Hayward Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:HAYW) reported fourth-quarter results that came in ahead of analyst forecasts, supported by steady demand and pricing gains, though shares were little changed in after-hours trading following the announcement.
The pool equipment manufacturer posted adjusted earnings per share of $0.29, slightly above the consensus estimate of $0.28.
Quarterly revenue reached $349.4 million, exceeding analyst expectations of $331.76 million and rising 7% year over year from $327.1 million in the same period last year.
Revenue growth was primarily driven by favorable pricing actions aimed at offsetting inflation and tariffs, along with positive foreign exchange effects, partly balanced by a modest decline in sales volumes.
For fiscal 2026, Hayward forecast adjusted diluted EPS in the range of $0.82 to $0.86, with a midpoint of $0.84 marginally below analyst expectations of $0.85. The company anticipates net sales growth of roughly 4% compared with fiscal 2025.
“Hayward delivered a strong fourth quarter, outperforming expectations and building on our momentum,” said President and Chief Executive Officer Kevin Holleran. “Our team executed at a high level across the organization, driving an exceptional finish to 2025, with solid in-quarter demand and strong participation in our Early Buy programs for the upcoming 2026 pool season.”
Adjusted EBITDA increased 4% year over year to $102.9 million in the fourth quarter. Gross profit margin expanded by 160 basis points to 48.5%, benefiting from higher pricing, reduced warranty costs and operational efficiencies, partially offset by increased tariff-related charges and inflationary pressures. Operating income rose 14% to $87.3 million, representing a 25.0% operating margin.
Net cash generated from operating activities for fiscal 2025 climbed 21% year over year to $256.0 million. The company ended the quarter with cash and cash equivalents totaling $329.6 million.