Preformed Line Products Co: Form 10-K for the period ended Dec 31, 2024

Background

Preformed Line Products Company together with its subsidiaries (the “Company” or “PLP”) is an international designer and manufacturer of products and systems employed in the construction and maintenance of overhead, ground-mounted and underground networks for energy, telecommunication, cable, data communication and other similar industries. The Company’s primary products support, protect, connect, terminate and secure cables and wires. The Company provides formed wire solutions, connectors, fiber optic and copper splice closures, solar hardware mounting applications, and electric vehicle charging station foundations. The Company’s goal is to continue to achieve profitable growth as a leader in the research, innovation, development, manufacture and marketing of technically advanced products and services primarily related to the energy and communications markets.

The Company serves a worldwide market through strategically located domestic and international manufacturing facilities. Each of the Company’s domestic and international manufacturing facilities have obtained or are actively seeking an International Organization of Standardization (“ISO”) 9001:2015 Certified Management System Certificate. The ISO 9001:2015 certified management system is a globally recognized certified quality standard for manufacturing and assists the Company in marketing its products throughout the world. The Company’s customers include public and private energy utilities and communication companies, cable operators, governmental agencies, contractors and subcontractors, distributors and value-added resellers. The Company is not dependent on a single customer or small group of customers. The Company has one customer accounting for 11.1% of the Company's consolidated revenues.

The Company’s products include:

• Energy Products
• Communications Products
• Special Industries Products
• Solar Framing and Electric Vehicle Products
• Inspection Services

Energy Products are used for supporting, protecting, terminating and splicing transmission and distribution lines as well as bolted, welded, and compressed connectors for substations. PLP offers a full array of products for OPGW (Optical Ground Wire) and ADSS (All Dielectric Self Supporting) fiber optic cables, which are commonly used to monitor and control power networks. Formed wire products are the mainstay of PLP’s product offering and such products enjoy an almost universal acceptance in the Company’s markets. Formed wire products are based on the principle of forming a variety of stiff wire materials into a helical (spiral) shape. The advantages of using the Company’s helical formed wire products are that they are economical, dependable and easy to use. Additional energy product offerings include a wide array of string hardware products, polymer insulators, wildlife protection, substation fittings and motion control devices like spacer dampers. Energy products were approximately 71%, 64%, and 59% of the Company’s revenues in 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Communications Products include rugged outside plant (OSP) closures to protect and support wireline and wireless networks, such as fiber optic cable or copper cable, from moisture, environmental hazards and other potential contaminants. The precision engineered OSP closures support many FTTx (Fiber-to-the-X) and 4G/5G applications and are deployed at various points in the network—deadend, middle-mile and last-mile—but primarily are used in modern FTTH (Fiber-to-the-Home) applications. In addition to the OSP closures, the Company supplies demarcation related products that include wall boxes, pre-terminated cabinets, wall plates and passive components that are typically deployed at residences, businesses or MDUs (Multi-dwelling units). The Company supplies formed wire products, utility pole line hardware, motion control products and cable storage devices used to hold, support, protect and terminate various cable types that are used to transfer voice, video or data signals. These communications products serve all segments of the telecommunications industry including but not limited to network operators, broadband service providers, wireless internet service providers, enterprise networks, educational institutions, and electric utilities deploying fiber optics. Communications products were approximately 22%, 29%, and 33% of the Company’s revenues in 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Special Industries Products include hardware assemblies, pole line hardware, plastic products, cable dynamics/vibration solutions, interior/exterior connectors, tools, and urethane solutions. They are used by energy, renewable energy, communications, cable and other industries for specialized applications. Also included in Special Industries is the Inspection Services group which provides safe and reliable drone inspection services for utility assets, including transmission and distribution power lines, substations, generation facilities, and communications assets as well as solar framing and electric vehicle (EV) offerings which include mounting solutions for photovoltaic solar applications, including commercial, industrial, utility, and residential applications as well as pre- fabricated, precision-engineered EV charging station foundations. Special Industries products were approximately 7%, 7%, and 8% of the Company’s revenues in 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

International Operations

The international operations of the Company are essentially the same as its domestic (“PLP-USA”) business. The Company manufactures similar types of products in its international plants as are sold domestically, sells to similar types of customers and faces similar types of competition (and in some cases, the same competitors). Sources of supply of raw materials are not significantly different internationally. See Note 15 in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information and financial data relating to the Company’s international operations that represent reportable segments.

Sales and Marketing

The Company markets its products through a direct sales force and manufacturing representatives. The direct sales force is employed by the Company and works with manufacturers’ representatives, as well as key direct accounts and distributors who also buy and resell the Company’s products. The manufacturers' representatives are independent organizations that represent the Company as well as other complementary product lines. These organizations are paid a commission based on the sales amount they generate.

Research and Development

The Company is committed to providing technical leadership through scientific research and product development in order to continue to expand the Company’s position as a supplier to the communications and power industries. Research is conducted on a continuous basis using internal experience in conjunction with outside professional expertise to develop state-of-the-art materials for several of the Company’s products. These products capitalize on cost-efficiency while offering exacting mechanical performance that meets or exceeds industry standards. The Company’s research and development activities have resulted in numerous patents being issued to the Company (see “Patents and Trademarks” below).

To understand the performance of its products, and enhance the goals of ensuring quality and exceeding customer expectations, the Company has a 38,000-square-foot Research and Engineering Center located at its corporate headquarters in Mayfield Village, Ohio. Using the Research and Engineering Center, engineers and technicians simulate a wide range of external conditions encountered by the Company’s products to ensure quality, durability and performance. The work performed in the Research and Engineering Center includes advanced studies and experimentation with various forms of vibration and environmental changes.

The Research and Engineering Center is one of the most sophisticated in the world in its specialized field. The Research and Engineering Center also has an advanced prototyping technology machine on-site to develop models of new designs where intricate part details are studied prior to the construction of expensive production tooling. Today, the Company’s reputation for vibration testing, tensile testing, fiber optic cable testing, environmental testing, field vibration monitoring and third-party contract testing is a competitive advantage. In addition to testing, the work performed at the Company’s Research and Development Center continues to fuel product development efforts. The Company’s position in the industry is further reinforced by its long-standing leadership role in many key international technical organizations which are charged with the responsibility of establishing industry-wide specifications and performance criteria, including IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers), CIGRE (Counsiel Internationale des Grands Reseaux Electriques a Haute Tension), and IEC (International Electromechanical Commission). Research and development costs are expensed as incurred.

Patents and Trademarks

The Company applies for patents in the U.S. and other countries, as appropriate, to protect its significant patentable developments. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had in force 68 U.S. patents and 116 international patents in 21 countries and had 41 pending U.S. patent applications and 114 pending international applications. While such domestic and international patents expire from time to time, the Company continues to apply for and obtain patent protection on a regular basis. Patents held by the Company in the aggregate are of material importance in the operation of the Company’s business. The Company, however, does not believe that any single patent, or group of related patents, is essential to the Company’s business as a whole or to any of its businesses. Additionally, the Company owns and uses a substantial body of proprietary information and numerous trademarks. The Company relies on nondisclosure agreements to protect trade secrets and other proprietary data and technology. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had obtained U.S. registration on 31 trademarks, and 5 trademark applications remained pending. International registrations amounted to 278 registrations in 47 countries, with 5 pending international registrations.

U.S. patents are issued for terms of 20 years beginning with the date of filing of the patent application. Patents issued by international countries generally expire 20 years after filing. U.S. and international patents are not renewable after expiration of their initial term. U.S. and international trademarks are generally perpetual, renewable in 10-year increments upon a showing of continued use. To the knowledge of management, the Company is not subject to any significant allegation or charges of infringement of intellectual property rights by any organization.

In the normal course of business, the Company occasionally makes and receives inquiries with regard to possible patent and trademark infringement. The extent of such inquiries from third parties has been limited generally to verbal remarks or letters to Company representatives. The Company believes that it is unlikely that the outcome of these inquiries will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position.

Competition

All of the markets that the Company serves are highly competitive. In each market, the principal methods of competition are price, performance, and service. The Company believes, however, that several factors (described below) provide the Company with a competitive advantage.

• The Company has a strong and stable workforce. This consistent and continuous knowledge base has afforded the Company the ability to provide superior service to the Company’s customers and representatives.
• The Company’s Research and Engineering Center and the engineering departments at the Company’s subsidiary operations around the world maintain a strong technical support function to develop unique solutions to customer demands.
• The Company is vertically integrated both in manufacturing and distribution and is continually upgrading equipment and processes.
• The Company is sensitive to the marketplace and provides an extra measure of service in cases of emergency, storm damage and other supply delivery situations. This high level of customer service and customer responsiveness is a hallmark of the Company.
• The Company’s domestic and international sales and manufacturing locations ensure close support and proximity to customers worldwide.

Domestically, there are several competitors for formed wire products. Although it has other competitors in many of the countries where it has operations, the Company has leveraged its expertise and is very strong in the global market. The Company believes that it is the world’s largest manufacturer of formed wire products for energy and communications markets. However, the Company’s formed wire products compete against other pole line hardware products manufactured by other companies.

The OSP closure market is one of the most competitive product areas for the Company, with a number of primary competitors and several smaller niche competitors that compete at all levels in the marketplace. The Company believes that it is one of four leading suppliers of OSP closures.

Sources and Availability of Raw Materials

The principal raw materials used by the Company are galvanized wire, stainless steel, aluminum covered steel wire, aluminum rod, plastic resins, glass-filled plastic compounds, neoprene rubbers and aluminum castings. The Company also uses certain other materials such as fasteners, packaging materials and fiber communications devices. The Company believes that it has adequate sources of supply for the raw materials used in its manufacturing processes, and it regularly attempts to develop and maintain sources of supply in order to extend availability and encourage competitive pricing of these products.

Most plastic resins are purchased under contracts to stabilize costs and improve delivery performance and are available from a number of reliable suppliers. Wire and aluminum rods are purchased in standard stock diameters and coils under contracts from a number of reliable suppliers. Contracts have firm prices except for fluctuations of base metals and petroleum prices, which result in surcharges when global demand is greater than the available supply.

The Company also relies on certain other manufacturers to supply products that complement the Company’s product lines, such as ferrous castings, fiber optic cable and connectors and various metal racks. The Company believes there are multiple sources of supply for these products.

The Company has expanded its supply chain but, in limited circumstances, does rely on sole source manufacturers for certain raw materials. This reliance presents a risk that existing suppliers could go out of business or be unable to meet customer demand. However, there are other potential sources available for these materials, and the Company believes that it could relocate the tooling and processes to other manufacturers if necessary.

During the twelve months ending December 31, 2024, the previous inflationary headwinds we experienced related to raw materials, specifically plastic resins, aluminum and sand (grit), have generally subsided. Costs related to shipping and freight have similarly fallen from their 2022 peak. Given the uncertainties in the macro-economic environment, we cannot determine if these trends will continue. If inflationary pressures persist or new tariffs are sustained, it may require further price adjustments to maintain profit margin and any price increases may have a negative effect on demand.

Backlog Orders

Order backlog was approximately $191.0 million at the end of 2024 and $172.6 million at the end of 2023. All customer orders entered are firm at the time of entry. Substantially all of the backlog existing at December 31, 2024 is expected to be shipped to customers in 2025.

Seasonality

The Company markets products that are used by utility maintenance and construction crews worldwide. The products are marketed through distributors and directly to end users, who maintain stock to ensure adequate supply for their customers or construction crews. As a result, the Company does not have a wide variation in sales from quarter to quarter.

People, Planet and Principles

The Company is subject to extensive and changing federal, state, and local environmental laws, including laws and regulations that (i) relate to air and water quality, (ii) impose limitations on the discharge of pollutants into the environment, (iii) establish standards for the treatment, storage and disposal of toxic and hazardous waste, and (iv) require proper storage, handling, packaging, labeling, and transporting of products and components classified as hazardous materials. Stringent fines and penalties may be imposed for noncompliance with these environmental laws. In addition, environmental laws could impose liability for costs associated with investigating and remediating contamination at the Company’s facilities or at third-party facilities at which the Company has arranged for the disposal treatment of hazardous materials.

The Company believes it is in compliance in all material respects, with all applicable environmental laws and the Company is not aware of any noncompliance or obligation to investigate or remediate contamination that could reasonably be expected to result in a material liability. The Company does not expect to make any material capital expenditures during 2025 for environmental control facilities. The environmental laws continue to be amended and revised, and compliance with future additional environmental requirements could necessitate capital outlays; however, the Company does not believe that these expenditures will ultimately result in a material adverse effect on its financial position or results of operations. Further, regulators in the U.S. and around the world, including the E.U., have been focused on proposing and/or implementing regulations to require certain disclosures related to climate change. If these regulations are ultimately adopted and become applicable to the Company, it could significantly increase the Company's compliance burdens and associated regulatory costs and complexity. The Company cannot predict the precise effect such enacted regulations or future requirements, if they become applicable to the Company, would have on the Company, and continues to monitor proposed and pending regulations. The Company believes that such regulations would affect the industry as a whole.

Weather events may impact the Company’s business by increasing operating costs due to damage to its facilities and distribution systems and disruptions to its manufacturing processes due to the increased frequency and severity of storms, floods, fires, fog, mist, freezing conditions, sea-level rise and other climate-related events. As discussed above, climate related regulatory activity may adversely affect the Company’s business and financial results by requiring the Company to reduce its emissions, make capital investments to modernize certain aspects of its operations, purchase carbon offsets, or otherwise pay for its emissions. The Company seeks to address these potential risks in its business continuity planning; however, such events could make it difficult for the Company to deliver products and services to its customers and cause it to incur substantial expense.

The Company is committed to supporting people and planet initiatives and being a responsible contributor to the environment, its employees, and the communities in which it operates. The Company’s locations are focused on efforts to reduce its waste, water and energy consumption through the implementation of such programs as pollution prevention, recycling waste materials in both manufacturing and office facilities, reducing solid waste disposal, reducing harmful air emissions, and implementing alternative energy sources. Some locations have also achieved the ISO-14001: Environmental Management Systems Certification.

In addition to monitoring and managing compliance with environmental regulations, the Company is also committed to sustainability and environmental protection initiatives. For example, the Company is committed to protecting wildlife by working with utility companies to design and manufacture wildlife protection products that aid in reducing wildlife mortalities from interaction with electric power distribution lines, structures, and equipment. Its Wildlife Protection line of products includes the BIRD-FLIGHT™ Diverter, RAPTOR PROTECTOR™ Platform and a Squirrel Deterrent System. The Company is also committed to partnering with its customers to develop innovative products, technologies, and services that meet their needs while mitigating risk to the environment and natural resources. This is evident through the Company’s commitment to supporting fiber-optic connectivity, which is more energy efficient than copper cable.

Additionally, the Company's product offerings bolster grid reliability and efficiency, increase resilience to climate events and enable transitions to new sources of energy and upgrade aging infrastructure. The Company also quickly provides repair products to customers in the event of emergencies or natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, floods or ice storms. PLP is a trusted supplier when natural disasters occur.

The Company maintains a tradition of supporting numerous charitable organizations and promoting community involvement. It makes donations to various organizations and encourages employees to do the same by offering matching donations. The Company shares its successes with the communities in which it operates at both a corporate and local level. Donations and investments in enhancing the lives of the people within the communities it impacts are an integral part of who the Company is and how it intends to represent its values.

Human Capital

At December 31, 2024, the Company had 3,401 employees, the overwhelming majority of which are full-time employees. Approximately 26% of the Company’s employees are located in the U.S.

The Company views its employees and culture as keys to its success and believes that its employees are its greatest asset. The Company aims to attract and retain employees who will be empowered to have the freedom to make decisions and take actions in the best interest of the Company, while being recognized and accountable for those decisions and actions. The Company focuses on innovation, safety and engagement to develop the best talent.

The Company’s goal is to create a work environment that enables employees to perform in an environment where they feel respected and valued. As a global company with employees in 21 countries, the Company values its broad diversity of cultures, ethnicities, races, languages, religions, sexual and gender orientations and a diverse, open and inclusive work environment. Workplace satisfaction is key to attracting and retaining employees. The Company has built a culture where integrity and honesty guide the decision-making process, while promoting a culture of learning and talent development through tuition reimbursement, training, wellness programs, flexible benefits, and competitive compensation. The Company has also adopted several policies, including the Code of Conduct, which stresses the importance of adhering to laws and contributing to society.

The Company has always had health and safety as a core value and promotes a culture that engages and empowers its employees to take responsibility for the health and safety of themselves and their co-workers.

For more information on the risks related to the Company’s human capital resources, see Item 1A – Risk Factors.

Available Information

The Company maintains an Internet site at http://www.plp.com, on which the Company makes available, free of charge, the annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and any amendments to those reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after the Company electronically files such material with, or furnishes it to, the SEC. The Company’s SEC reports can be accessed through the investor relations section of its Internet site. The information found on the Company’s Internet site is not part of this or any other report that is filed or furnished to the SEC.

The public may read and copy any materials the Company files with or furnishes to the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F. Street, NE., Washington, DC 20549. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room is available by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. In addition, the SEC maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information filed with the SEC by electronic filers. The SEC’s Internet site is http://www.sec.gov. The Company also has a link from its Internet site to the SEC’s Internet site. This link can be found on the investor relations page of the Company’s Internet site.

The Company’s business, operating results, financial condition and cash flows may be affected by a number of factors including, but not limited to those discussed below. Any of these factors could cause the Company’s actual results to vary materially from recent results or future anticipated results.

Industry and Economic Risks

Due to the Company’s dependency on the energy and communication industries, the Company is susceptible to negative trends relating to those industries that could adversely affect the Company’s operating results.

The Company’s sales to the energy and communication industries represent a substantial portion of the Company’s historical sales. The concentration of revenue in such industries is expected to continue into the foreseeable future. Demand for products to these industries depends primarily on capital spending by customers for constructing, rebuilding, maintaining or upgrading their systems. The amount of capital spending and, therefore, the Company’s sales and profitability are affected by a variety of factors, including general economic conditions, access by customers to financing, government regulation, demand for energy and cable services, energy prices, technological factors and the ability of our customers to utilize available inventory. As a result, some customers may significantly reduce or delay their spending or may not continue as going concerns, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, operating results and financial condition. In addition, as the Company adjusts its business to reflect such changes and uncertainties in the Company’s industries and customer demand, the Company has incurred and may in the future incur exit-related costs and impairments of goodwill, definite lived intangible assets and property, fixtures and equipment. These costs and impairments could have a significant negative impact on the Company’s operating results for the period in which they are incurred. Consolidation presents an additional risk to the Company in that merged customers will rely on relationships with a source other than the Company. Consolidation may also increase the pressure on suppliers, such as the Company, to sell product at lower prices.

The intense competition in the Company’s markets, particularly communication, may lead to a reduction in sales and earnings.

The markets in which the Company operates are highly competitive. The level of intensity of competition may increase in the foreseeable future due to anticipated growth in the telecommunication and data communication industries and potential new entrants into the market. The Company’s current competitors in the telecommunication and data communication markets are larger companies with significant influence over the distribution network. The Company may not be able to compete successfully against its competitors, many of which may have access to greater financial resources than the Company. In addition, the pace of technological development in the telecommunication market is rapid and these advances (i.e., wireless, fiber optic network infrastructure, etc.) and the ability of the Company’s larger competitors or new providers to adapt more efficiently may adversely affect the Company’s ability to compete in the telecommunications market. If the Company is unable to continue to compete effectively, its sales and margins could decline and its business, financial condition and results of operations would be adversely affected.

Competitors’ introduction of products embodying new technologies or the emergence of new industry standards can render existing products or products under development obsolete or unmarketable and result in lost sales.

The energy and communication industries are characterized by rapid change in technology and customer requirements. 5G, wireless and other communication technologies currently being deployed may represent a threat to copper, coaxial and fiber optic-based systems by reducing the need and desire for wire-line networks. Future advances or further development of these or other new technologies can render existing products or products under development obsolete or unmarketable, which may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, operating results and financial condition as a result of lost sales.

Price increases or delayed or decreased availability of raw materials could result in lower earnings.

The Company’s cost of sales may be materially adversely affected by increases in the market prices of the raw materials used in the Company’s manufacturing processes. Over the past few years, the Company has experienced temporary inflationary pressures that have impacted its profit margins, primarily due to raw materials increases (specifically, plastic resins, steel, aluminum, petroleum and sand (grit)), coupled with increased freight costs and tariffs. The Company has implemented price increases in the U.S. and internationally to mitigate rising material costs, and additional increases may be needed in the future to maintain profit margins. Price increases may have impacted or could continue to impact the demand for the Company’s products. The Company may not be able to pass on further price increases in raw materials to the Company’s customers through increases in product prices. In addition, any decrease or delay in the availability of these materials or interruptions generally in the global supply chain could slow production and delivery to the Company’s customers. In limited circumstances, the Company relies on sole source suppliers for certain materials and may face challenges or delays in establishing an alternative source. As a result of these factors, the Company’s operating results and financial condition could be adversely affected.

The Company’s international operations subject the Company to additional business risks that may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, operating results and financial condition.

International sales account for a substantial portion of the Company’s net sales (55%, 48%, and 47% in 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively). Due to its international sales, the Company is subject to the risks of conducting business internationally, including unexpected changes in, or impositions of, legislative or regulatory requirements, which could materially adversely affect U.S. dollar sales or operating expenses, tariffs and other barriers and restrictions, potentially longer payment cycles, greater difficulty in accounts receivable collection, reduced or limited protection of intellectual property rights, potentially adverse taxes and the burdens of complying with a variety of international laws and communications standards, including implementing appropriate internal controls. For example, the Company is subject to antitrust and tax requirements, anti-boycott regulations, import/export/customs regulations and other international trade regulations, the USA Patriot Act and the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. Any new regulatory or trade initiatives, including tariffs, could impact the Company’s operations in certain countries. Failure to comply with any such legal requirements could subject the Company to monetary liabilities and other sanctions, which could harm its business, results of operations and financial condition.

The Company is also subject to foreign currency volatility, which could materially impact the Company’s operating results, including the impact of hyper-inflationary conditions in certain economies, particularly where exchange controls limit or eliminate the Company’s ability to convert from local currency. The Company’s operations are also exposed to general geopolitical risks, such as political and economic instability, social unrest, acts of war, military conflict, international hostilities or the perception that hostilities may be imminent, terrorism and changes in diplomatic and trade relationships, including any retaliatory measures, sanctions or tariffs imposed in response to any acts of war or military conflicts in connection with its operations. Any such disruption could cause delays in the production and distribution of the Company’s products and the loss of sales and customers. Moreover, these types of events could negatively impact consumer spending or the economy in the impacted regions or depending upon the severity, globally, or lead to long-term volatility in the currency markets. These risks of conducting business internationally and the instability in global economic conditions may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, operating results and financial condition.

The Company's financial condition and results could be adversely affected by its level of debt and changes in interest rates.

Any period of interest rate increases may adversely affect the Company’s profitability. In addition, a higher level of floating rate debt would increase the exposure to changes in interest rates. As of December 31, 2024, the Company’s total debt, including notes payable, was $28.6 million and the unused availability under its credit facility (the "Facility") was $82.8 million. The interest rate for the Facility is defined as the Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR") plus 1.125% unless the Company’s funded debt to Earnings before Interest, Taxes and Depreciation ratio exceeds 2.25 to 1, at which point the SOFR spread becomes 1.500%. The Facility agreement also contains, among other provisions, requirements for maintaining levels of net worth and profitability. These covenants may restrict the Company’s operations and prevent it from pursuing opportunities that would otherwise be in the Company’s best interest for long-term growth. The Facility is currently scheduled to expire on March 2, 2026. Our ability to make scheduled payments on our debt obligations or enter into a new or extended credit facility depends upon our financial condition and operating performance, which is subject to prevailing economic and competitive conditions and to financial, business and other factors, many of which are beyond our control. If we are unable to timely make such payments, establish an extended term for our repayment obligations or establish a new credit facility for future borrowing, our financial condition, operations, liquidity and business prospects would be adversely affected.

Natural disasters, severe weather, climate change concerns, public health concerns, epidemics or pandemics could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, operating results and financial condition.

Natural disasters, severe weather and the effects of climate change, including increased frequency and severity of storms, floods, fires, fog, mist, freezing conditions, sea-level rise and other climate-related events, and other catastrophic events could disrupt our operations, cause damage to our business operations, our suppliers or our customers; and have an adverse effect on the Company’s operations, business and financial condition. Extreme weather conditions could also limit the availability of our resources, increase the costs of our products or cause the installation of our products and systems to be delayed or canceled. Further, legislative and regulatory responses to climate change initiatives could require the Company to incur increased costs, such as costs incurred to purchase carbon offsets or otherwise pay for the Company’s emissions, and make additional and significant capital investments in the Company’s business.

The Company also is subject to public health concerns, including viral outbreaks such as the COVID-19 pandemic. As with the disruption experienced with the COVID-19 pandemic, any future viral outbreak or health pandemic could disrupt the global supply chain, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s ability to secure raw materials and supplies and could result in increased costs and the loss of sales and customers. The impact of COVID-19 or any other viral outbreak or health pandemic could potentially exacerbate all the risks discussed and lead to the creation of new risks, any of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, operating results and financial condition. The duration and scope of the any future viral outbreak or health pandemic cannot be predicted, and therefore, any anticipated negative financial impact to the Company’s operating results cannot be reasonably estimated.

Business, Operations and Human Capital Risks

The Company’s business could suffer if the Company fails to offer quality products and a high level of customer service, as well as develop and successfully introduce new and enhanced products that meet the changing needs of the Company’s customers.

The Company’s reputation and sales rely on its ability to continue to offer high quality products with timely delivery, accompanied by a high level of customer service, particularly in cases of emergency. If changes in the availability of materials or delays in the supply chain or transportation industry, among other factors, negatively impact the Company’s ability to meet customer expectations, its sales and profits may suffer. Further, the Company’s ability to anticipate changes in technology and industry standards and to successfully develop and introduce new products on a timely basis is a significant factor in the Company’s ability to grow and remain competitive. New product development often requires long-term forecasting of market trends, development and implementation of new designs and processes and a substantial capital commitment. The trend toward consolidation of the energy, telecommunications and data communication industries may require the Company to quickly adapt to rapidly changing market conditions and customer requirements. In addition, as the Company expands its offerings in new areas, its success with these products and services will depend on its ability to offer quality, reliability and other competitive advantages. Any failure by the Company to anticipate or respond in a cost-effective and timely manner to technological developments or changes in industry standards or customer requirements, or any significant delays in product development or introduction or any failure of new products to be widely accepted by the Company’s customers, could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, operating results and financial condition as a result of reduced net sales.

The Company may not be able to successfully integrate businesses that it may acquire in the future or complete acquisitions on satisfactory terms, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, operating results and financial condition.

A portion of the Company’s growth in sales and earnings has been generated from acquisitions. The Company expects to continue a strategy of identifying and acquiring businesses with complementary products. In connection with this growth strategy, the Company faces certain risks and uncertainties in addition to the risks faced in the Company’s day-to-day operations, including the risks pertaining to integrating acquired businesses (including integrating the acquired businesses’ internal controls and procedures into our existing control structure), realizing the benefits of acquired technology, expanding exposure to unknown liabilities, utilizing and retaining new personnel and operating in new jurisdictions. Further, internal controls over financial reporting of acquired businesses may not meet required U.S. public company standards. The process of identifying, negotiating and integrating acquisitions can divert substantial time and attention of management and impose unexpected costs. In addition, the Company may incur debt to finance future acquisitions, and the Company may issue securities in connection with future acquisitions that may dilute the holdings of current and future shareholders. Covenant restrictions relating to additional indebtedness could restrict the Company’s ability to pay dividends, fund capital expenditures, consummate additional acquisitions and significantly increase the Company’s interest expense. Any failure to successfully complete acquisitions or to successfully integrate such strategic acquisitions could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, operating results and financial condition.

The Company may have interruptions in or lose business due to the uncertainty of the global economy, including due to the lack of available funding for the Company’s customers.

The demand for the Company’s products is significantly affected by the amount of discretionary business and consumer spending, each of which is impacted by the continued uncertainty of the global economy. The Company’s operations have been affected by and could continue to be adversely affected by global economic conditions such as recession, political or social unrest, economic instability, inflation, rising interest rates, acts of war, military conflict, international hostilities or the perception that hostilities may be imminent, terrorism and changes in diplomatic and trade relationships, including any retaliatory measures, sanctions or tariffs imposed in response to any acts of war or military conflicts, public health concerns or otherwise. If these conditions adversely impact the liquidity and financial position of the Company’s customers, their demand for the Company’s products could decrease and their ability to pay in full and/or on a timely basis may also be impacted. A decline in demand for the Company’s products and/or lack of funding to fulfill payment terms could have a negative impact on the Company’s operating results and financial condition.

The Company employs information technology systems to support its business, and any material breach, interruption or failure may adversely impact the Company’s business.

The Company employs information technology systems to support its business. Security breaches and other disruptions to the Company’s information technology infrastructure have interfered and, in the future, could interfere with the Company’s operations and could also compromise information belonging to the Company and its customers, suppliers and employees, exposing the Company to liability which could adversely impact the Company’s business and reputation. In the ordinary course of business, the Company relies on information technology networks and systems, some of which are managed by third parties, to process, transmit and store electronic information, and to manage or support a variety of business processes and activities. Additionally, the Company collects and stores certain data, including proprietary business information, and may have access to confidential or personal information in certain of its businesses that is subject to privacy and security laws, regulations and customer-imposed controls. Despite the Company’s cybersecurity measures and oversight of such matters by the Audit Committee and the Board of Directors, which are continuously reviewed and upgraded, the Company’s information technology networks and infrastructure and protected data may still be vulnerable to damage, disruptions or shutdowns due to attack by hackers or breaches, employee error or malfeasance, power outages, computer viruses, telecommunication or utility failures, systems failures, service providers including cloud services, natural disasters or other catastrophic events. It is possible for such vulnerabilities to remain undetected for an extended period, up to and including several years. In addition, the Company is subject to various data privacy laws in the many jurisdictions in which it operates, which are rapidly changing and require extensive compliance efforts. Any events that compromise the Company’s systems or any failures to comply with applicable privacy laws could result in legal claims or proceedings, liability or penalties under privacy laws, disruption in operations, and damage to the Company’s reputation, which could adversely affect the Company’s business.

The Company depends on maintaining a skilled workforce, and any interruption in the workforce could negatively impact the Company’s operating results and financial condition.

The Company’s ability to sustain and grow its business requires a commitment to hire, retain and develop a highly skilled and diverse management team and workforce. Failure to ensure that the Company has the depth and breadth of personnel with the necessary skill set and experience, failure to compete within and outside the Company’s markets to attract and retain employees, the loss of key employees or interruptions in the Company's workforce, including unionization efforts and changes in labor relations, could impede the Company’s ability to deliver its growth objectives and execute its strategy. Labor shortages or increased labor-related costs could also directly affect our financial condition. Additionally, the health of the Company's employees is critical, and workplace safety is the Company's top priority.

The Company continues to develop and invest in human capital through continuing education, work-related certifications, and talent and performance management systems. These efforts directly impact the Company’s ability to deliver its growth objectives and execute its strategy, though the Company is susceptible to interruptions in the workforce that could affect the Company’s operating results and financial condition.

A material disruption or unforeseen difficulties with any of our manufacturing facilities could negatively impact our operating results and financial condition.

The Company operates 25 manufacturing facilities domestically and internationally to strategically serve its worldwide markets. Equipment failures, operational interruptions, natural disasters and other unanticipated disruptions may decrease our ability to manufacture our products in a timely manner at our anticipated cost. Interruptions in our production due to such a disruption may lead to decreasing sales and necessitating capital expenditures, therefore negatively impacting our operating results and financial condition.

The Company may also face unforeseen difficulties if we decide to build, lease, expand, redesign, relocate or consolidate facilities. Despite planning, a real estate project may entail uncertainties regarding cost, timeliness, personnel and materials, and any of these variables may negatively impact the Company’s operating results and financial condition.

The Company’s stock price is subject to volatility.

The stock market in general is highly volatile. As a result, the market price of the Company’s common shares is similarly volatile and could be subject to wide fluctuations in response to a number of factors, some of which may be beyond the Company’s control. These factors include actual or anticipated fluctuations in the Company’s operating results; changes in, or the inability to, achieve estimates of, its operating results by analysts, investors or management; analysts’ recommendations regarding its stock or its competitors’ stock; sales of substantial amounts of its common shares by shareholders; actions or announcements by the Company or its competitors; the maintenance and growth of the value of the Company’s brands; litigation; legislation or other regulatory developments affecting the Company or its industry; widespread illness or pandemics; natural disasters; cyber-attacks; terrorist acts; war or other calamities and changes in general market and economic conditions.

Legal, Tax and Regulatory Risks

The Company may be adversely impacted by laws, regulations, and litigation.

The Company is subject to various laws and regulations in the many jurisdictions in which it operates. For example, extensive environmental regulations related to air and water quality, the discharge of pollutants, climate change, the handling of toxic waste and the handling and transport of products and components classified as hazardous impact its daily operations. Various employment and labor laws and regulations govern the Company’s relationships with its employees throughout the world and affect operating costs. These laws and regulations relate to matters including employment discrimination, minimum wage requirements, overtime, unemployment tax rates, workers’ compensation rates, working conditions, immigration status, tax reporting and other wage and benefit requirements. The introduction of new laws or regulations, or changes in existing laws or regulations, including minimum wage increases, mandated benefits, climate change-related disclosures or other requirements that impose additional obligations on the Company, could increase the costs of doing business. The Trump administration has called for significant changes to U.S. trade, healthcare, immigration and government regulatory policy and has begun implementing policy changes at a rapid pace. Changes to U.S. policy implemented by the U.S. Congress, the Trump administration or any new administration have impacted among other things, the U.S. and global economy, international trade relations, unemployment, immigration, healthcare, taxation, the U.S. regulatory environment, inflation and other areas. Until we know what policy changes are made, whether those policy changes are challenged and subsequently upheld by the court system and how those changes impact our business and the business of our competitors over the long term, we will not know if, overall, we will benefit from them or be negatively affected by them. Further, it is difficult to predict what impact, if any, changes in federal policy, including environmental, immigration, trade and tax policies, will have on our industry, the economy as a whole, consumer confidence and spending. As a result, the nature, timing and impact on our business of potential changes to the current legal and regulatory frameworks are uncertain.

At any given time, the Company may also be subject to litigation or claims related to its products, suppliers, customers, employees, shareholders, distributors, sales representatives, intellectual property or acquisitions, among other things, the disposition of which may have an adverse effect upon the Company’s business, financial condition, or results of operation. The outcome of litigation is difficult to assess or quantify. Lawsuits can result in the payment of substantial damages by defendants. If the Company is required to pay substantial damages and expenses as a result of these or other types of lawsuits, the Company’s business and results of operations would be adversely affected. Regardless of whether any claims against the Company are valid or whether it is liable, claims may be expensive to defend, may cause reputational harm (particularly where any claims relate to significant harm to persons and property) and may divert time and money away from the Company’s operations. Insurance may not be available at all or in sufficient amounts to cover any liabilities with respect to these or other matters. An unfavorable judgment or other liability in excess of the Company’s insurance coverage or financial statement accruals for any claims could adversely affect the Company’s business and operating results.

The Company may not be able to successfully manage its intellectual property and may be subject to infringement claims.

The Company relies on a combination of contractual rights and patent, trademark, copyright and trade secret laws to establish and protect its proprietary technology. Third parties have challenged and in the future may challenge, invalidate, circumvent, infringe or misappropriate the Company’s intellectual property, or such intellectual property may not be sufficient to permit the Company to take advantage of current market trends or otherwise to provide competitive advantages, which could result in costly redesign efforts, discontinuance of certain product offerings or other competitive harm. Others, including its competitors may independently develop similar technology, duplicate or design around the Company’s intellectual property, and in such cases, the Company could not assert its intellectual property rights against such parties. The Company may also be subject to costly litigation in the event its technology infringes upon or otherwise violates a third party’s proprietary rights. Any claim from third parties may result in a limitation on its ability to use the intellectual property subject to these claims or the requirement to pay a licensing fee or royalty. The Company may be forced to litigate to enforce or determine the scope and enforceability of its intellectual property rights, trade secrets and know-how, which is expensive, could cause a diversion of resources and may not prove successful, especially in countries where such rights are more difficult to enforce. The loss of intellectual property protection or the inability to obtain third party intellectual property could harm its business and ability to compete.

Tax matters, including changes in tax rates, disagreements with taxing authorities and imposition of new taxes could impact the Company’s operating results and financial condition.

The Company is subject to income taxes in the U.S. (federal and state) and numerous foreign jurisdictions. Tax laws, regulations, and administrative practices in various jurisdictions may be subject to significant change, with or without notice, due to economic, political, and other conditions, and significant judgment is required in evaluating and estimating the provision and accruals for these taxes. There are many transactions that occur during the ordinary course of business for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. The Company’s effective tax rates could be affected by numerous factors, including but not limited to, intercompany transactions, the relative amount of its foreign earnings, including earnings being lower than anticipated in jurisdictions where the Company has lower statutory rates and higher than anticipated in jurisdictions where the Company has higher statutory rates, losses incurred in jurisdictions for which the Company is not able to realize the related tax benefit, changes in foreign currency exchange rates, changes in its deferred tax assets and liabilities and any related valuation, and changes in the relevant tax, accounting, and other laws, regulations, administrative practices, principles, and interpretations. In addition, many countries are actively pursuing changes to their tax laws applicable to corporate multinationals, which could affect our U.S. federal corporate income tax rate and the tax credits we could receive from foreign income. These future changes could materially affect the Company’s financial position and results of operations.

Cybersecurity Risk Management and Strategy

The Company has implemented information security programs to, among other actions, assess, identify and manage material risks from cybersecurity threats. These programs include periodic risk assessments, company-wide testing initiatives, periodic phishing tests and annual audits. As the Company assesses its risks and determines how to implement risk management programs, the following factors, among others, are considered: likelihood and severity of risk, impact on the Company and others if a risk materializes, feasibility and cost of controls, and impact of controls on operations and others. The Company also utilizes an independent cybersecurity advisor to provide periodic objective assessments of the Company’s capabilities and to conduct advanced attack simulations.

Further, as of part of the Company’s overall information security program, the Company conducts a security awareness program, which includes training that reinforces the Company’s security management policies, standards, and practices, as well as the expectation that employees comply with these policies, standards and practices. The Company’s security awareness program engages personnel through mandatory periodic training on identifying potential cybersecurity risks and protecting the Company’s resources and information. The Company also annually engages third parties (as well as its internal audit department) to audit the Company’s information security programs. The Company uses a variety of processes to address cybersecurity threats related to the use of third-party technology and services, including pre-acquisition diligence, imposition of contractual obligations, and ongoing monitoring.

To date, there has not been any previous cybersecurity incident that has materially affected the Company's business strategy, results of operations or financial condition.

See Item 1A. Risk Factors under the heading of “The Company employs information technology systems to support its business, and any material breach, interruption or failure may adversely impact the Company’s business.” for additional information on cybersecurity threats that could have a material impact on the Company. The Risk Factors section should be read in conjunction with this Item 1C.

Cybersecurity Risk Governance and Oversight

The Company’s Board of Directors maintains an active role in the Company’s overall enterprise risk oversight to identify and mitigate broader systemic risks. The Audit Committee is responsible for overseeing and reviewing the Company’s information security programs, including cybersecurity. The Director of Global Information Systems, who manages information security training and awareness program, updates the Audit Committee periodically regarding information security matters. The findings from the Company’s annual third-party and internal information security audits also are reported to the Audit Committee. The Company also actively engages with key vendors and industry participants as part of its efforts, which are reported to the Audit Committee.

In addition to the Audit Committee’s oversight, the full Board of Directors receives periodic updates relating to information security and cyber security risks. The Board of Directors receives an annual report from its independent cybersecurity advisor.

Through October 2024, the Director of Global Information Systems had oversight responsibilities for PLP’s information systems and cyber security, a role he held for 15 years. He attended regular education programs regarding enterprise cybersecurity and supporting technologies. The Director of Global Information Systems reported to the CFO and coordinated with the IT resources across all subsidiary operations to discuss risk management initiatives, testing and training, recent trends and technological developments, and periodic reviews of third-party providers. In October 2024, the Director of Global Information Systems left the Company to pursue other opportunities. During the interim period before a replacement was appointed, the CFO provided more active oversight to address the Director of Global Information System's responsibilities, including reporting to the Audit Committee. The vacancy was filled on February 3, 2025 and the new Director of Global Information Systems joined the Company with over 30 years of professional IT experience where he held Director and Chief Information Officer roles at large global companies and provided technology consulting and cybersecurity services to companies across various industries.

Our corporate headquarters is located in Mayfield Village, Ohio, and, at December 31, 2024, the Company maintained 25 manufacturing plants. We also maintain various sales, research and engineering, administrative offices and distribution centers throughout the world. None of these manufacturing plants, administrative offices or distribution centers are individually material to our operations. The facilities are situated in 3 states within the United States and in 19 other countries. We own the majority of our manufacturing plants, and our leased properties consist of manufacturing plants, research and engineering, sales, administrative offices and distribution centers.

We believe that our properties have been adequately maintained, are in good condition generally and are suitable and adequate for our business as presently conducted. The extent to which we utilize our properties varies by property and from time to time and aligns with manufacturing needs. Most of our manufacturing facilities remain capable of handling volume increases.

Information regarding the Company’s current legal proceedings is presented in Note 4 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (MD&A) is intended to help the readers of our financial statements better understand our results of operations, financial condition and present business environment. The MD&A is provided as a supplement to, and should be read in conjunction with, our audited consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this report.

OVERVIEW

Preformed Line Products Company (the “Company”, “PLPC”, “we”, “us”, or “our”) was incorporated in Ohio in 1947. We are an international designer and manufacturer of products and systems employed in the construction and maintenance of overhead and underground networks for the energy, telecommunication, cable operators, information (data communication), and other similar industries. Our primary products support, protect, connect, terminate, and secure cables and wires. We provide helical solutions, connectors, fiber optic and copper splice closures, solar hardware mounting applications, and electric vehicle charging station foundations. We also provide aerial drone inspection services for utility assets including transmission and distribution power lines, substations, and generation facilities. We are respected around the world for quality, dependability and market-leading customer service. Our goal is to continue to achieve profitable growth as a leader in the research, innovation, development, manufacture, and marketing of technically advanced products and services related to energy, communications and cable systems and to take advantage of this leadership position to sell additional quality products in familiar markets. We have sales and manufacturing operations in 20 different countries.

We report our segments in four geographic regions: PLP-USA (including corporate), The Americas (includes operations in North and South America, excluding PLP-USA), EMEA (Europe, Middle East & Africa) and Asia-Pacific, in accordance with accounting standards codified in Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 280, “Segment Reporting”. Each segment distributes a full range of our primary products. Our PLP-USA segment is comprised of our U.S. operations manufacturing our traditional products primarily supporting our domestic energy, telecommunications, solar framing products and inspection services. Our other three segments, The Americas, EMEA and Asia-Pacific, support our energy, telecommunications, data communication, solar and other products in each respective geographical region.

The segment managers responsible for each region report directly to the Company’s Executive Chairman, who is the chief operating decision maker, and are accountable for the financial results and performance of their entire segment for which they are responsible. The business components within each segment are managed to maximize the results of the entire operating segment and the Company rather than the results of any individual business component of the segment.

We evaluate segment performance and allocate resources based on several factors primarily based on gross sales and income before income taxes.

MARKET OVERVIEW

Our business continues to be concentrated in the energy and communications markets. During the past several years, industry consolidation continued as distributor and service provider integrations occurred in our major markets. There has also been a historical lack of commitment by developed countries to upgrade and strengthen their electrical grids and communication networks despite the growing need. More recently, increasing commodity prices, inflation, tariffs, rising interest rates, transportation costs, and foreign currency fluctuations have led to a challenging operating environment. While these factors generally moderated in 2024, they may continue to provide inherent uncertainty going forward. The increasing need for power generation and efficient communication systems has highlighted the need for bolstering grid reliability, strengthening grid resilience to climate events, upgrading aging infrastructure, enhancing communication networks and transitioning to new sources of energy. Our focused portfolio is well-positioned to respond to these priorities.

We believe that our leadership position in the domestic energy and communications markets and the ability to deliver reliable products quickly will position us for continued growth as transmission grids and communication networks are enhanced, upgraded and extended.

Our international business is also mainly concentrated in the energy and communications markets. Historically, our international sales were primarily related to the medium voltage distribution segment of the energy market but have grown through acquisition and new product development to include a significant contribution from the transmission and telecommunications markets.

We believe that we are well positioned to supply the needs of the world’s diverse energy and communication markets as a result of our focused portfolio and strategic operational footprint, including expansion from recent acquisitions and product designs and technologies.

PREFACE

The following discussion describes our results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022. For additional discussion of our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2022, see our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, filed with the SEC on March 3, 2023. Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). Our discussions of the financial results include non-GAAP measures (e.g., foreign currency impact) to provide additional information concerning our financial results and provide information that we believe is useful to the readers of our financial statements in the assessment of our performance and operating trends.

Net sales of $593.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 decreased $76.0 million year-over-year, mainly due to the continued inventory destocking occurring primarily in the U.S. markets. The inflationary headwinds we experienced in 2022 and early 2023 related to raw materials, specifically plastic resins, aluminum and sand (grit), have generally subsided. Costs related to shipping and freight have similarly fallen from their 2022 peak. Decreases in these underlying costs along with the impacts of our previous price increases benefited gross margins in 2023 and have not meaningfully impacted the results during the twelve months ending December 31, 2024. If inflationary pressures persist or new tariffs are sustained, it may require further price adjustments to maintain profit margin and any price increases may have a negative effect on demand.

Our financial statements are subject to fluctuations in the exchange rates of foreign currencies in relation to the U.S. dollar. PLP’s foreign currency exchange gains or (losses) were primarily related to translating into U.S. dollars its foreign currency denominated loans, trade receivables and payables from its foreign subsidiaries at the December 2024 year-end exchange rates. The fluctuations of foreign currencies during the years ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 had an unfavorable impact on net sales of $4.2 million and a favorable impact of $0.4 million, respectively. The effect of currency translation had an unfavorable impact on net income in the year ended December 31, 2024 of $0.7 million and an unfavorable impact of $0.2 million in the year ended December 31, 2023. On a reportable segment basis, the impact of foreign currency translation on net sales and net income for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, was as follows:

Although customer destocking efforts in the PLP-USA communications and energy markets have impacted our 2024 results, we believe our business portfolio and our financial position are sound and strategically well-positioned. While PLP-USA sales results were down compared to the period ended December 31, 2023, our international segments had sales amounts comparable with prior year, showing our international footprint provides cyclical benefits. Our cash generation remains strong as evidenced through a significant reduction in debt levels. We remain focused on assessing our global market opportunities and overall manufacturing capacity in conjunction with the requirements of local manufacturing in the markets that we serve. Our continued commitment to manufacturing in the U.S. positions us well for Build America, Buy America requirements of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program.

If necessary, we will modify redundant processes and further utilize our global manufacturing network to manage costs, increase sales volume and deliver value to our customers. We have continued to invest in the business to expand into new markets for the Company, evaluate strategic mergers and acquisitions, improve efficiency, develop new products and increase our capacity. Period cost containment has been a priority for the Company in 2024, shown through a reduction in costs and expenses of approximately 8%. Our liquidity remains strong with our bank debt to equity percentage at 6.8%. We can borrow needed funds at a competitive interest rate under our credit facility. A consolidated decrease in debt of $33.7 million as of December 31, 2024 was primarily a result of improved cash conversion and less funding needs for capital expenditures and business acquisitions. See Note 7 "Debt and Credit Arrangements" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more information related to our debt position.

The following table sets forth a summary of the Company’s Statements of Consolidated Income and the percentage of net sales for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. The Company’s past operating results are not necessarily indicative of future operating results.

2024 RESULTS OF OPERATIONS COMPARED TO 2023

Net sales. In 2024, net sales were $593.7 million, a decrease of $76.0 million, or 11%, compared to 2023. Excluding the effect of currency translation, net sales decreased 11% as summarized in the following table:

The decrease in PLP-USA net sales of $78.9 million, or 23%, was primarily due to lower volumes in communications and energy product sales due to customer destocking efforts. International net sales for the year ended December 31, 2024 were unfavorably affected by $4.2 million when local currencies were converted to U.S. dollars. The following discussion of changes in net sales excludes the effect of currency translation. The Americas net sales of $90.3 million increased $9.2 million, or 11%, primarily due to higher volumes in energy product sales, partially offset by lower communication sales. EMEA net sales of $128.2 million decreased $8.6 million, or 6%, primarily due to lower volume in communications sales, partially offset by increased volumes in energy product sales. Asia-Pacific net sales of $108.5 million increased $6.5 million, or 6%, primarily due to volume increases in energy product sales.

Gross Profit. Gross profit of $189.8 million for 2024 decreased $45.0 million, or 19%, compared to 2023. Excluding the effect of currency translation, gross profit decreased $43.5 million, or 19%, as summarized in the following table:

PLP-USA gross profit of $93.0 million decreased by $46.0 million, or 33%, compared to the same period in 2023, primarily due to lower sales volumes and unfavorable product mix. International gross profit for the period ended December 31, 2024 was unfavorably impacted by $1.6 million when local currencies were translated to U.S. dollars. The following discussion of gross profit changes excludes the effects of currency translation. The Americas gross profit increased $0.4 million, or 1%, which was primarily the result of higher sales volumes, offset by increased depreciation expense and freight costs. EMEA gross profit decreased nominally, which was primarily driven by decreased sales volumes offset by favorable product mix and favorable resolution of a warranty claim. Asia-Pacific gross profit increased $2.2 million, or 7%, which was primarily driven by favorable product mix.

Costs and expenses. Costs and expenses of $139.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 decreased $11.6 million, or 8%, when compared to 2023. Excluding the effect of currency translation, costs and expenses decreased $10.9 million, or 7%, as summarized in the following table:

PLP-USA costs and expenses of $72.6 million decreased $6.7 million, or 8% year-over-year. PLP-USA’s decrease was primarily attributable to lower selling costs and lower personnel and professional services costs, primarily as a result of cost containment efforts. International costs and expenses for the year ended December 31, 2024 had a favorable impact by $0.7 million when local currencies were translated to U.S. dollars. The following discussion of costs and expenses excludes the effect of currency translation. The Americas costs and expenses of $18.7 million decreased $3.3 million primarily due to a legal settlement in the third quarter of 2023 and the impact of foreign currency remeasurement. EMEA costs and expenses of $26.1 million decreased by $2.4 million primarily due to lower personnel costs and bad debt expenses. Asia-Pacific costs and expenses of $21.7 million increased $1.4 million primarily due to the net impact of the sale of capital assets year over year and foreign currency remeasurement.

Other (expense) income, net. Other income, net as of the year ended December 31, 2024 was favorable by $1.8 million when compared to Other expense, net for the year ended December 31, 2024 of $1.8 million. The favorable movement was due to higher interest income earned on cash balances in certain international jurisdictions and lower interest expense from reduced debt balances for the year ended December 31, 2024.

Income taxes. Income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 were $13.7 million and $19.0 million based on pre-tax income of $50.8 million and $82.3 million, respectively. The effective tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 was 26.9% and 23.1%, respectively. Our effective tax rate increased primarily due to the limitations on the deductibility of compensation and the unfavorable impact from the mix of income earned in jurisdictions with a higher tax rate than the U.S. This was partially offset by a favorable impact from increase in excess tax benefit on share-based compensation. The following items had the most significant impact on the difference between our statutory U.S. federal income tax rate of 21.0%:

1. A $2.0 million, or 4.0%, net increase resulting from Non-deductible officers' compensation.

2. A $1.6 million, or 3.2%, net increase resulting from earnings in jurisdictions with higher tax rates than the U.S. federal statutory rate where such earnings are permanently reinvested.

3. A $1.6 million, or 3.2%, net decrease resulting from generation of foreign tax credits.

4. A $1.2 million, or 2.4%, net decrease resulting from other stock compensation.

5. A $1.2 million, or 2.3%, net increase resulting from the inclusion of Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income.

2023

1. A $3.7 million, or 4.5%, net decrease resulting from generation of foreign tax credits.

2. A $3.0 million, or 3.6%, net increase resulting from the inclusion of Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income.

3. A $1.8 million, or 2.2%, net increase resulting from earnings in various U.S States.

4. A $1.7 million, or 2.0%, net increase resulting from earnings in jurisdictions with higher tax rates than the U.S. federal statutory rate where such earnings are permanently reinvested.

Net income. As a result of the preceding items, net income for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $37.1 million, compared to $63.3 million for 2023. Excluding the effect of currency translation, net income decreased $25.5 million as summarized in the following table.

WORKING CAPITAL, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Management Assessment of Liquidity

We measure liquidity on the basis of our ability to meet short-term and long-term operating needs, fund additional investments, including acquisitions, and make dividend payments to shareholders. Significant factors affecting the management of liquidity are cash flows from operating activities, capital expenditures, cash dividends, business acquisitions and access to bank lines of credit.

Our investments include expenditures required for equipment and facilities as well as expenditures in support of our strategic initiatives. In 2024, we used cash of $14.7 million for capital expenditures. At December 31, 2024, we had $57.2 million of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash (collectively “Cash”). Our Cash is held in various locations throughout the world. At December 31, 2024, the majority of our cash is held outside the U.S.

We expect the majority of accumulated non-U.S. cash balances will remain outside of the U.S. and that we will meet U.S. liquidity needs through future cash flows, use of U.S. cash balances, external borrowings, or some combination of these sources.

We complete comprehensive reviews of our significant customers and their creditworthiness by analyzing financial statements for customers where we have identified a measure of increased risk. We closely monitor payments and developments that may signal possible customer credit issues. We currently have not identified any potential material impact on our liquidity from customer credit issues.

Total debt, including notes payable, at December 31, 2024 was $28.6 million. At December 31, 2024, our unused availability under our credit facility (the "Facility") was $82.8 million and our bank debt to equity percentage was 6.8%. The Facility contains, among other provisions, requirements for maintaining levels of net worth and profitability. At December 31, 2024, the Company was in compliance with these covenants.

Our Asia-Pacific segment had $0.1 million and $0.2 million in restricted cash for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. The restricted cash was used to secure bank debt and is included in Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash on the balance sheet.

On January 19, 2021, the Company received funding for a term loan from PNC Equipment Finance, LLC in the principal amount of $20.5 million for the full amount of the purchase price for a new corporate aircraft. At December 31, 2024, the outstanding balance on the term loan was $12.6 million, of which $2.1 million was classified as current. See Note 7 in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.

We expect that our major source of funding for 2025 and beyond will be our operating cash flows, our existing cash and cash equivalents as well as our Facility agreement. The Facility agreement has an expiration date of March 2, 2026. The Company expects to extend the maturity date of the Facility over the coming year. Except for current earnings in certain jurisdictions, our operating income is deemed to be indefinitely reinvested in foreign jurisdictions. We currently do not intend nor foresee a need to repatriate these funds. We believe our future operating cash flows will be more than sufficient to cover debt repayments, other contractual obligations, capital expenditures and dividends for the next 12 months and thereafter for the foreseeable future. In addition, we believe our borrowing capacity provides substantial financial resources, if needed, to supplement funding of capital expenditures and/or acquisitions. We also believe that we can further expand our borrowing capacity, if necessary; however, we do not believe we would increase our debt to a level that would have a material adverse impact upon results of operations or financial condition.

Sources and Uses of Cash

Net Cash provided by operating activities for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 was $67.5 million and $107.6 million, respectively. The $40.1 million decrease was primarily a result of a decrease in net income and decrease in cash from working capital.

Net Cash used in investing activities for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 was $12.4 million and $44.8 million, respectively. The $32.4 million decrease was primarily a result of decreases in acquisition activity and capital expenditures during the current period.

Net Cash used in financing activities for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 was $47.8 million and $48.9 million, respectively. The year-over-year change was primarily the result of decreased share repurchases offset by increased net payments of long-term debt.

We have commitments under operating leases primarily for office and manufacturing space, transportation equipment, office and computer equipment and capital leases, primarily for equipment. See Note 8 in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.

As of December 31, 2024, the Company had total outstanding guarantees of $11.3 million. Additionally, certain domestic and foreign customers require the Company to issue letters of credit or performance bonds as a condition of placing an order. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had total outstanding letters of credit of $1.3 million.

The Company has other borrowing facilities at certain of its foreign subsidiaries, which consist of overdraft lines, working capital credit lines, and facilities for the issuance of letters of credit and short-term borrowing needs. At December 31, 2024, and December 31, 2023, $8.8 million and $13.3 million were outstanding, of which $8.2 million and $11.4 million were classified as current, respectively. These facilities support commitments made in the ordinary course of business.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon the consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. The preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

Critical accounting policies are defined as those that are reflective of significant judgment and uncertainties, and potentially may result in materially different outcomes under different assumptions and conditions.

Revenue Recognition

Net sales include products and shipping and handling charges, net of estimates for product returns. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration the Company expects to receive in exchange for transferring products. All revenue is recognized when the

Company satisfies the performance obligations under the contract and control of the product is transferred to the customer, primarily based on shipping terms. Revenue for shipping and handling charges are recognized at the time the products are shipped to, delivered to or picked up by the customer. The Company estimates product returns based on historical return rates.

Allowance for Credit Losses

We maintain an allowance for credit losses for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required payments. We record estimated allowances for uncollectible accounts receivable based upon the number of days the accounts are past due, the current business environment, and specific information such as bankruptcy or liquidity issues of customers. If the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, additional allowances may be required.

Excess and Obsolescence Reserves

We provide excess and obsolescence reserves to state inventories at the lower of cost or estimated net realizable value. We identify inventory items that have had no usage or are in excess of the usages over the historical 12 to 24 months. A management team with representatives from marketing, manufacturing, engineering and finance reviews these inventory items, determines the disposition of the inventory and assesses the net realizable value based on their knowledge of the product and market conditions. These conditions include, among other things, future demand for product, product utility, unique customer order patterns or unique raw material purchase patterns, changes in customer and quality issues. If the impact of market conditions deteriorates from those projected by management, additional inventory reserves may be necessary.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

We record impairment losses on long-lived assets used in operations when events and circumstances indicate that the assets are impaired and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets are less than the carrying value of those items. Our cash flows are based on historical results adjusted to reflect the best estimate of future market and operating conditions. The net carrying value of assets not recoverable is then reduced to fair value. The estimates of fair value represent the best estimate based on industry trends and reference to market rates and transactions.

Goodwill

Goodwill is reviewed for impairment annually on October 1 or more frequently when changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount may be impaired. We may use both quantitative and qualitative approaches when testing goodwill for impairment. For selected reporting units where the qualitative approach is utilized, a qualitative evaluation of events and circumstances impacting the reporting unit is performed to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount. If that determination is made, no further evaluation is necessary. Otherwise, the Company performs a quantitative impairment test on the reporting unit.

For the quantitative approach, the Company uses a combination of the income approach, which uses a discounted cash flow methodology, and the market approach, which uses comparable market multiples, in computing fair value by reporting unit. The Company then compares the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying value to assess if goodwill has been impaired. The fair value estimates are subjective and sensitive to significant assumptions, such as revenue growth rates, operating margins, the weighted-average cost of capital, and estimated market multiples, of which are affected by expectations of future market or economic conditions. The Company believes that the methodologies, significant assumptions, and weightings used are reasonable and result in appropriate fair values of the reporting units.

Impairment assessments inherently involve management judgments regarding a number of assumptions. Due to the multiple variables inherent in arriving at the estimates of the reporting unit's fair value, differences in assumptions could have an effect on the estimated fair value of a reporting unit and could result in goodwill impairment charges in a future period.

Deferred Tax Assets

Deferred taxes are recognized at currently enacted tax rates for temporary differences between the financial reporting and income tax basis of assets and liabilities and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. We establish a valuation allowance to record our deferred tax assets at an amount that is more-likely-than-not to be realized. In the event we were to determine that we would be able to realize our deferred tax assets in the future in excess of their recorded amount, an adjustment to the valuation allowance would increase income in the period such determination was made. Likewise, should we determine that we would not be able to realize all or part of our net deferred tax assets in the future, an adjustment to the valuation allowance would be charged to expense in the period such determination was made.

Pension Obligations

We record obligations and expenses related to a pension benefit plan based on actuarial valuations, which include key assumptions on discount rates, expected returns on plan assets and compensation increases. These actuarial assumptions are reviewed annually and modified as appropriate. The effect of modifications is generally recorded or amortized over future periods. The discount rate of 5.77% at December 31, 2024 reflects an analysis of yield curves as of the end of the year and the schedule of expected cash needs of the plan. The 2025 expected long-term return on plan assets of 4.75% reflects the plan’s historical returns and represents our best estimate of the likely future returns on the plan’s asset mix. We believe the assumptions used in recording obligations under the plans are reasonable based on prior experience, market conditions and the advice of plan actuaries. However, an increase in the discount rate would decrease the plan obligations and the net periodic benefit cost, while a decrease in the discount rate would increase the plan obligations and the net periodic benefit cost. In addition, an increase in the expected long-term return on plan assets would decrease the net periodic pension cost, while a decrease in expected long-term return on plan assets would increase the net periodic pension cost.

The Company operates manufacturing facilities and offices around the world and uses fixed and floating rate debt to finance the Company's global operations. As a result, the Company is subject to business risks inherent in non-U.S. activities, including political and economic uncertainty, import and export limitations and market risk related to changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates. The Company believes that the political and economic risks related to the Company's international operations are mitigated due to the geographic diversity in which the Company's international operations are located.

Effective July 1, 2018, Argentina was designated as a highly inflationary economy as the projected three-year cumulative inflation rate exceeded 100%. As such, beginning July 1, 2018, the functional currency for the Company’s Argentina subsidiary became the U.S. dollar. Revenue from operations in Argentina represented less than 1% of total consolidated net sales for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022.

As of December 31, 2024, the Company had $0.1 million in foreign currency forward exchange assets and $0.1 million foreign currency forward exchange liabilities outstanding. The Company does not hold derivatives for trading purposes.

The Company's primary currency rate exposures are related to foreign denominated debt, intercompany debt, forward exchange contracts, foreign denominated receivables and payables and cash and short-term investments. A hypothetical 10% change in currency rates would have a favorable/unfavorable impact on fair values on such instruments of approximately $6.9 million. A hypothetical 10% change in currency rates would have a favorable/unfavorable impact on income before tax of $3.0 million.

The Company is exposed to market risk, including changes in interest rates. The Company is subject to interest rate risk on its variable rate revolving credit facilities and term notes, which consisted of long-term borrowings of $7.2 million at December 31, 2024. A 100 basis point increase in the interest rate would have resulted in an increase in interest expense of approximately $0.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2024.

Included in the Company’s accounting for the defined benefit pension plan (the "U.S. Plan") are assumptions on future discount rates and the expected return on Plan assets. The Company considers current market conditions, including changes in interest rates and Plan asset investment returns. Actuarial assumptions may differ materially from actual results due to changing market, demographic and economic conditions or higher or lower withdrawal rates. These differences may result in a significant impact to the amount of net pension expense or income recorded in the future.

A discount rate is used to determine the present value of future payments. In general, a pension liability increases as the discount rate decreases and decreases as the discount rate increases. The discount rate used to determine the future benefit obligation was 5.77% and 5.34% at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The discount rate is a significant factor in determining the amounts reported. A 50 basis point change in the discount rate of 5.77% used at December 31, 2024 would have a $1.7 million change on the Plan’s projected benefit obligation.

The Company developed the expected return on Plan assets by considering various factors which include targeted asset allocation percentages, historical returns, and expected future returns. The Company assumed an expected rate of return of 6.25% for the year ended December 31, 2024 and 7.00% for the year ended December 31, 2023. A 50 basis point change in the expected rate of return would have a $0.1 million effect on the Plan’s subsequent year’s net periodic pension cost.

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

The Company’s Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer have concluded based on their review thereof that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) or Rule 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, were effective as of December 31, 2024.

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f). The Company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and preparation of the consolidated financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

Because of inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements and even when determined to be effective, can only provide reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.

Management, with the participation of the Company's Executive Chairman and Chief Financial Officer, assessed the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013).

Based upon its assessment, management concluded that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2024.

The effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024 has been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, who expressed an unqualified opinion as stated in their report, a copy of which is included below.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There have not been any changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) during the quarter ended December 31, 2024 that materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Preformed Line Products Company

Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

We have audited Preformed Line Products Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria). In our opinion, Preformed Line Products Company (the Company) maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the related statements of consolidated income, comprehensive income, cash flows and shareholders’ equity for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2024, and the related notes and financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15(a) and our report dated March 13, 2025 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Basis for Opinion

The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.

Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Cleveland, Ohio

March 13, 2025