3M Company (MMM) reported strong financial results for the third quarter of 2026, with adjusted operating income reaching $1.73 billion, an 8.9% year-over-year increase. The company's adjusted operating margin expanded to 26.2%, up 110 basis points, driven by top-line growth, operational efficiency, and productivity gains. Revenues for the quarter were $6.6 billion, up 1% year over year, fueled by demand in general industrial, safety, semiconductor, and data center markets.
In July 2026, 3M partnered with Bain Capital to acquire Madison Fire & Rescue, forming a joint venture that included 3M's Scott Safety business. The deal brought in $700 million in cash for 3M, which retained a 50.1% stake. The combined business saw high-single-digit pro forma sales growth in the third quarter, with margins exceeding initial expectations.
Looking ahead to 2026, 3M anticipates adjusted organic sales growth of more than 3.5% and adjusted earnings between $9.10 and $9.15 per share, up from $8.20 per share in 2025. The company expects an operating margin of approximately 24.6% for the year.
Comparatively, GE Aerospace's operating profit margin contracted 80 basis points to 19.9% in the third quarter, while Honeywell Technologies saw its operating income margin rise to 14.8% from 8.4% year over year. Shares of 3M have gained 3% in the past three months, outperforming the industry's 1.4% decline.