Professional Segment Growth
Professional segment net sales for the third quarter were $931 million, up about 6% year-over-year, driven by higher shipments of underground construction and golf and grounds products and net price realization. Earnings for this segment were $199 million, up 20% year-over-year, resulting in an earnings margin of 21.3%, up from 18.8% in the prior year.
Operational Efficiency and Cost Savings
The AMP productivity program delivered $75 million in annualized cost savings and is on track to deliver at least $100 million by 2027. In F25, the company realized $47 million in savings, positively impacting SG&A expenses and overall cost structure.
Strong Free Cash Flow and Share Repurchase
Free cash flow through the third quarter was $292 million with a free cash flow conversion rate of 90%. The company invested $90 million in share repurchases during the quarter, bringing the year-to-date total to $290 million.
Innovation in Product Offerings
Continued innovation with the launch of products such as the Ventrac 45RC, Trakt eDingo, and the Trakt Electric Ultra Buggy. The company also highlighted advancements in the golf segment with Toro Spatial Adjust irrigation control software and Perfrared moisture sensing technology.