Applied Industrial Technologies — Jan 27, 2026 release

In addition, we continued to see encouraging signs on the sales front with order growth continuing to build across both segments. We believe this positive momentum could translate more meaningfully to sales in the second half of our fiscal year, as reflected by organic sales trending up by a mid single-digit percent year over year month to date in January. Lastly, we remain active with capital deployment including ongoing share repurchases, as well as today’s announced 11% increase in our quarterly dividend and the bolt-on Service Center acquisition of Thompson Industrial Supply Inc.” Mr. Schrimsher added, “As we enter the second half of fiscal 2026, we remain constructive on our setup given the potential for accelerating sales and earnings growth. Our updated guidance incorporates ongoing macro and policy uncertainty that will likely continue to influence customer spending behavior and shipment activity near term. That said, we are encouraged by early fiscal third quarter sales trends including stronger sales growth across both segments. Sentiment from customers and sales teams is directionally positive, while business funnels continue to expand. Furthermore, we believe technical MRO and capital spending requirements are heightened entering a more productive environment in calendar 2026 as benefits from lower interest rates, tax policy, and deregulation provide incremental support. Combined with ongoing self-help margin opportunities and balance sheet capacity, we are well positioned to capitalize on vario