3M's Safety & Industrial Revenues Up in Q3: Can the Momentum Last?

Core Insights - 3M Company's Safety and Industrial segment is a significant contributor to its overall performance, with organic revenues increasing by 4.1% year over year in Q3 2025, marking the sixth consecutive quarter of growth [1][8] - The segment accounted for approximately 44.8% of 3M's total sales during the quarter [1] Segment Performance - Strong demand for personal safety, industrial specialties, industrial adhesives and tapes, abrasives, and electrical markets supported the segment's growth [2] - The Electrical Markets segment reported low-teens growth, driven by robust demand related to data center construction and improved service performance [3] - The industrial adhesives and tapes business grew in the mid-single digits, supported by new product introductions and higher demand in electronics, automotive, and appliance applications [3] - Personal safety and abrasives markets also achieved mid-single-digit growth, benefiting from new product launches [3] Challenges and Outlook - There is softness in the automotive aftermarket and roofing granule business, which poses a near-term challenge [4] - Despite these challenges, the Safety and Industrial segment is well-positioned for steady growth, driven by rising demand for personal safety, electrical infrastructure, and bonding solutions [4] Peer Comparison - Honeywell International Inc. reported an 8% year-over-year revenue increase in its Building Automation segment, contributing approximately 28.8% of its total revenues [5] - Carlisle Companies Incorporated's Construction Materials segment saw a 0.3% year-over-year revenue increase, contributing approximately 74.3% of its total revenues [6] Stock Performance - 3M's shares have gained 28.3% over the past year, contrasting with a 6% decline in the industry [7] - The company is currently trading at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 19.89X, above the industry's average of 11.68X [10] Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 3M's 2025 earnings has increased over the past 60 days, with current estimates for the current quarter at $1.83 and for the next year at $8.55 [12][13]