Columbus McKinnon(US:CMCO)2026-02-09 23:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Columbus McKinnon reported net sales of $258.7 million, an increase of 10.5% year-over-year, driven by higher volume, pricing, and favorable currency translation [9] - Adjusted EBITDA was $40 million, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 15.4%, flat compared to the prior quarter [5][11] - Adjusted EPS improved 11% from the prior year to $0.62, reflecting higher net income from increased sales volume and pricing [5][12] - Free cash flow for the quarter was $16.5 million, supported by higher earnings and favorable working capital [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Short cycle sales increased by 13%, with strong performance in the U.S. benefiting from both pricing and volume growth [9] - Project-related sales increased by 8% as backlog was converted to revenue globally [9] - Gross profit increased by $7.1 million, or 8.6%, year-over-year, with a GAAP gross margin of 34.5% [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Orders in the U.S. grew by 15%, driven by strength in lifting, automation, and precision conveyance [7] - EMEA orders grew by 3%, although this was largely influenced by favorable foreign exchange rates [7][24] - The backlog increased by 15% year-over-year to $342 million, reflecting growth across all platforms [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company closed the Kito Crosby acquisition, which is expected to enhance its value proposition and operational excellence [4] - Columbus McKinnon plans to focus on vertical end markets with tailwinds, such as metal processing, government and defense, and heavy equipment [8] - The company aims to achieve $70 million in net run rate cost synergies from the Kito Crosby acquisition, with 20% expected in year one [21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving tariff cost neutrality by the end of the fiscal year and margin neutrality in fiscal 2027 [6][46] - The U.S. market is expected to remain healthy, supported by lower interest rates and favorable tax legislation [7] - Management acknowledged challenges in the EMEA region, anticipating continued slower decision-making and demand [24] Other Important Information - The company withdrew its prior standalone guidance for fiscal year 2026 due to the recent acquisition and pending divestiture [16] - Significant transaction-related expenses and early integration costs are expected to impact GAAP earnings per share in the fourth quarter [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the seasonality in the Kito Crosby business compared to the core business? - Columbus McKinnon expects Kito Crosby to have a similar seasonal pattern, with both businesses seeing stronger performance in their respective fourth quarters [20] Question: Can you provide a deeper dive into major end markets and geographic performance? - Management noted strength in general industrial space, automation, e-commerce, construction, aerospace, and government, while demand in Europe remains slower than anticipated [23][24] Question: How did the strength in orders relate to the U.S. chain hoist business, which is being divested? - There was no material impact from the chain hoist orders on the overall order numbers, indicating typical performance relative to prior periods [56]