Central Garden & Pet (CENT) 10-Q 8 Aug 24 2024 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Cover Page

Cover Page - shares	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024	Jul. 31, 2024
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type	10-Q
Document Quarterly Report	true
Document Period End Date	Jun. 29, 2024
Document Transition Report	false
Entity File Number	001-33268
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	DE
Entity Tax Identification Number	68-0275553
Entity Address, Address Line One	1340 Treat Blvd.
Entity Address, Address Line Two	Suite 600
Entity Address, City or Town	Walnut Creek
Entity Address, State or Province	CA
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	94597
City Area Code	925
Local Phone Number	948-4000
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Shell Company	false
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2024
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Entity Registrant Name	CENTRAL GARDEN & PET CO
Entity Central Index Key	0000887733
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-28
Common Stock
Document Information [Line Items]
Title of 12(b) Security	Common Stock
Trading Symbol	CENT
Security Exchange Name	NASDAQ
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		11,077,612
Class A Common Stock
Document Information [Line Items]
Title of 12(b) Security	Class A Common Stock
Trading Symbol	CENTA
Security Exchange Name	NASDAQ
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		54,743,741
Class B Stock
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		1,602,374

Condensed Consolidated Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 29, 2024	Sep. 30, 2023	Jun. 24, 2023
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 570,398	$ 488,730	$ 333,139
Restricted cash	13,980	14,143	13,542
Accounts receivable (less allowance for credit losses and customer allowances of $24,838, $29,245 and $25,797)	507,524	332,890	492,850
Inventories, net	784,775	838,188	865,496
Prepaid expenses and other	33,493	33,172	36,655
Total current assets	1,910,170	1,707,123	1,741,682
Plant, property and equipment, net	384,373	391,768	392,332
Goodwill	546,436	546,436	546,436
Other intangible assets, net	472,854	497,228	512,175
Operating lease right-of-use assets	188,506	173,540	172,379
Other assets	105,539	62,553	54,943
Total	3,607,878	3,378,648	3,419,947
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	191,041	190,902	198,406
Accrued expenses	276,751	216,241	247,517
Current lease liabilities	53,363	50,597	50,209
Current portion of long-term debt	290	247	255
Total current liabilities	521,445	457,987	496,387
Long-term debt	1,189,366	1,187,956	1,187,498
Long-term lease liabilities	151,038	135,621	132,419
Deferred income taxes and other long-term obligations	150,249	144,271	156,537
Equity:
Additional paid-in capital	595,646	594,282	588,597
Retained earnings	1,000,527	859,370	858,217
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(3,199)	(2,970)	(1,955)
Total Central Garden & Pet Company shareholders’ equity	1,593,648	1,451,353	1,445,530
Noncontrolling interest	2,132	1,460	1,576
Total equity	1,595,780	1,452,813	1,447,106
Total	3,607,878	3,378,648	3,419,947
Common Stock
Equity:
Common stock	111	111	111
Class A Common Stock
Equity:
Common stock	547	544	544
Class B Stock
Equity:
Common stock	$ 16	$ 16	$ 16

Condensed Consolidated Balanc_2

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 29, 2024	Sep. 30, 2023	Jun. 24, 2023
Accounts receivable allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 24,838	$ 25,797	$ 29,245
Common Stock
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	11,077,612	11,077,612	11,098,584
Class A Common Stock
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	54,719,533	54,472,902	54,408,159
Class B Stock
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	1,602,374	1,602,374	1,602,374

Condensed Consolidated Statemen

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 996,348	$ 1,023,269	$ 2,530,971	$ 2,559,936
Cost of goods sold	679,290	705,217	1,756,188	1,810,547
Gross profit	317,058	318,052	774,783	749,389
Selling, general and administrative expenses	201,122	195,222	556,988	548,112
Operating income	115,936	122,830	217,795	201,277
Interest expense	(14,720)	(14,542)	(43,412)	(43,887)
Interest income	4,504	1,408	12,016	2,287
Other income	225	853	1,047	3,147
Income before income taxes and noncontrolling interest	105,945	110,549	187,446	162,824
Income tax expense	25,468	27,000	43,733	39,446
Income including noncontrolling interest	80,477	83,549	143,713	123,378
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest	753	423	1,572	570
Net income attributable to Central Garden & Pet Company	$ 79,724	$ 83,126	$ 142,141	$ 122,808
Net income per share attributable to Central Garden & Pet Company:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 1.21	$ 1.27	$ 2.17	$ 1.87
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 1.19	$ 1.25	$ 2.13	$ 1.84
Weighted average shares used in the computation of net income per share:
Basic (in shares)	65,850	65,580	65,636	65,577
Diluted (in shares)	66,945	66,725	66,848	66,832

Condensed Consolidated Statem_2

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Income including noncontrolling interest	$ 80,477	$ 83,549	$ 143,713	$ 123,378
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation	(374)	1,646	(229)	2,191
Total comprehensive income	80,103	85,195	143,484	125,569
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	753	423	1,572	570
Comprehensive income attributable to Central Garden & Pet Company	$ 79,350	$ 84,772	$ 141,912	$ 124,999

Condensed Consolidated Statem_3

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$ 143,713	$ 123,378
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	68,069	65,504
Amortization of deferred financing costs	2,013	2,023
Non-cash lease expense	39,183	38,180
Stock-based compensation	15,138	20,632
Deferred income taxes	3,622	9,125
Facility closures and business exit costs	16,385	13,923
Other operating activities	3,531	(450)
Change in assets and liabilities (excluding businesses acquired):
Accounts receivable	(169,867)	(115,358)
Inventories	58,705	69,610
Prepaid expenses and other assets	(383)	6,530
Accounts payable	(2,968)	(12,248)
Accrued expenses	51,213	44,221
Other long-term obligations	2,352	(55)
Operating lease liabilities	(38,902)	(37,449)
Net cash provided by operating activities	191,804	227,566
Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions to plant, property and equipment	(33,096)	(40,850)
Payments to acquire companies, net of cash acquired	(59,818)	0
Investments	(1,500)	(500)
Other investing activities	(175)	(100)
Net cash used in investing activities	(94,589)	(41,450)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayments of long-term debt	(289)	(223)
Borrowings under revolving line of credit	0	48,000
Repayments under revolving line of credit	0	(48,000)
Repurchase of common stock, including shares surrendered for tax withholding	(14,755)	(33,409)
Payment of contingent consideration liability	(63)	(33)
Distribution to noncontrolling interest	(900)	0
Net cash used by financing activities	(16,007)	(33,665)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash	297	2,046
Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash	81,505	154,497
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period	502,873	192,184
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period	584,378	346,681
Supplemental information:
Cash paid for interest	48,853	49,419
Cash paid for income taxes	38,027	5,363
New operating lease right of use assets	$ 56,849	$ 25,424

Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The condensed consolidated balance sheets of Central Garden & Pet Company and subsidiaries (the “Company” or “Central”) as of June 29, 2024 and June 24, 2023, the condensed consolidated statements of operations, the condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income for the three and nine months ended June 29, 2024 and June 24, 2023 , and the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows for the nine months ended June 29, 2024 and June 24, 2023 have been prepared by the Company, without audit. In the opinion of management, the interim financial statements include all normal recurring adjustments necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods presented. For the Company’s foreign businesses in the United Kingdom and Canada, the local currency is the functional currency. Assets and liabilities are translated using the exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date. Income and expenses are translated at the average exchange rate for the period. Deferred taxes are not provided on translation gains and losses because the Company expects earnings of its foreign subsidiaries to be permanently reinvested. Transaction gains and losses are included in results of operations. Due to the seasonal nature of the Company’s garden business, the results of operations for the three and nine months ended June 29, 2024 are not necessarily indicative of the operating results that may be expected for the entire fiscal year. These interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with the annual audited financial statements, accounting policies and financial notes thereto, included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2023, which has previously been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The September 30, 2023 balance sheet presented herein was derived from the audited financial statements. Stock Dividend In December 2023, the Board of Directors approved a stock dividend in the form of one share of the Company's Class A Common Stock for every four outstanding shares of its Common Stock, Class A Common Stock and Class B Stock. Dividend shares of Class A Common Stock were distributed on February 8, 2024, to stockholders of record as of January 8, 2024. The stock dividend did not affect the number of the Company's authorized shares and the par value of each share of stock remained unchanged. Proportionate adjustments were made to the per share exercise price and/or the number of shares issuable upon the exercise or vesting of all stock options, restricted stock and performance share units outstanding at January 8, 2024, which resulted in a proportional increase in the number of vesting stock options, restricted stock and performance share units, and, in the case of stock options, a proportional decrease in the exercise price of all such stock options. Unless noted, all Class A Common Stock share and per share amounts contained in the condensed consolidated financial statements and management's discussion and analysis have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the one-for-four stock dividend. The legal form of the stock dividend was accounted for as a stock split as the Company concluded that shareholders were not receiving a distribution of earnings. Noncontrolling Interest Noncontrolling interest in the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements represents the 20% interest not owned by Central in a consolidated subsidiary. Since the Company controls this subsidiary, its financial statements are consolidated with those of the Company, and the noncontrolling owner’s 20% share of the subsidiary’s net assets and results of operations is deducted and reported as noncontrolling interest on the condensed consolidated balance sheets and as net income attributable to noncontrolling interest in the condensed consolidated statements of operations. See Note 7, Supplemental Equity Information, for additional information. Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash The Company considers cash and all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less at date of purchase to be cash and cash equivalents. Restricted cash includes cash and highly liquid instruments that are used as collateral for stand-alone letter of credit agreements related to normal business transactions. These agreements require the Company to maintain specified amounts of cash as collateral in segregated accounts to support the letters of credit issued thereunder, which will affect the amount of cash the Company has available for other uses. Credit Risk Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents. The Company manages the credit risk associated with cash equivalents by investing with high-quality institutions. The Company maintains cash accounts that exceed federally insured limits. The Company has not experienced any losses from maintaining cash accounts in excess of such limits. Management believes that it is not exposed to any significant risks on its cash and cash equivalent accounts. The following table provides a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash reported within the condensed consolidated balance sheets to the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows as of June 29, 2024, June 24, 2023 and September 30, 2023, respectively. June 29, 2024 June 24, 2023 September 30, 2023 (in thousands) Cash and cash equivalents $ 570,398 $ 333,139 $ 488,730 Restricted cash 13,980 13,542 14,143 Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash $ 584,378 $ 346,681 $ 502,873 Allowance for Credit Losses and Customer Allowances The Company’s trade accounts receivable are recorded at net realizable value, which includes an allowance for estimated credit losses, as well as allowances for contractual customer deductions accounted for as variable consideration. The Company maintains an allowance for credit losses related to its trade accounts receivable associated with future expected credit losses resulting from the inability of its customers to make required payments. The Company estimates the allowance based upon historical bad debts, current customer receivable balances and the customer’s financial condition. The allowance is adjusted to reflect changes in current and forecasted macroeconomic conditions. The Company’s estimate of credit losses includes expected current and future economic and market conditions. Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition and Nature of Products and Services The Company manufactures, markets and distributes a wide variety of pet and garden products to wholesalers, distributors and retailers, primarily in the United States. The majority of the Company’s revenue is generated from the sale of finished pet and garden products. The Company also recognizes a minor amount of non-product revenue (approximately one percent of consolidated net sales) comprising third-party logistics services, merchandising services and royalty income from sales-based licensing arrangements. Product and non-product revenue is recognized when performance obligations under the terms of the contracts with customers are satisfied. The Company recognizes product revenue when control over the finished goods transfers to its customers, which generally occurs upon shipment to, or receipt at, customers’ locations, as determined by the specific terms of the contract, and when control over the finished goods transfers to retail consumers in consignment arrangements. These revenue arrangements generally have single performance obligations. Non-product revenue is recognized as the services are provided to the customer in the case of third-party logistics services and merchandising services, or as third-party licensee sales occur for royalty income. Revenue, which includes shipping and handling charges billed to the customer, is reported net of variable consideration and consideration payable to our customers, including applicable discounts, returns, allowances, trade promotion, unsaleable product, consumer coupon redemption and rebates. Shipping and handling costs that occur before the customer obtains control of the goods are deemed to be fulfillment activities and are accounted for as fulfillment costs. Key sales terms are established on a frequent basis such that most customer arrangements and related incentives have a one year or shorter duration. As such, the Company does not capitalize contract inception costs. The Company generally does not have unbilled receivables at the end of a period. Deferred revenues are not material and primarily include advance payments for services that have yet to be rendered. The Company does not receive noncash consideration for the sale of goods. Amounts billed and due from our customers are classified as receivables and require payment on a short-term basis; therefore, the Company does not have any significant financing components. Sales Incentives and Other Promotional Programs The Company routinely offers sales incentives and discounts through various regional and national programs to its customers and consumers. These programs include product discounts or allowances, product rebates, product returns, one-time or ongoing trade-promotion programs with customers and consumer coupon programs that require the Company to estimate and accrue the expected costs of such programs. The costs associated with these activities are accounted for as reductions to the transaction price of the Company’s products and are, therefore, recorded as reductions to gross sales at the time of sale. The Company bases its estimates of incentive costs on historical trend experience with similar programs, actual incentive terms per customer contractual obligations and expected levels of performance of trade promotions, utilizing customer and sales organization inputs. The Company maintains accruals at the end of each period for the estimated incentive costs incurred but unpaid for these programs. Differences between estimated and actual incentive costs are generally not material and are recognized in earnings in the period such differences are determined. Reserves for product returns, accrued rebates and promotional accruals are included in the condensed consolidated balance sheets as part of accrued expenses, and the value of inventory associated with reserves for sales returns is included within prepaid expenses and other current assets on the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Leases The Company determines whether an arrangement contains a lease at inception by determining if the contract conveys the right to control the use of identified property, plant or equipment for a period of time in exchange for consideration and other facts and circumstances. Long-term operating lease right-of-use ("ROU") assets and current and long-term operating lease liabilities are presented separately in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Finance lease ROU assets are presented in property, plant and equipment, net, and the related finance liabilities are presented with current and long-term debt in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Lease ROU assets represent the Company's right to use an underlying asset for the lease term, and lease liabilities represent the Company's obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. ROU assets are calculated based on the lease liability adjusted for any lease payments paid to the lessor at or before the commencement date and excludes any lease incentives received from the lessor. Lease liabilities are recognized based on the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the lease term. The lease term may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that the Company will exercise that option. As the Company's leases typically do not contain a readily determinable implicit rate, the Company determines the present value of the lease liability using its incremental borrowing rate at the lease commencement date based on the lease term on a collateralized basis. Variable lease payments are expensed as incurred and include certain non-lease components, such as maintenance and other services provided by the lessor, and other charges included in the lease, as applicable. Non-lease components and the lease components to which they relate are accounted for as a single lease component, as the Company has elected to combine lease and non-lease components for all classes of underlying assets. Amortization of ROU lease assets is calculated on a straight-line basis over the lease term with the expense recorded in cost of sales or selling, general and administrative expenses, depending on the nature of the leased item. Interest expense is recorded over the lease term and is recorded in interest expense (based on a front-loaded interest expense pattern) for finance leases and is recorded in cost of sales or selling, general and administrative expenses (on a straight-line basis) for operating leases. All operating lease cash payments and interest on finance leases are recorded within cash flows from operating activities and all finance lease principal payments are recorded within cash flows from financing activities in the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows. Recent Accounting Pronouncements Recently Issued and Adopted Accounting Updates There are no recently issued and adopted accounting pronouncements that are anticipated to have a material impact on the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements. Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted Segment Reporting In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures. This ASU requires enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker that are included within each reported measure of segment profit or loss, and also requires all annual disclosures currently required by Topic 280 to be included in interim periods. ASU No. 2023-07 is to be applied retrospectively for all periods presented in the financial statements and is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of this guidance will have on the Company’s disclosures. Income Taxes In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures. This ASU primarily requires enhanced disclosures and disaggregation of income tax information by jurisdiction in the annual income tax reconciliation and quantitative and qualitative disclosures regarding income taxes paid. ASU No. 2023-09 is to be applied prospectively, with the option to apply the standard retrospectively, effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of this guidance will have on the Company’s disclosures.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements ASC 820 establishes a single authoritative definition of fair value, a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosure of fair value measurements. ASC 820 requires financial assets and liabilities to be categorized based on the inputs used to calculate their fair values as follows: Level 1 - Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 - Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 3 - Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability, which reflect the Company’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability (including assumptions about risk). The Company’s financial instruments include cash and equivalents, short term investments consisting of money market accounts, accounts receivable and payable, short-term borrowings, and accrued liabilities. The carrying amount of these instruments approximates fair value because of their short-term nature. Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis The Company's financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis consist of contingent consideration within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Such amounts are not material for all periods presented. Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Non-Recurring Basis The Company measures certain non-financial assets and liabilities, including long-lived assets, goodwill and intangible assets, at fair value on a non-recurring basis. Fair value measurements of non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities are used primarily in the impairment analyses of long-lived assets, goodwill and other intangible assets. During the periods ended June 29, 2024 and June 24, 2023, the Company was not required to measure any significant non-financial assets and liabilities at fair value. Fair Value of Other Financial Instruments In April 2021, the Company issued $400 million aggregate principal amount of 4.125% senior notes due April 2031 (the "2031 Notes"). The estimated fair value of the Company's 2031 Notes as of June 29, 2024, June 24, 2023 and September 30, 2023 was $352.2 million, $326.0 million and $327.1 million, respectively, compared to a carrying value of $395.9 million, $395.3 million and $395.4 million, respectively. In October 2020, the Company issued $500 million aggregate principal amount of 4.125% senior notes due October 2030 (the "2030 Notes"). The estimated fair value of the Company's 2030 Notes as of June 29, 2024, June 24, 2023 and September 30, 2023 was $445.7 million, $413.8 million and $417.0 million, respectively, compared to a carrying value of $495.0 million, $494.2 million and $494.4 million, respectively. In December 2017, the Company issued $300 million aggregate principal amount of 5.125% senior notes due February 2028 (the "2028 Notes"). The estimated fair value of the Company's 2028 Notes as of June 29, 2024, June 24, 2023 and September 30, 2023 was $291.6 million, $280.7 million and $279.5 million, respectively, compared to a carrying value of $298.3 million, $297.9 million and $298.0 million, respectively. The estimated fair value is based on quoted market prices for these notes, which are Level 1 inputs within the fair value hierarchy.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Business Combination, Asset Acquisition, and Joint Venture Formation [Abstract]
Acquisitions	Acquisitions On November 3, 2023, the Company acquired TDBBS, LLC (“TDBBS”), a provider of premium natural dog chews and treats for approximately $60 million. The Company has not yet finalized the allocation of the purchase price to the fair value of the tangible assets, intangible assets and liabilities acquired. Approximately $40 million of the purchase price remains unallocated and is included in other assets on the condensed consolidated balance sheet as of June 29, 2024. The addition of TDBBS expands Central’s portfolio with bully and collagen sticks, bones and jerky, adds scale to its dog and cat business and enhances Central’s eCommerce and direct-to-consumer capabilities.

Inventories, net

Inventories, net	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories, net	Inventories, net Inventories, net of allowance for obsolescence, consist of the following: June 29, 2024 June 24, 2023 September 30, 2023 (in thousands) Raw materials $ 257,294 $ 286,869 $ 270,672 Work in progress 151,797 158,406 166,394 Finished goods 348,110 399,555 384,903 Supplies 27,574 20,666 16,219 Total inventories, net $ 784,775 $ 865,496 $ 838,188

Goodwill

Goodwill	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill	Goodwill The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually (as of the first day of the fourth fiscal quarter), or whenever events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount, by first assessing qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. The qualitative assessment evaluates factors including macro-economic conditions, industry-specific and company-specific considerations, legal and regulatory environments and historical performance. If it is determined that it is more likely than not the fair value of the reporting unit is greater than its carrying amount, it is unnecessary to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test. If it is determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the quantitative test is performed to identify potential goodwill impairment. Based on certain circumstances, the Company may elect to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed directly to performing the quantitative goodwill impairment test, which compares the estimated fair value of our reporting units to their related carrying values, including goodwill. Impairment is indicated if the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value, and an impairment charge is recognized for the differential. The Company’s goodwill impairment analysis also includes a comparison of the aggregate estimated fair value of its two reporting units to the Company’s total market capitalization. No impairment of goodwill was recorded for the nine months ended June 29, 2024 and June 24, 2023.

Other Intangible Assets

Other Intangible Assets	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Other Intangible Assets	Other Intangible Assets The following table summarizes the components of gross and net acquired intangible assets: Gross Accumulated Accumulated Net (in millions) June 29, 2024 Marketing-related intangible assets – amortizable $ 22.1 $ (22.0) $ — $ 0.1 Marketing-related intangible assets – nonamortizable 252.5 — (29.4) 223.1 Total 274.7 (22.0) (29.4) 223.2 Customer-related intangible assets – amortizable 416.4 (168.4) (10.3) 237.7 Other acquired intangible assets – amortizable (1) 39.7 (33.4) (0.3) 6.0 Other acquired intangible assets – nonamortizable (1) 7.1 — (1.2) 5.9 Total 46.8 (33.4) (1.5) 11.9 Total other intangible assets, net $ 737.9 $ (223.8) $ (41.2) $ 472.9 Gross Accumulated Accumulated Net (in millions) June 24, 2023 Marketing-related intangible assets – amortizable $ 22.1 $ (21.3) $ — $ 0.8 Marketing-related intangible assets – nonamortizable 252.5 — (26.0) 226.5 Total 274.6 (21.3) (26.0) 227.3 Customer-related intangible assets – amortizable 416.4 (140.3) (7.3) 268.8 Other acquired intangible assets – amortizable (1) 39.7 (29.5) — 10.2 Other acquired intangible assets – nonamortizable (1) 7.1 — (1.2) 5.9 Total 46.8 (29.5) (1.2) 16.1 Total other intangible assets, net $ 737.8 $ (191.2) $ (34.5) $ 512.2 Gross Accumulated Accumulated Net (in millions) September 30, 2023 Marketing-related intangible assets – amortizable $ 22.1 $ (21.5) $ — $ 0.6 Marketing-related intangible assets – nonamortizable 252.5 — (29.4) 223.1 Total 274.6 (21.5) (29.4) 223.7 Customer-related intangible assets – amortizable 416.4 (147.4) (10.3) 258.8 Other acquired intangible assets – amortizable (1) 39.7 (30.5) (0.3) 8.9 Other acquired intangible assets – nonamortizable (1) 7.1 — (1.2) 5.9 Total 46.8 (30.5) (1.5) 14.8 Total other intangible assets, net $ 737.8 $ (199.4) $ (41.2) $ 497.2 (1) Other acquired intangible assets include contract-based and technology-based intangible assets. The Company evaluates long-lived assets, including amortizable and indefinite-lived intangible assets, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. The Company evaluates indefinite-lived intangible assets on an annual basis. Factors indicating the carrying value of the Company’s amortizable intangible assets may not be recoverable were not present in the nine months ended June 29, 2024, and accordingly, no impairment testing was performed on these assets. The Company amortizes its acquired intangible assets with definite lives over periods ranging from two years to 25 years; over weighted average remaining lives of one year for marketing-related intangibles, 11 years for customer-related intangibles and five years for other acquired intangibles. Amortization expense for intangibles subject to amortization was approximately $8.1 million and $8.4 million for the three months ended June 29, 2024 and June 24, 2023, respectively, and $24.4 million and $26.3 million for the nine months ended June 29, 2024 and June 24, 2023, respectively, and is classified within selling, general and administrative expenses in the condensed consolidated statements of operations. Estimated annual amortization expense related to acquired intangible assets in each of the succeeding five years is estimated to be approximately $29 million per year from fiscal 2024 through fiscal 2026 and $25 million per year from fiscal 2027 through fiscal 2028.

Long-Term Debt

Long-Term Debt	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-Term Debt	Long-Term Debt Long-term debt consists of the following: June 29, 2024 June 24, 2023 September 30, 2023 (in thousands) Senior notes, interest at 5.125%, payable semi-annually, principal due February 2028 $ 300,000 $ 300,000 $ 300,000 Senior notes, interest at 4.125%, payable semi-annually, principal due October 2030 500,000 500,000 500,000 Senior notes, interest at 4.125%, payable semi-annually, principal due April 2031 400,000 400,000 400,000 Unamortized debt issuance costs (10,816) (12,702) (12,231) Net carrying value 1,189,184 1,187,298 1,187,769 Asset-based revolving credit facility, interest at SOFR plus a margin of 1.00% to 1.50% or Base Rate plus a margin of 0.0% to 0.50%, final maturity December 2026. — — — Other notes payable 472 455 434 Total 1,189,656 1,187,753 1,188,203 Less current portion (290) (255) (247) Long-term portion $ 1,189,366 $ 1,187,498 $ 1,187,956 Senior Notes $400 million 4.125% Senior Notes due 2031 In April 2021, the Company issued $400 million aggregate principal amount of 4.125% senior notes due April 2031 (the "2031 Notes"). The Company used a portion of the net proceeds from the offering to repay all outstanding borrowings under its Credit Facility, with the remainder used for general corporate purposes. The Company incurred approximately $6.0 million of debt issuance costs in conjunction with this issuance, which included underwriter fees and legal, accounting and rating agency expenses. The debt issuance costs are being amortized over the term of the 2031 Notes. The 2031 Notes require semi-annual interest payments on April 30 and October 30. The 2031 Notes are unconditionally guaranteed on a senior basis by each of the Company's existing and future domestic restricted subsidiaries which are borrowers under or guarantors of the Company's Credit Facility. The 2031 Notes were issued in a private placement under Rule 144A and will not be registered under the Securities Act of 1933. The Company may redeem some or all of the 2031 Notes at any time, at its option, prior to April 30, 2026 at the principal amount plus a "make whole" premium. The Company may redeem some or all of the 2031 Notes at the Company’s option, at any time on or after April 30, 2026 for 102.063%, on or after April 30, 2027 for 101.375%, on or after April 30, 2028 for 100.688% and on or after April 30, 2029 for 100.0%, plus accrued and unpaid interest. The holders of the 2031 Notes have the right to require the Company to repurchase all or a portion of the 2031 Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of the notes repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest, upon the occurrence of a change of control. The 2031 Notes contain customary high yield covenants, including covenants limiting debt incurrence and restricted payments, subject to certain baskets and exceptions. The Company was in compliance with all financial covenants as of June 29, 2024. $500 million 4.125% Senior Notes due 2030 In October 2020, the Company issued $500 million aggregate principal amount of 4.125% senior notes due October 2030 (the "2030 Notes"). The Company used a portion of the net proceeds to redeem all of its outstanding 6.125% senior notes due November 2023 (the "2023 Notes") at a redemption price of 101.531% plus accrued and unpaid interest, and to pay related fees and expenses, with the remainder used for general corporate purposes. The Company incurred approximately $8.0 million of debt issuance costs associated with this transaction, which included underwriter fees and legal, accounting and rating agency expenses. The debt issuance costs are being amortized over the term of the 2030 Notes. The 2030 Notes require semiannual interest payments on October 15 and April 15. The 2030 Notes are unconditionally guaranteed on a senior basis by each of the Company's existing and future domestic restricted subsidiaries which are borrowers under or guarantors of the Company's Credit Facility. The Company may redeem some or all of the 2030 Notes at any time, at its option, prior to October 15, 2025 at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus a “make-whole” premium. The Company may redeem some or all of the 2030 Notes, at its option, in whole or in part, at any time on or after October 15, 2025 for 102.063%, on or after October 15, 2026 for 101.375%, on or after October 15, 2027 for 100.688% and on or after October 15, 2028 for 100.0%, plus accrued and unpaid interest. The holders of the 2030 Notes have the right to require the Company to repurchase all or a portion of the 2030 Notes at a purchase price equal to 101.0% of the principal amount of the notes repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest upon the occurrence of a change of control. The 2030 Notes contain customary high yield covenants, including covenants limiting debt incurrence and restricted payments, subject to certain baskets and exceptions. The Company was in compliance with all financial covenants as of June 29, 2024. $300 million 5.125% Senior Notes due 2028 In December 2017, the Company issued $300 million aggregate principal amount of 5.125% senior notes due February 2028 (the "2028 Notes"). The Company used the net proceeds from the offering to finance acquisitions and for general corporate purposes. The Company incurred approximately $4.8 million of debt issuance costs in conjunction with this transaction, which included underwriter fees and legal, accounting and rating agency expenses. The debt issuance costs are being amortized over the term of the 2028 Notes. The 2028 Notes require semiannual interest payments on February 1 and August 1. The 2028 Notes are unconditionally guaranteed on a senior basis by the Company's existing and future domestic restricted subsidiaries which are borrowers under or guarantors of the Company's Credit Facility. The Company may redeem some or all of the 2028 Notes, at its option, at any time during 2024 for 101.708%, on or after January 1, 2025 for 100.854%, and on or after January 1, 2026 for 100.0%, plus accrued and unpaid interest. The holders of the 2028 Notes have the right to require the Company to repurchase all or a portion of the 2028 Notes at a purchase price equal to 101.0% of the principal amount of the notes repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest upon the occurrence of a change of control. The 2028 Notes contain customary high yield covenants, including covenants limiting debt incurrence and restricted payments, subject to certain baskets and exceptions. The Company was in compliance with all financial covenants as of June 29, 2024. Asset-Based Loan Facility Amendment On December 16, 2021, the Company entered into a Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”). The Credit Agreement provides for a $750 million principal amount senior secured asset-based revolving credit facility, with up to an additional $400 million principal amount available with the consent of the Lenders, as defined, if the Company exercises the uncommitted accordion feature set forth therein (collectively, the “Credit Facility”). The Credit Facility matures on December 16, 2026. The Company may borrow, repay and reborrow amounts under the Credit Facility until its maturity date, at which time all amounts outstanding under the Credit Facility must be repaid in full. The Credit Facility is subject to a borrowing base that is calculated using a formula based upon eligible receivables and inventory, and at the Company's election, eligible real property, minus certain reserves. Proceeds of the Credit Facility will be used for general corporate purposes. Net availability under the Credit Facility was approximately $550 million as of June 29, 2024. The Credit Facility includes a $50 million sublimit for the issuance of standby and commercial letters of credit and a $75 million sublimit for swing loan borrowings. As of June 29, 2024, there were no borrowings outstanding and no letters of credit outstanding under the Credit Facility. Outside of the Credit Facility, there were other standby and commercial letters of credit of $1.1 million outstanding as of June 29, 2024. Borrowings under the Credit Facility bear interest at a rate based on SOFR (which will not be less than 0.00%) or, at the option of the Company, the Base Rate, plus, in either case, an applicable margin based on the Company's usage under the Credit Facility. Base Rate is defined as the highest of (a) the Truist Bank prime rate, (b) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.50%, (c) one-month SOFR plus 1.00% and (d) 0.00%. The applicable margin for SOFR-based borrowings fluctuates between 1.00%-1.50%, and was 1.00% as of June 29, 2024, and such applicable margin for Base Rate borrowings fluctuates between 0.00%-0.50%, and was 0.00% as of June 29, 2024. An unused line fee shall be payable quarterly in respect of the total amount of the unutilized Lenders’ commitments and short-notice borrowings under the Credit Facility. Standby letter of credit fees at the applicable margin on the average undrawn and unreimbursed amount of standby letters of credit are payable quarterly and a facing fee of 0.125% is payable quarterly for the stated amount of each letter of credit. The Company is also required to pay certain fees to the administrative agent under the Credit Facility. The Credit Facility was amended on May 15, 2023 to transition from LIBOR to SOFR. As of June 29, 2024, the interest rate applicable to Base Rate borrowings was 8.5%, and the interest rate applicable to one-month SOFR-based borrowings was 6.3%. The Company incurred approximately $2.4 million of debt issuance costs in conjunction with this transaction, which included lender fees and legal expenses. The debt issuance costs are being amortized over the term of the Credit Facility. The Credit Facility contains customary covenants, including financial covenants which require the Company to maintain a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1:1 upon triggered quarterly testing (e.g. when availability falls below certain thresholds established in the agreement), reporting requirements and events of default. The Credit Facility is secured by substantially all assets of the borrowing parties, including (i) pledges of 100% of the stock or other equity interest of each domestic subsidiary that is directly owned by such entity and (ii) 65% of the stock or other equity interest of each foreign subsidiary that is directly owned by such entity, in each case subject to customary exceptions. The Company was in compliance with all financial covenants under the Credit Facility as of June 29, 2024.

Supplemental Equity Information

Supplemental Equity Information	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Equity [Abstract]
Supplemental Equity Information	Supplemental Equity Information The following table provides a summary of the changes in the carrying amounts of equity attributable to controlling interest and noncontrolling interest through the nine months ended June 29, 2024 and June 24, 2023. Controlling Interest Common Stock Class A Common Stock Class B Stock Additional Paid In Capital Retained Earnings Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Total Noncontrolling Interest Total (in thousands) Balance September 30, 2023 $ 111 $ 544 $ 16 $ 594,282 $ 859,370 $ (2,970) $ 1,451,353 $ 1,460 $ 1,452,813 Comprehensive income — — — — 430 859 1,289 137 1,426 Amortization of share-based awards — — — 4,169 — — 4,169 — 4,169 Restricted share activity, including net share settlement — (1) — (1,918) — — (1,919) — (1,919) Issuance of common stock, including net share settlement of stock options — 2 — (1,583) — — (1,581) — (1,581) Repurchase of stock — — — (438) (984) — (1,422) — (1,422) Distribution to Noncontrolling interest — — — — — — — (900) (900) Balance December 30, 2023 $ 111 $ 545 $ 16 $ 594,512 $ 858,816 $ (2,111) $ 1,451,889 $ 697 $ 1,452,586 Comprehensive income — — — — 61,987 (714) 61,273 682 61,955 Amortization of share-based awards — — — 2,163 — — 2,163 — 2,163 Restricted share activity, including net share settlement — 1 — (4,344) — — (4,343) — (4,343) Issuance of common stock, including net share settlement of stock options — 1 — (195) — — (194) — (194) Balance March 30, 2024 $ 111 $ 547 $ 16 $ 592,136 $ 920,803 $ (2,825) $ 1,510,788 $ 1,379 $ 1,512,167 Comprehensive income — — — — 79,724 (374) 79,350 753 80,103 Amortization of share-based awards — — — 3,895 — — 3,895 — 3,895 Restricted share activity, including net share settlement — (1) — (1,863) — — (1,864) — (1,864) Issuance of common stock, including net share settlement of stock options — 1 — 1,478 — — 1,479 — 1,479 Balance June 29, 2024 $ 111 $ 547 $ 16 $ 595,646 $ 1,000,527 $ (3,199) $ 1,593,648 $ 2,132 $ 1,595,780 Controlling Interest Common Stock Class A Common Stock Class B Stock Additional Paid In Capital Retained Earnings Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Total Noncontrolling Interest Total (in thousands) Balance September 24, 2022 $ 113 $ 549 $ 16 $ 581,920 $ 755,253 $ (4,145) $ 1,333,706 $ 1,006 $ 1,334,712 Comprehensive income (loss) — — — — (8,433) 782 (7,651) (416) (8,067) Amortization of share-based awards — — — 4,647 — — 4,647 — 4,647 Restricted share activity, including net share settlement — — — (590) — — (590) — (590) Issuance of common stock, including net share settlement of stock options — 1 — 1,707 — — 1,708 — 1,708 Repurchase of stock — (3) — (2,692) (6,271) — (8,966) — (8,966) Balance December 24, 2022 $ 113 $ 547 $ 16 $ 584,992 $ 740,549 $ (3,363) $ 1,322,854 $ 590 $ 1,323,444 Comprehensive income (loss) — — — — 48,115 (238) 47,877 563 48,440 Amortization of share-based awards — — — 5,015 — — 5,015 — 5,015 Restricted share activity, including net share settlement — 1 — (3,115) — — (3,114) — (3,114) Issuance of common stock, including net share settlement of stock options — 1 — 1,158 — — 1,159 — 1,159 Repurchase of stock (1) (1) — (807) (1,888) — (2,697) — (2,697) Balance March 25, 2023 $ 112 $ 548 $ 16 $ 587,243 $ 786,776 $ (3,601) $ 1,371,094 $ 1,153 $ 1,372,247 Comprehensive income — — — — 83,126 1,646 84,772 423 85,195 Amortization of share-based awards — — — 5,017 — — 5,017 — 5,017 Restricted share activity, including net share settlement — (2) — (887) — — (889) — (889) Issuance of common stock, including net share settlement of stock options — 1 — 2,225 — — 2,226 — 2,226 Repurchase of stock (1) (3) — (5,001) (11,685) — (16,690) — (16,690) Balance June 24, 2023 $ 111 $ 544 $ 16 $ 588,597 $ 858,217 $ (1,955) $ 1,445,530 $ 1,576 $ 1,447,106

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation The Company recognized share-based compensation expense of $15.1 million and $20.6 million for the nine months ended June 29, 2024 and June 24, 2023, respectively, as a component of selling, general and administrative expenses. The tax benefit associated with share-based compensation expense for the nine months ended June 29, 2024 and June 24, 2023 was $3.6 million and $4.9 million, respectively.

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	Earnings Per Share The following is a reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted per share computations for net income available to common shareholders. Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended June 29, 2024 June 29, 2024 Income Shares Per Share Income Shares Per Share (in thousands, except per share amounts) Basic EPS: Net income available to common shareholders $ 79,724 65,850 $ 1.21 $ 142,141 65,636 $ 2.17 Effect of dilutive securities: Options to purchase common stock — 197 — — 265 (0.01) Restricted shares — 698 (0.01) — 774 (0.03) Performance stock units — 200 (0.01) — 173 — Diluted EPS: Net income available to common shareholders $ 79,724 66,945 $ 1.19 $ 142,141 66,848 $ 2.13 Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended June 24, 2023 June 24, 2023 Income Shares Per Share Income Shares Per Share (in thousands, except per share amounts) Basic EPS: Net income available to common shareholders $ 83,126 65,580 $ 1.27 $ 122,808 65,577 $ 1.87 Effect of dilutive securities: Options to purchase common stock — 309 (0.01) — 348 (0.01) Restricted shares — 680 (0.01) — 795 (0.02) Performance stock units — 156 — 112 $ — Diluted EPS: Net income available to common shareholders $ 83,126 66,725 $ 1.25 $ 122,808 66,832 $ 1.84 Options to purchase 0.9 million shares of Class A common stock at prices ranging from $20.63 to $41.10 per share were outstanding at June 29, 2024, and options to purchase 2.0 million shares of Class A common stock at prices ranging from $21.37 to $51.37 per share were outstanding at June 24, 2023. For the three months ended June 29, 2024 and June 24, 2023, approximately 0.2 million and 0.8 million options outstanding, respectively, were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the effect of including these options would be antidilutive. For the nine months ended June 29, 2024 and June 24, 2023, approximately 0.3 million and 0.6 million options outstanding, respectively, were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the effect of including these options would be antidilutive.

Segment Information

Segment Information	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	Segment Information Management has determined that the Company has two operating segments, which are also reportable segments based on the level at which the Chief Operating Decision Maker reviews the results of operations to make decisions regarding performance assessment and resource allocation. These operating segments are the Pet segment and the Garden segment. Substantially all of the Company's assets and operations relate to its business in the United States. Financial information relating to the Company's business segments is presented in the table below. Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended June 29, 2024 June 24, 2023 June 29, 2024 June 24, 2023 (in thousands) Net sales: Pet segment $ 508,002 $ 503,329 $ 1,397,454 $ 1,394,352 Garden segment 488,346 519,940 $ 1,133,517 1,165,584 Total net sales $ 996,348 $ 1,023,269 $ 2,530,971 $ 2,559,936 Operating income (loss) Pet segment 83,068 59,969 189,115 154,779 Garden segment 62,519 88,088 110,699 126,887 Corporate (29,651) (25,227) (82,019) (80,389) Total operating income 115,936 122,830 217,795 201,277 Interest expense - net (10,216) (13,134) (31,396) (41,600) Other income 225 853 1,047 3,147 Income tax expense 25,468 27,000 43,733 39,446 Income including noncontrolling interest 80,477 83,549 143,713 123,378 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest 753 423 1,572 570 Net income attributable to Central Garden & Pet Company $ 79,724 $ 83,126 $ 142,141 $ 122,808 Depreciation and amortization: Pet segment $ 10,979 $ 10,060 $ 32,901 $ 30,647 Garden segment 11,008 10,823 33,028 32,483 Corporate 725 818 2,140 2,374 Total depreciation and amortization $ 22,712 $ 21,701 $ 68,069 $ 65,504 June 29, 2024 June 24, 2023 September 30, 2023 (in thousands) Assets: Pet segment $ 994,546 $ 1,009,606 $ 944,359 Garden segment 1,412,015 1,473,774 1,349,426 Corporate 1,201,317 936,567 1,084,863 Total assets $ 3,607,878 $ 3,419,947 $ 3,378,648 Goodwill (included in corporate assets above): Pet segment $ 277,067 $ 277,067 $ 277,067 Garden segment 269,369 269,369 269,369 Total goodwill $ 546,436 $ 546,436 $ 546,436 The tables below present the Company's disaggregated revenues by segment: Three Months Ended June 29, 2024 Nine Months Ended June 29, 2024 Pet Segment Garden Segment Total Pet Segment Garden Segment Total (in millions) (in millions) Other pet products $ 194.8 $ — $ 194.8 $ 496.8 $ — $ 496.8 Dog and cat products 152.3 — 152.3 450.0 — 450.0 Other manufacturers' products 103.5 99.5 203.0 311.8 231.8 543.6 Wild bird products 57.4 73.9 131.3 138.9 190.5 329.4 Other garden supplies — 314.9 314.9 — 711.2 711.2 Total $ 508.0 $ 488.3 $ 996.3 $ 1,397.5 $ 1,133.5 $ 2,531.0 Three Months Ended June 24, 2023 Nine Months Ended June 24, 2023 Pet Segment Garden Segment Total Pet Segment Garden Segment Total (in millions) (in millions) Other pet products $ 208.9 $ — $ 208.9 $ 542.6 $ — $ 542.6 Dog and cat products 136.0 — 136.0 396.9 — 396.9 Other manufacturers' products 100.3 107.9 208.2 306.7 249.7 556.4 Wild bird products 58.1 81.5 139.6 148.2 222.6 370.8 Other garden supplies — 330.5 330.5 — 693.3 693.3 Total $ 503.3 $ 519.9 $ 1,023.3 $ 1,394.4 $ 1,165.6 $ 2,559.9

Contingencies

Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Contingencies	Contingencies The Company may from time to time become involved in legal proceedings in the ordinary course of business. Currently, the Company is not a party to any legal proceedings the resolution of which management believes could have a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations with the potential exception of the proceeding below. In 2012, Nite Glow Industries, Inc. and its owner, Marni Markell, (“Nite Glow”) filed suit in the U.S. District Court for New Jersey against the Company alleging that the applicator developed and used by the Company for certain of its branded topical flea and tick products infringes a patent held by Nite Glow and asserted related claims for breach of contract and misappropriation of confidential information based on the terms of a Non-Disclosure Agreement. On June 27, 2018, a jury returned a verdict in favor of Nite Glow on each of the three claims and awarded damages of approximately $12.6 million. The court ruled on post-trial motions in early June 2020, reducing the judgment amount to $12.4 million and denying the plaintiff's request for attorneys' fees. The Company filed its notice of appeal and the plaintiffs cross-appealed. On July 14, 2021, the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals issued its decision on the appeal. The Federal Circuit concluded that the Company did not infringe plaintiff's patent and determined that the breach of contract claim raised no non-duplicative damages and should be dismissed. The court affirmed the jury's liability verdict on the misappropriation of confidential information claim but ordered a new trial on damages on that single claim limited to the "head start" benefit, if any, generated by the confidential information. The retrial of the head start damages issue concluded in early March 2024, but no decision has been issued by the court. The Company intends to vigorously pursue its defenses in any future proceedings and believes that it will prevail on the merits as to the head start damages issue. While the Company believes that the ultimate resolution of this matter will not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements, the outcome of litigation is inherently uncertain and the final resolution of this matter may result in expense to the Company in excess of management's expectations. The Company has experienced, and may in the future experience, issues with products that may lead to product liability, recalls, withdrawals, replacements of products, or regulatory actions by governmental authorities. The Company has not experienced recent issues with products, the resolution of which, management believes would have a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

Pay vs Performance Disclosure

Pay vs Performance Disclosure - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023
Pay vs Performance Disclosure
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent	$ 79,724	$ 83,126	$ 142,141	$ 122,808

Insider Trading Arrangements

Insider Trading Arrangements	3 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Trading Arrangements, by Individual
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted	false
Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted	false
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated	false
Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated	false

Basis of Presentation (Policies

Basis of Presentation (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The condensed consolidated balance sheets of Central Garden & Pet Company and subsidiaries (the “Company” or “Central”) as of June 29, 2024 and June 24, 2023, the condensed consolidated statements of operations, the condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income for the three and nine months ended June 29, 2024 and June 24, 2023 , and the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows for the nine months ended June 29, 2024 and June 24, 2023 have been prepared by the Company, without audit. In the opinion of management, the interim financial statements include all normal recurring adjustments necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods presented. For the Company’s foreign businesses in the United Kingdom and Canada, the local currency is the functional currency. Assets and liabilities are translated using the exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date. Income and expenses are translated at the average exchange rate for the period. Deferred taxes are not provided on translation gains and losses because the Company expects earnings of its foreign subsidiaries to be permanently reinvested. Transaction gains and losses are included in results of operations. Due to the seasonal nature of the Company’s garden business, the results of operations for the three and nine months ended June 29, 2024 are not necessarily indicative of the operating results that may be expected for the entire fiscal year. These interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with the annual audited financial statements, accounting policies and financial notes thereto, included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2023, which has previously been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The September 30, 2023 balance sheet presented herein was derived from the audited financial statements.
Noncontrolling Interest	Noncontrolling Interest
Credit Risk	Credit Risk Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents. The Company manages the credit risk associated with cash equivalents by investing with high-quality institutions. The Company maintains cash accounts that exceed federally insured limits. The Company has not experienced any losses from maintaining cash accounts in excess of such limits. Management believes that it is not exposed to any significant risks on its cash and cash equivalent accounts.
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash	Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash
Allowance for Credit Losses and Customer Allowances	Allowance for Credit Losses and Customer Allowances
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition and Nature of Products and Services The Company manufactures, markets and distributes a wide variety of pet and garden products to wholesalers, distributors and retailers, primarily in the United States. The majority of the Company’s revenue is generated from the sale of finished pet and garden products. The Company also recognizes a minor amount of non-product revenue (approximately one percent of consolidated net sales) comprising third-party logistics services, merchandising services and royalty income from sales-based licensing arrangements. Product and non-product revenue is recognized when performance obligations under the terms of the contracts with customers are satisfied. The Company recognizes product revenue when control over the finished goods transfers to its customers, which generally occurs upon shipment to, or receipt at, customers’ locations, as determined by the specific terms of the contract, and when control over the finished goods transfers to retail consumers in consignment arrangements. These revenue arrangements generally have single performance obligations. Non-product revenue is recognized as the services are provided to the customer in the case of third-party logistics services and merchandising services, or as third-party licensee sales occur for royalty income. Revenue, which includes shipping and handling charges billed to the customer, is reported net of variable consideration and consideration payable to our customers, including applicable discounts, returns, allowances, trade promotion, unsaleable product, consumer coupon redemption and rebates. Shipping and handling costs that occur before the customer obtains control of the goods are deemed to be fulfillment activities and are accounted for as fulfillment costs. Key sales terms are established on a frequent basis such that most customer arrangements and related incentives have a one year or shorter duration. As such, the Company does not capitalize contract inception costs. The Company generally does not have unbilled receivables at the end of a period. Deferred revenues are not material and primarily include advance payments for services that have yet to be rendered. The Company does not receive noncash consideration for the sale of goods. Amounts billed and due from our customers are classified as receivables and require payment on a short-term basis; therefore, the Company does not have any significant financing components. Sales Incentives and Other Promotional Programs The Company routinely offers sales incentives and discounts through various regional and national programs to its customers and consumers. These programs include product discounts or allowances, product rebates, product returns, one-time or ongoing trade-promotion programs with customers and consumer coupon programs that require the Company to estimate and accrue the expected costs of such programs. The costs associated with these activities are accounted for as reductions to the transaction price of the Company’s products and are, therefore, recorded as reductions to gross sales at the time of sale. The Company bases its estimates of incentive costs on historical trend experience with similar programs, actual incentive terms per customer contractual obligations and expected levels of performance of trade promotions, utilizing customer and sales organization inputs. The Company maintains accruals at the end of each period for the estimated incentive costs incurred but unpaid for these programs. Differences between estimated and actual incentive costs are generally not material and are recognized in earnings in the period such differences are determined. Reserves for product returns, accrued rebates and promotional accruals are included in the condensed consolidated balance sheets as part of accrued expenses, and the value of inventory associated with reserves for sales returns is included within prepaid expenses and other current assets on the condensed consolidated balance sheets.
Leases	Leases The Company determines whether an arrangement contains a lease at inception by determining if the contract conveys the right to control the use of identified property, plant or equipment for a period of time in exchange for consideration and other facts and circumstances. Long-term operating lease right-of-use ("ROU") assets and current and long-term operating lease liabilities are presented separately in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Finance lease ROU assets are presented in property, plant and equipment, net, and the related finance liabilities are presented with current and long-term debt in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Lease ROU assets represent the Company's right to use an underlying asset for the lease term, and lease liabilities represent the Company's obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. ROU assets are calculated based on the lease liability adjusted for any lease payments paid to the lessor at or before the commencement date and excludes any lease incentives received from the lessor. Lease liabilities are recognized based on the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the lease term. The lease term may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that the Company will exercise that option. As the Company's leases typically do not contain a readily determinable implicit rate, the Company determines the present value of the lease liability using its incremental borrowing rate at the lease commencement date based on the lease term on a collateralized basis. Variable lease payments are expensed as incurred and include certain non-lease components, such as maintenance and other services provided by the lessor, and other charges included in the lease, as applicable. Non-lease components and the lease components to which they relate are accounted for as a single lease component, as the Company has elected to combine lease and non-lease components for all classes of underlying assets. Amortization of ROU lease assets is calculated on a straight-line basis over the lease term with the expense recorded in cost of sales or selling, general and administrative expenses, depending on the nature of the leased item. Interest expense is recorded over the lease term and is recorded in interest expense (based on a front-loaded interest expense pattern) for finance leases and is recorded in cost of sales or selling, general and administrative expenses (on a straight-line basis) for operating leases. All operating lease cash payments and interest on finance leases are recorded within cash flows from operating activities and all finance lease principal payments are recorded within cash flows from financing activities in the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Recent Accounting Pronouncements Recently Issued and Adopted Accounting Updates There are no recently issued and adopted accounting pronouncements that are anticipated to have a material impact on the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements. Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted Segment Reporting In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures. This ASU requires enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker that are included within each reported measure of segment profit or loss, and also requires all annual disclosures currently required by Topic 280 to be included in interim periods. ASU No. 2023-07 is to be applied retrospectively for all periods presented in the financial statements and is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of this guidance will have on the Company’s disclosures. Income Taxes In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures. This ASU primarily requires enhanced disclosures and disaggregation of income tax information by jurisdiction in the annual income tax reconciliation and quantitative and qualitative disclosures regarding income taxes paid. ASU No. 2023-09 is to be applied prospectively, with the option to apply the standard retrospectively, effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of this guidance will have on the Company’s disclosures.
Fair Value Measurement	Fair Value Measurements ASC 820 establishes a single authoritative definition of fair value, a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosure of fair value measurements. ASC 820 requires financial assets and liabilities to be categorized based on the inputs used to calculate their fair values as follows: Level 1 - Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 - Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 3 - Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability, which reflect the Company’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability (including assumptions about risk). The Company’s financial instruments include cash and equivalents, short term investments consisting of money market accounts, accounts receivable and payable, short-term borrowings, and accrued liabilities. The carrying amount of these instruments approximates fair value because of their short-term nature.
Goodwill	Goodwill The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually (as of the first day of the fourth fiscal quarter), or whenever events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount, by first assessing qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. The qualitative assessment evaluates factors including macro-economic conditions, industry-specific and company-specific considerations, legal and regulatory environments and historical performance. If it is determined that it is more likely than not the fair value of the reporting unit is greater than its carrying amount, it is unnecessary to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test. If it is determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the quantitative test is performed to identify potential goodwill impairment. Based on certain circumstances, the Company may elect to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed directly to performing the quantitative goodwill impairment test, which compares the estimated fair value of our reporting units to their related carrying values, including goodwill. Impairment is indicated if the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value, and an impairment charge is recognized for the differential. The Company’s goodwill impairment analysis also includes a comparison of the aggregate estimated fair value of its two reporting units to the Company’s total market capitalization. No impairment of goodwill was recorded for the nine months ended June 29, 2024 and June 24, 2023.

Basis of Presentation Basis of

Basis of Presentation Basis of Presentation (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Schedule of Reconciliation of Cash and Cash Equivalents	The following table provides a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash reported within the condensed consolidated balance sheets to the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows as of June 29, 2024, June 24, 2023 and September 30, 2023, respectively. June 29, 2024 June 24, 2023 September 30, 2023 (in thousands) Cash and cash equivalents $ 570,398 $ 333,139 $ 488,730 Restricted cash 13,980 13,542 14,143 Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash $ 584,378 $ 346,681 $ 502,873
Schedule of Reconciliation of Restricted Cash	The following table provides a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash reported within the condensed consolidated balance sheets to the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows as of June 29, 2024, June 24, 2023 and September 30, 2023, respectively. June 29, 2024 June 24, 2023 September 30, 2023 (in thousands) Cash and cash equivalents $ 570,398 $ 333,139 $ 488,730 Restricted cash 13,980 13,542 14,143 Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash $ 584,378 $ 346,681 $ 502,873

Inventories, net (Tables)

Inventories, net (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Inventories, Net of Allowance for Obsolescence	Inventories, net of allowance for obsolescence, consist of the following: June 29, 2024 June 24, 2023 September 30, 2023 (in thousands) Raw materials $ 257,294 $ 286,869 $ 270,672 Work in progress 151,797 158,406 166,394 Finished goods 348,110 399,555 384,903 Supplies 27,574 20,666 16,219 Total inventories, net $ 784,775 $ 865,496 $ 838,188

Other Intangible Assets (Tables

Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Gross and Net Acquired Intangible Assets	The following table summarizes the components of gross and net acquired intangible assets: Gross Accumulated Accumulated Net (in millions) June 29, 2024 Marketing-related intangible assets – amortizable $ 22.1 $ (22.0) $ — $ 0.1 Marketing-related intangible assets – nonamortizable 252.5 — (29.4) 223.1 Total 274.7 (22.0) (29.4) 223.2 Customer-related intangible assets – amortizable 416.4 (168.4) (10.3) 237.7 Other acquired intangible assets – amortizable (1) 39.7 (33.4) (0.3) 6.0 Other acquired intangible assets – nonamortizable (1) 7.1 — (1.2) 5.9 Total 46.8 (33.4) (1.5) 11.9 Total other intangible assets, net $ 737.9 $ (223.8) $ (41.2) $ 472.9 Gross Accumulated Accumulated Net (in millions) June 24, 2023 Marketing-related intangible assets – amortizable $ 22.1 $ (21.3) $ — $ 0.8 Marketing-related intangible assets – nonamortizable 252.5 — (26.0) 226.5 Total 274.6 (21.3) (26.0) 227.3 Customer-related intangible assets – amortizable 416.4 (140.3) (7.3) 268.8 Other acquired intangible assets – amortizable (1) 39.7 (29.5) — 10.2 Other acquired intangible assets – nonamortizable (1) 7.1 — (1.2) 5.9 Total 46.8 (29.5) (1.2) 16.1 Total other intangible assets, net $ 737.8 $ (191.2) $ (34.5) $ 512.2 Gross Accumulated Accumulated Net (in millions) September 30, 2023 Marketing-related intangible assets – amortizable $ 22.1 $ (21.5) $ — $ 0.6 Marketing-related intangible assets – nonamortizable 252.5 — (29.4) 223.1 Total 274.6 (21.5) (29.4) 223.7 Customer-related intangible assets – amortizable 416.4 (147.4) (10.3) 258.8 Other acquired intangible assets – amortizable (1) 39.7 (30.5) (0.3) 8.9 Other acquired intangible assets – nonamortizable (1) 7.1 — (1.2) 5.9 Total 46.8 (30.5) (1.5) 14.8 Total other intangible assets, net $ 737.8 $ (199.4) $ (41.2) $ 497.2 (1) Other acquired intangible assets include contract-based and technology-based intangible assets.

Long-Term Debt (Tables)

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Components of Long-Term Debt	Long-term debt consists of the following: June 29, 2024 June 24, 2023 September 30, 2023 (in thousands) Senior notes, interest at 5.125%, payable semi-annually, principal due February 2028 $ 300,000 $ 300,000 $ 300,000 Senior notes, interest at 4.125%, payable semi-annually, principal due October 2030 500,000 500,000 500,000 Senior notes, interest at 4.125%, payable semi-annually, principal due April 2031 400,000 400,000 400,000 Unamortized debt issuance costs (10,816) (12,702) (12,231) Net carrying value 1,189,184 1,187,298 1,187,769 Asset-based revolving credit facility, interest at SOFR plus a margin of 1.00% to 1.50% or Base Rate plus a margin of 0.0% to 0.50%, final maturity December 2026. — — — Other notes payable 472 455 434 Total 1,189,656 1,187,753 1,188,203 Less current portion (290) (255) (247) Long-term portion $ 1,189,366 $ 1,187,498 $ 1,187,956

Supplemental Equity Informati_2

Supplemental Equity Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Changes in Carrying Amounts of Equity Attributable to Controlling Interest and Noncontrolling Interest	The following table provides a summary of the changes in the carrying amounts of equity attributable to controlling interest and noncontrolling interest through the nine months ended June 29, 2024 and June 24, 2023. Controlling Interest Common Stock Class A Common Stock Class B Stock Additional Paid In Capital Retained Earnings Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Total Noncontrolling Interest Total (in thousands) Balance September 30, 2023 $ 111 $ 544 $ 16 $ 594,282 $ 859,370 $ (2,970) $ 1,451,353 $ 1,460 $ 1,452,813 Comprehensive income — — — — 430 859 1,289 137 1,426 Amortization of share-based awards — — — 4,169 — — 4,169 — 4,169 Restricted share activity, including net share settlement — (1) — (1,918) — — (1,919) — (1,919) Issuance of common stock, including net share settlement of stock options — 2 — (1,583) — — (1,581) — (1,581) Repurchase of stock — — — (438) (984) — (1,422) — (1,422) Distribution to Noncontrolling interest — — — — — — — (900) (900) Balance December 30, 2023 $ 111 $ 545 $ 16 $ 594,512 $ 858,816 $ (2,111) $ 1,451,889 $ 697 $ 1,452,586 Comprehensive income — — — — 61,987 (714) 61,273 682 61,955 Amortization of share-based awards — — — 2,163 — — 2,163 — 2,163 Restricted share activity, including net share settlement — 1 — (4,344) — — (4,343) — (4,343) Issuance of common stock, including net share settlement of stock options — 1 — (195) — — (194) — (194) Balance March 30, 2024 $ 111 $ 547 $ 16 $ 592,136 $ 920,803 $ (2,825) $ 1,510,788 $ 1,379 $ 1,512,167 Comprehensive income — — — — 79,724 (374) 79,350 753 80,103 Amortization of share-based awards — — — 3,895 — — 3,895 — 3,895 Restricted share activity, including net share settlement — (1) — (1,863) — — (1,864) — (1,864) Issuance of common stock, including net share settlement of stock options — 1 — 1,478 — — 1,479 — 1,479 Balance June 29, 2024 $ 111 $ 547 $ 16 $ 595,646 $ 1,000,527 $ (3,199) $ 1,593,648 $ 2,132 $ 1,595,780 Controlling Interest Common Stock Class A Common Stock Class B Stock Additional Paid In Capital Retained Earnings Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Total Noncontrolling Interest Total (in thousands) Balance September 24, 2022 $ 113 $ 549 $ 16 $ 581,920 $ 755,253 $ (4,145) $ 1,333,706 $ 1,006 $ 1,334,712 Comprehensive income (loss) — — — — (8,433) 782 (7,651) (416) (8,067) Amortization of share-based awards — — — 4,647 — — 4,647 — 4,647 Restricted share activity, including net share settlement — — — (590) — — (590) — (590) Issuance of common stock, including net share settlement of stock options — 1 — 1,707 — — 1,708 — 1,708 Repurchase of stock — (3) — (2,692) (6,271) — (8,966) — (8,966) Balance December 24, 2022 $ 113 $ 547 $ 16 $ 584,992 $ 740,549 $ (3,363) $ 1,322,854 $ 590 $ 1,323,444 Comprehensive income (loss) — — — — 48,115 (238) 47,877 563 48,440 Amortization of share-based awards — — — 5,015 — — 5,015 — 5,015 Restricted share activity, including net share settlement — 1 — (3,115) — — (3,114) — (3,114) Issuance of common stock, including net share settlement of stock options — 1 — 1,158 — — 1,159 — 1,159 Repurchase of stock (1) (1) — (807) (1,888) — (2,697) — (2,697) Balance March 25, 2023 $ 112 $ 548 $ 16 $ 587,243 $ 786,776 $ (3,601) $ 1,371,094 $ 1,153 $ 1,372,247 Comprehensive income — — — — 83,126 1,646 84,772 423 85,195 Amortization of share-based awards — — — 5,017 — — 5,017 — 5,017 Restricted share activity, including net share settlement — (2) — (887) — — (889) — (889) Issuance of common stock, including net share settlement of stock options — 1 — 2,225 — — 2,226 — 2,226 Repurchase of stock (1) (3) — (5,001) (11,685) — (16,690) — (16,690) Balance June 24, 2023 $ 111 $ 544 $ 16 $ 588,597 $ 858,217 $ (1,955) $ 1,445,530 $ 1,576 $ 1,447,106

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	The following is a reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted per share computations for net income available to common shareholders. Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended June 29, 2024 June 29, 2024 Income Shares Per Share Income Shares Per Share (in thousands, except per share amounts) Basic EPS: Net income available to common shareholders $ 79,724 65,850 $ 1.21 $ 142,141 65,636 $ 2.17 Effect of dilutive securities: Options to purchase common stock — 197 — — 265 (0.01) Restricted shares — 698 (0.01) — 774 (0.03) Performance stock units — 200 (0.01) — 173 — Diluted EPS: Net income available to common shareholders $ 79,724 66,945 $ 1.19 $ 142,141 66,848 $ 2.13 Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended June 24, 2023 June 24, 2023 Income Shares Per Share Income Shares Per Share (in thousands, except per share amounts) Basic EPS: Net income available to common shareholders $ 83,126 65,580 $ 1.27 $ 122,808 65,577 $ 1.87 Effect of dilutive securities: Options to purchase common stock — 309 (0.01) — 348 (0.01) Restricted shares — 680 (0.01) — 795 (0.02) Performance stock units — 156 — 112 $ — Diluted EPS: Net income available to common shareholders $ 83,126 66,725 $ 1.25 $ 122,808 66,832 $ 1.84

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Financial Information Relating to Company's Business Segments	Financial information relating to the Company's business segments is presented in the table below. Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended June 29, 2024 June 24, 2023 June 29, 2024 June 24, 2023 (in thousands) Net sales: Pet segment $ 508,002 $ 503,329 $ 1,397,454 $ 1,394,352 Garden segment 488,346 519,940 $ 1,133,517 1,165,584 Total net sales $ 996,348 $ 1,023,269 $ 2,530,971 $ 2,559,936 Operating income (loss) Pet segment 83,068 59,969 189,115 154,779 Garden segment 62,519 88,088 110,699 126,887 Corporate (29,651) (25,227) (82,019) (80,389) Total operating income 115,936 122,830 217,795 201,277 Interest expense - net (10,216) (13,134) (31,396) (41,600) Other income 225 853 1,047 3,147 Income tax expense 25,468 27,000 43,733 39,446 Income including noncontrolling interest 80,477 83,549 143,713 123,378 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest 753 423 1,572 570 Net income attributable to Central Garden & Pet Company $ 79,724 $ 83,126 $ 142,141 $ 122,808 Depreciation and amortization: Pet segment $ 10,979 $ 10,060 $ 32,901 $ 30,647 Garden segment 11,008 10,823 33,028 32,483 Corporate 725 818 2,140 2,374 Total depreciation and amortization $ 22,712 $ 21,701 $ 68,069 $ 65,504 June 29, 2024 June 24, 2023 September 30, 2023 (in thousands) Assets: Pet segment $ 994,546 $ 1,009,606 $ 944,359 Garden segment 1,412,015 1,473,774 1,349,426 Corporate 1,201,317 936,567 1,084,863 Total assets $ 3,607,878 $ 3,419,947 $ 3,378,648 Goodwill (included in corporate assets above): Pet segment $ 277,067 $ 277,067 $ 277,067 Garden segment 269,369 269,369 269,369 Total goodwill $ 546,436 $ 546,436 $ 546,436 The tables below present the Company's disaggregated revenues by segment: Three Months Ended June 29, 2024 Nine Months Ended June 29, 2024 Pet Segment Garden Segment Total Pet Segment Garden Segment Total (in millions) (in millions) Other pet products $ 194.8 $ — $ 194.8 $ 496.8 $ — $ 496.8 Dog and cat products 152.3 — 152.3 450.0 — 450.0 Other manufacturers' products 103.5 99.5 203.0 311.8 231.8 543.6 Wild bird products 57.4 73.9 131.3 138.9 190.5 329.4 Other garden supplies — 314.9 314.9 — 711.2 711.2 Total $ 508.0 $ 488.3 $ 996.3 $ 1,397.5 $ 1,133.5 $ 2,531.0 Three Months Ended June 24, 2023 Nine Months Ended June 24, 2023 Pet Segment Garden Segment Total Pet Segment Garden Segment Total (in millions) (in millions) Other pet products $ 208.9 $ — $ 208.9 $ 542.6 $ — $ 542.6 Dog and cat products 136.0 — 136.0 396.9 — 396.9 Other manufacturers' products 100.3 107.9 208.2 306.7 249.7 556.4 Wild bird products 58.1 81.5 139.6 148.2 222.6 370.8 Other garden supplies — 330.5 330.5 — 693.3 693.3 Total $ 503.3 $ 519.9 $ 1,023.3 $ 1,394.4 $ 1,165.6 $ 2,559.9

Basis of Presentation - Narrati

Basis of Presentation - Narrative (Details)	1 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 30, 2023	Jun. 29, 2024
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Stock split, conversion ratio	0.25
Revenue Benchmark | Revenue from Rights Concentration Risk | Third Party Providers
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Minor amount of non-product revenue (less than)		1%
Subsidiary
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Noncontrolling interest owned by the subsidiary		20%

Basis of Presentation - Cash, C

Basis of Presentation - Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 29, 2024	Sep. 30, 2023	Jun. 24, 2023	Sep. 24, 2022
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 570,398	$ 488,730	$ 333,139
Restricted cash	13,980	14,143	13,542
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash	$ 584,378	$ 502,873	$ 346,681	$ 192,184

Fair Value Measurements - Narra

Fair Value Measurements - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 29, 2024	Sep. 30, 2023	Jun. 24, 2023	Apr. 30, 2021	Oct. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Carrying value of senior subordinated notes	$ 1,189,656	$ 1,188,203	$ 1,187,753
Senior notes
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Carrying value of senior subordinated notes	$ 1,189,184	1,187,769	1,187,298
Senior notes | Senior notes, interest at 4.125%, payable semi-annually, principal due April 2031
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt, aggregate principal amount				$ 400,000
Interest rate	4.125%			4.125%
Estimated fair value of senior notes	$ 352,200	327,100	326,000
Carrying value of senior subordinated notes	$ 395,900	395,400	395,300
Senior notes | Senior notes, interest at 4.125%, payable semi-annually, principal due October 2030
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt, aggregate principal amount					$ 500,000
Interest rate	4.125%				4.125%
Estimated fair value of senior notes	$ 445,700	417,000	413,800
Carrying value of senior subordinated notes	$ 495,000	494,400	494,200
Senior notes | Senior notes, interest at 5.125%, payable semi-annually, principal due February 2028
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt, aggregate principal amount						$ 300,000
Interest rate	5.125%					5.125%
Estimated fair value of senior notes	$ 291,600	279,500	280,700
Carrying value of senior subordinated notes	$ 298,300	$ 298,000	$ 297,900

Acquisitions (Details)

Acquisitions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Nov. 03, 2023	Jun. 29, 2024	Sep. 30, 2023	Jun. 24, 2023
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other assets		$ 105,539	$ 62,553	$ 54,943
TDBBS, LLC
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Payments to acquire business	$ 60,000
Other assets		$ 40,000

Inventories, net - Summary of I

Inventories, net - Summary of Inventories, Net of Allowance for Obsolescence (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 29, 2024	Sep. 30, 2023	Jun. 24, 2023
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Raw materials	$ 257,294	$ 270,672	$ 286,869
Work in progress	151,797	166,394	158,406
Finished goods	348,110	384,903	399,555
Supplies	27,574	16,219	20,666
Total inventories, net	$ 784,775	$ 838,188	$ 865,496

Goodwill - Narrative (Details)

Goodwill - Narrative (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024 USD ($) segment	Jun. 24, 2023 USD ($)
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Number of reporting units | segment	2
Impairment of goodwill | $	$ 0	$ 0

Other Intangible Assets - Compo

Other Intangible Assets - Components of Gross and Net Acquired Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 29, 2024	Sep. 30, 2023	Jun. 24, 2023
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross	$ 737,900	$ 737,800	$ 737,800
Accumulated Amortization	(223,800)	(199,400)	(191,200)
Accumulated Impairment	(41,200)	(41,200)	(34,500)
Net Carrying Value	472,854	497,228	512,175
Marketing-related intangible assets
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross	274,700	274,600	274,600
Accumulated Amortization	(22,000)	(21,500)	(21,300)
Accumulated Impairment	(29,400)	(29,400)	(26,000)
Net Carrying Value	223,200	223,700	227,300
Other acquired intangible assets
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross	46,800	46,800	46,800
Accumulated Amortization	(33,400)	(30,500)	(29,500)
Accumulated Impairment	(1,500)	(1,500)	(1,200)
Net Carrying Value	11,900	14,800	16,100
Amortizable | Marketing-related intangible assets
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross	22,100	22,100	22,100
Accumulated Amortization	(22,000)	(21,500)	(21,300)
Accumulated Impairment	0	0	0
Net Carrying Value	100	600	800
Amortizable | Customer-related intangible assets
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross	416,400	416,400	416,400
Accumulated Amortization	(168,400)	(147,400)	(140,300)
Accumulated Impairment	(10,300)	(10,300)	(7,300)
Net Carrying Value	237,700	258,800	268,800
Amortizable | Other acquired intangible assets
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross	39,700	39,700	39,700
Accumulated Amortization	(33,400)	(30,500)	(29,500)
Accumulated Impairment	(300)	(300)	0
Net Carrying Value	6,000	8,900	10,200
Nonamortizable | Marketing-related intangible assets
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross	252,500	252,500	252,500
Accumulated Amortization	0	0	0
Accumulated Impairment	(29,400)	(29,400)	(26,000)
Net Carrying Value	223,100	223,100	226,500
Nonamortizable | Other acquired intangible assets
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross	7,100	7,100	7,100
Accumulated Amortization	0	0	0
Accumulated Impairment	(1,200)	(1,200)	(1,200)
Net Carrying Value	$ 5,900	$ 5,900	$ 5,900

Other Intangible Assets - Narra

Other Intangible Assets - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Useful life of intangible assets	5 years		5 years
Estimated annual amortization expense related to acquired intangible assets 2024	$ 29		$ 29
Estimated annual amortization expense related to acquired intangible assets 2025	29		29
Estimated annual amortization expense related to acquired intangible assets 2026	29		29
Estimated annual amortization expense related to acquired intangible assets 2027	25		25
Estimated annual amortization expense related to acquired intangible assets 2028	$ 25		$ 25
Marketing-related intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted average remaining lives of acquired intangible assets	1 year		1 year
Customer-related intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted average remaining lives of acquired intangible assets	11 years		11 years
Other acquired intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted average remaining lives of acquired intangible assets	5 years		5 years
Minimum
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted average remaining lives of acquired intangible assets	2 years		2 years
Maximum
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted average remaining lives of acquired intangible assets	25 years		25 years
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization expense for intangibles	$ 8.1	$ 8.4	$ 24.4	$ 26.3

Long-Term Debt - Components of

Long-Term Debt - Components of Long-term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024	Sep. 30, 2023	Jun. 24, 2023	Apr. 30, 2021	Oct. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2017
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total	$ 1,189,656	$ 1,188,203	$ 1,187,753
Less current portion	(290)	(247)	(255)
Long-term portion	1,189,366	1,187,956	1,187,498
Senior notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized debt issuance costs	(10,816)	(12,231)	(12,702)
Total	$ 1,189,184	1,187,769	1,187,298
Senior notes | Senior notes, interest at 5.125%, payable semi-annually, principal due February 2028
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	5.125%					5.125%
Gross carrying value	$ 300,000	300,000	300,000
Total	$ 298,300	298,000	297,900
Senior notes | Senior notes, interest at 4.125%, payable semi-annually, principal due October 2030
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	4.125%				4.125%
Gross carrying value	$ 500,000	500,000	500,000
Total	$ 495,000	494,400	494,200
Senior notes | Senior notes, interest at 4.125%, payable semi-annually, principal due April 2031
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	4.125%			4.125%
Gross carrying value	$ 400,000	400,000	400,000
Total	395,900	395,400	395,300
Secured debt | Asset-based revolving credit facility, interest at SOFR plus a margin of 1.00% to 1.50% or Base Rate plus a margin of 0.0% to 0.50%, final maturity December 2026.
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total	$ 0	0	0
Secured debt | Asset-based revolving credit facility, interest at SOFR plus a margin of 1.00% to 1.50% or Base Rate plus a margin of 0.0% to 0.50%, final maturity December 2026. | Minimum | Secured Overnight Financing Rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin	1%
Secured debt | Asset-based revolving credit facility, interest at SOFR plus a margin of 1.00% to 1.50% or Base Rate plus a margin of 0.0% to 0.50%, final maturity December 2026. | Minimum | Base rate borrowings
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin	0%
Secured debt | Asset-based revolving credit facility, interest at SOFR plus a margin of 1.00% to 1.50% or Base Rate plus a margin of 0.0% to 0.50%, final maturity December 2026. | Maximum | Secured Overnight Financing Rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin	1.50%
Secured debt | Asset-based revolving credit facility, interest at SOFR plus a margin of 1.00% to 1.50% or Base Rate plus a margin of 0.0% to 0.50%, final maturity December 2026. | Maximum | Base rate borrowings
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin	0.50%
Other notes payable
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total	$ 472	$ 434	$ 455

Long-Term Debt - Narrative (Det

Long-Term Debt - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)				1 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Dec. 16, 2021	Oct. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2017	Apr. 30, 2021	Jun. 29, 2024
Components of long-term debt
Line of credit facility, commitment fee percentage	0.125%
Domestic Subsidiary
Components of long-term debt
Stock or equity interest, percentage					100%
Foreign Subsidiary
Components of long-term debt
Stock or equity interest, percentage					65%
Revolving credit facility | Secured Overnight Financing Rate
Components of long-term debt
Applicable interest margin rate on the credit facility	0%
Letter of credit
Components of long-term debt
Letters of credit outstanding					$ 0
Other letters of credit outstanding					1,100,000
Standby letters of credit
Components of long-term debt
Letters of credit outstanding	$ 50,000,000
Short-term Debt
Components of long-term debt
Letters of credit outstanding	75,000,000
Secured debt | Revolving credit facility
Components of long-term debt
Credit facility, maximum principal amount	750,000,000
Credit facility, additional borrowings available	$ 400,000,000
Credit facility, available capacity					550,000,000
Amount borrowed to partially finance acquisition					0
Debt issuance costs					$ 2,400,000
Debt instrument fixed charge coverage ratio					1
Secured debt | Revolving credit facility | Fed Funds Effective Rate Overnight Index Swap Rate
Components of long-term debt
Applicable interest margin rate on the credit facility	0.50%
Secured debt | Revolving credit facility | One-month LIBOR
Components of long-term debt
Applicable interest margin rate on the credit facility	1%
Secured debt | Revolving credit facility | Secured Overnight Financing Rate
Components of long-term debt
Applicable interest margin rate on the credit facility					1%
Applicable interest rate on the credit facility					6.30%
Secured debt | Revolving credit facility | Secured Overnight Financing Rate | Minimum
Components of long-term debt
Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate During Period					0%
Applicable interest margin rate on the credit facility	1%
Secured debt | Revolving credit facility | Secured Overnight Financing Rate | Maximum
Components of long-term debt
Applicable interest margin rate on the credit facility	1.50%
Secured debt | Revolving credit facility | Base rate borrowings
Components of long-term debt
Applicable interest margin rate on the credit facility					0%
Applicable interest rate on the credit facility					8.50%
Secured debt | Revolving credit facility | Base rate borrowings | Minimum
Components of long-term debt
Applicable interest margin rate on the credit facility	0%
Secured debt | Revolving credit facility | Base rate borrowings | Maximum
Components of long-term debt
Applicable interest margin rate on the credit facility	0.50%
4.125% Senior Notes due 2031 | Upon change of control
Components of long-term debt
Debt redemption price percentage				101%
4.125% Senior Notes due 2031 | Senior notes
Components of long-term debt
Debt, aggregate principal amount				$ 400,000,000
Interest rate				4.125%	4.125%
Debt issuance costs				$ 6,000,000
4.125% Senior Notes due 2031 | Senior notes | Redemption period one
Components of long-term debt
Debt redemption price percentage				102.063%
4.125% Senior Notes due 2031 | Senior notes | Redemption period two
Components of long-term debt
Debt redemption price percentage				101.375%
4.125% Senior Notes due 2031 | Senior notes | Redemption period three
Components of long-term debt
Debt redemption price percentage				100.688%
4.125% Senior Notes due 2031 | Senior notes | Redemption period four
Components of long-term debt
Debt redemption price percentage				100%
4.125% Senior Notes due 2030 | Senior notes
Components of long-term debt
Debt, aggregate principal amount		$ 500,000,000
Interest rate		4.125%			4.125%
Debt issuance costs		$ 8,000,000
Percentage of purchase price equal		100%
4.125% Senior Notes due 2030 | Senior notes | Redemption period one
Components of long-term debt
Debt redemption price percentage		102.063%
4.125% Senior Notes due 2030 | Senior notes | Redemption period two
Components of long-term debt
Debt redemption price percentage		101.375%
4.125% Senior Notes due 2030 | Senior notes | Redemption period three
Components of long-term debt
Debt redemption price percentage		100.688%
4.125% Senior Notes due 2030 | Senior notes | Redemption period four
Components of long-term debt
Debt redemption price percentage		100%
4.125% Senior Notes due 2030 | Senior notes | Upon change of control
Components of long-term debt
Debt redemption price percentage		101%
2023 Notes | Senior notes
Components of long-term debt
Interest rate		6.125%
2023 Notes | Senior notes | Redemption period two
Components of long-term debt
Debt redemption price percentage		101.531%
5.125% Senior Notes due 2028 | Senior notes
Components of long-term debt
Debt, aggregate principal amount			$ 300,000,000
Interest rate			5.125%		5.125%
Debt issuance cost			$ 4,800,000
5.125% Senior Notes due 2028 | Senior notes | Redemption period three
Components of long-term debt
Debt redemption price percentage			101.708%
5.125% Senior Notes due 2028 | Senior notes | Redemption period four
Components of long-term debt
Debt redemption price percentage			100.854%
5.125% Senior Notes due 2028 | Senior notes | Redemption period five
Components of long-term debt
Debt redemption price percentage			100%
5.125% Senior Notes due 2028 | Senior notes | Upon change of control
Components of long-term debt
Debt redemption price percentage			101%

Supplemental Equity Informati_3

Supplemental Equity Information - Summary of Changes in Carrying Amounts of Equity Attributable to Controlling Interest and Noncontrolling Interest (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended						9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024	Mar. 30, 2024	Dec. 30, 2023	Jun. 24, 2023	Mar. 25, 2023	Dec. 24, 2022	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 1,512,167	$ 1,452,586	$ 1,452,813	$ 1,372,247	$ 1,323,444	$ 1,334,712	$ 1,452,813	$ 1,334,712
Comprehensive income	80,103	61,955	1,426	85,195	48,440	(8,067)	143,484	125,569
Amortization of share-based awards	3,895	2,163	4,169	5,017	5,015	4,647
Restricted share activity, including net share settlement	(1,864)	(4,343)	(1,919)	(889)	(3,114)	(590)
Issuance of common stock, including net share settlement of stock options	1,479	(194)	(1,581)	2,226	1,159	1,708
Repurchase of stock			(1,422)	(16,690)	(2,697)	(8,966)
Distribution to Noncontrolling interest			(900)
Ending balance	1,595,780	1,512,167	1,452,586	1,447,106	1,372,247	1,323,444	1,595,780	1,447,106
Total
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	1,510,788	1,451,889	1,451,353	1,371,094	1,322,854	1,333,706	1,451,353	1,333,706
Comprehensive income	79,350	61,273	1,289	84,772	47,877	(7,651)
Amortization of share-based awards	3,895	2,163	4,169	5,017	5,015	4,647
Restricted share activity, including net share settlement	(1,864)	(4,343)	(1,919)	(889)	(3,114)	(590)
Issuance of common stock, including net share settlement of stock options	1,479	(194)	(1,581)	2,226	1,159	1,708
Repurchase of stock			(1,422)	(16,690)	(2,697)	(8,966)
Ending balance	1,593,648	1,510,788	1,451,889	1,445,530	1,371,094	1,322,854	1,593,648	1,445,530
Additional Paid In Capital
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	592,136	594,512	594,282	587,243	584,992	581,920	594,282	581,920
Amortization of share-based awards	3,895	2,163	4,169	5,017	5,015	4,647
Restricted share activity, including net share settlement	(1,863)	(4,344)	(1,918)	(887)	(3,115)	(590)
Issuance of common stock, including net share settlement of stock options	1,478	(195)	(1,583)	2,225	1,158	1,707
Repurchase of stock			(438)	(5,001)	(807)	(2,692)
Ending balance	595,646	592,136	594,512	588,597	587,243	584,992	595,646	588,597
Retained Earnings
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	920,803	858,816	859,370	786,776	740,549	755,253	859,370	755,253
Comprehensive income	79,724	61,987	430	83,126	48,115	(8,433)
Repurchase of stock			(984)	(11,685)	(1,888)	(6,271)
Ending balance	1,000,527	920,803	858,816	858,217	786,776	740,549	1,000,527	858,217
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(2,825)	(2,111)	(2,970)	(3,601)	(3,363)	(4,145)	(2,970)	(4,145)
Comprehensive income	(374)	(714)	859	1,646	(238)	782
Ending balance	(3,199)	(2,825)	(2,111)	(1,955)	(3,601)	(3,363)	(3,199)	(1,955)
Noncontrolling Interest
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	1,379	697	1,460	1,153	590	1,006	1,460	1,006
Comprehensive income	753	682	137	423	563	(416)
Distribution to Noncontrolling interest			(900)
Ending balance	2,132	1,379	697	1,576	1,153	590	2,132	1,576
Common Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Repurchase of stock				(1)	(1)
Common Stock | Common Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	111	111	111	112	113	113	111	113
Ending balance	111	111	111	111	112	113	111	111
Class A Common Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Restricted share activity, including net share settlement	(1)	1			1
Issuance of common stock, including net share settlement of stock options	1	1		1
Repurchase of stock				(3)	(1)
Class A Common Stock | Common Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	547	545	544	548	547	549	544	549
Restricted share activity, including net share settlement			(1)	(2)
Issuance of common stock, including net share settlement of stock options			2		1	1
Repurchase of stock						(3)
Ending balance	547	547	545	544	548	547	547	544
Class B Stock | Common Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	16	16	16	16	16	16	16	16
Ending balance	$ 16	$ 16	$ 16	$ 16	$ 16	$ 16	$ 16	$ 16

Stock-Based Compensation - Narr

Stock-Based Compensation - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023
Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Share-based compensation expense	$ 15.1	$ 20.6
Tax benefit associated with share-based compensation expense	$ 3.6	$ 4.9

Earnings Per Share - Earnings P

Earnings Per Share - Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023
Basic EPS:
Net income (loss) available to common shareholders	$ 79,724	$ 83,126	$ 142,141	$ 122,808
Weighted average shares, basic (in shares)	65,850	65,580	65,636	65,577
Earnings per share, basic (in dollars per share)	$ 1.21	$ 1.27	$ 2.17	$ 1.87
Diluted EPS:
Net income (loss) available to common shareholders	$ 79,724	$ 83,126	$ 142,141	$ 122,808
Net income available to common shareholders, diluted (in shares)	66,945	66,725	66,848	66,832
Net income available to common shareholders, diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 1.19	$ 1.25	$ 2.13	$ 1.84
Options to purchase common stock
Effect of dilutive securities:
Options to purchase common stock, restricted shares, and performance stock units	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Options to purchase common stock units (in shares)	197	309	265	348
Options to purchase common stock (in dollars per share)	$ 0	$ (0.01)	$ (0.01)	$ (0.01)
Restricted shares
Effect of dilutive securities:
Options to purchase common stock, restricted shares, and performance stock units	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Restricted shares (in shares)	698	680	774	795
Restricted shares (in dollars per share)	$ (0.01)	$ (0.01)	$ (0.03)	$ (0.02)
Performance stock units
Effect of dilutive securities:
Options to purchase common stock, restricted shares, and performance stock units	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Performance stock units (in shares)	200	156	173	112
Performance stock units (in dollars per share)	$ (0.01)	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Earnings Per Share - Narrative

Earnings Per Share - Narrative (Details) - $ / shares shares in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Number of options to purchase common stock outstanding (in shares)	0.9	2	0.9	2
Employee Stock Option
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share, amount (in shares)	0.2	0.8
Restricted stock
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share, amount (in shares)			0.3	0.6
Minimum
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Options to purchase common stock (in dollars per share)	$ 20.63	$ 21.37	$ 20.63	$ 21.37
Maximum
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Options to purchase common stock (in dollars per share)	$ 41.10	$ 51.37	$ 41.10	$ 51.37

Segment Information - Narrative

Segment Information - Narrative (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024 segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of operating segments	2

Segment Information - Financial

Segment Information - Financial Information Relating to Company's Business Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023	Sep. 30, 2023
Net sales:
Net sales	$ 996,348	$ 1,023,269	$ 2,530,971	$ 2,559,936
Operating income (loss)
Total operating income	115,936	122,830	217,795	201,277
Interest expense - net	(10,216)	(13,134)	(31,396)	(41,600)
Other income	225	853	1,047	3,147
Income tax expense	25,468	27,000	43,733	39,446
Income including noncontrolling interest	80,477	83,549	143,713	123,378
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest	753	423	1,572	570
Net income attributable to Central Garden & Pet Company	79,724	83,126	142,141	122,808
Depreciation and amortization:
Depreciation and amortization	22,712	21,701	68,069	65,504
Assets:
Total assets	3,607,878	3,419,947	3,607,878	3,419,947	$ 3,378,648
Goodwill (included in corporate assets above):
Total goodwill	546,436	546,436	546,436	546,436	546,436
Pet Segment
Net sales:
Net sales	508,002	503,329	1,397,454	1,394,352
Garden Segment
Net sales:
Net sales	488,346	519,940	1,133,517	1,165,584
Operating segments | Pet Segment
Operating income (loss)
Total operating income	83,068	59,969	189,115	154,779
Depreciation and amortization:
Depreciation and amortization	10,979	10,060	32,901	30,647
Assets:
Total assets	994,546	1,009,606	994,546	1,009,606	944,359
Goodwill (included in corporate assets above):
Total goodwill	277,067	277,067	277,067	277,067	277,067
Operating segments | Garden Segment
Operating income (loss)
Total operating income	62,519	88,088	110,699	126,887
Depreciation and amortization:
Depreciation and amortization	11,008	10,823	33,028	32,483
Assets:
Total assets	1,412,015	1,473,774	1,412,015	1,473,774	1,349,426
Goodwill (included in corporate assets above):
Total goodwill	269,369	269,369	269,369	269,369	269,369
Corporate
Operating income (loss)
Total operating income	(29,651)	(25,227)	(82,019)	(80,389)
Depreciation and amortization:
Depreciation and amortization	725	818	2,140	2,374
Assets:
Total assets	$ 1,201,317	$ 936,567	$ 1,201,317	$ 936,567	$ 1,084,863

Segment Information - Disaggreg

Segment Information - Disaggregated Revenues by Segment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023	Jun. 29, 2024	Jun. 24, 2023
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 996,348	$ 1,023,269	$ 2,530,971	$ 2,559,936
Pet Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	508,002	503,329	1,397,454	1,394,352
Garden Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	488,346	519,940	1,133,517	1,165,584
Other pet products
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	194,800	208,900	496,800	542,600
Other pet products | Pet Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	194,800	208,900	496,800	542,600
Other pet products | Garden Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	0	0	0	0
Dog and cat products
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	152,300	136,000	450,000	396,900
Dog and cat products | Pet Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	152,300	136,000	450,000	396,900
Dog and cat products | Garden Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	0	0	0	0
Other manufacturers' products
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	203,000	208,200	543,600	556,400
Other manufacturers' products | Pet Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	103,500	100,300	311,800	306,700
Other manufacturers' products | Garden Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	99,500	107,900	231,800	249,700
Wild bird products
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	131,300	139,600	329,400	370,800
Wild bird products | Pet Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	57,400	58,100	138,900	148,200
Wild bird products | Garden Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	73,900	81,500	190,500	222,600
Other garden supplies
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	314,900	330,500	711,200	693,300
Other garden supplies | Pet Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	0	0	0	0
Other garden supplies | Garden Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 314,900	$ 330,500	$ 711,200	$ 693,300

Contingencies Contingencies (De

Contingencies Contingencies (Details) $ in Millions		1 Months Ended
	Jun. 27, 2018 USD ($) claim	Jun. 30, 2020 USD ($)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Number of claims | claim	3
Damages awarded | $	$ 12.6	$ 12.4