Insteel Industries expanded its gross margin from 9.4% to 14.4% in fiscal 2025, driving net earnings to $41.0 million and diluted EPS to $2.10, up from $0.99 the prior year. The company completed a $70 million acquisition, paid a $1.00 special dividend and ended the year with $38.6 million in cash and no drawn revolver.

Net sales rose 23.3% to $159.9 million in Q1 fiscal 2026, supported by an 18.8% increase in average selling prices and a 3.8% volume gain, producing $7.6 million in net income, or $0.39 per share. FIFO inventory accounting and higher-cost wire rod purchases contributed to an 11.3% gross margin, down from full-year levels.

Approximately 90% of Insteel’s revenues derive from nonresidential construction segments, including highway and bridge projects funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and growing data center foundations. Core highway programs remain funded through at least 2026, and data center activity has helped offset softer residential volumes.

Operating without debt, the company maintains a base quarterly dividend of $0.03 per share and has historically issued special dividends ranging from $1.00 to $2.50 per share in strong cash flow years. Management plans up to $20 million in capital expenditures for fiscal 2026 while preserving flexibility for future distributions.