Fastenal Q1 net sales rise 12.4% YoY
Fastenal reported its net sales increased 12.4% in the first quarter of 2026 when compared to the first quarter of 2025.
The company said sales performance reflects the contribution from improved customer contract signings since the first quarter of 2024, as well as a slight improvement in industrial production in the first quarter of 2026.
Foreign exchange rates positively affected sales in the first quarter of 2026 by approximately 60 basis points, compared to a negative impact in the first quarter of 2025 of approximately 50 basis points. The impact of product pricing on net sales in the first quarter of 2026 was an increase of approximately 350 basis points, compared to being immaterial in the first quarter of 2025.
Other highlights included:
- Operating margin was 20.3% (an increase of 20 basis points year-over-year), reflecting operating leverage and cost discipline, partially offset by an ongoing shift in customer mix.
- Operating cash flow was $378 million, representing 111% of net income, supported by disciplined working capital management.
- Returned $296 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases.
- Continued progress on strategic initiatives, including increased sales effectiveness through key account wins, expansion of technology, and deeper penetration through new customer site growth.
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