Charles River shares rise after Q1 2026 results, guidance reaffirmed, divestiture completed
Charles River Laboratories reported first-quarter 2026 results on May 7, 2026, with revenue of $995.8 million and non-GAAP EPS of $2.06. The company reaffirmed 2026 organic revenue and non-GAAP EPS guidance and highlighted $200 million of share repurchases and completion of the CDMO and Cell Solutions divestiture.
1) What happened today (May 7, 2026)
Charles River Laboratories released first-quarter 2026 financial results, reporting revenue of $995.8 million, GAAP loss per share of $(0.30), and non-GAAP EPS of $2.06. The company reaffirmed its 2026 guidance for organic revenue and non-GAAP EPS, which provided a clear same-day catalyst for the stock.
2) Key drivers and notable items
The company attributed the GAAP net loss primarily to a $118.0 million loss on assets held for sale tied to the divestiture of the CDMO and Cell Solutions businesses. It also disclosed $200 million of common stock repurchases during Q1 2026 and stated it completed the divestiture of the CDMO and Cell Solutions businesses.
3) Why the stock may be up today
Even with a GAAP loss, reaffirmed full-year guidance plus confirmation of portfolio actions (divestiture completion) and meaningful buybacks can reduce uncertainty and support the shares. Investors may be focusing on non-GAAP profitability, guidance stability, and capital return rather than divestiture-related accounting losses.