Shares of AZZ Inc. (NYSE: AZZ) tumbled 6.08% in pre-market trading on Thursday, following the release of its fiscal year 2026 second-quarter results that fell short of analyst expectations. The metal coating and coil coating solutions provider reported mixed performance across its segments, with weakness in its Precoat Metals business overshadowing growth in Metal Coatings.

For the quarter ended August 31, AZZ reported adjusted earnings per share of $1.55, missing the consensus estimate of $1.57. Total sales came in at $417.3 million, up 2% year-over-year but below the expected $426.2 million. The company's adjusted EBITDA of $88.7 million also fell short of analysts' projections of $94.9 million. While the Metal Coatings segment saw a 10.8% increase in sales, driven by higher infrastructure-related spending, the Precoat Metals segment experienced a 4.3% decline due to weaker demand in several end markets, including building construction, HVAC, and appliance.

Despite maintaining its full-year 2026 guidance, projecting adjusted earnings per share between $5.75 and $6.25 and sales ranging from $1.625 billion to $1.725 billion, investors appear concerned about the company's ability to meet these targets. The significant pre-market stock plunge reflects apprehension about AZZ's near-term growth prospects, particularly in light of the challenges faced by the Precoat Metals segment and overall market uncertainties. As AZZ navigates these headwinds, market participants will be closely monitoring the company's performance in the coming quarters to assess its ability to overcome the current challenges and deliver on its full-year projections.