Zebra Technologies lifts annual sales forecast on strong automation demand

May 12 (Reuters) - Zebra Technologies ZBRA.O on Tuesday raised its annual sales growth forecast, betting on robust demand for its products that help automate manufacturing workflows, sending its shares 15% higher in early trading.

The company has benefited as warehouses, retailers and logistics firms increase automation to manage supply chains and monitor operations more closely.

• Zebra's products include enterprise software and hardware such as barcode scanners, RFID readers, industrial printers and autonomous robots.

• The company now expects sales growth between 10% and 14% in 2026, compared with its previous forecast of 9% to 13%.

• The Lincolnshire, Illinois-based company also expects second-quarter sales growth between 14% and 17%, compared with analysts' average estimate of 13.7%, according to data compiled by LSEG.

• Adjusted profit is expected to be between $4.20 per share and $4.50 per share for the second quarter, above estimates of $4.14 per share.

• "As e-commerce, automation and Physical AI trends accelerate, we are well positioned to drive profitable growth," CEO Bill Burns said.

• Zebra posted net sales of $1.50 billion for the quarter ended April 4, beating estimates of $1.48 billion. Adjusted profit came in at $4.75 per share, compared with estimates of $4.25 per share.