Acuity Brands, Inc. - AYI STOCK NEWS

Acuity Brands (NYSE: AYI) announced the launch of Acuity Anywhere, a new hybrid work model that classifies jobs as Onsite, Flexible, or Remote. This initiative aims to enhance talent retention and recruitment while driving the company's digital transformation. The model prioritizes customer delivery, productivity, and work/life balance, allowing associates to work from various locations. Acuity also increased benefits, including vacation and parental leave. The company will continually adapt this model to meet evolving needs, thereby supporting its sustainability initiatives.

Acuity Brands (NYSE: AYI) has announced a definitive agreement to acquire ams OSRAM’s North American Digital Systems business, enhancing its LED driver portfolio. This strategic acquisition is expected to close in summer 2021 and will expand Acuity's capabilities in lighting technology. The North American DS business manufactures key components including LED drivers and electronic ballasts, contributing to Acuity's goal of leading the industry in embedded lighting technology. The acquisition includes approximately 1,100 associates across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

Acuity Brands, Inc. (NYSE: AYI) announced the release of its fiscal 2021 third-quarter earnings on July 1, 2021, at 7:00 a.m. ET, followed by an investor update at 9:00 a.m. ET. Neil M. Ashe, the CEO, will lead the event with the leadership team. Registration opens on June 1, 2021, via the Company's Investor Relations website. Acuity Brands specializes in industrial technology, particularly in building management and lighting systems, aiming for growth through innovative products and effective market strategies.

Acuity Brands has appointed Peter Han as President of its new Intelligent Spaces Group (ISG), previously known as the Intelligent Buildings business. The move aims to enhance growth in software and AI solutions. The ISG now includes Atrius® and Distech Controls™, along with an acquisition of Rockpile Ventures, a Seattle-based AI startup accelerator. With leaders like Han and Dinesh Narayanan, ISG is positioned to innovate by integrating AI technologies with Acuity's existing infrastructure. This strategic shift is expected to make spaces smarter and more efficient.

Acuity Brands (AYI) reported net sales of $776.6 million for Q2 fiscal 2021, a 5.8% decline from the prior year. Despite lower sales volume, the gross profit margin improved by 170 basis points to 43.4% due to effective cost management and product improvements. Diluted earnings per share rose 20.8% to $1.74. The company achieved carbon neutrality in its operations and reduced its outstanding shares by 9.6% since May 2020. A conference call to discuss these results is scheduled for March 31, 2021.

The Board of Directors of Acuity Brands (NYSE: AYI) has declared a quarterly dividend of 13 cents per share.

This dividend is payable on May 3, 2021, to shareholders of record on April 16, 2021.

Acuity Brands continues to focus on innovative product development to drive growth and improve market share across its segments.

Acuity Brands, Inc. (NYSE: AYI) announced plans to release its fiscal 2021 second-quarter earnings results on March 31, 2021, at 8:00 a.m. ET, followed by a conference call at 10:00 a.m. ET led by CEO Neil M. Ashe. The earnings release and call can be accessed via the Investor Relations section of their website. Acuity Brands is recognized as a market leader in industrial technology, focusing on innovative products and services that enhance productivity and connectivity. The company operates globally with approximately 11,000 employees.

Acuity Brands (NYSE: AYI) has appointed Trevor Palmer as President of its lighting and lighting controls business, effective March 1, 2021. With over 27 years in the building technology sector, Palmer will focus on driving innovation, growing market share, and executing digital transformation. His leadership is expected to enhance the company's performance and deepen engagement with their Independent Sales Network. Richard Reece is promoted to Executive VP and Vice Chairman of ABL, supporting Palmer in the business transitions.

PURO UV Disinfection Lighting, utilizing Violet Defense® technology, reported a significant achievement in 2020, marked by a 1,500% sales growth in the US. The company has forged strategic partnerships, including a new alliance with Acuity Brands (NYSE: AYI), enhancing access to patented UV technology. An independent research study confirmed that PURO units are 99.99% effective against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, reinforcing their market leadership. PURO offers various products, including Helo units and Sentry mobile units, utilized across diverse sectors such as healthcare and hospitality.