Columbus McKinnon Corporation (NASDAQ: CMCO) saw its market valuation appreciate significantly on Wednesday subsequent to the release of preliminary financial data relating to its fiscal third quarter, coupled with important corporate actions linked to its portfolio management strategy. The company provided a forecast indicating net sales for the quarter ranging from $250 million to $260 million, adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) between $38 million and $40 million, and adjusted earnings per share (EPS) between 58 cents and 63 cents.
Expanding the view to the first nine months, projections reflect sales between $747 million and $757 million, adjusted EBITDA approximating $115 million to $117 million, and adjusted EPS estimated at $1.70 to $1.75. These preliminary figures, while unaudited, convey the company's performance trajectory amid its ongoing operational and strategic initiatives.
Orders and Backlog Provide Insights on Demand Stability
Orders, a critical indicator of future sales momentum, are anticipated to land between $245 million and $250 million for the quarter. Although this level is slightly lower compared to the preceding quarter's $253.7 million, the company's backlog figures indicate enduring demand. The backlog is expected to fall within the $335 million to $345 million interval, representing a mild moderation from the prior quarter midpoint but remaining elevated relative to the close of fiscal 2025. This relative strength in backlog mitigates concerns that may arise from softer order flows alone.
It is important to note that the company underscored the preliminary nature of these financial disclosures. Columbus McKinnon confirmed that the adjusted metrics have not yet been reconciled to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) figures, and that its auditor has not issued any assurance statement concerning the projections provided. This cautionary stance reflects standard practices in early earnings communications prior to final quarter-end audits.
Additionally, the company revised its adjusted EBITDA calculation methodology to include stock-based compensation expenses as add-backs. This amendment aims to enhance comparability across reporting periods and better align with common peer industry standards in financial disclosures.
Strategic Divestiture Accelerates Portfolio Refinement
Complementing the financial update, Columbus McKinnon disclosed the execution of a definitive agreement to divest its U.S.-based power chain hoist and chain manufacturing operations. This transaction is slated with an affiliate of Pacific Avenue Capital Partners, valued at $210 million upfront with the potential for an additional $25 million in earn-out payments contingent on future performance metrics.
The divestiture is explicitly designed to address overlapping areas within the company's portfolio and to facilitate the smoother integration of its pending acquisition, Kito Crosby Limited. The company reiterated expectations that the Kito Crosby acquisition will conclude in the first quarter of 2026, subject to review by the Department of Justice (DOJ). The transaction's completion is anticipated to yield $70 million in annual net run-rate cost synergies as management pursues operational efficiencies.
Looking forward, the company projects that cash flows generated post-acquisition will support a deleveraging trajectory, targeting a net leverage ratio below 4.0 times by fiscal year-end 2028. This financial discipline underscores the management's commitment to balance sheet strength alongside growth initiatives.
Upcoming Reporting and Market Reaction
Columbus McKinnon plans to release the complete fiscal third-quarter earnings report before market open on Monday, February 9, 2026. An investor conference call addressing the quarter's results and strategic outlook is scheduled for later the same day.
Market participants responded positively to the company's disclosures, with CMCO shares appreciating 5.19% to trade at $21.07 at the time of publication on Wednesday, reflecting investor buoyancy amid evolving corporate developments.
Key Points
- Columbus McKinnon forecasts fiscal Q3 net sales between $250 million and $260 million, adjusted EBITDA of $38 million to $40 million, and adjusted EPS ranging from 58 to 63 cents.
- Orders for the quarter are projected slightly lower than the previous quarter, while backlog remains robust compared to fiscal year 2025 levels, suggesting stable demand.
- The company is selling its U.S. power chain hoist and chain manufacturing operations for $210 million plus potential earn-outs, aiming to streamline its portfolio ahead of the Kito Crosby integration.
- Kito Crosby acquisition is expected to close in Q1 2026 pending regulatory approval, with $70 million in targeted annual cost synergies and a deleveraging path to a net leverage ratio under 4.0x by fiscal 2028.
Risks and Uncertainties
- Preliminary financial results have not yet undergone audit or GAAP reconciliation, creating potential variability in final reported figures.
- Regulatory approval from the Department of Justice is pending for the Kito Crosby acquisition, introducing timing and outcome uncertainty.
- The order outlook shows a modest decline versus the prior quarter, which may indicate headwinds in demand if the trend persists.
- Integration challenges related to the Kito Crosby acquisition and effects from the divestiture on operations could impact performance.