Proto Labs’ third quarter results were marked by a negative market reaction, despite exceeding Wall Street’s revenue and earnings expectations. Management attributed the company’s performance to robust demand for U.S. CNC machining and sheet metal services, particularly in aerospace, defense, robotics, and semiconductors. CEO Suresh Krishna highlighted improved execution in the U.S. go-to-market teams and noted, “Our record revenue was led by increased demand in our U.S. CNC machining and sheet metal offer ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Second quarter revenue reached a record of $135.1 million, representing a 6.5% year-over-year increase in constant currencies and a 7% sequential increase [21] - Non-GAAP earnings per share (EPS) were $0.41, exceeding guidance and up $0.08 sequentially, with a year-over-year increase of $0.03 [25] - Non-GAAP gross margin was flat sequentially at 44.8%, but down 90 basis points year-over-year due to higher growth in network revenue and lower US network margin from changing tariffs [24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - CNC machining revenue grew 20% year-over-year, with a 30% increase in the US, driven by strong demand from aerospace and defense customers [22] - Injection molding revenue declined 4% year-over-year, impacted by weaker demand in the medical sector [22] - 3D printing revenue decreased by 1% year-over-year, reflecting ongoing weakness in prototyping [22] - Sheet metal revenue grew by 9%, supported by improved offerings and marketing efforts [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue in the US grew 12% year-over-year, while European revenue declined by 15% in constant currencies, indicating a contraction in manufacturing activity in Europe [23] - Customers utilizing the combined offer grew by 44% over the trailing twelve months, and revenue per customer increased by 11% year-over-year [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to sharpen execution in customer and employee experience to unlock long-term growth [8] - There will be no radical shifts in strategy in the near term, with a focus on listening and engaging with teams and customers to identify high-impact opportunities [9] - The company continues to invest in marketing and sales enablement tools to enhance customer engagement and streamline operations [13][14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to adapt to changing trade policies and tariffs, viewing them as a long-term tailwind for American manufacturing innovation [16] - The company is focused on generating healthy cash flows to invest in growth and innovation while maintaining resilience amid market uncertainties [18] - Management anticipates continued strength in CNC machining and overall business performance into the third quarter [34] Other Important Information - The company received a 2025 Future of Manufacturing Project Award, validating its progress as a technology-focused manufacturer [10] - The metal 3D printing service in Raleigh, North Carolina, received ISO 13485 certification, enhancing its capabilities in medical device manufacturing [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Strength in CNC and its impact on growth - Management noted similar growth in both factory and network segments, with a significant contribution from larger accounts [31][32] Question: Insights on injection molding performance - The injection molding business faced headwinds from last year's larger orders and current weakness in the medical sector, but innovation efforts are ongoing [35][36] Question: Impact of tariffs on gross margins - Tariffs on aluminum and steel impacted margins, but adjustments in pricing restored network margins to normal levels by June [46][49] Question: Production initiatives and their success - The company reported an 11% increase in revenue per customer contact and a 44% year-over-year growth in customers utilizing combined offers, indicating successful production initiatives [60]