Strong Margin Improvement
Gross margin improved by 60 basis points year-over-year to 17.3%. Year-to-date gross margin increased 80 basis points to 17.1% compared to last year.
Debt Reduction and Increased Liquidity
The company repaid $23 million of debt and increased liquidity by 21% from the second quarter, totaling $194 million.
Record Operating Income in Supply Technologies
Operating income in the Supply Technologies segment reached an all-time record of $20.5 million, marking a 31% increase year-over-year.
Year-Over-Year Sales Growth in Key Segments
Sales grew in 2 of the 3 business segments, with notable growth in the fastener manufacturing and industrial equipment businesses.
Positive Earnings Growth
GAAP earnings per share increased by 3%, and adjusted earnings per share grew by 8% compared to the prior year.