Woodward Reports 29% Sales Increase in Q1 2026

By Chris Stiles • Monday, February 02 17:49 • Permanent Link

Woodward, Inc. (NASDAQ: WWD) has reported strong financial results for the first quarter ended December 31, 2025. The company's net sales for the first quarter of 2026 were $996 million, which is a 29% increase from the same period in the prior year. Net earnings for the first quarter were $134 million, representing a significant 54% increase from the previous year.

The company's earnings per share (EPS) for the first quarter of 2026 were $2.17, marking a 53% increase from the same period in the prior year. Additionally, Woodward's net cash provided by operating activities increased to $114 million, up by $80 million from the prior year. The free cash flow for the first quarter of 2026 was $70 million, reflecting a substantial increase of $69 million from the same period in the prior year.

Woodward's aerospace segment saw a significant increase in sales, with a 29% year-over-year growth. The segment's earnings also experienced a substantial surge, reaching $148 million, which is a 57% increase from the previous year. The aerospace segment's margin percentage also improved by 420 basis points, reaching 23.4%.

In the industrial segment, Woodward reported a 30% increase in sales compared to the prior year. The segment's earnings for the first quarter of 2026 reached $67 million, reflecting a 67% increase from the same period in the prior year. The industrial segment's margin percentage also improved by 410 basis points, reaching 18.5%.

Based on its strong first-quarter performance, Woodward has raised its fiscal 2026 sales and earnings guidance. The company now expects total sales growth for fiscal 2026 to be in the range of 14% to 18%, up from the previous guidance of 7% to 12%. Additionally, Woodward has raised its EPS guidance for fiscal 2026 to $8.20 to $8.60, up from the previous range of $7.50 to $8.00.

The company's improved performance and raised guidance reflect sustained strong demand across its aerospace and industrial segments, further supporting continued sales growth and margin expansion.

Woodward will hold an investor conference call on February 2, 2026, to provide an overview of its financial performance for the first quarter and to discuss business highlights and guidance for fiscal 2026. The market has reacted to these announcements by moving the company's shares -0.88% to a price of $333.06. If you want to know more, read the company's complete 8-K report here.

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