Columbus McKinnon (CMCO) Proxy filing summary

Executive summary

• Achieved 24% net sales growth and 20% order growth in fiscal 2026, driven by the Kito Crosby acquisition and strategic divestitures.

• Integration of Kito Crosby is progressing, with a focus on operational synergies, cultural alignment, and value creation.

• Reported a net loss of $230 million due to a $200 million goodwill impairment and significant deal-related costs, partially offset by a $103 million gain on divestiture.

• Free cash flow excluding deal-related costs was $68 million; adjusted EBITDA reached $181 million.

• Board and management remain focused on profitable growth, debt reduction, and shareholder returns.

Voting matters and shareholder proposals

• Shareholders will vote on electing twelve directors, a say-on-pay advisory vote, ratification of Ernst & Young LLP as auditor, and an amendment to increase shares under the 2016 LTIP.

• Board recommends voting FOR all proposals.

• Voting rights are allocated to common and preferred shareholders, with CD&R Investors holding significant voting power.

• Voting standards require majority of votes cast for approval; abstentions and broker non-votes have no effect.

Board of directors and corporate governance

• Board consists of twelve nominees, nine of whom are independent; three new directors designated by CD&R following the Kito Crosby acquisition.

• Board committees (Audit, Human Capital, Corporate Governance) are fully independent and regularly evaluated.

• Board leadership structure separates Chair and CEO roles; annual evaluations and succession planning are emphasized.

• Board skills include M&A, operations, finance, global experience, and technology.

• Shareholder engagement is ongoing, with feedback influencing governance and compensation practices.