ESCO Technologies(ESE) - 2026 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company booked over $550 million in orders in Q1 2026, a 143% increase year-over-year [4] - Top line sales growth was 35%, with adjusted earnings per share increasing by 73% to a record $1.64 per share [5][12] - Adjusted EBIT margin expanded by 380 basis points to 19.4% [12] Business Segment Data and Key Metrics Changes - Aerospace and Defense segment saw orders over $380 million, compared to $75 million in the prior year, with sales up 76% [6][12] - Utility Solutions Group orders increased by 10%, driven by strong performance at Doble, while sales were up modestly by 1% [14] - Test business had orders up over 17% and sales up nearly 27%, with adjusted EBIT margins improving to 13.8% [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced strong order strength from both U.S. and U.K. Navy programs, indicating robust demand in the defense sector [5][6] - The renewables market is currently recalibrating, affecting near-term investments but expected to play a vital role in the long term [8][41] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is raising its full-year sales and earnings guidance due to strong Q1 results and record backlog [10][18] - Focus remains on strategic acquisitions in utility, aircraft components, and Navy segments, with a healthy M&A pipeline being rebuilt [50] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in long-term demand across markets, particularly in Navy and aerospace sectors, despite short-term fluctuations [25][26] - The company anticipates a tapering of growth after a strong Q1, with expectations for solid growth throughout the year [34] Other Important Information - Operating cash flow more than doubled to $68.9 million, driven by increased contract liability in the Navy business [16] - Full-year adjusted earnings per share guidance increased to a range of $7.90-$8.15, reflecting a growth of 31%-35% compared to 2025 [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Updates on A&D orders and ship set content - Management noted long-term demand is strong, but specifics on platforms cannot be disclosed due to MOD policies [25][26] Question: Revenue guidance appears conservative - Management indicated that Q1 is expected to be the strongest growth quarter, with tapering growth anticipated later in the year [34] Question: Strength in the test business - The recovery in traditional core markets, particularly electromagnetic compatibility and medical shielding, has driven recent strength [38] Question: Outlook for the energy business - Current focus is on completing existing projects to qualify for tax credits, with expectations for a return to normal growth in late 2026 [41] Question: Maritime business large orders impact - Management expects some revenue from maritime contracts starting in Q4, with more significant impacts in 2027 and 2028 [43] Question: Capital allocation and M&A opportunities - The company is actively rebuilding its M&A pipeline, focusing on strategic acquisitions in its core segments [50] Question: Military business strength outside Navy - Management highlighted broad-based strength in military aircraft, including significant orders for F-15EX fighters and sixth-generation platforms [54]