#United States #Cleveland #EPS Growth #Avient Corporation #Material Solutions

Avient's Third Quarter 2026 Results

Avient Corporation (NYSE: AVNT), a leading provider of material solutions, recently reported its third quarter earnings for 2026, demonstrating solid growth and positive momentum across its business segments.

In the third quarter, Avient achieved an impressive sales increase of 10.5%, reaching $891 million, boosted by robust demand, particularly in the packaging, healthcare, and building construction sectors. This growth was achieved despite a minor negative impact of 0.1% from unfavorable foreign exchange rates. Removing this factor, organic sales growth stood at 10.6%.

Earnings Per Share (EPS) for the quarter also saw a notable rise, with GAAP EPS reported at $0.46, improving from $0.36 in the same period last year. The adjusted EPS demonstrated even stronger growth at $0.86, reflecting a robust 23% increase compared to the previous year’s quarter. This performance not only exceeded the adjusted EPS guidance of $0.80 but also highlights Avient's strategic alignment with high-growth market sectors.

Mike Frank, CEO of Avient, commented on the performance, stating, "Our teams delivered a strong third quarter, driven by sales growth across nearly all our markets. Both operating segments contributed to this growth, reflecting successful pricing strategies alongside new business gains and high demand for our growth vector technologies. Our strategy is generating tangible results and supporting our efforts to enhance margin expansion."

Following this positive performance, Avient's management raised its full-year adjusted EPS guidance range to $3.22 to $3.32, up from the prior forecast of $3.10 to $3.25. This new range reflects anticipated growth of 14% to 18% over the prior fiscal year.

Financial Highlights

• - Total Sales: $891 million (up 10.5% year-over-year)
• - GAAP EPS: $0.46 (up from $0.36)
• - Adjusted EPS: $0.86 (up 23% from previous year)
• - Debt Reduction: $100 million year-to-date, including $50 million in the third quarter
• - Adjusted EBITDA margins expanded to 17.3%, an increase of 80 basis points.

In terms of cash flow, Avient reported a strong generation of cash, allowing for significant debt repayment over the year. The recent quarter concluded with $50 million repaid, contributing to a cumulative $100 million reduction in debt for the year.

CFO Joe Di Salvo emphasized the company’s strategy of maintaining a balanced approach with cash generation, mentioning, "Our strong cash generation is enabling us to invest in growth while simultaneously fortifying our balance sheet. We anticipate concluding 2026 with a net debt to adjusted EBITDA leverage ratio of 2.2x to 2.3x, positioning us well for future growth."

Moreover, Avient engaged in share repurchase activities for the first time since 2022, buying back 281,000 shares for approximately $10.9 million. This reflects the company’s commitment to returning capital to shareholders while enhancing shareholder value.

A comprehensive outlook is provided in the company's upcoming webcast scheduled for 8:00 a.m. ET on November 4, 2026, where additional details regarding their third quarter results and future expectations will be shared.

Conclusion

Avient's recent achievements underscore its resilient performance in a volatile market, driven by strategic initiatives and a focus on innovation. With a firm foundation and a clear vision for growth, Avient is well-positioned to continue navigating the challenges of the marketplace while delivering value to its customers and shareholders alike.

For more detailed information, visit Avient's investor page.