NPK · National Presto Industries, Inc.

National Presto Industries' first quarter 2026 results showed mixed segment performance driving overall sales growth but earnings decline. Defense segment led with sales up 23% or $18.6 million from increased backlog shipments, boosting operating earnings 8.2% or $1.1 million despite headwinds from less favorable mix, reduced absorption due to a two-week government facility shutdown for 40mm rounds, and higher corporate overhead allocation. President Maryjo Cohen highlighted these factors in the press release. In contrast, Housewares/Small Appliance segment sales dropped 15.6% or $3.4 million, primarily from startup issues at a new warehousing facility causing shipment delays, compounded by reduced demand from tariff-driven price hikes; this led to lower volume, startup costs, and unfavorable mix yielding a sizable loss. The Safety segment, sharing the warehouse, also saw shipment reductions and reported a loss. Offset partially by Defense strength, consolidated net sales reached $118.6 million versus $103.6 million last year, but net earnings fell to $6.6 million or $0.93 per share from $7.6 million or $1.07. Concurrently, Safety unveiled its full Rely FX™ line of 10 ultra-durable commercial fire extinguishers, including eight new dry chemical models and four mounting brackets, touted for superior performance across UL, ULC, DOD, USCG, DOT, MSHA, and NFPA standards, with extreme temperature tolerance to 160°F, corrosion resistance, and 200G shock withstand capability. Production and marketing start in May, potentially bolstering future Safety results. No forward guidance provided.