Watsco posts record Q3 revenue but EPS miss, shares slide

Watsco Inc. reported third‑quarter 2026 revenue of $2.22 billion, up 7% year‑over‑year and beating estimates. Adjusted earnings per share came in at $3.77, falling short of the analyst consensus of $4.12. Operating income declined 4% to $225 million as gross margin slipped to 26.4% and operating margin to 10.1%. The company completed acquisitions of Jackson Supply and The Granite Group, which together are expected to add about 10% to annual revenue, and its nine‑month operating cash flow jumped 79% to $304 million.

The earnings miss drove Watsco shares down roughly 4% in after‑hours trading, reflecting investor concern over margin compression. However, the strong cash‑flow generation and revenue‑boosting acquisitions may support future growth, as noted by the CEO.

  • 1Revenue was $2.22 billion, up 7% YoY and slightly above the $2.2 billion estimate.
  • 2Adjusted EPS was $3.77, missing the consensus estimate of $4.12.
  • 3Operating income was $225 million, a 4% decline year‑over‑year.
  • 4Gross profit margin fell to 26.4% from 27.5% in the prior‑year period.
  • 5Operating margin was 10.1%, down from 11.4% YoY.
  • 6Operating cash flow increased 79% to $304 million for the nine‑month period.

Sources