AAON Raises 2026 Sales Growth Outlook to 60% on Data Center Demand

Key Facts

1AAON raised its 2026 sales growth outlook to a range of 55% to 60%.

2The company maintains a $2 billion backlog driven by robust demand in its BASX data-center segment.

3Management expects visible gross margin recovery by 2027 as Memphis plant utilization improves.

Amid the significant boom in digital infrastructure, AAON has raised its sales growth outlook for 2026 to a range of 55% to 60%. This optimistic guidance is supported by a robust $2 billion backlog, primarily driven by strong demand in its BASX segment, which specializes in data center cooling solutions. According to reports, this move reflects management's confidence in capturing the ongoing global expansion of data center construction.

Despite strong sales momentum, the company faces temporary operational hurdles as rapid capacity expansion and startup costs weigh on gross margins and free cash flow. Management expects a visible recovery in margins by 2027 as utilization rates at the Memphis plant improve. Per market data, AAON shares are currently trading approximately 47% below their 52-week high, reflecting investor caution regarding short-term execution costs versus long-term growth prospects.

At the close on September 11, 2026, the AAON stock price stood at $79.8, having reached a day high of $81.26 and a low of $76.77. Investors are closely watching the company's ability to convert its massive backlog into bottom-line earnings as production efficiency improves. According to the economic calendar, there are no major upcoming catalysts for the stock in the next seven days, leaving the focus on management's execution of its expansion strategy.