Kadant Reports Record Bookings and Higher Revenue in First Quarter 2026

Kadant Inc. reported record bookings and double-digit revenue growth for the first quarter of 2026, supported by acquisitions and increased demand across its industrial processing businesses.

The company reported first-quarter revenue of $281.5 million, up 18% year over year, while bookings increased 25% to a record $3A20A.8 million. Backlog at the end of the quarter stood at $326 million.

Net income rose 6% to $26 million, with GAAP earnings per share increasing to $2.16. Adjusted earnings per share increased 14% to $2.84. Adjusted EBITDA rose 19% to $56.8 million, representing 20.2% of revenue.

Gross margin declined by 110 basis points to 45.0%, while operating cash flow decreased 4% to approximately $22 million.

Kadant, which supplies equipment and engineered systems to the paper, packaging and process industries, said recent acquisitions contributed to growth during the quarter. The company recently completed the acquisition of voestalpine BÖHLER Profil, a long-term supplier to Kadant, as part of its strategy to expand its industrial technology portfolio.

Kadant is scheduled to discuss its first-quarter performance and outlook during an investor webcast on May 6.