan facilities.

Previous wording

Refer to Note 15 to the audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a description of the amendment to the Senior ABL Credit Facility, the 2031 Senior Term Loan and the interest rate swap.

Current wording

Refer to Note 6 to the audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further discussion of the amendment to the Senior ABL Credit Facility, the 2028 Senior Term Loan, the 2031 Senior Term Loan and the interest rate swap.

Previous wording

Historically, demand for our products has been closely tied to municipal infrastructure spending, non-residential construction and residential construction in the U.S. We estimate that, based on fiscal 2023 net sales, our exposure by end market was approximately 42% municipal, 38% non-residential and 20% residential. Infrastructure spending and the non-residential and residential construction markets are subject to cyclical market pressures. Municipal demand has been relatively steady over the long term due to the consistent and immediate need to replace broken infrastructure; however, activity levels are subject to the availability of funding for municipal projects. Non-residential and residential construction activities are primarily driven by availability of credit, interest rates, general economic conditions, consumer confidence and other factors that are beyond our control. The length and magnitude of these cycles have varied over time and by market. Cyclicality can also have an impact on the products we procure for our customers or our related services, as further discussed under “—Price Fluctuations” below. Interest rate increases in fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2023 slowed home buying and new lot development, which was a contributing factor to a decline in the residential end market compared with the prior year.

Current wording

Historically, demand for our products has been tied to municipal infrastructure spending, non-residential construction and residential construction in the U.S. We estimate that, based on fiscal 2024 net sales, our exposure by end market was approximately 42% municipal, 38% non-residential and 20% residential. Infrastructure spending and the non-residential and residential construction markets are subject to cyclical market pressures. Municipal demand has been relatively steady over the long term due to the consistent and immediate need to replace broken infrastructure; however, activity levels are subject to the availability of funding for municipal projects. Non-residential and residential construction activities are primarily driven by availability of credit, interest rates, general economic conditions, consumer confidence and other factors that are beyond our control. The length and magnitude of these cycles have varied over time and by market. Cyclicality can also have an impact on the products we procure for our customers or our related services, as further discussed under “—Price Fluctuations” below. Interest rate increases in fiscal 2023 slowed home buying and new lot development, which was a contributing factor to a decline in the residential end market in fiscal 2023. In the second half of 2024 certain benchmark interest rates were cut, if interest rates continue to decline this may result in increased levels of activity in the U.S. residential and non-residential construction markets.

Previous wording

In November 2021, the IIJA was signed into law, which includes $55 billion to invest in water infrastructure across the U.S. In the coming years, including as a result of the IIJA, we expect increased federal infrastructure investment to have a core focus on the upgrade, repair and replacement of municipal waterworks systems and to address demographic shifts and serve the growing population. We believe these dynamics, coupled with expanding municipal budgets, create the backdrop for a favorable funding environment and accelerated investment in projects that will benefit our business.

Current wording

In November 2021, the IIJA was signed into law, which includes $55 billion to invest in water infrastructure across the U.S. In January 2025, President Trump issued an executive order to pause funding disbursements under IIJA; however this funding pause was not related to funding for water or road projects. While this pause is temporary, a more permanent reduction in IIJA funding may have an adverse effect on our business or financial condition. In the coming years, including as a result of the IIJA, we expect, but cannot provide any assurance that, increased federal infrastructure investment to have a core focus on the upgrade, repair and replacement of municipal waterworks systems and to address demographic shifts and serve the growing population. We believe these dynamics, coupled with expanding municipal budgets, create the backdrop for a favorable funding environment and accelerated investment in projects that will benefit our business.

Previous wording

Our operating results within a fiscal year are typically impacted by seasonality. Although weather patterns affect our operating results throughout the year, colder weather and shorter daylight hours historically have reduced construction, maintenance and repair activity. As a result, net sales are typically lower in our first and fourth fiscal quarters, especially in northern geographic regions. Abnormal levels of precipitation may negatively impact our operating results as it may result in the delay of construction projects. Our operating results may also be adversely affected by hurricanes, which typically occur during our third fiscal quarter. Our cash flows from operating activities are typically lower during the first and second fiscal quarters due to investment in working capital and annual incentive compensation payments and are typically higher during the third and fourth fiscal quarters due to cash inflows associated with receivable collections and reduced inventory purchases.

Current wording

Our operating results within a fiscal year are typically impacted by seasonality. Colder weather and shorter daylight hours historically have reduced construction, maintenance and repair activity. As a result, net sales are typically lower in our first and fourth fiscal quarters, especially in northern geographic regions. Abnormal levels of precipitation may negatively impact our operating results as it may result in the delay of construction projects across fiscal quarters. Our operating results may also be adversely affected by hurricanes, which typically occur during our third fiscal quarter. Our cash flows from operating activities are typically lower during the first and second fiscal quarters due to investment in working capital and annual incentive compensation payments and are typically higher during the third and fourth fiscal quarters due to cash inflows associated with receivable collections and reduced inventory purchases.

Previous wording

The costs to procure the products we sell are historically volatile and subject to fluctuations arising from changes in supply and demand, national and international economic conditions, labor and material costs, competition, market speculation, government regulation, weather events, trade policies and periodic delays in the delivery of our products. If we are able to pass through price increases to our customers, our net sales will increase; conversely, during periods of deflation, our customer pricing may decrease to remain competitive, resulting in decreased net sales. During fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2021, we experienced supply chain disruption that contributed to significant price inflation and product surcharges with respect to certain products we sell. The supply chain disruption was due to several factors, including, but not limited to, unpredictable lead times and delays from our suppliers, labor availability, global logistics and the availability of raw materials, in part due to the conflict in Ukraine that limited product availability and further exacerbated the effects of inflation. In fiscal 2023, we saw improvements in the supply chain and more predictable lead times for certain products, but for other products the supply chain remained constrained. This led to price stability in fiscal 2023 compared to the price inflation we experienced during fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2021. Additional supply chain disruptions may result in increases in product costs which we may not be able to pass on to our customers, loss of sales due to lack of product availability or potential customer claims from the inability to provide products in accordance with contractual terms. Greater product availability from supply chain improvements may lead to increased competition that may result in price and volume declines. We continue to proactively monitor our supply chain and the resulting price impacts.

Current wording

The costs to procure the products we sell are historically volatile and subject to fluctuations arising from changes in supply and demand, national and international economic conditions, labor and material costs, competition, market speculation, government regulation, weather events, trade policies and periodic delays in the delivery of our products. If we are able to pass through price increases to our customers, our net sales will increase; conversely, during periods of deflation, our customer pricing may decrease to remain competitive, resulting in decreased net sales. During fiscal 2022, we experienced supply chain disruption that contributed to significant price inflation and product surcharges with respect to certain products we sell. The supply chain disruption was due to several factors, including, but not limited to, unpredictable lead times and delays from our suppliers, labor availability, global logistics and the availability of raw materials. In fiscal 2023, we saw improvements in the supply chain and more predictable lead times for certain products, but for other products the supply chain remained constrained. This led to price stability in fiscal 2023 compared to the price inflation we experienced during fiscal 2022. In fiscal 2024, certain suppliers and product lines experienced greater product availability that slightly lowered selling prices for these product lines. Additional supply chain disruptions may result in increases in product costs which we may not be able to pass on to our customers, loss of sales due to lack of product availability or potential customer claims from the inability to provide products in accordance with contractual terms. Greater product availability from supply chain improvements may lead to increased competition that may result in price and volume declines. We continue to monitor all of these factors and the resulting price impacts. In addition, the cost of products we purchase and sell may be impacted by the imposition of additional tariffs on imported goods from several geographic regions.

Previous wording

We are also exposed to fluctuations in costs for petroleum as we distribute a substantial portion of our products by truck. Petroleum prices have fluctuated as a result of the conflict in Ukraine and other factors. In addition, we are exposed to fluctuations in prices for imported products due to logistical challenges and changes in labor, fuel, shipping container and other importation-related costs. We may also face price fluctuations on other products due to constrained labor availability and manufacturing capacity of our suppliers. Our ability to reflect these changes, in a timely manner, in our customer pricing may impact our financial performance.

Current wording

We are also exposed to fluctuations in costs for petroleum as we distribute a substantial portion of our products by truck. In addition, we are exposed to fluctuations in prices for imported products due to logistical challenges and changes in labor, fuel, shipping container and other importation-related costs. We may also face price fluctuations on other products due to constrained labor availability and manufacturing capacity of our suppliers. Our ability to reflect these changes, in a timely manner, in our customer pricing may impact our financial performance.

Previous wording

Certain of our indebtedness, including borrowings underthe 2028 Senior Term Loanandthe Senior ABL Credit Facility, are subject to variable rates of interest and expose us to interest rate risk. The 2028 Senior Term Loan and the Senior ABL Credit Facility each bear interest based on term secured overnight financing rate (“Term SOFR”). If interest rates increase, our debt service obligations on our variable-rate indebtedness will increase and our net income would decrease, even though the amount borrowed under the facilities remains the same. As of January 28, 2024, we had $1,893 million of outstanding variable-rate debt. On February 9, 2024, Core & Main LP incurred $750 million of incremental outstanding variable-rate debt in the form of the 2031 Senior Term Loan. We seek to mitigate our exposure to interest rate volatility through the entry into interest rate swap instruments, such as our interest rate swap, associated with borrowings under the 2028 Senior Term Loan, which effectively converts $900 million of our variable rate debt to fixed rate debt, with notional amount decreases to $800 million on July 27, 2024, and $700 million on July 27, 2025 through the instrument maturity on July 27, 2026. On February 12, 2024, Core & Main LP entered into an interest rate swap that has a starting notional amount of $750 million that increases to $1,500 million on July 27, 2026 through the instrument maturity on July 27, 2028. Despite these efforts, unfavorable movement in interest rates may further result in higher interest expense and cash payments.

Current wording

Certain of our indebtedness, including borrowings underthe Senior Term Loan Credit Facility (as defined in Note 6 to the audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K)andthe Senior ABL Credit Facility, are subject to variable rates of interest and expose us to interest rate risk. The Senior Term Loan Credit Facility and the Senior ABL Credit Facility each bear interest based on term secured overnight financing rate (“Term SOFR”). If interest rates increase, our debt service obligations on our variable-rate indebtedness will increase and our net income would decrease, even though the amount borrowed under the facilities remains the same. As of February 2, 2025, we had $2,283 million of outstanding variable-rate debt. We seek to mitigate our exposure to interest rate volatility through the entry into interest rate swap instruments, such as our interest rate swap, associated with borrowings under the Senior Term Loan Credit Facility, which effectively converts $800 million of our variable rate debt to fixed rate debt, with notional amount decreases to $700 million on July 27, 2025 through the instrument maturity on July 27, 2026. On February 12, 2024, Core & Main LP entered into an additional interest rate swap, associated with borrowings under the Senior Term Loan Credit Facility, that has a starting notional amount of $750 million that increases to $1,500 million on July 27, 2026 through the instrument maturity on July 27, 2028. Despite these efforts, unfavorable movement in interest rates may further result in higher interest expense and cash payments.

Previous wording

In addition to our organic growth strategy, we opportunistically pursue strategic asset and business acquisitions to grow our business. Below is a summary of the acquisitions that closed in fiscal 2023, fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2021 with an aggregate transaction value of $244 million, $124 million and $174 million, subject to working capital adjustments, respectively. In fiscal 2024, the Company acquired all of the outstanding shares of Dana Kepner Company LLC and associated entities and acquired certain assets and assumed certain liabilities of Eastern Supply Inc. and a related entity as further described in Note 15 to the audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Current wording

In addition to our organic growth strategy, we opportunistically pursue strategic asset and business acquisitions to grow our business. Below is a summary of the acquisitions that closed in fiscal 2024 (the “Fiscal 2024 Acquisitions”), fiscal 2023 (the “Fiscal 2023 Acquisitions”) and fiscal 2022 (the “Fiscal 2022 Acquisitions”)with an aggregate transaction value of $769 million, $244 million and $124 million, subject to working capital adjustments, respectively.

Previous wording

•Fire protection products primarily include fire protection pipe, sprinkler heads and devices as well as custom fabrication services.

Current wording

•Fire protection products primarily include fire protection pipe, sprinkler heads, fittings, valves and devices as well as custom fabrication services.

Previous wording

Gross profit represents the difference between the product cost inclusive of material costs from suppliers (net of earned rebates and discounts and including the cost of inbound freight), labor and overhead costs and depreciation and the net sale price to our customers. Gross profit may be impacted by the time between changes in supplier costs, tariffs and changes in our customer pricing. Gross profit may not be comparable to those of other companies, as other companies may include all of the costs related to their distribution network in cost of sales.

Current wording

Gross profit represents the difference between the product cost inclusive of material costs from suppliers (net of earned rebates and discounts and including the cost of inbound freight), labor and overhead costs and depreciation and the net sale price to our customers. Gross profit may be impacted by the time between changes in supplier costs and changes in our customer pricing. Gross profit may not be comparable to those of other companies, as other companies may include all of the costs related to their distribution network in cost of sales.

Previous wording

Operating expenses are primarily comprised of selling, general and administrative costs, which include personnel expenses (salaries, wages, incentive compensation, associate benefits and payroll taxes), rent, insurance, utilities, professional fees, outbound freight, fuel and repair and maintenance.

Current wording

Operating expenses are primarily comprised of selling, general and administrative costs, which include personnel expenses (salaries, wages, incentive compensation, benefits and payroll taxes), rent, insurance, utilities, professional fees, outbound freight, fuel and repair and maintenance.

Previous wording

Net income attributable to Core & Main, Inc. represents net income less income attributable to non-controlling interests. Non-controlling interests represent owners of Partnership Interests of Holdings other than Core & Main.

Current wording

Net income attributable to Core & Main, Inc. represents net income less income attributable to non-controlling interests. Non-controlling interests represent owners of Partnership Interests of Holdings other than Core & Main, Inc.

Previous wording

Net sales forfiscal 2023 increased $51 million, or 0.8%, to $6,702 million compared with $6,651 million forfiscal 2022. The increase in net sales was primarily attributable to higher selling prices and acquisitions partially offset by a reduction in volume from comparably lower end-market volumes. Net sales declines for pipes, valves & fittings were due to lower end-market volumes partially offset by higher selling prices and acquisitions. Net sales growth for storm drainage products benefited from higher selling prices, volume growth and acquisitions. Net sales for fire protection products declined due to lower selling prices and lower volume partially offset by acquisitions. Net sales of meter products benefited from higher selling prices, higher volumes due to an increasing adoption of smart meter technology by municipalities, acquisitions and an improving supply chain.

Current wording

Net sales forfiscal 2024 increased $739 million, or 11.0%, to $7,441 million compared with $6,702 million forfiscal 2023. Net sales increased primarily due to acquisitions, higher volumes and contributions from the 53rd selling week in the current year partially offset by slightly lower selling prices. Net sales increased for pipes, valves & fittings due to acquisitions partially offset by slightly lower selling prices. Net sales increasedfor storm drainage due to acquisitions and our ability to drive the adoption of advanced storm water management systems. Net sales for fire protection products declined due to lower selling prices and lower end-market volumes partially offset by acquisitions. Net sales of meter products benefited fromour ability to drive the adoption of smart meter technology through municipalities, increased product availability and acquisitions.

Previous wording

Gross profit forfiscal 2023 increased $23 million, or 1.3%, to $1,818 million compared with $1,795 million forfiscal 2022. Gross profit increased due to an increase in net sales and an increase in gross profit as a percentage of net sales. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales forfiscal 2023 was 27.1% compared with 27.0% forfiscal 2022. The overall increase in gross profit as a percentage of net sales was primarily attributable to execution of our gross margin initiatives partially offset by normalization of larger prior year benefits from strategic inventory investments during an inflationary environment.

Current wording

Gross profit for fiscal 2024 increased $162 million, or 8.9%, to $1,980 million compared with $1,818 million for fiscal 2023. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales for fiscal 2024 was 26.6% compared with 27.1% for fiscal 2023. The overall decrease in gross profit as a percentage of net sales was primarily attributable to larger prior year benefits from strategic inventory investments during an inflationary period partially offset by favorable impacts from the execution of our gross margin initiatives and accretive acquisitions.

Previous wording

Depreciation and amortization (“D&A”) expense forfiscal 2023 was $147 million compared with $140 million during fiscal 2022. The increase was attributable to amortization related to recent acquisitions partially offset by lower amortization on existing customer relationship intangible assets.

Current wording

Depreciation and amortization (“D&A”) expense forfiscal 2024 was$183 million compared with$147 million during fiscal 2023. The increase was primarily attributable to recent acquisitions.

Previous wording

Operating income forfiscal 2023 decreased $35 million, or 4.5%, to $740 million compared with $775 million during fiscal 2022. The decrease in operating income was attributable to higher SG&A expense partially offset by higher gross profit.

Current wording

Operating income forfiscal 2024 decreased $21 million, or 2.8%, to$719 million compared with$740 million during fiscal 2023. Thedecrease in operating income was primarily attributable to higher SG&A and D&A expenses partially offset by higher gross profit.

Previous wording

The provision for income taxes forfiscal 2023 andfiscal 2022 was $128 million in each period. For fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2022, our effective tax rates were 19.4% and 18.1%, respectively. The effective tax rate for each period reflects only the portion of net income that is attributable to taxable entities. The increase in the effective tax rate was attributable to exchanges of Partnership Interests by non-controlling interest holders that increased the allocation of net income to taxable entities.

Current wording

The provision for income taxes forfiscal 2024 increased $15 million, or 11.7%, to $143 million compared with$128 million during fiscal 2023. The increase was primarily attributable to an increase in the effective tax rate partially offset by lower operating income. For fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2023, our effective tax rates were 24.8% and 19.4%, respectively. The effective tax rate for each period reflects only the portion of net income that is attributable to taxable entities. The increase in the effective tax rate was primarily attributable to a decrease in the non-controlling interest ownership that increased the allocation of net income to taxable entities.

Previous wording

Net income attributable to non-controlling interests forfiscal 2023 decreased $55 million, or 25.6%, to $160 million compared with $215 million for fiscal 2022. The decrease was attributable to exchanges of Partnership Interests by non-controlling interest holders and an 8.6% decline in net income.

Current wording

Net income attributable to non-controlling interests forfiscal 2024 decreased $137 million to$23 million compared with$160 million forfiscal 2023. Thedecrease was primarily attributable to exchanges of Partnership Interests by non-controlling interest holders and a decline in net income.

Previous wording

Net income attributable to Core & Main, Inc. forfiscal 2023 increased $5 million, or 1.4%, to $371 million compared with $366 million forfiscal 2022. The increase was primarily attributable to a decreased allocation to non-controlling interest holders following exchanges of Partnership Interests partially offset by an 8.6% decline in net income.

Current wording

Net income attributable to Core & Main, Inc. forfiscal 2024 increased $40 million, or 10.8%, to$411 million compared with$371 million forfiscal 2023. The increasewas primarily attributable to a decreased allocation to non-controlling interest holders following exchanges of Partnership Interests partially offset by a decline in net income.

Previous wording

The Class A common stock basic earnings per share forfiscal 2023 decreased 0.5% to $2.15 compared with $2.16 for fiscal 2022. The Class A common stock diluted earnings per share forfiscal 2023 increased 0.9% to $2.15 compared with $2.13 for fiscal 2022. The decrease in basic earnings per share was attributable to higher Class A share counts from exchanges of Partnership Interests partially offset by an increase in net income attributable to Core & Main, Inc. Diluted earnings per share increased due to lower share counts following the Repurchase Transactions partially offset by a decline in net income.

Current wording

The Class A common stock basic earnings per share forfiscal 2024 decreased 0.5% to$2.14 compared with$2.15 forfiscal 2023. The Class A common stock diluted earnings per share forfiscal 2024 decreased 0.9% to $2.13 compared with $2.15 forfiscal 2023. The basic earnings per share decreased due to higher Class A share counts from exchanges of Partnership Interests partially offset by an increase in net income attributable to Core & Main, Inc. Diluted earnings per share decreased due to a decline in net income partially offset by lower share counts following the share repurchase transactions executed throughout fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2024.

Previous wording

Adjusted EBITDA forfiscal 2023 decreased $25 million, or 2.7%, to $910 million compared with $935 million forfiscal 2022. The decrease in Adjusted EBITDAwas primarily attributable to higher SG&A expenses partially offset by higher gross profit. For a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income or net income attributable to Core & Main, Inc., the most comparable GAAP financial metric, as applicable, see “—Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below.

Current wording

Adjusted EBITDA forfiscal 2024 increased $20 million, or 2.2%, to$930 million compared with$910 million forfiscal 2023. Theincrease in Adjusted EBITDAwas primarily attributable to higher gross profit, in part due to contributions from the 53rd selling week, partially offset by higher SG&A expenses. For a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income or net income attributable to Core & Main, Inc., the most comparable GAAP financial metric, as applicable, see “—Non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

Previous wording

Historically, we have financed our liquidity requirements through cash flows from operating activities, borrowings under our credit facilities, issuances of equity and debt securities and working capital management activities. Our principal historical liquidity requirements have been for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions, servicing indebtedness and the Repurchase Transactions.

Current wording

Historically, we have financed our liquidity requirements through cash flows from operating activities, borrowings under our credit facilities, issuances of equity and debt securities and working capital management activities. Our principal historical liquidity requirements have been for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions, servicing indebtedness, share repurchases (including under the Repurchase Program) and the Repurchase Transactions (as defined in Note 1 to the audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K).

Previous wording

As of January 28, 2024, our cash and cash equivalents totaled $1 million. We maintain our cash deposits according to a banking policy that requires diversification across a variety of highly-rated financial institutions. However, this could result in a concentration of cash and cash equivalents across these financial institutions in excess of Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation-insured limits.

Current wording

As of February 2, 2025, our cash and cash equivalents totaled $8 million. We maintain our cash deposits according to a banking policy that requires diversification across a variety of highly-rated financial institutions. However, this could result in a concentration of cash and cash equivalents across these financial institutions in excess of Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation-insured limits.

Previous wording

As of January 28, 2024, we had $430 million outstanding borrowings on our Senior ABL Credit Facility, which provides for borrowings of up to $1,250 million, subject to borrowing base availability. As of January 28, 2024, after giving effect to approximately $16 million of letters of credit issued under the Senior ABL Credit Facility, Core & Main LP would have been able to borrow approximately $804 million under the Senior ABL Credit Facility, subject to borrowing base availability. Our short term debt obligations of $15 million are related to quarterly principal payments on the 2028 Senior Term Loan.

Current wording

As of February 2, 2025, we had $93 million outstanding borrowings on our Senior ABL Credit Facility, which provides for borrowings of up to $1,250 million, subject to borrowing base availability. As of February 2, 2025, after giving effect to approximately $15 million of letters of credit issued under the Senior ABL Credit Facility, Core & Main LP would have been able to borrow approximately $1,142 million under the Senior ABL Credit Facility, subject to borrowing base availability. Our short term debt obligations of $24 million are related to quarterly principal payments on the Senior Term Loan Credit Facility.

Previous wording

We commenced payments under the Tax Receivable Agreements in fiscal 2023, as the Company had a financing cash outflow related to the payment of $5 million under the Tax Receivable Agreements. The annual payments under the Tax Receivable Agreements are expected to increase as a result of exchanges, including those exchanges made as part of the Secondary Offerings completed in fiscal 2023. Payments under the Tax Receivable Agreements are only required to be made to the extent that we realize or are deemed to have realized the benefit of the corresponding tax deductions to reduce payments to federal, state and local taxing authorities. These payments are in an amount that represents 85% of the reduction in payments to federal, state and local taxing authorities. As such, the cash savings from the incremental tax deductions are expected to exceed the payments under the Tax Receivable Agreements over the life of these arrangements. Based on the anticipated filing date of income tax returns and contractual payment terms in the Tax Receivable Agreements, we expect these payments to occur two fiscal years after we utilize the corresponding tax deductions. The timing of payments associated with the Tax Receivable Agreements are summarized below:

Current wording

In fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2023, the Company had a financing cash outflow related to the payment of $11 million and $5 million, respectively, under the Tax Receivable Agreements. The annual payments under the Tax Receivable Agreements are expected to increase as a result of exchanges, including those exchanges made as part of the Secondary Offerings (as defined in Note 1 to the audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K) completed in fiscal 2023. Payments under the Tax Receivable Agreements are only required to be made to the extent that we realize or are deemed to have realized the benefit of the corresponding tax deductions to reduce payments to federal, state and local taxing authorities. These payments are in an amount that represents 85% of the reduction in payments to federal, state and local taxing authorities. As such, the cash savings from the incremental tax deductions are expected to exceed the payments under the Tax Receivable Agreements over the life of these arrangements. Based on the anticipated filing date of income tax returns and contractual payment terms in the Tax Receivable Agreements, we expect these payments to occur two fiscal years after we utilize the corresponding tax deductions. The timing of payments associated with the Tax Receivable Agreements are summarized below:

Previous wording

Further exchanges by Management Feeder will result in additional tax deductions to us and require additional payables pursuant to Tax Receivable Agreements. The actual amount and timing of the additional payments under the Tax Receivable Agreements will vary depending upon a number of factors as discussed further in Note 7 to the audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Current wording

Further exchanges of Partnership Interest by Management Feeder will result in additional tax deductions to us and require additional payables pursuant to Tax Receivable Agreements. The actual amount and timing of the additional payments under the Tax Receivable Agreements will vary depending upon a number of factors as discussed further in Note 7 to the audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Previous wording

In addition to making distributions to Core & Main, Inc. to fund tax obligations and payments under the Tax Receivable Agreements, in accordance with the Partnership Agreement, Holdings also makes distributions to the Continuing Limited Partners, to fund their income tax obligations with various taxing authorities. The amount of these payments are dependent upon various factors, including the amount of taxable income allocated to them from Holdings, changes in the ownership percentage of the non-controlling interest holders, changes in tax rates and the timing of distributions relative to the corresponding tax year. Tax distributions to non-controlling interest holders were $41 million infiscal 2023. These distributions are expected to decrease in fiscal 2024 as a result of the Secondary Offerings and Repurchase Transactions and the resulting decrease in ownership percentage of the non-controlling interest holders. However, there will be an increase in payments to taxing authorities by Core & Main due to its increased allocation of taxable income following the Secondary Offerings and Repurchase Transactions. Further exchanges by the Continuing Limited Partners may result in lower tax distributions subject to any changes to income before provision to income taxes.

Current wording

In addition to making distributions to Core & Main, Inc. to fund tax obligations and payments under the Tax Receivable Agreements, in accordance with the Partnership Agreement, Holdings also makes distributions to Management Feeder representing the non-controlling interests of Core & Main, Inc. to fund their income tax obligations with various taxing authorities. The amount of these payments are dependent upon various factors, including the amount of taxable income allocated to them from Holdings, changes in the ownership percentage of the non-controlling interest holders, changes in tax rates and the timing of distributions relative to the corresponding tax year. Tax distributions to non-controlling interest holders were$11 million and$41 millionin fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2023, respectively. Further exchanges by Management Feeder may result in lower tax distributions subject to any changes to income before provision to income taxes.

Previous wording

Payments under the Tax Receivable Agreements may be accelerated if we elect an early termination of such Tax Receivable Agreement. An early termination of our obligations, or our successor’s obligations, under such Tax Receivable Agreement to make payments thereunder would be based on certain assumptions, including an assumption that we would have sufficient taxable income to fully utilize all potential future tax benefits that are subject to such Tax Receivable Agreement.

Current wording

Payments under the Tax Receivable Agreements may be accelerated if we elect an early termination in accordance with the terms of the Tax Receivable Agreements or negotiate a settlement of the Tax Receivable Agreements. An early termination or negotiated settlement of our obligations, or our successor’s obligations, under such Tax Receivable Agreement to make payments thereunder would be based on certain assumptions, including an assumption that we would have sufficient taxable income to fully utilize all potential future tax benefits that are subject to such Tax Receivable Agreement.

Previous wording

Additionally, we regularly evaluate our approach to our capital allocation, which may include acquisitions, greenfields, debt reduction (including through open market debt repurchases, negotiated repurchases, other retirements of outstanding debt and opportunistic refinancing of debt), stock repurchases, dividends or other distributions. In fiscal 2023, we completed the Repurchase Transactions for total consideration of $1,344 million. For further details, refer to Note 1 to the audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We may continue to return capital to our shareholders through share repurchases and/or dividends. The execution of these, and other, capital allocation activities may be at the discretion of, and subject to the approval by, our board of directors and will depend on our financial condition, earnings, liquidity and capital requirements, market conditions, level of indebtedness, contractual restrictions, compliance with our debt covenants, restrictions imposed by applicable law, general business conditions and any other factors that our board of directors deems relevant in making any such determination. Therefore, there can be no assurance that we will engage in any or all of these actions or to what amount of capital we will allocate to each option.

Current wording

Additionally, we regularly evaluate our approach to our capital allocation, which may include acquisitions, capital expenditures, greenfields, debt reduction (including through open market debt repurchases, negotiated repurchases, other retirements of outstanding debt and opportunistic refinancing of debt), stock repurchases, dividends, payments on Tax Receivable Agreements or other distributions. Infiscal 2024, we completed $176 million of repurchases of Class A common stock under the Repurchase Program. For further details, refer to Note 1 to the audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We may continue to return capital to our shareholders through share repurchases, including pursuant to the Repurchase Program, or initiating dividend payments. The execution of these, and other, capital allocation activities may be at the discretion of, and subject to the approval by, our board of directors and will depend on our financial condition, earnings, liquidity and capital requirements, market conditions, level of indebtedness, contractual restrictions, compliance with our debt covenants, restrictions imposed by applicable law, general business conditions and any other factors that our board of directors deems relevant in making any such determination. Therefore, there can be no assurance that we will engage in any or all of these actions or to what amount of capital we will allocate to each option.

Previous wording

The execution of certain initiatives under our capital allocation policy may require distributions by Holdings and Core & Main LP. These entities’ ability to make distributions may be limited as a practical matter by our growth plans as well as Core & Main LP’s 2028 Senior Term Loan and Senior ABL Credit Facility. The 2028 Senior Term Loan may require accelerated repayment based upon cash flows generated in excess of operating and investing requirements when Core & Main LP’s net total leverage ratio is greater than or equal to 3.25. In addition, the Senior ABL Credit Facility requires us to comply with a consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio of greater than or equal to 1.00 when availability is less than 10.0% of the lesser of (i) the then applicable borrowing base and (ii) the then aggregate effective commitments under the Senior ABL Credit Facility. Substantially all of Core & Main LP’s assets secure the 2028 Senior Term Loan and the Senior ABL Credit Facility.

Current wording

The execution of certain initiatives under our capital allocation policy may require distributions by Holdings and Core & Main LP. These entities’ ability to make distributions may be limited as a practical matter by our growth plans as well as Core & Main LP’s Senior Term Loan Credit Facility and Senior ABL Credit Facility. The Senior Term Loan Credit Facility may require accelerated repayment based upon cash flows generated in excess of operating and investing requirements when Core & Main LP’s net total leverage ratio(as defined in the agreement governing the Senior Term Loan Credit Facility)is greater than or equal to 3.25. In addition, the Senior ABL Credit Facility requires us to comply with a consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio of greater than or equal to 1.00 when availability is less than 10.0% of the lesser of (i) the then applicable borrowing base and (ii) the then aggregate effective commitments under the Senior ABL Credit Facility. Substantially all of Core & Main LP’s assets secure the Senior Term Loan Credit Facility and the Senior ABL Credit Facility.

Previous wording

Net cash used in investing activities increased by $118 million to $270 million forfiscal 2023 compared with $152 million forfiscal 2022, primarily attributable to a $103 million increase in cash outflows for acquisitions and a $14 million increase in capital expenditures during fiscal 2023.

Current wording

Net cash used in investing activities increased by $518 million to $788 million forfiscal 2024 compared with $270 million forfiscal 2023, primarily attributable to a $510 million increase in cash outflows for acquisitions during fiscal 2024.

Previous wording

Net cash used in financing activities was $975 million forfiscal 2023 compared with $73 million forfiscal 2022. The increase of $902 million was primarily attributed to the cash outflows of $1,344 million for the Repurchase Transactions and a $5 million payment pursuant to the Tax Receivable Agreements. These factors were partially offset by a $430 million increase in net borrowings on the Senior ABL Credit Facility and a $16 million decrease in distributions to non-controlling interest holders during fiscal 2023.

Current wording

Net cash provided by financing activities was $174 million forfiscal 2024 compared with net cash used in financing activities of $975 million forfiscal 2023. The change of $1,149 million was primarily attributed to the $950 million issuance of the 2031 Senior Term Loan, a $1,168 million reduction in outflows related to the Repurchase Transactions and$30 million reduction in distributions to non-controlling interest holders during fiscal 2024. These factors were partially offset by a $766 million decrease in net borrowings on the Senior ABL Credit Facility, $208 million increase in debt payments and $15 million increase in debt issuance costs associated with the debt offerings during fiscal 2024.

Previous wording

Our debt obligations (in millions) through the period covered by this report consist of the following:

Current wording

As of February 2, 2025, our debt obligations (in millions) consist of the following:

Previous wording

(1)Aggregate amount of commitments under the asset-based revolving credit facility of $1,250 million overall, subject to borrowing base availability. There was $430 million outstanding under the Senior ABL Credit Facility as of January 28, 2024.

Current wording

(1)Aggregate amount of commitments under the asset-based revolving credit facility of $1,250 million overall, subject to borrowing base availability. There was $93 million outstanding under the Senior ABL Credit Facility as of February 2, 2025.