National Beverage Corp. (NASDAQ: FIZZ) reported financial results for its first quarter ended August 1, 2026, in a press release dated September 10, 2026.
For the three-month period, the company reported net sales of $330.7 million. The company noted that these sales were negatively impacted by consumer sentiment and tariffs, with average selling price increases largely offset by volume declines.
Gross margin for the quarter was reported at 35%. The company attributed this margin level to elevated input costs, specifically noting that aluminum commodity costs negatively impacted gross margin by almost 600 basis points. Increases in fuel and freight expenses also pressured both inbound and outbound shipping costs.
Net income for the quarter was $47.0 million, resulting in earnings per share of $0.50. This represented a decrease from the prior year's earnings per share of $0.60.
In a significant capital allocation move, the company paid a special dividend of $304 million on July 30, 2026. This payment was $3.25 per share, representing the company's thirteenth special cash dividend. Following this payment, the company reported cash on hand of $107 million.
The company highlighted that it has distributed a total of $19.78 per share, or over $1.8 billion, to shareholders through these special dividends.
Management stated that while market conditions remain soft, they are observing a rebound in orders during August and are optimistic that improving volume and mix will resume growth going forward.
