Blue Bird(NASDAQ) BLBD

Blue Bird builds buses that carry students to school safely. The company makes vehicles that run on gas, propane, and electricity. These products help schools across North America move children every day.

What is Rolling Off the Line?

• Bus Segment: Manufacturing of Type C, Type D, and specialty school buses; generated $307.7 million in Q1 2026.
• Parts Segment: Sale of replacement bus parts to independent dealers and fleet operators; generated $25.4 million in Q1 2026.
• Alternative Power: School buses using propane, gasoline, or electricity; accounted for $151.4 million in sales during Q1 2026.
• Diesel Buses: Traditional diesel-powered school buses for US and Canadian markets; accounted for $144.9 million in Q1 2026.

Recent Moves and Partnerships

• In October 2025, the company approved the termination and dissolution of Clean Bus Solutions, LLC.
• The company continues its 50% equity interest in Micro Bird Holdings, Inc. for Type A bus production.
• Micro Bird opened a new manufacturing facility in Plattsburgh, New York, in September 2025.
• A $100 million share repurchase program was authorized in August 2025 to return value to stockholders.

What Sets Blue Bird Apart

Blue Bird is the only major manufacturer that designs its own bus chassis and body together. This focus on specialized engineering helps the company lead the market in electric and propane power.

A Strong Start to 2026

• Net sales reached $333.1 million in Q1 2026, up 6.1% from Q1 2025.
• Gross profit grew to $71.2 million in Q1 2026, up 18.1% year-over-year.
• Free cash flow hit $31.1 million in Q1 2026, up 42.6% from the previous year.
• Operating cash flow reached $36.6 million in Q1 2026, a 38.5% increase year-over-year.

Evolution of an Icon

Blue Bird has moved beyond traditional diesel buses to become a leader in zero-emission student transport. The company uses proactive pricing strategies to manage supply costs while fulfilling a growing order backlog.