W.W. Grainger reported third quarter 2026 results that exceeded analyst estimates on both top and bottom lines, supported by robust volume growth and an improving demand environment. The company raised its full-year 2026 earnings outlook following the performance, now projecting adjusted diluted EPS of $47.00 to $48.00.
Key Highlights
- Total sales of $5.2 billion rose 11.3% year-over-year, or 14.9% on a daily organic constant currency basis, significantly ahead of the 8.7% estimate.
- Adjusted diluted EPS reached $12.54, a 22.8% increase compared to $10.21 in the prior-year period, beating the $11.64 consensus.
- Adjusted operating margin expanded 90 basis points to 16.1%, driven by sales leverage across both High-Touch Solutions and Endless Assortment segments.
- High-Touch Solutions N.A. segment sales grew 13.8%, fueled by double-digit volume growth and price realization.
- The company returned $396 million to shareholders during the quarter through a combination of dividends and share repurchases.