Kadant Inc. announced a CEO succession plan on September 10, 2026. Michael C. Colwell was appointed president and chief operating officer effective October 1, 2026, and will become president and chief executive officer on January 2, 2027. Current CEO Jeffrey L. Powell will remain in his role through December 31, 2026, before transitioning to executive chairman on January 2, 2027. Chairman Jonathan W. Painter will cease serving as a director and board chairman on January 2, 2027. The filing details Mr. Powell's transition agreement, including his continued compensation and vesting acceleration provisions for restricted stock units upon retirement in January 2028.

Kadant Inc. reported second quarter fiscal 2026 results ending July 4, 2026, with record revenue of $312.9 million, a 23% increase from the prior year period. Net income rose 24% to $32.5 million, while GAAP diluted EPS reached $2.75 and adjusted diluted EPS hit a record $3.42. Bookings increased 16% to $312.1 million, supported by robust aftermarket demand, though organic bookings declined slightly. The company revised its full-year 2026 revenue guidance upward to $1.190–$1.210 billion and adjusted EPS guidance to $12.43–$12.68. Kadant Inc. operates in the industrial equipment sector, providing process technologies for pulp and paper, biomass, and recycling industries.