By Robb M. Stewart

Mueller Industries's shares fell sharply after the manufacturer cautioned a sharp recovery in its markets wasn't expected in 2026, though it managed to overcome worsened conditions and the disruption and cost of tariffs in the final quarter of the last fiscal year.

In morning trading, the shares were down 11% at $123.58. That narrowed the advance over the last three months to 15%.

Chief Executive Greg Christopher said market conditions aren't expected to abruptly rebound this year, though the company nonetheless anticipates considerable improvements as the year progresses.

"This past year, we completed several operational improvement initiatives that will deliver financial benefits in 2026. We have absorbed the impact of changes in tariff and trade policies, and will continue to adapt as such policies evolve," he said.

Christopher said the company also has opportunities to invest in and improve each of its business platforms, and has a strong balance sheet and no debt.

Mueller's fourth-quarter net income rose to a record high $153.7 million, or $1.38 a share, from $137.7 million, or $1.21, a year earlier.

Sales rose 4.2% to $962.4 million in the three months to Dec. 27. The advance reflected higher net selling prices due to rising raw material costs, moderated by lower unit volumes, primarily in the company's core copper and brass products, Mueller said.

Write to Robb M. Stewart at robb.stewart@wsj.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

February 03, 2026 09:50 ET (14:50 GMT)

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