Crown Holdings Q1 EPS Up 11% to $1.86, Dividend Hiked 35%
Crown Holdings' first-quarter EPS rose 11% to $1.86 on a 5% increase in global beverage shipments, while net sales grew to $3.259 billion with $234 million in passthrough material costs. The company boosted its dividend by 35%, returned $251 million to shareholders and reaffirmed 2026 adjusted EPS guidance of $7.90–$8.30.
1. First-Quarter Financial Performance
Crown Holdings reported net sales of $3.259 billion in Q1, up from $2.887 billion a year earlier, driven by a 5% increase in global beverage can shipments and favorable foreign currency effects. Income from operations held steady at $365 million, while adjusted diluted EPS climbed 11% to $1.86.
2. Shareholder Returns
During the quarter, the company returned $251 million to shareholders, including $39 million in dividends after a 35% increase and approximately $212 million in share repurchases. This reflects a commitment to disciplined capital allocation and supports the company’s goal of enhancing shareholder value.
3. India Expansion and Outlook
Crown reaffirmed full-year adjusted EPS guidance of $7.90–$8.30 and expects Q2 EPS of $2.10–$2.20, despite potential aluminum and energy cost headwinds. The new two-line beverage can plant in Northern India will commence operations in H2 2027 to serve rising demand in alcoholic and non-alcoholic segments.