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Could Data Center Demand Unlock New Growth for Snap-on's Torque?

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Key Takeaways

  • SNA sees growing data center demand for its Mountz precision torque tools.
  • SNA's C&I sales rose 13.8% in the second quarter, including 11% organic growth.
  • SNA's C&I operating income surged 41.8%, operating margin expanded 330 basis points.

Snap-on Incorporated (SNA - Free Report) is witnessing growing opportunities in its specialty torque business, supported by rising demand for precision tools across critical industries, including data centers. The company highlighted increasing demand for its Mountz product line, which specializes in low-force precision torque applications. Management noted a sizable order serving data center customers and expressed optimism about securing additional business in this market. The Mountz business also contributed to the Commercial & Industrial (C&I) segment's quarterly growth.

The growing adoption of automated systems across critical industries is creating demand for tighter tolerances, precision and customization. Snap-on's expanding specialty torque portfolio serves applications ranging from large hydraulic and tensioning systems to lower-force operations that require greater speed and control. The Mountz acquisition has strengthened the company's capabilities in these specialized applications, positioning it to capitalize on increasing precision requirements.

This momentum is reflected in C&I's strong second-quarter performance. Segment sales increased 13.8% year over year to $395.8 million, including 11% organic growth. Specialty torque and power tools operations recorded double-digit gains, while sales to critical industries advanced in the mid-single digits. C&I operating income surged 41.8% to $66.5 million, with the operating margin expanding 330 basis points to a record 16.8%.

Management also highlighted improving profitability in the torque business, alongside ongoing sourcing and production adjustments. The company noted considerable profitability improvements in its torque operations. Overall, with data center demand emerging as an additional growth opportunity alongside established industrial applications, Snap-on's specialty torque operations appear well-positioned to support C&I's expansion and profitability.

The Zacks Rundown for SNA

Snap-on’s shares have lost 12.4% in the past three months compared with the industry’s 7.9% decline.

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From a valuation standpoint, SNA trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 17.39 compared with the industry’s average of 17.99. The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).

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The Zacks Consensus Estimate for SNA’s current and next fiscal-year sales and earnings implies a rise of 1.1% and 7.3%, respectively, from the previous year’s figures.

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Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Other Stocks to Consider

Some other top-ranked stocks have been discussed below:

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The Zacks Consensus Estimate for GIII’s current financial-year sales and earnings is expected to decline 8.4% and 13.8%, respectively, from the corresponding year-ago reported figures. GIII delivered a trailing four-quarter negative earnings surprise of 1.4%, on average.

Kontoor Brands, Inc. (KTB - Free Report) , a lifestyle apparel company, designs, manufactures, procures, sells and licenses apparel, footwear and accessories, primarily under the Wrangler, Lee, and Helly Hansen brands. At present, KTB carries a Zacks Rank of 2.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for KTB’s current fiscal-year sales and earnings implies a decline of 14.3% and 6.1%, respectively, from the year-ago figures. KTB delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 21.4%, on average.

The Toro Company (TTC - Free Report) provides professional turf maintenance equipment and services. It operates through Professional and Residential segments. At present, TTC carries a Zacks Rank of 2.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for TTC’s current fiscal-year sales and earnings implies growth of 6.5% and 10.5%, respectively, from the year-ago figures. TTC delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 7.2% on average.

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