EnerSys (ENS) Q1 Revenue Rises 5%

Core Insights - EnerSys reported Q1 FY2026 earnings with revenue of $893.0 million, a 4.7% increase year-over-year, but missed analyst estimates of $939.8 million [1][2] - Adjusted diluted EPS (non-GAAP) rose to $2.08, reflecting a 5.1% increase from $1.98 in Q1 FY2025, but fell short of the expected $2.59 [2] - The company suspended full-year quantitative guidance for FY2026 due to external uncertainties and operational challenges [1] Financial Performance - Revenue increased by 4.7% year-over-year, driven by acquisitions, pricing improvements, and favorable currency movements [5] - Adjusted operating earnings (non-GAAP) grew by 8.1%, while EBITDA (non-GAAP) decreased by 8.8% to $103.9 million compared to $113.9 million in Q1 FY2025 [2][7] - Free cash flow (non-GAAP) was negative at $(32.1) million, attributed to seasonal working capital needs and higher inventories [7] Segment Analysis - The Energy Systems segment saw an 8.4% sales increase, with adjusted operating margins improving to 7.0% from 5.3% in Q1 FY2025 [6] - Motive Power segment sales fell by 4.7%, with adjusted operating margins decreasing from 15.3% to 13.4% due to weakened demand [6] - Specialty segment sales jumped by 18.1%, significantly boosted by the acquisition of Bren-Tronics [6] Strategic Focus - EnerSys emphasizes innovation in advanced battery technologies, including TPPL and lithium-ion batteries, while managing lead costs [4][11] - The company is implementing a new strategic framework, "EnerGize," targeting approximately $80 million in annualized cost savings through workforce reduction and reorganization [10] - Regulatory compliance and sustainability remain priorities as the company serves a diverse global customer base [4] Shareholder Returns - The quarterly dividend was raised by 9% to $0.2625 per share, reflecting a commitment to shareholder capital returns [9][14] - The company completed $150 million in share repurchases, a significant increase from $11.6 million in Q1 FY2025 [9] Future Outlook - Management forecasts Q2 FY2026 net sales between $870 million and $910 million, with adjusted diluted EPS between $2.33 and $2.43 [12] - The company did not provide full-year guidance for FY2026 due to uncertainties around tariffs and customer order behavior [12] - Key factors to watch include organic growth in core business areas, realization of cost savings, and the impact of IRC 45X tax credits on profitability [13]