3M Gears Up to Report Q3 Earnings: Is a Beat in the Offing?

Core Viewpoint - 3M Company (MMM) is expected to report third-quarter 2025 results on October 21, with projected revenues of $6.25 billion, reflecting a 0.7% decline year-over-year, and earnings estimated at $2.10 per share, indicating a 6.1% growth from the previous year [1][9]. Group 1: Earnings Performance - The company has consistently delivered better-than-expected results in the last four quarters, with an average earnings surprise of 4.4%. In the last reported quarter, earnings of $2.16 per share exceeded the consensus estimate of $2.01 by 7.5% [2]. - The Earnings ESP for MMM stands at +1.27%, with the most accurate estimate at $2.13 per share, which is higher than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.10, suggesting a strong likelihood of an earnings beat [8]. Group 2: Segment Performance - The Safety and Industrial segment is anticipated to perform well, with revenues estimated at $2.90 billion, a 4.7% increase from the previous year, driven by strong demand in personal safety, roofing granules, and electrical markets [3]. - The Consumer segment is expected to generate revenues of $1.31 billion, reflecting a 0.8% year-over-year increase, supported by growth in home improvement and home care products, although offset by weakness in the packaging business [4]. - The Transportation and Electronics segment is projected to see a revenue decline of 28.5% year-over-year to $1.98 billion, primarily due to ongoing challenges in the automotive electrification market [5]. Group 3: Cost Management and Structural Changes - High costs and expenses have negatively impacted MMM's performance, but ongoing investments in research and development are expected to increase operating expenses. However, structural reorganization efforts aimed at streamlining operations and optimizing manufacturing are likely to support margins in the upcoming quarter [6].