Proto Labs (PRLB)


Market Price (9/24/2026): $92.93 | Market Cap: $2.2 BilSector: Industrials | Industry: Industrial Machinery & Supplies & Components

Proto Labs (PRLB)


Market Price (9/24/2026): $92.93
Market Cap: $2.2 Bil
Sector: Industrials
Industry: Industrial Machinery & Supplies & Components

Investment Highlights Why It Matters Detailed financial logic regarding cash flow yields vs trend-riding momentum.

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Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 14%, FCF/Rev LTMFree Cash Flow / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 10%

Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 48%

Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Automation & Robotics, and E-commerce & DTC Adoption. Themes include Industrial Robotics, Factory Automation, Show more.

Trading close to highs
Dist 52W High is -3.5%, Dist 3Y High is -3.5%

Expensive valuation multiples
P/EBITPrice/EBIT or Price/(Operating Income) ratio is 52x, P/EPrice/Earnings or Price/(Net Income) is 70x

Valuation getting more expensive
P/S 6M Chg %Price/Sales change over 6 months. Declining P/S indicates valuation has become less expensive. is 53%

Yield minus risk free rate is negative
ERPEquity Risk Premium (ERP) = Total Yield - Risk Free Rate, Reflects the premium above risk free assets offered by the investment. is -2.7%

Key risks
PRLB key risks include [1] the disruption of its high-margin injection molding business by 3D printing, Show more.

0 Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 14%, FCF/Rev LTMFree Cash Flow / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 10%
1 Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 48%
2 Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Automation & Robotics, and E-commerce & DTC Adoption. Themes include Industrial Robotics, Factory Automation, Show more.
3 Trading close to highs
Dist 52W High is -3.5%, Dist 3Y High is -3.5%
4 Expensive valuation multiples
P/EBITPrice/EBIT or Price/(Operating Income) ratio is 52x, P/EPrice/Earnings or Price/(Net Income) is 70x
5 Valuation getting more expensive
P/S 6M Chg %Price/Sales change over 6 months. Declining P/S indicates valuation has become less expensive. is 53%
6 Yield minus risk free rate is negative
ERPEquity Risk Premium (ERP) = Total Yield - Risk Free Rate, Reflects the premium above risk free assets offered by the investment. is -2.7%
7 Key risks
PRLB key risks include [1] the disruption of its high-margin injection molding business by 3D printing, Show more.

PRLB in ETFs

Weight = PRLB's share of each fund

VTI0.00%
ITOT0.00%
IWM0.07%
IJR0.12%
VB0.02%
SLYG0.25%
IJT0.21%
NUSC0.16%
+10 more covered ETFs

Valuation & Metrics

Price Chart

Why The Stock Moved

Qualitative Assessment

AI Analysis | Feedback

Updated on 9/18/2026

Proto Labs (PRLB) stock has gained about 20% since 5/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Proto Labs exceeded Q2 fiscal 2026 earnings expectations and raised its full-year revenue guidance. The company reported record revenue of $149.3 million for the second quarter ended June 30, 2026, a 10.6% increase over the second quarter of fiscal 2025, surpassing analyst estimates of $144.53 million. Non-GAAP earnings per share (EPS) of $0.60 beat the consensus estimate of $0.53 by $0.07, representing a 45% year-over-year increase and the highest adjusted EPS since Q3 fiscal 2020. Following these strong results, Proto Labs raised its full-year fiscal 2026 revenue growth outlook from 6%-8% to 8%-10%.

2. The company demonstrated robust growth in its core digital manufacturing services and increased revenue per customer. In Q2 fiscal 2026, CNC Machining revenue grew 13.1% year-over-year in constant currencies, while Injection Molding revenue accelerated significantly, growing 12.9% in constant currencies, up from 3.5% in Q1 fiscal 2026. Furthermore, revenue per customer contact increased by 16.7% year-over-year, indicating deeper engagement with existing enterprise accounts. Demand was particularly strong within the aerospace and defense sectors, which account for approximately 25% of total revenue and grew nearly 20% in the second quarter.

Show more
Updated on 9/18/2026

Proto Labs (PRLB) stock has gained about 20% since 5/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Proto Labs exceeded Q2 fiscal 2026 earnings expectations and raised its full-year revenue guidance. The company reported record revenue of $149.3 million for the second quarter ended June 30, 2026, a 10.6% increase over the second quarter of fiscal 2025, surpassing analyst estimates of $144.53 million. Non-GAAP earnings per share (EPS) of $0.60 beat the consensus estimate of $0.53 by $0.07, representing a 45% year-over-year increase and the highest adjusted EPS since Q3 fiscal 2020. Following these strong results, Proto Labs raised its full-year fiscal 2026 revenue growth outlook from 6%-8% to 8%-10%.

2. The company demonstrated robust growth in its core digital manufacturing services and increased revenue per customer. In Q2 fiscal 2026, CNC Machining revenue grew 13.1% year-over-year in constant currencies, while Injection Molding revenue accelerated significantly, growing 12.9% in constant currencies, up from 3.5% in Q1 fiscal 2026. Furthermore, revenue per customer contact increased by 16.7% year-over-year, indicating deeper engagement with existing enterprise accounts. Demand was particularly strong within the aerospace and defense sectors, which account for approximately 25% of total revenue and grew nearly 20% in the second quarter.

3. Positive analyst sentiment and multiple upgrades contributed to the stock's upward trend. During the period, several Wall Street analysts revised their ratings and price targets for Proto Labs. Zacks Research upgraded the stock from a "hold" to a "strong-buy" rating on August 6, 2026, and Needham & Company LLC upgraded it to a "buy" rating with an $87.00 target price on August 3, 2026. Benchmark also increased its price target from $70.00 to $91.00 and maintained a "buy" rating on July 2, 2026. The consensus analyst rating for Proto Labs is "Buy" with an average price target of $89.00.

4. Strategic initiatives and industry recognition reinforced market confidence in Proto Labs' long-term positioning. Proto Labs announced several strategic initiatives, including the consolidation of its European operations into a single legal entity and ERP system, aimed at reducing friction for multinational customers. Additionally, the company expanded its manufacturing capabilities to support the rapidly growing drone industry in July 2026. Proto Labs' leadership in digital manufacturing was recognized when it was named to TIME's 2026 List of America's Best Companies on July 10, 2026.

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Stock Movement Drivers

Fundamental Drivers

The 17.6% change in PRLB stock from 5/31/2026 to 9/23/2026 was primarily driven by a 15.3% change in the company's Net Income Margin (%).
(LTM values as of)53120269232026Change
Stock Price ($)75.7689.1317.6%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)5465612.6%
Net Income Margin (%)4.7%5.4%15.3%
P/E Multiple70.170.10.0%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)2424-0.6%
Cumulative Contribution17.6%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

5/31/2026 to 9/23/2026
ReturnCorrelation
PRLB17.6% 
Market (SPY)1.8%57.7%
Sector (XLI)-1.5%60.0%

Fundamental Drivers

The 43.6% change in PRLB stock from 2/28/2026 to 9/23/2026 was primarily driven by a 36.5% change in the company's Net Income Margin (%).
(LTM values as of)22820269232026Change
Stock Price ($)62.0889.1343.6%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)5335615.1%
Net Income Margin (%)4.0%5.4%36.5%
P/E Multiple69.570.10.9%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)2424-0.8%
Cumulative Contribution43.6%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

2/28/2026 to 9/23/2026
ReturnCorrelation
PRLB43.6% 
Market (SPY)12.5%63.5%
Sector (XLI)-3.5%64.9%

Fundamental Drivers

The 78.9% change in PRLB stock from 8/31/2025 to 9/23/2026 was primarily driven by a 86.7% change in the company's Net Income Margin (%).
(LTM values as of)83120259232026Change
Stock Price ($)49.8189.1378.9%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)50956110.2%
Net Income Margin (%)2.9%5.4%86.7%
P/E Multiple80.470.1-12.8%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)2424-0.3%
Cumulative Contribution78.9%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

8/31/2025 to 9/23/2026
ReturnCorrelation
PRLB78.9% 
Market (SPY)20.3%54.0%
Sector (XLI)13.3%58.2%

Fundamental Drivers

The 202.1% change in PRLB stock from 8/31/2023 to 9/23/2026 was primarily driven by a 139.3% change in the company's P/S Multiple.
(LTM values as of)83120239232026Change
Stock Price ($)29.5089.13202.1%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)48556115.5%
P/S Multiple1.63.8139.3%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)26249.4%
Cumulative Contribution202.1%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

8/31/2023 to 9/23/2026
ReturnCorrelation
PRLB202.1% 
Market (SPY)77.0%47.7%
Sector (XLI)64.1%51.9%

Return vs. Risk

Price Returns Compared

 202120222023202420252026Total [1]
Returns
PRLB Return-67%-50%53%0%29%77%-42%
Peers Return27%-51%6%-22%-3%58%-22%
S&P 500 Return27%-19%24%23%16%13%107%

Monthly Win Rates [3]
PRLB Win Rate25%33%58%33%67%78% 
Peers Win Rate38%39%47%42%44%52% 
S&P 500 Win Rate75%42%67%75%67%56% 

Max Drawdowns [4]
PRLB Max Drawdown-81%-63%-35%-31%-31%-20% 
Peers Max Drawdown-67%-60%-64%-65%-54%-41% 
S&P 500 Max Drawdown-5%-25%-10%-8%-19%-9% 


[1] Cumulative total returns since the beginning of 2021
[2] Peers: XMTR, SSYS, DDD. See PRLB Returns vs. Peers.
[3] Win Rate = % of calendar months in which monthly returns were positive
[4] Max drawdown represents maximum peak-to-trough decline within a year
[5] 2026 data is for the year up to 9/23/2026 (YTD)

How Low Can It Go

EventPRLBS&P 500
2025 US Tariff Shock
  % Loss-27.8%-18.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven38.5%23.1%
  Time to Breakeven114 days79 days
Summer-Fall 2023 Five Percent Yield Shock
  % Loss-30.3%-9.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven43.5%10.5%
  Time to Breakeven11 days24 days
2023 SVB Regional Banking Crisis
  % Loss-18.1%-6.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven22.1%7.1%
  Time to Breakeven34 days31 days
2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening
  % Loss-34.6%-24.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven53.0%32.4%
  Time to Breakeven1114 days427 days
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-34.8%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven53.3%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven41 days140 days
Q4 2018 Fed Policy Error / Growth Scare
  % Loss-33.7%-19.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven50.8%23.8%
  Time to Breakeven617 days105 days

Compare to XMTR, SSYS, DDD

In The Past

Proto Labs's stock fell -27.8% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 38.5% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

EventPRLBS&P 500
2025 US Tariff Shock
  % Loss-27.8%-18.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven38.5%23.1%
  Time to Breakeven114 days79 days
Summer-Fall 2023 Five Percent Yield Shock
  % Loss-30.3%-9.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven43.5%10.5%
  Time to Breakeven11 days24 days
2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening
  % Loss-34.6%-24.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven53.0%32.4%
  Time to Breakeven1114 days427 days
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-34.8%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven53.3%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven41 days140 days
Q4 2018 Fed Policy Error / Growth Scare
  % Loss-33.7%-19.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven50.8%23.8%
  Time to Breakeven617 days105 days
2016-2017 Trump Reflation Bond Selloff
  % Loss-25.4%-3.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven34.1%3.9%
  Time to Breakeven100 days6 days
2015-2016 China Devaluation / Global Growth Scare
  % Loss-29.3%-12.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven41.4%13.9%
  Time to Breakeven33 days62 days
2014-2016 Oil Price Collapse
  % Loss-29.7%-6.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven42.3%7.3%
  Time to Breakeven43 days15 days

Compare to XMTR, SSYS, DDD

In The Past

Proto Labs's stock fell -27.8% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 38.5% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

About Proto Labs (PRLB)

Proto Labs (PRLB) operates as an e-commerce driven digital manufacturer, specializing in the rapid production of custom prototypes and on-demand parts. The company essentially offers a streamlined, digital pathway for product developers and engineers to quickly move from design to physical part, accelerating innovation across various industries.

The company's core services leverage a diverse suite of advanced manufacturing technologies. These include traditional methods like injection molding and computer numerical control (CNC) machining, as well as an extensive range of 3D printing processes such such as stereolithography, selective laser sintering, direct metal laser sintering, multi jet fusion, PolyJet, and Carbon DLS. Additionally, Proto Labs provides quick-turn and e-commerce-enabled custom sheet metal fabrication.

Proto Labs primarily serves developers and engineers who use 3D computer-aided design (CAD) software to design products. These customers span a broad spectrum of end markets, relying on Proto Labs for fast, custom manufacturing solutions that enable rapid prototyping and efficient production of custom components.

AI Analysis | Feedback

The Amazon for custom industrial parts.

The FedEx Kinko's for custom 3D printed and machined parts.

AI Analysis | Feedback

  • Injection Molding: An e-commerce driven process for producing custom plastic and liquid silicone rubber parts.
  • CNC Machining: Provides custom parts by using computer numerical control to precisely machine various materials.
  • 3D Printing: Offers additive manufacturing services, including stereolithography, selective laser sintering, direct metal laser sintering, multi jet fusion, polyjet, and carbon DLS processes, for custom prototypes and production parts.
  • Sheet Metal Fabrication: Manufactures custom sheet metal parts through quick-turn and e-commerce-enabled services.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Proto Labs (PRLB) primarily serves other companies across a wide range of industries rather than a few specific major named customers. The company provides its rapid prototyping and on-demand manufacturing services to developers and engineers within these organizations. While specific customer names are not publicly disclosed, Proto Labs serves companies in major sectors such as:

  • Medical (e.g., medical devices, healthcare technology)
  • Automotive (e.g., vehicle components, design prototyping)
  • Aerospace (e.g., aircraft parts, space exploration components)

Other significant end markets for Proto Labs' services include consumer products, electronics, and industrial machinery.

AI Analysis | Feedback

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Suresh Krishna, President and Chief Executive Officer

Suresh Krishna was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Proto Labs in May 2025. He previously served as President and Chief Executive Officer at Northern Tool + Equipment, where he led the company through a business and cultural transformation focused on customer-centric innovation, operational excellence, and growth. Krishna has a 30-year track record of generating profitable growth and has held operations and leadership roles at companies such as Sleep Number Corporation, Polaris Industries, and UTC Fire & Security. He holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

Daniel Schumacher, Chief Financial Officer

Daniel Schumacher has served as Chief Financial Officer of Proto Labs since December 2021. He joined Proto Labs in 2017, initially serving as Vice President of Investor Relations and Global Financial Planning & Analysis. Prior to joining Proto Labs, Mr. Schumacher was Finance Director for Stratasys from 2015 to 2017 and held various financial leadership roles at Rockwell Automation from 2006 to 2015. He began his career in public accounting and is a graduate of the University of Minnesota - Carlson School of Management with a degree in Accounting.

Marc Kermisch, Chief Technology & AI Officer

Marc Kermisch oversees Proto Labs' global technology organization, leading strategic initiatives and the artificial intelligence (AI) solution strategy. He brings over 25 years of senior executive experience from technology and R&D organizations across diverse industries including manufacturing, software, and retail. Prior to Proto Labs, he was CTO for Emergent Software and Global Chief Digital and Information Officer at Case New Holland (NYSE: CNH), where he focused on developing autonomous vehicles, precision farming applications, and electric powertrains. Kermisch has also held executive leadership positions at Optum Rx, Bluestem Brands, and Red Wing Shoe Company.

Michael Kenison, Chief Operations Officer

Michael Kenison is the Chief Operations Officer at Proto Labs. Before his current role, he led the Americas region as VP & General Manager of the Americas and previously served as VP of Manufacturing since 2013. Prior to his tenure at Proto Labs, Kenison held leadership roles within the industry, including VP of Manufacturing at Cardiac Science, Inc.

Agnes Semington, Chief Human Resource Officer

Agnes Semington serves as the Chief Human Resource Officer for Proto Labs.

AI Analysis | Feedback

The key risks to Proto Labs' business are as follows:

  1. Intense Competition and Pricing Pressure

    Proto Labs operates in a highly competitive and fragmented digital manufacturing market, facing significant challenges from both traditional manufacturers and digital brokers like Xometry, Quickparts, and Fictiv. These competitors often engage in aggressive pricing strategies, particularly for larger production runs, and continuously innovate in materials and manufacturing processes. The marketplace model utilized by some rivals can offer a broader range of capabilities and highly competitive pricing, which can challenge Proto Labs' emphasis on speed and consistency.

  2. Rapid Technological Change and Need for Continuous Innovation

    The digital manufacturing sector is characterized by rapid technological advancements. Proto Labs' business model relies heavily on its proprietary technology, software, and automation to provide rapid quoting and production. A significant risk is that rapid technological changes by competitors or the emergence of new industry standards could render Proto Labs' existing offerings less attractive or even obsolete. Therefore, the company must continuously invest substantially in research and development and innovation to maintain its market position and competitive edge.

  3. Economic Downturns and Cyclical Demand

    Proto Labs is exposed to risks associated with global economic conditions. Potential recessions, economic slowdowns, or financial difficulties experienced by its customer base can lead to reduced demand for its prototyping and on-demand manufacturing services. As the company serves a wide range of end markets, many within the Industrials sector, it is susceptible to the cyclical nature of manufacturing investment, which can result in fluctuations in revenue and profitability.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Increasingly accessible and capable in-house manufacturing technologies, such as advanced 3D printing and desktop computer numerical control (CNC) machines, are empowering Proto Labs' target customers (developers and engineers) to produce their own prototypes and low-volume production parts internally. This reduces the need for outsourced digital manufacturing services and directly threatens Proto Labs' core business model by allowing customers to insource what they previously outsourced.

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Proto Labs (PRLB) operates in a significant addressable market across its core services of injection molding, CNC machining, 3D printing, and sheet metal fabrication, primarily focusing on custom prototypes and on-demand production parts.

The overall addressable market for digital manufacturing services, encompassing these areas, is estimated to be large and growing. Proto Labs itself indicates that it accelerates innovation for customers in a substantial global market valued at $100 billion. More specifically, the global custom parts on-demand manufacturing market, which includes CNC machining, 3D printing, and injection molding, was valued at approximately $4.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $11.7 billion by 2032.

Market Sizes for Main Products or Services:

  • Injection Molding: The global injection molding market size was estimated at approximately $298.7 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach about $462.4 billion by 2033. Another estimate places the global market size at $317.87 billion in 2025, expected to exceed $521.77 billion by 2035. The Asia-Pacific region alone represented an injection molding market size of $127.15 billion in 2025, with projections to surpass $208.71 billion by 2035.
  • CNC Machining: The global CNC machining market is projected to reach between $128 billion and $129 billion by 2026. The global market for online CNC machining services, which is highly relevant to Proto Labs' e-commerce model, was valued at approximately $4.5 billion in 2023 and is forecasted to reach $10.3 billion by 2032.
  • 3D Printing: The global 3D printing market size was estimated at an average of $22.14 billion in 2023. Other reports indicate the global 3D printing market was valued at $15.39 billion in 2024, with projections to grow to $35.79 billion by 2030. Focusing on prototyping, the global 3D printing for prototyping market size is estimated at $13.47 billion in 2026, with an expected increase to $27.62 billion by 2031.
  • Sheet Metal Fabrication: The global sheet metal fabrication services market size was valued at $10.3 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to approximately $15.2 billion by 2034. Another estimate places the global market at $22.32 billion in 2025, with a projected increase to approximately $33.31 billion by 2034. North America is a leading market, with over 25 million metric tons of fabricated parts produced in 2024.
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AI Analysis | Feedback

Proto Labs, Inc. (PRLB) is expected to drive future revenue growth over the next 2-3 years through several key initiatives and market trends:

  1. Strong Growth in CNC Machining and Sheet Metal Services: Proto Labs has demonstrated robust performance in its CNC Machining and Sheet Metal segments. For example, CNC Machining revenue grew 16.7% in 2025, with U.S. CNC revenue increasing by 25% in the fourth quarter of 2025. Sheet Metal also experienced double-digit growth in 2025. This continued demand and focus on these areas are anticipated to be significant revenue contributors.

  2. Expansion and Enhanced Utilization of the Proto Labs Network: The Proto Labs Network, which includes a global network of manufacturing partners, is a key growth area. The network significantly expanded the company's capabilities and offers customers a wider range of pricing and lead time options. Network fulfillment revenue showed strong growth, increasing 15.7% year-over-year in 2025 to $116.2 million. This hybrid model, combining in-house digital factories with the network, is designed to meet diverse customer needs and drive revenue.

  3. Strategic Shift Towards Production and Larger Orders: Proto Labs is strategically evolving to serve customers across the entire product lifecycle, moving beyond just prototyping to include on-demand production parts. The company has seen an increase in revenue per customer contact, with a 23.2% rise in the fourth quarter of 2024, indicating higher-value orders. This focus on securing larger and more consistent production work is expected to drive sustained revenue growth.

  4. Expansion into High-Growth Verticals: The company is targeting expansion into high-growth verticals, including the medical, aerospace and defense, robotics, and data center infrastructure sectors. Strong demand for CNC parts in innovation-driven industries like drones, satellites, and rockets, particularly in the U.S., contributed to outstanding performance in 2025, indicating future growth potential in these specialized markets.

  5. Customer Experience and Operational Efficiency Improvements: Proto Labs is undertaking a transformation plan for 2026, centered on elevating the customer experience, accelerating innovation, expanding production capabilities, and driving operational efficiency. Efforts such as streamlining the production quoting process, offering additional inspection reports, and implementing industry certifications are aimed at improving customer satisfaction and attracting more business, thereby contributing to revenue growth.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Share Repurchases

  • In December 2021, Proto Labs' Board of Directors approved a $50 million increase to its stock repurchase program, raising the total authorization to $150 million with an expiration date of December 31, 2023. As of December 7, 2021, $63 million remained available under the expanded program.
  • The Board approved another $50 million increase in November 2022, extending the program's expiration to December 31, 2024, and expanding the total authorization to $200 million. As of November 21, 2022, $89 million remained available for repurchases.
  • Proto Labs announced a new $100 million stock repurchase program on February 7, 2025. In Q1 2025, the company bought back $20.9 million in stock, and for the full year 2025, $43 million was returned to shareholders through repurchases.

Share Issuance

  • As part of the January 2021 acquisition of 3D Hubs, Proto Labs issued $150 million in common stock for the closing consideration.
  • An additional contingent consideration of up to $50 million for the 3D Hubs acquisition was potentially funded with 50% Proto Labs common stock based on performance targets in 2021 and 2022.

Outbound Investments

  • In January 2021, Proto Labs acquired 3D Hubs for an aggregate closing consideration of $280 million, which included $130 million in cash and $150 million in Proto Labs common stock.
  • The acquisition of 3D Hubs aimed to significantly expand Proto Labs' customer offerings by integrating a network of premium manufacturing partners.
  • Proto Labs' capital allocation strategy includes evaluating potential strategic acquisition opportunities that align with its growth objectives, with management indicating a disciplined search for acquisitions in 2026.

Capital Expenditures

  • Proto Labs' capital expenditures averaged $28.038 million annually for the fiscal years ending December 2020 to 2024.
  • Capital expenditures showed fluctuations, decreasing to $34.209 million in 2021, $21.686 million in 2022, and $9.169 million in 2024, while increasing to $28.116 million in 2023.
  • For the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025, capital expenditures amounted to $14.8 million. The company prioritizes organic investment to enhance its platform and capacity, focusing on serving customers with world-class lead times.

Better Bets vs. Proto Labs (PRLB)

Peer Outperformance in Industrial Machinery & Supplies & Components

PRLB has trailed 56% of its 72 Industrial Machinery & Supplies & Components peers over 5Y. Among the peers that beat it is CRS. Industrial Machinery & Supplies & Components ranks 7th of 23 industries in Industrials by median 5Y return.
Share of Industrial Machinery & Supplies & Components constituents that PRLB has outperformed, by holding period. Peers without a full price history over a given window are excluded from that window.
1Y
91%
of 76 industry peers · 75.3% return
3Y
92%
of 74 industry peers · 244.9% return
5Y
44%
of 72 industry peers · 24.5% return
Industrial Machinery & Supplies & Components peers with revenue growth within 4pp of PRLB's that beat it on at least 2 of 3 windows, and by at least 20pp over 5Y. Growth is matched by construction, so the gap is largely a re-rating gap. The multiple column is the context for it.
Ticker Name Rev Growth 3Y Avg P/E 1Y3Y5Y 5Y Gap
PRLB Proto Labs 5.0% 70.1x 75.3%244.9%24.5% —
CRS Carpenter Technology 7.0% 37.1x 65.7%482.2%1180.4% +1,156pp
Price returns, excluding dividends. P/E shown for context only and not used for matching.
Median price return by industry across the Industrials sector, ranked by 5Y. Industrial Machinery & Supplies & Components is PRLB's own industry. Use this to see which corners of the sector have carried the returns.
Industry Names 1Y med3Y med5Y med Top 3 by 5Y
Construction & Engineering 31 4.1%117.9%190.5% STRL 2242% · FIX 2199% · CDNL 2106%
Marine Transportation 9 74.5%105.0%154.6% HOS 43847% · ASC 502% · MATX 192%
Construction Machinery & Heavy Transportation Equipment 13 6.6%48.5%129.5% CAT 350% · ALSN 250% · WAB 236%
Aerospace & Defense 56 -7.9%72.9%75.3% ATI 996% · FTAI 926% · HWM 636%
Trading Companies & Distributors 19 7.9%43.1%57.8% DXPE 558% · AIT 293% · WCC 222%
Rail Transportation 7 23.4%57.7%51.3% FSTR 144% · RAIL 69% · CSX 66%
Industrial Machinery & Supplies & Components ← 73 11.5%51.3%43.3% CRS 1180% · PSIX 1118% · EROC 620%
Diversified Support Services 33 10.9%32.9%37.2% LIME 3226% · TH 439% · WLFC 353%
Cargo Ground Transportation 16 35.0%0.2%31.1% XPO 246% · R 226% · CVLG 153%
Electrical Components & Equipment 41 -2.4%63.6%23.5% POWL 2398% · BE 1347% · VRT 949%
Building Products 34 -12.8%2.0%19.6% LMB 623% · GFF 395% · PPIH 295%
Passenger Ground Transportation 3 -33.1%48.6%-0.4% UBER 49% · CAR 0% · LYFT -74%
Agricultural & Farm Machinery 17 4.0%4.6%-3.6% BLBD 187% · DE 117% · GENC 56%
Industrial Conglomerates 17 8.8%4.5%-6.3% RCMT 424% · CSW 143% · DD 76%
Environmental & Facilities Services 30 -12.1%20.0%-7.8% CECO 979% · ADUR 429% · GEO 333%
Research & Consulting Services 14 -15.5%-25.1%-12.8% HURN 210% · GRNQ 84% · CRAI 78%
Data Processing & Outsourced Services 6 -33.7%-16.2%-28.2% EXLS 41% · BR 6% · G -26%
Office Services & Supplies 9 9.7%15.5%-34.5% PBI 167% · TILE 144% · HNI 51%
Passenger Airlines 11 7.9%15.2%-34.7% LTM 2685% · UAL 127% · SKYW 98%
Human Resource & Employment Services 22 3.0%-15.2%-37.6% BBSI 76% · ADP 46% · PAYX 11%
Air Freight & Logistics 12 -10.9%-21.8%-39.2% CHRW 90% · FDX 77% · EXPD 60%
Security & Alarm Services 10 -25.9%18.9%-43.9% CIX 140% · MG 115% · NL 72%
Airport Services 3 -75.5%-78.0%-62.7% JOBY -39% · ASLE -63% · UP -100%
Median of constituents with a full price history over each window. Top names are unfiltered by size in this render.

Latest Trefis Analyses

Recent Active Movers

Peer Comparisons

Peers to compare with:

Financials

PRLBXMTRSSYSDDDMedian
NameProto La.Xometry Stratasys3D Syste. 
Mkt Price89.13105.018.033.5148.58
Mkt Cap2.15.70.70.51.4
Rev LTM561808547388554
Op Inc LTM41-31-83-65-48
FCF LTM57-14-25-52-20
FCF 3Y Avg57-27-23-76-25
CFO LTM7928-5-4212
CFO 3Y Avg760-5-60-2

Growth & Margins

PRLBXMTRSSYSDDDMedian
NameProto La.Xometry Stratasys3D Syste. 
Rev Chg LTM10.2%33.7%-3.1%-6.2%3.6%
Rev Chg 3Y Avg5.0%24.7%-4.6%-9.0%0.2%
Rev Chg Q10.6%41.1%-0.3%-0.3%5.1%
QoQ Delta Rev Chg LTM2.6%9.0%-0.1%-0.1%1.3%
Op Inc Chg LTM84.3%37.1%-30.0%44.0%40.6%
Op Inc Chg 3Y Avg43.0%29.6%-13.1%16.9%23.3%
Op Mgn LTM7.3%-3.8%-15.3%-16.7%-9.5%
Op Mgn 3Y Avg6.0%-7.8%-13.7%-22.5%-10.8%
QoQ Delta Op Mgn LTM1.3%1.0%0.6%0.3%0.8%
CFO/Rev LTM14.0%3.4%-0.8%-10.9%1.3%
CFO/Rev 3Y Avg14.4%-0.6%-0.8%-14.3%-0.7%
FCF/Rev LTM10.1%-1.7%-4.6%-13.5%-3.2%
FCF/Rev 3Y Avg10.9%-4.8%-4.1%-17.9%-4.5%

Valuation

PRLBXMTRSSYSDDDMedian
NameProto La.Xometry Stratasys3D Syste. 
Mkt Cap2.15.70.70.51.4
P/S3.87.11.31.32.6
P/Op Inc52.0-186.4-8.4-8.1-8.2
P/EBIT52.0-231.9-8.4-14.0-11.2
P/E70.1-184.8-6.1-9.5-7.8
P/CFO27.2205.2-152.6-12.47.4
Total Yield1.4%-0.5%-16.5%-10.5%-5.5%
Dividend Yield0.0%0.0%0.0%0.0%0.0%
FCF Yield 3Y Avg5.4%-3.3%-3.3%-25.0%-3.3%
D/E0.00.10.00.30.0
Net D/E-0.1-0.0-0.30.0-0.0

Returns

PRLBXMTRSSYSDDDMedian
NameProto La.Xometry Stratasys3D Syste. 
1M Rtn16.1%24.2%5.0%12.5%14.3%
3M Rtn11.6%14.5%-3.7%16.6%13.1%
6M Rtn49.0%152.2%-0.6%66.4%57.7%
12M Rtn75.3%93.7%-31.3%24.9%50.1%
3Y Rtn244.9%529.6%-35.3%-22.2%111.4%
1M Excs Rtn15.4%23.5%4.3%11.8%13.6%
3M Excs Rtn6.9%9.8%-8.4%11.9%8.4%
6M Excs Rtn32.0%135.8%-17.7%52.0%42.0%
12M Excs Rtn59.6%75.7%-37.7%25.3%42.4%
3Y Excs Rtn160.2%424.3%-108.0%-101.5%29.3%

Comparison Analyses

Financials

Segment Financials

Revenue by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222021
Computer numerical control (CNC) Machining243207198188167
Injection Molding192194204201226
Three-dimensional (3D) Printing8084847973
Sheet Metal1715171920
Other Revenue11112
Total533501504488488


Operating Income by Segment
$ Mil2011
United States25
Europe5
Other-3
Total27


Assets by Segment
$ Mil2011
United States48
Europe11
Other4
Total62


Price Behavior

Price Behavior
Market Price$89.13 
Market Cap ($ Bil)2.1 
First Trading Date02/24/2012 
Distance from 52W High-3.5% 
   50 Days200 Days
DMA Price$82.07$67.89
DMA Trendupup
Distance from DMA8.6%31.3%
 3M1YR
Volatility45.5%48.0%
Downside Capture202.14172.64
Upside Capture211.71207.82
Correlation (SPY)59.5%54.1%
PRLB Betas & Captures as of 8/31/2026

 1M2M3M6M1Y3Y
Beta4.683.252.121.982.051.57
Up Beta5.985.262.631.952.871.60
Down Beta7.471.850.941.501.351.22
Up Capture364%281%286%293%360%770%
Bmk +ve Days10213268138427
Stock +ve Days13223571127384
Down Capture381%278%205%176%148%110%
Bmk -ve Days11213259113324
Stock -ve Days8202956124366

[1] Upside and downside betas calculated using positive and negative benchmark daily returns respectively
Based On 1-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with PRLB
PRLB75.1%47.9%1.30-
Sector ETF (XLI)12.2%17.2%0.5057.9%
Equity (SPY)16.2%13.0%0.8854.0%
Gold (GLD)13.9%29.3%0.4424.8%
Commodities (DBC)46.6%20.7%1.75-12.6%
Real Estate (VNQ)4.5%13.7%0.0821.6%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)-23.2%44.8%-0.4631.6%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 5-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with PRLB
PRLB4.9%50.8%0.27-
Sector ETF (XLI)12.4%17.6%0.5446.3%
Equity (SPY)12.9%17.2%0.5745.2%
Gold (GLD)18.6%18.8%0.809.3%
Commodities (DBC)10.5%19.5%0.412.8%
Real Estate (VNQ)0.8%18.9%-0.0631.9%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)12.5%52.6%0.4121.0%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 10-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with PRLB
PRLB5.2%48.0%0.29-
Sector ETF (XLI)13.5%20.0%0.5947.6%
Equity (SPY)15.5%17.9%0.7348.4%
Gold (GLD)12.1%16.4%0.605.7%
Commodities (DBC)8.5%18.1%0.3812.1%
Real Estate (VNQ)4.9%20.7%0.2033.4%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)64.2%66.2%1.0413.4%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How

Short Interest

Short Interest: As Of Date8312026
Short Interest: Shares Quantity0.6 Mil
Short Interest: % Change Since 8152026-6.2%
Average Daily Volume0.2 Mil
Days-to-Cover Short Interest3.5 days
Basic Shares Quantity24.0 Mil
Short % of Basic Shares2.6%

Earnings Returns History

Updated 9/2/2026
Expand for More
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
7/31/2026-0.1%17.0%6.1%
5/1/20260.6%5.2%17.0%
2/6/202628.0%26.6%9.7%
10/31/2025-6.2%-8.3%-5.4%
7/31/20259.9%14.6%29.4%
5/2/20257.1%12.3%2.0%
2/7/2025-6.3%1.4%-16.4%
11/1/202438.7%40.9%50.8%
...
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive111311
# Negative131113
Median Positive9.9%11.6%16.3%
Median Negative-6.2%-10.7%-13.6%
Max Positive38.7%40.9%52.7%
Max Negative-31.1%-35.4%-31.8%
Collapse to Preview
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
7/31/2026-0.1%17.0%6.1%
5/1/20260.6%5.2%17.0%
2/6/202628.0%26.6%9.7%
10/31/2025-6.2%-8.3%-5.4%
7/31/20259.9%14.6%29.4%
5/2/20257.1%12.3%2.0%
2/7/2025-6.3%1.4%-16.4%
11/1/202438.7%40.9%50.8%
8/2/2024-15.3%-15.4%-8.8%
5/3/2024-0.2%3.7%-2.5%
2/9/2024-4.3%-0.9%-1.7%
11/3/202330.4%39.3%52.7%
8/4/2023-3.6%-10.7%-5.5%
5/5/202312.2%11.6%16.3%
2/10/202313.1%9.7%4.4%
11/4/2022-31.1%-35.4%-28.4%
8/5/2022-9.8%-10.0%-26.5%
5/6/20225.3%-4.6%11.1%
2/11/20225.3%6.7%-8.6%
10/28/2021-20.5%-15.9%-31.2%
7/29/2021-7.7%-5.3%-16.6%
5/6/2021-1.0%-11.0%-13.6%
2/12/2021-1.8%-13.0%-31.8%
10/29/20201.1%7.0%18.1%
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive111311
# Negative131113
Median Positive9.9%11.6%16.3%
Median Negative-6.2%-10.7%-13.6%
Max Positive38.7%40.9%52.7%
Max Negative-31.1%-35.4%-31.8%

SEC Filings

Expand for More
Report DateFiling DateFiling
06/30/202607/31/202610-Q
03/31/202605/01/202610-Q
12/31/202502/20/202610-K
09/30/202510/31/202510-Q
06/30/202507/31/202510-Q
03/31/202505/02/202510-Q
12/31/202402/21/202510-K
09/30/202411/07/202410-Q
06/30/202408/02/202410-Q
03/31/202405/03/202410-Q
12/31/202302/16/202410-K
09/30/202311/03/202310-Q
06/30/202308/04/202310-Q
03/31/202305/05/202310-Q
12/31/202202/21/202310-K
09/30/202211/04/202210-Q
Collapse to Preview
Report DateFiling DateFiling
06/30/202607/31/202610-Q
03/31/202605/01/202610-Q
12/31/202502/20/202610-K
09/30/202510/31/202510-Q
06/30/202507/31/202510-Q
03/31/202505/02/202510-Q
12/31/202402/21/202510-K
09/30/202411/07/202410-Q
06/30/202408/02/202410-Q
03/31/202405/03/202410-Q
12/31/202302/16/202410-K
09/30/202311/03/202310-Q
06/30/202308/04/202310-Q
03/31/202305/05/202310-Q
12/31/202202/21/202310-K
09/30/202211/04/202210-Q
06/30/202208/05/202210-Q
03/31/202205/06/202210-Q
12/31/202102/18/202210-K
09/30/202111/02/202110-Q
06/30/202108/03/202110-Q
03/31/202105/10/202110-Q
12/31/202002/19/202110-K
09/30/202011/03/202010-Q
06/30/202007/31/202010-Q
03/31/202005/05/202010-Q
12/31/201902/26/202010-K
09/30/201910/29/201910-Q

Recent Forward Guidance

Updated 8/1/2026

Latest: Q2 2026 Earnings Reported 7/31/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
Q3 2026 RevenueReported145.00 Mil149.00 Mil153.00 Mil3.5% Higher NewGuidance: 144.00 Mil for Q2 2026
Q3 2026 GAAP Diluted EPSReported0.340.380.4215.2%5.0%Higher NewGuidance: 0.33 for Q2 2026
Q3 2026 Non-GAAP Diluted EPSReported0.560.60.6411.1%6.0%Higher NewGuidance: 0.54 for Q2 2026
2026 Revenue GrowthReported8.0%9.0%10.0% 2.0%RaisedGuidance: 7.0% for 2026


Prior: Q1 2026 Earnings Reported 5/1/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
Q2 2026 RevenueReported140.00 Mil144.00 Mil148.00 Mil7.5% Higher NewGuidance: 134.00 Mil for Q1 2026
Q2 2026 Diluted Net Income Per ShareReported0.290.330.3757.1% Higher NewGuidance: 0.21 for Q1 2026
Q2 2026 Non-GAAP Diluted Net Income Per ShareReported0.50.540.5835.0% Higher NewGuidance: 0.4 for Q1 2026
2026 Revenue GrowthReported6.0%7.0%8.0% 0.0%AffirmedGuidance: 7.0% for 2026

Q4 2025 Earnings Reported 2/6/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
Q1 2026 RevenueReported130.00 Mil134.00 Mil138.00 Mil3.9% Higher NewGuidance: 129.00 Mil for Q4 2025
Q1 2026 Diluted EPSReported0.170.210.2531.2% Higher NewGuidance: 0.16 for Q4 2025
Q1 2026 Non-GAAP Diluted EPSReported0.360.40.4417.6% Higher NewGuidance: 0.34 for Q4 2025
2026 Revenue GrowthReported6.0%7.0%8.0%   

Q3 2025 Earnings Reported 10/31/2025

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
Q4 2025 RevenueReported125.00 Mil129.00 Mil133.00 Mil-3.7% LoweredGuidance: 134.00 Mil for Q3 2025
Q4 2025 Diluted EPSReported0.120.160.2-23.8%-5.0%LoweredGuidance: 0.21 for Q3 2025
Q4 2025 Non-GAAP Diluted EPSReported0.30.340.38-12.8%-5.0%LoweredGuidance: 0.39 for Q3 2025

Insider Activity

Updated 9/18/2026
Expand for More
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Schumacher, DanielChief Financial OfficerDirectSell918202685.214,900417,5353,410,071Form
2Schumacher, DanielChief Financial OfficerDirectSell918202685.001008,5003,818,115Form
3Wehrwein, Sven DirectSell604202677.282,000154,5502,511,825Form
4Kenison, Michael RChief Operations OfficerDirectSell513202669.4916,0301,113,9151,298,270Form
5Kenison, Michael RChief Operations OfficerDirectSell513202670.267,433522,2511,910,121Form
Collapse to Preview
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Schumacher, DanielChief Financial OfficerDirectSell918202685.214,900417,5353,410,071Form
2Schumacher, DanielChief Financial OfficerDirectSell918202685.001008,5003,818,115Form
3Wehrwein, Sven DirectSell604202677.282,000154,5502,511,825Form
4Kenison, Michael RChief Operations OfficerDirectSell513202669.4916,0301,113,9151,298,270Form
5Kenison, Michael RChief Operations OfficerDirectSell513202670.267,433522,2511,910,121Form
6Kenison, Michael RChief Operations OfficerDirectSell508202670.0020014,0001,903,020Form
7Kenison, Michael RChief Operations OfficerDirectSell218202666.465,000332,3151,681,647Form
8Kenison, Michael RChief Operations OfficerDirectSell209202660.002,500150,0002,071,560Form
9Kenison, Michael RChief Operations OfficerDirectSell1126202550.173,048152,9311,449,931Form

Investor Activity (13F)

Updated Sep 24, 2026
13F holdings as of Mar 31, 2026 (Q1 2026)

Active managers (13F portfolio over $250M, at least 3 holdings) with a position over $5M that is either over 10% of their portfolio or held in a concentrated book of 50 or fewer total positions. Index/ETF, sovereign, bank, community-bank and charitable/donor-advised filers are excluded.

Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
S Squared Technology, LLC$16.9 Mil6.4%35Hold13F
Active Manager
Active Manager
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
S Squared Technology, LLC$16.9 Mil6.4%35Hold13F
Core Cache Last Updated: 9/23/2026