Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
Jan. 03, 2026
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Principles of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation The accompanying consolidated financial statements of the Company include the accounts of its wholly and majority-owned subsidiaries. All material intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
Fiscal Year	Fiscal Year The Company's fiscal quarters and fiscal year typically consist of 13 and 52 weeks, respectively, with its fiscal year ending on the Saturday closest to December 31. As a result of the difference between the fiscal and calendar periods, a 53rd week is added to the Company's fiscal year every five or six years, resulting in a 14-week fourth quarter. The Company's fiscal year ended January 3, 2026 (fiscal 2025) contained 53 weeks, while its fiscal years ended December 28, 2024 (fiscal 2024) and December 30, 2023 (fiscal 2023) each included 52 weeks. Each quarter of fiscal 2025, 2024 and 2023 consisted of 13 weeks, except for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025, which consisted of 14 weeks.
Use of Estimates and Critical Accounting Policies	Use of Estimates and Critical Accounting Policies The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Although the Company makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the estimates and assumptions used in the preparation of its consolidated financial statements or in the application of accounting policies, if business conditions were different, or if the Company were to use different estimates and assumptions, it is possible that materially different amounts could be reported in the Company's consolidated financial statements. Critical accounting policies are defined as those that entail significant judgments and estimates, and could potentially result in materially different results under different assumptions and conditions. The Company believes that the most critical accounting policies upon which its financial position depends, and which involve the most complex or subjective decisions or assessments, concern income taxes, revenue recognition, the valuation of goodwill and intangible assets, and inventories.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition The Company recognizes revenue in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (ASC 606). Most of the Company’s revenue is recognized at a point in time for each performance obligation under the contract when the customer obtains control of the goods or service. Most of the Company’s parts and consumables products and its capital products with minimal customization are accounted for at a point in time. The Company has made a policy election to not treat the obligation to ship as a separate performance obligation under the contract and, as a result, the associated shipping costs are reflected in cost of revenue when revenue is recognized. The remaining portion of the Company's revenue is recognized over time based on an input method that compares the costs incurred to date to the total expected costs required to satisfy the performance obligation. Contracts are accounted for on an over time basis when they include products which have no alternative use and an enforceable right to payment over time. Most of the contracts recognized on an over time basis are for large capital projects. These projects are highly customized for the customer and, as a result, would include a significant cost to rework in the event of cancellation. The transaction price includes estimated variable consideration where applicable. Such variable consideration relates to certain performance guarantees and rights to return the product. The Company estimates variable consideration as the most likely amount to which it expects to be entitled based on the terms of the contracts with customers and historical experience, where relevant. For contracts with multiple performance obligations, the transaction price is allocated to each performance obligation based on the relative stand-alone selling price. The Company disaggregates its revenue from contracts with customers by reportable segment, product type and geography as this best depicts how its revenue is affected by economic factors. Contract assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet represent unbilled revenue associated with revenue recognized on contracts accounted for on an over time basis, which will be billed in future periods based on the contract terms. Contract liabilities consist of short- and long-term customer deposits, advanced billings, and deferred revenue. Deferred revenue is included in other current liabilities and long-term customer deposits are included in other long-term liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. Contract liabilities will be recognized as revenue in future periods once the revenue recognition criteria are met. The majority of the contract liabilities relate to advance payments on contracts accounted for at a point in time. These advance payments will be recognized as revenue when the Company's performance obligations have been satisfied, which typically occurs when the product has shipped and control of the asset has transferred to the customer. Customers in China will often settle their accounts receivable with banker's acceptance drafts, in which case cash settlement will be delayed until the drafts mature or are settled prior to maturity. For customers outside of China, final payment for the majority of the Company's products is received in the quarter following the product shipment. Certain of the Company's contracts include a longer period before final payment is due, which is typically within one year of final shipment or transfer of control to the customer. The Company includes in revenue amounts invoiced for shipping and handling with the corresponding costs reflected in cost of revenue. Provisions for discounts, warranties, returns and other adjustments are provided for in the period in which the related sale was recorded. Sales taxes, value-added taxes, and certain excise taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are accounted for on a net basis and therefore are excluded from revenue.
Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Credit Losses	Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Credit Losses Accounts receivable arise from sales on credit to customers, are recorded at the invoiced amount, and do not bear interest. The Company establishes an allowance for credit losses to reduce accounts receivable to the net amount expected to be collected. The Company exercises judgment in determining its allowance for credit losses, which is based on its historical collection and write-off experience, adjusted for current macroeconomic trends and conditions, credit policies, specific customer collection issues, and accounts receivable aging. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and adjusts credit limits based upon payment history and each customer's current creditworthiness. The Company continuously monitors collections and payments from its customers. Account balances are charged off against the allowance when the Company believes it is probable the receivable will not be recovered. In some instances, the Company utilizes letters of credit to mitigate its credit exposure.
Banker's Acceptance Drafts Included in Accounts Receivable	Banker's Acceptance Drafts Included in Accounts Receivable The Company's Chinese subsidiaries may receive banker's acceptance drafts from customers as payment for their trade accounts receivable. The drafts are non-interest bearing obligations of the issuing bank and generally mature within six months of the origination date. The Company's Chinese subsidiaries may sell the drafts at a discount to a third-party financial institution or transfer the drafts to vendors in settlement of current accounts payable prior to the scheduled maturity date.
Warranty Obligations	Warranty Obligations The Company's contracts covering the sale of its products include warranty provisions that provide assurance to its customers that the products will comply with agreed-upon specifications during a defined period of time. The Company provides for the estimated cost of product warranties at the time of sale based on the historical occurrence rates and repair costs, as well as knowledge of any specific warranty problems that indicate projected warranty costs may vary from historical patterns. The Company negotiates the terms regarding warranty coverage and length of warranty depending on the products and applications. While the Company engages in extensive product quality programs and processes, the Company's warranty obligation is affected by product failure rates, repair costs, service delivery costs incurred in correcting a product failure, and supplier warranties on parts delivered to the Company. Should these factors or actual results differ from the Company's estimates, revisions to the estimated warranty liability would be required.
Leases	Leases In accordance with ASC 842, Leases (ASC 842), the Company determines whether an arrangement is, or contains, a lease at inception. Operating lease liabilities are included in other current liabilities and other long-term liabilities and the corresponding right-of-use (ROU) assets are included in other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. Classification of operating lease liabilities as either current or noncurrent is based on the expected timing of payments due under the Company’s lease obligations. ROU assets represent the Company’s right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent the Company’s obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities with original contract terms greater than 12 months are recognized based on the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the lease term at the commencement date. Operating leases with an original term of 12 months or less are not recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. In determining the present value of future lease payments, the Company utilizes either the rate implicit in the lease if that rate is readily determinable or its incremental secured borrowing rate commensurate with the term of the underlying lease. Lease terms may include the effect of options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that the Company will exercise that option. The Company recognizes operating lease expense for lease payments on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Variable lease costs are not included in fixed lease payments and, as a result, are excluded from the measurement of the ROU assets and lease liabilities. The Company expenses all variable lease costs as incurred. As a lessee, the Company accounts for the lease and non-lease components of its real estate and equipment leases as a single lease component. For vehicle leases, the Company does not combine lease and non-lease components.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes In accordance with ASC 740, Income Taxes (ASC 740), the Company recognizes deferred income taxes based on the expected future tax consequences of differences between the financial statement basis and the tax basis of assets and liabilities, calculated using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which these differences are expected to reverse. A tax valuation allowance is established, as needed, to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized. In the period in which it becomes more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will be realized, the valuation allowance will be adjusted. It is the Company's policy to provide for uncertain tax positions and the related interest and penalties based upon management's assessment of whether a tax benefit is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by tax authorities. The Company recognizes accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in the provision for income taxes. At January 3, 2026, the Company believes that it has appropriately accounted for any liability for unrecognized tax benefits. To the extent the Company prevails in matters for which a liability for an unrecognized tax benefit is established, the statute of limitations expires for a tax jurisdiction year, or the Company is required to pay amounts in excess of the liability, its effective tax rate in a given financial statement period may be affected. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are presented in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet within other assets and deferred income taxes on a net basis by tax jurisdiction. The Company has established valuation allowances related to certain domestic and foreign deferred tax assets on deductible temporary differences, tax losses, and tax credit carryforwards. Compliance with ASC 740 requires the Company to periodically evaluate the necessity of establishing or adjusting a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets depending on whether it is more likely than not that a related tax benefit will be realized in future periods. When assessing the need for a valuation allowance in a tax jurisdiction, the Company evaluates the weight of all available evidence to determine whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. As part of this evaluation, the Company considers its cumulative three-year history of earnings before income taxes, taxable income in prior carryback years, future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, prudent and feasible tax planning strategies, and expected future results of operations.
Earnings per Share	Earnings per Share Basic earnings per share (EPS) is computed by dividing net income attributable to Kadant by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year. Diluted EPS is computed using the treasury stock method assuming the effect of all potentially dilutive securities, including restricted stock units (RSUs) and employee stock purchase plan shares.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Restricted Cash At year-end 2025 and 2024, cash equivalents included investments in money market funds and highly liquid short-term investments, which had maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase. The carrying amounts of cash equivalents approximate their fair values due to the short-term nature of these instruments.
Restricted Cash	The Company's restricted cash generally serves as collateral for bank guarantees associated with providing assurance to customers that the Company will fulfill certain customer obligations entered into in the normal course of business and for certain banker's acceptance drafts issued to vendors. The majority of these restrictions will expire over the next twelve months.
Inventories	Inventories Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (on a first-in, first-out; or weighted average basis) or net realizable value and include materials, labor, and manufacturing overhead. The Company regularly reviews its quantities of inventories on hand and compares these amounts to the historical and forecasted usage of and demand for each particular product or product line. The Company records a charge to cost of revenue for excess and obsolete inventory to reduce the carrying value of inventories to net realizable value.
Property, Plant, and Equipment	Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, plant, and equipment are stated at cost. Assets acquired as part of a business combination are initially recorded at fair value. The costs of additions and improvements are capitalized, while maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. The Company provides for depreciation and amortization primarily using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the property as follows: buildings, 10 to 40 years; machinery and equipment, 2 to 10 years; and leasehold improvements, the shorter of the term of the lease or the life of the asset. For construction in progress, no provision for depreciation is made until the assets are available and ready for use. Property, plant and equipment is reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets or asset group may not be recoverable.
Intangible Assets, Net	Intangible assets are recorded at fair value at the date of acquisition. Subsequent impairment charges are reflected as a reduction in the gross balance, as applicable. Definite-lived intangible assets are stated net of accumulated amortization and currency translation in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. The Company amortizes definite-lived intangible assets over lives that have been determined based on the anticipated cash flow benefits of the intangible asset.
Goodwill	Goodwill Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the identifiable net assets of the acquired business at the date of acquisition. The Company’s acquisitions have historically been made at prices above the fair value of the acquired net assets, resulting in goodwill, due to the expectation of synergies from combining the businesses.
Impairment of Goodwill and Intangible Assets	Impairment of Goodwill and Intangible Assets The Company evaluates the recoverability of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets as of the first day of the fourth quarter of each fiscal year, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that the carrying value of an asset might be impaired. Potential impairment indicators include a significant decline in sales, earnings, or cash flows, material adverse changes in the business climate, and a significant decline in the market capitalization due to a sustained decrease in the Company's stock price. The Company is permitted to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the quantitative impairment test is necessary. If the qualitative assessment (Step 0) results in a determination that the fair value of a reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible asset is more likely than not less than its carrying amount, the Company performs a quantitative impairment analysis (Step 1). The Company may bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed directly to the quantitative assessment. The Company assesses its definite-lived intangible assets for impairment whenever facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts may not be fully recoverable. To analyze recoverability, the Company projects undiscounted net future cash flows over the remaining lives of such assets or asset groups. If these projected cash flows were to be less than the carrying amounts, an impairment loss would be recognized, resulting in a write-down of the assets with a corresponding charge to earnings. The impairment loss would be measured based upon the difference between the carrying amounts of the assets and their fair values calculated using projected discounted cash flows.
Business Combinations	Business Combinations The Company's acquisitions have been accounted for using the purchase method of accounting under ASC 805, Business Combinations (ASC 805), and the results of the acquired businesses have been included in its consolidated financial statements from their respective dates of acquisition. The Company accounts for all transactions and events in which it obtains control over a business under ASC 805 by establishing the acquisition date and recognizing the fair value of all assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The Company’s acquisitions have historically been made at prices above the fair value of identifiable net assets, resulting in goodwill, which is primarily attributable to the expected synergies from expansion of product sales into new markets by leveraging the Company's global sales network and relationships, as well as broadening its product portfolio, strengthening its position in the various markets served, and realizing the value of the acquired workforce. While the Company uses its best estimates and assumptions as part of the purchase price allocation process to accurately value assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the business acquisition date, the estimates and assumptions are inherently uncertain and subject to refinement. As a result, during the purchase accounting measurement period, which is generally up to one year from the acquisition date, the Company records adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, with the corresponding offset to goodwill. For changes in the valuation of intangible assets between the preliminary and final purchase price allocation, the related amortization is adjusted in the period it occurs. The Company estimates the fair value of intangible assets primarily using the multi-period excess earnings and relief-from-royalty valuation methods, which are based on projections of discounted cash flows or royalty payments avoided that are expected from the identifiable intangible assets of the acquired businesses. The Company's valuation models incorporate significant assumptions, including future revenue growth rates, customer attrition rates, gross and operating margins, discount rates and royalty rates. Subsequent to the measurement period, any adjustment to assets acquired or liabilities assumed is included in operating results in the period in which the adjustment is determined.
Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions	Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions All assets and liabilities of the Company's foreign subsidiaries are translated at fiscal year-end exchange rates, and revenue and expenses are translated at average exchange rates for each quarter in accordance with ASC 830, Foreign Currency Matters. Resulting translation adjustments are reflected in the "accumulated other comprehensive items" (AOCI) component of stockholders' equity (see Note 13, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Items). Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in the accompanying consolidated statement of income and are not material in the three years presented.
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation The Company recognizes compensation expense for all stock-based awards granted to employees and directors based on the grant date estimate of fair value for those awards. The fair value of RSUs is based on the grant date price of the Company's common stock, reduced by the present value of estimated dividends foregone during the requisite service period. For time-based RSUs, compensation expense is recognized ratably over the requisite service period for the entire award based on the grant date fair value, and net of actual forfeitures recorded when they occur. For performance-based RSUs, compensation expense is recognized ratably over the requisite service period for each separately vesting portion of the award based on the grant date fair value, net of actual forfeitures recorded when they occur, and remeasured each reporting period until the total number of RSUs to be issued is known. Compensation expense related to any modified stock-based awards is based on the fair value for those awards as of the modification date with any remaining incremental compensation expense recognized ratably over the remaining requisite service period. Stock-Based Compensation Plans The Company maintains stock-based compensation plans primarily for its key employees and directors, although the plans permit awards to others expected to make significant contributions to the future of the Company. The plans authorize the compensation committee of the Company's board of directors (board committee) to award a variety of stock and stock-based incentives, such as restricted stock, RSUs, nonqualified and incentive stock options, stock bonus shares, or performance-based shares. The award recipients and the terms of awards granted under these plans are determined by the board committee. Upon a change of control, as defined in the plans, all options or other awards become fully vested and all restrictions lapse. The Company recognizes compensation cost for all stock-based awards granted to employees and directors based on the grant date estimate of fair value for those awards. The fair value of RSUs is based on the grant date price of the Company's common stock, reduced by the present value of estimated dividends foregone during the requisite service period. The Company grants RSUs to non-employee directors and certain employees. Holders of RSUs have no voting rights and are not entitled to receive cash dividends. Each RSU issued to the directors represents the right to receive one share of the Company's common stock upon vesting. There were no unvested non-employee director RSUs at January 3, 2026. Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units The Company grants performance-based RSUs to certain officers of the Company. Each performance-based RSU represents the right to receive one share of the Company's common stock upon vesting. The RSUs are subject to adjustment based on the achievement of a performance measure selected for the fiscal year, which historically has been a specified target for adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (adjusted EBITDA) generated from operations. Following the adjustment, the RSUs are subject to additional time-based vesting, and vest in three equal annual installments, provided that the officer is employed by the Company on the applicable vesting dates. The Company recognizes compensation expense associated with performance-based RSUs ratably over the requisite service period for each separately vesting portion of the award based on the grant date fair value, net of actual forfeitures recorded when they occur, and remeasured each reporting period until the total number of RSUs to be issued is known. The performance-based RSU agreements provide for forfeiture in certain events, such as voluntary or involuntary termination of employment, and for acceleration of vesting in certain events, such as death, disability or a change in control of the Company. If death, disability, or a change in control occurs prior to the end of the performance period, the officer will receive the target RSU amount; otherwise, the officer will receive the number of deliverable RSUs based on the achievement of the performance goal, as stated in the RSU agreements. Time-Based Restricted Stock Units The Company grants time-based RSUs to its officers and other employees of the Company. Each time-based RSU represents the right to receive one share of the Company's common stock upon vesting. The Company recognizes compensation expense associated with these time-based RSUs ratably over the requisite service period for the entire award based on the grant date fair value, and net of actual forfeitures recorded when they occur. The time-based RSU agreement provides for forfeiture in certain events, such as voluntary or involuntary termination of employment, and for acceleration of vesting in certain events, such as death, disability, or a change in control of the Company.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Recent Accounting Pronouncements Income Taxes – Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures (Topic 740). In December 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2023-09, to improve income tax disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures related to the income tax rate reconciliation and income taxes paid. This ASU is effective for fiscal year-end 2025, and the Company has elected to adopt this ASU on a prospective basis. See Note 5, Income Taxes, for the Company's enhanced income tax disclosures. Income Statement – Reporting Comprehensive Income – Expense Disaggregation Disclosure (Topic 220). In November 2024, the FASB issued ASU No. 2024-03, to disaggregate operating expense into specific categories to provide enhanced transparency into the nature and function of expenses. This ASU is effective for fiscal year-end 2027 and interim periods beginning in fiscal 2028, with early adoption permitted and may be applied retrospectively. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that the adoption of this ASU will have on its consolidated financial statements. Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses for Accounts Receivable and Contract Assets. In July 2025, the FASB issued ASU No. 2025-05, to provide for a practical expedient permitting an entity to assume that conditions at the balance sheet date remained unchanged over the life of the asset when estimating expected credit losses for current accounts receivable and current contract assets accounted for under ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. This ASU is effective for fiscal year 2026, with early adoption permitted. The amendments in this ASU should be applied prospectively. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that the adoption of this ASU will have on its consolidated financial statements. Intangibles - Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Targeted Improvements to the Accounting for Internal-Use Software. In September 2025, the FASB issued ASU No. 2025-06, which improves the practicality of the guidance by removing all references to software development project stages so that the guidance is neutral to different software development methods. Under this ASU, eligible software development costs will begin capitalization when management has authorized and committed to funding the software project, it is probable that the project will be completed, and the software will be used to perform the function intended. This ASU is effective for fiscal year 2028, with early adoption permitted and may be applied retrospectively. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that the adoption of this ASU will have on its consolidated financial statements. Interim Reporting (Topic 270): Narrow-Scope Improvements. In December 2025, the FASB issued ASU No. 2025-11, which clarifies the guidance to improve the consistency of interim reporting. This ASU provides a comprehensive list of required interim disclosures and introduces a disclosure principle requiring entities to disclose events since the end of the last annual reporting period that have had a material impact on the entity. This ASU is effective for fiscal year 2028, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that the adoption of this ASU will have on its consolidated financial statements.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan	Employee Stock Purchase Plan The Company's eligible U.S. employees may elect to participate in its employee stock purchase plan. Under the plan, shares of the Company's common stock may be purchased at a 15% discount from the fair market value at the beginning or end of the purchase period, whichever is lower. Shares purchased under the plan are subject to a one-year resale restriction and are purchased through payroll deductions of up to 10% of each participating employee's gross wages.
401(k) Savings and Other Defined Contribution Plans	401(k) Savings and Other Defined Contribution Plans The Company's U.S. subsidiaries participate in the Kadant Inc. 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan sponsored by the Company. Contributions to the plan are made by both the employee and the Company and are immediately vested. Company contributions are based upon the level of employee contributions. Certain of the Company's subsidiaries sponsor other retirement plans, the majority of which are defined contribution plans. Company contributions to these plans are based on formulas determined by the Company.
Pension and Other Post-Retirement Defined Benefits Plans	Pension and Other Post-Retirement Defined Benefits Plans The Company sponsors pension and other post-retirement defined benefit plans covering employees at certain U.S. and foreign subsidiaries. In accordance with ASC 715, Compensation-Retirement Benefits, the Company recognizes the funded status of its plans as an asset or liability and changes in the funded status through AOCI, net of tax, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. The amounts in AOCI are recognized as net periodic benefit cost pursuant to the Company's accounting policy for amortizing such amounts. Actuarial gains and losses that arise in subsequent periods and are not recognized as net periodic benefit cost will be recognized as a component of AOCI, net of tax. The Company records the non-service component of net periodic pension cost in other expense, net in the accompanying consolidated statement of income.
Commitments and Contingencies	Certain of the Company's contracts require the Company to provide a standby letter of credit or bank guarantee to a customer as beneficiary, limited in amount to a negotiated percentage of the total contract value, in order to guarantee warranty and performance obligations of the Company under the contract. Typically, these standby letters of credit and bank guarantees expire without being drawn by the beneficiary. Right of Recourse In the ordinary course of business, the Company's Chinese subsidiaries may receive banker's acceptance drafts from customers as payment for their trade accounts receivable. The drafts are non-interest-bearing obligations of the issuing bank and generally mature within six months of the origination date. The Company's Chinese subsidiaries may use these banker's acceptance drafts prior to the scheduled maturity date to settle outstanding accounts payable with vendors. Banker's acceptance drafts transferred to vendors are subject to customary right of recourse provisions prior to their scheduled maturity dates. Contingencies In the ordinary course of business, the Company is, at times, required to issue limited performance guarantees, some of which do not require the issuance of letters of credit to customers in support of these guarantees, relating to its equipment and systems. The Company generally limits its liability under these guarantees to amounts typically capped at 10% or less of the value of the contract. The Company believes that it has adequate reserves for any potential liability in connection with such guarantees. Litigation From time to time, the Company is subject to various claims and legal proceedings covering a range of matters that arise in the ordinary course of business. Such litigation may include, but is not limited to, claims and counterclaims by and against the Company for breach of contract or warranty, canceled contracts, product liability, or bankruptcy-related claims. For legal proceedings in which a loss is probable and estimable, the Company accrues a loss based on the low end of the range of estimated loss when there is no better estimate within the range. If the Company were found to be liable for any of the claims or counterclaims against it, the Company would incur a charge against earnings for amounts in excess of legal accruals.
Fair Value Measurement	Fair value measurement is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. A fair value hierarchy is established, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value into three broad levels as follows: •Level 1—Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. •Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices in active markets, that are observable either directly or indirectly. •Level 3—Unobservable inputs based on the Company's own assumptions. The Company uses the market approach technique to value its Level 1 and Level 2 financial assets and liabilities, and there were no changes in valuation techniques during 2025. Banker's acceptance drafts are carried at face value which approximates their fair value due to the short-term nature of the negotiable instrument. The fair values of the forward currency-exchange contracts are based on quoted forward foreign exchange rates at the reporting date. The forward currency-exchange contracts are hedges of either recorded assets or liabilities or anticipated transactions and represent the estimated amount the Company would receive or pay upon liquidation of the contracts. Changes in values of the underlying hedged assets and liabilities or anticipated transactions are not reflected in the table above. The Company uses the income approach technique to estimate the fair value of its Level 3 contingent consideration, including valuation models that incorporate probability adjusted assumptions and simulations related to the achievement of milestones and the likelihood of making the related payment. The unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurements include the probability of successful achievement of certain revenue targets, forecasted revenue, revenue volatility, and discount rates. Projected contingent consideration related to revenue-based payments are discounted back to the current period using a discounted cash flow model. Changes to the fair value of contingent consideration can result from changes to one or multiple inputs, including the discount rate, projected revenue, revenue volatility, and the assumed probabilities of successful achievement of certain revenue targets. The carrying value of the revolving credit facility approximates the fair value as the obligation bears variable rates of interest, which adjust frequently, based on prevailing market rates. The fair value of the revolving credit facility is based on observable market interest rates and credit spreads available for similar instruments, which represent Level 2 measurements. The fair values of the senior promissory notes are primarily calculated based on quoted market rates plus an applicable margin available to the Company at the respective period ends, which represent Level 2 measurements.
Segment Reporting	Each of our reportable segments is led by a segment vice president, who reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The Company has determined that its CEO is its Chief Operating Decision Maker (CODM) who is responsible for assessing performance and allocating resources. The CODM utilizes segment gross profit margin and segment operating income margin to evaluate the performance of each segment and allocate resources effectively. The CODM primarily reviews these profit measures in comparison to forecasts, trends, key performance targets, and results of industry peers to assess profitability, identify areas for improvement, and make strategic decisions regarding investments and resource allocation within each segment.

Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Jan. 03, 2026

The accompanying consolidated financial statements of the Company include the accounts of its wholly and majority-owned subsidiaries. All material intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

Fiscal Year

The Company's fiscal quarters and fiscal year typically consist of 13 and 52 weeks, respectively, with its fiscal year ending on the Saturday closest to December 31. As a result of the difference between the fiscal and calendar periods, a 53rd week is added to the Company's fiscal year every five or six years, resulting in a 14-week fourth quarter. The Company's fiscal year ended January 3, 2026 (fiscal 2025) contained 53 weeks, while its fiscal years ended December 28, 2024 (fiscal 2024) and December 30, 2023 (fiscal 2023) each included 52 weeks. Each quarter of fiscal 2025, 2024 and 2023 consisted of 13 weeks, except for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025, which consisted of 14 weeks.

Use of Estimates and Critical Accounting Policies

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Although the Company makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the estimates and assumptions used in the preparation of its consolidated financial statements or in the application of accounting policies, if business conditions were different, or if the Company were to use different estimates and assumptions, it is possible that materially different amounts could be reported in the Company's consolidated financial statements.

Critical accounting policies are defined as those that entail significant judgments and estimates, and could potentially result in materially different results under different assumptions and conditions. The Company believes that the most critical accounting policies upon which its financial position depends, and which involve the most complex or subjective decisions or assessments, concern income taxes, revenue recognition, the valuation of goodwill and intangible assets, and inventories.

Revenue Recognition

The Company recognizes revenue in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (ASC 606). Most of the Company’s revenue is recognized at a point in time for each performance obligation under the contract when the customer obtains control of the goods or service. Most of the Company’s parts and consumables products and its capital products with minimal customization are accounted for at a point in time. The Company has made a policy election to not treat the obligation to ship as a separate performance obligation under the contract and, as a result, the associated shipping costs are reflected in cost of revenue when revenue is recognized.

The remaining portion of the Company's revenue is recognized over time based on an input method that compares the costs incurred to date to the total expected costs required to satisfy the performance obligation. Contracts are accounted for on an over time basis when they include products which have no alternative use and an enforceable right to payment over time. Most of the contracts recognized on an over time basis are for large capital projects. These projects are highly customized for the customer and, as a result, would include a significant cost to rework in the event of cancellation.

The transaction price includes estimated variable consideration where applicable. Such variable consideration relates to certain performance guarantees and rights to return the product. The Company estimates variable consideration as the most likely amount to which it expects to be entitled based on the terms of the contracts with customers and historical experience, where relevant. For contracts with multiple performance obligations, the transaction price is allocated to each performance obligation based on the relative stand-alone selling price.

The Company disaggregates its revenue from contracts with customers by reportable segment, product type and geography as this best depicts how its revenue is affected by economic factors.

Contract assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet represent unbilled revenue associated with revenue recognized on contracts accounted for on an over time basis, which will be billed in future periods based on the contract terms. Contract liabilities consist of short- and long-term customer deposits, advanced billings, and deferred revenue. Deferred revenue is included in other current liabilities and long-term customer deposits are included in other

long-term liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. Contract liabilities will be recognized as revenue in future periods once the revenue recognition criteria are met. The majority of the contract liabilities relate to advance payments on contracts accounted for at a point in time. These advance payments will be recognized as revenue when the Company's performance obligations have been satisfied, which typically occurs when the product has shipped and control of the asset has transferred to the customer.

Customers in China will often settle their accounts receivable with banker's acceptance drafts, in which case cash settlement will be delayed until the drafts mature or are settled prior to maturity. For customers outside of China, final payment for the majority of the Company's products is received in the quarter following the product shipment. Certain of the Company's contracts include a longer period before final payment is due, which is typically within one year of final shipment or transfer of control to the customer.

The Company includes in revenue amounts invoiced for shipping and handling with the corresponding costs reflected in cost of revenue. Provisions for discounts, warranties, returns and other adjustments are provided for in the period in which the related sale was recorded. Sales taxes, value-added taxes, and certain excise taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are accounted for on a net basis and therefore are excluded from revenue.

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Credit Losses

Accounts receivable arise from sales on credit to customers, are recorded at the invoiced amount, and do not bear interest. The Company establishes an allowance for credit losses to reduce accounts receivable to the net amount expected to be collected. The Company exercises judgment in determining its allowance for credit losses, which is based on its historical collection and write-off experience, adjusted for current macroeconomic trends and conditions, credit policies, specific customer collection issues, and accounts receivable aging. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and adjusts credit limits based upon payment history and each customer's current creditworthiness. The Company continuously monitors collections and payments from its customers. Account balances are charged off against the allowance when the Company believes it is probable the receivable will not be recovered. In some instances, the Company utilizes letters of credit to mitigate its credit exposure.

Banker's Acceptance Drafts Included in Accounts Receivable

The Company's Chinese subsidiaries may receive banker's acceptance drafts from customers as payment for their trade accounts receivable. The drafts are non-interest bearing obligations of the issuing bank and generally mature within six months of the origination date. The Company's Chinese subsidiaries may sell the drafts at a discount to a third-party financial institution or transfer the drafts to vendors in settlement of current accounts payable prior to the scheduled maturity date.

Warranty Obligations

The Company's contracts covering the sale of its products include warranty provisions that provide assurance to its customers that the products will comply with agreed-upon specifications during a defined period of time. The Company provides for the estimated cost of product warranties at the time of sale based on the historical occurrence rates and repair costs, as well as knowledge of any specific warranty problems that indicate projected warranty costs may vary from historical patterns. The Company negotiates the terms regarding warranty coverage and length of warranty depending on the products and applications. While the Company engages in extensive product quality programs and processes, the Company's warranty obligation is affected by product failure rates, repair costs, service delivery costs incurred in correcting a product failure, and supplier warranties on parts delivered to the Company. Should these factors or actual results differ from the Company's estimates, revisions to the estimated warranty liability would be required.

Leases

In accordance with ASC 842, Leases (ASC 842), the Company determines whether an arrangement is, or contains, a lease at inception. Operating lease liabilities are included in other current liabilities and other long-term liabilities and the corresponding right-of-use (ROU) assets are included in other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. Classification of operating lease liabilities as either current or noncurrent is based on the expected timing of payments due under the Company’s lease obligations.

ROU assets represent the Company’s right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent the Company’s obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities with original contract terms greater than 12 months are recognized based on the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the lease term at the commencement date. Operating leases with an original term of 12 months or less are not recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

In determining the present value of future lease payments, the Company utilizes either the rate implicit in the lease if that rate is readily determinable or its incremental secured borrowing rate commensurate with the term of the underlying lease. Lease terms may include the effect of options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that the Company will exercise that option. The Company recognizes operating lease expense for lease payments on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Variable lease costs are not included in fixed lease payments and, as a result, are excluded from the measurement of the ROU assets and lease liabilities. The Company expenses all variable lease costs as incurred.

As a lessee, the Company accounts for the lease and non-lease components of its real estate and equipment leases as a single lease component. For vehicle leases, the Company does not combine lease and non-lease components.

Income Taxes

In accordance with ASC 740, Income Taxes (ASC 740), the Company recognizes deferred income taxes based on the expected future tax consequences of differences between the financial statement basis and the tax basis of assets and liabilities, calculated using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which these differences are expected to reverse. A tax

valuation allowance is established, as needed, to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized. In the period in which it becomes more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will be realized, the valuation allowance will be adjusted.

It is the Company's policy to provide for uncertain tax positions and the related interest and penalties based upon management's assessment of whether a tax benefit is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by tax authorities. The Company recognizes accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in the provision for income taxes. At January 3, 2026, the Company believes that it has appropriately accounted for any liability for unrecognized tax benefits. To the extent the Company prevails in matters for which a liability for an unrecognized tax benefit is established, the statute of limitations expires for a tax jurisdiction year, or the Company is required to pay amounts in excess of the liability, its effective tax rate in a given financial statement period may be affected.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are presented in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet within other assets and deferred income taxes on a net basis by tax jurisdiction. The Company has established valuation allowances related to certain domestic and foreign deferred tax assets on deductible temporary differences, tax losses, and tax credit carryforwards. Compliance with ASC 740 requires the Company to periodically evaluate the necessity of establishing or adjusting a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets depending on whether it is more likely than not that a related tax benefit will be realized in future periods. When assessing the need for a valuation allowance in a tax jurisdiction, the Company evaluates the weight of all available evidence to determine whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. As part of this evaluation, the Company considers its cumulative three-year history of earnings before income taxes, taxable income in prior carryback years, future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, prudent and feasible tax planning strategies, and expected future results of operations.

Earnings per Share

Basic earnings per share (EPS) is computed by dividing net income attributable to Kadant by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year. Diluted EPS is computed using the treasury stock method assuming the effect of all potentially dilutive securities, including restricted stock units (RSUs) and employee stock purchase plan shares.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Restricted Cash

At year-end 2025 and 2024, cash equivalents included investments in money market funds and highly liquid short-term investments, which had maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase. The carrying amounts of cash equivalents approximate their fair values due to the short-term nature of these instruments.

Restricted Cash

The Company's restricted cash generally serves as collateral for bank guarantees associated with providing assurance to customers that the Company will fulfill certain customer obligations entered into in the normal course of business and for certain banker's acceptance drafts issued to vendors. The majority of these restrictions will expire over the next twelve months.

Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (on a first-in, first-out; or weighted average basis) or net realizable value and include materials, labor, and manufacturing overhead. The Company regularly reviews its quantities of inventories on hand and compares these amounts to the historical and forecasted usage of and demand for each particular product or product line. The Company records a charge to cost of revenue for excess and obsolete inventory to reduce the carrying value of inventories to net realizable value.

Property, Plant, and Equipment

Property, plant, and equipment are stated at cost. Assets acquired as part of a business combination are initially recorded at fair value. The costs of additions and improvements are capitalized, while maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. The Company provides for depreciation and amortization primarily using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the property as follows: buildings, 10 to 40 years; machinery and equipment, 2 to 10 years; and leasehold improvements, the shorter of the term of the lease or the life of the asset. For construction in progress, no provision for depreciation is made until the assets are available and ready for use. Property, plant and equipment is reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets or asset group may not be recoverable.

Intangible Assets, Net

Intangible assets are recorded at fair value at the date of acquisition. Subsequent impairment charges are reflected as a reduction in the gross balance, as applicable. Definite-lived intangible assets are stated net of accumulated amortization and currency translation in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. The Company amortizes definite-lived intangible assets over lives that have been determined based on the anticipated cash flow benefits of the intangible asset.

Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the identifiable net assets of the acquired business at the date of acquisition. The Company’s acquisitions have historically been made at prices above the fair value of the acquired net assets, resulting in goodwill, due to the expectation of synergies from combining the businesses.

Impairment of Goodwill and Intangible Assets

The Company evaluates the recoverability of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets as of the first day of the fourth quarter of each fiscal year, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that the carrying value of an asset might be impaired. Potential impairment indicators include a significant decline in sales, earnings, or cash flows, material adverse changes in the business climate, and a significant decline in the market capitalization due to a sustained decrease in the Company's stock price. The Company is permitted to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the quantitative impairment test is necessary. If the qualitative assessment (Step 0) results in a determination that the fair value of a reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible asset is more likely than not less than its carrying amount, the Company performs a quantitative impairment analysis (Step 1). The Company may bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed directly to the quantitative assessment.

The Company assesses its definite-lived intangible assets for impairment whenever facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts may not be fully recoverable. To analyze recoverability, the Company projects undiscounted net future cash flows over the remaining lives of such assets or asset groups. If these projected cash flows were to be less than the carrying amounts, an impairment loss would be recognized, resulting in a write-down of the assets

with a corresponding charge to earnings. The impairment loss would be measured based upon the difference between the carrying amounts of the assets and their fair values calculated using projected discounted cash flows.

Business Combinations

The Company's acquisitions have been accounted for using the purchase method of accounting under ASC 805, Business Combinations (ASC 805), and the results of the acquired businesses have been included in its consolidated financial statements from their respective dates of acquisition. The Company accounts for all transactions and events in which it obtains control over a business under ASC 805 by establishing the acquisition date and recognizing the fair value of all assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The Company’s acquisitions have historically been made at prices above the fair value of identifiable net assets, resulting in goodwill, which is primarily attributable to the expected synergies from expansion of product sales into new markets by leveraging the Company's global sales network and relationships, as well as broadening its product portfolio, strengthening its position in the various markets served, and realizing the value of the acquired workforce.

While the Company uses its best estimates and assumptions as part of the purchase price allocation process to accurately value assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the business acquisition date, the estimates and assumptions are inherently uncertain and subject to refinement. As a result, during the purchase accounting measurement period, which is generally up to one year from the acquisition date, the Company records adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, with the corresponding offset to goodwill. For changes in the valuation of intangible assets between the preliminary and final purchase price allocation, the related amortization is adjusted in the period it occurs. The Company estimates the fair value of intangible assets primarily using the multi-period excess earnings and relief-from-royalty valuation methods, which are based on projections of discounted cash flows or royalty payments avoided that are expected from the identifiable intangible assets of the acquired businesses. The Company's valuation models incorporate significant assumptions, including future revenue growth rates, customer attrition rates, gross and operating margins, discount rates

and royalty rates. Subsequent to the measurement period, any adjustment to assets acquired or liabilities assumed is included in operating results in the period in which the adjustment is determined.

Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions

All assets and liabilities of the Company's foreign subsidiaries are translated at fiscal year-end exchange rates, and revenue and expenses are translated at average exchange rates for each quarter in accordance with ASC 830, Foreign Currency Matters. Resulting translation adjustments are reflected in the "accumulated other comprehensive items" (AOCI) component of stockholders' equity (see Note 13, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Items). Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in the accompanying consolidated statement of income and are not material in the three years presented.

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company recognizes compensation expense for all stock-based awards granted to employees and directors based on the grant date estimate of fair value for those awards. The fair value of RSUs is based on the grant date price of the Company's common stock, reduced by the present value of estimated dividends foregone during the requisite service period. For time-based RSUs, compensation expense is recognized ratably over the requisite service period for the entire award based on the grant date fair value, and net of actual forfeitures recorded when they occur. For performance-based RSUs, compensation expense is recognized ratably over the requisite service period for each separately vesting portion of the award based on the grant date fair value, net of actual forfeitures recorded when they occur, and remeasured each reporting period until the total number of RSUs to be issued is known. Compensation expense related to any modified stock-based awards is based on the fair value for those awards as of the modification date with any remaining incremental compensation expense recognized ratably over the remaining requisite service period.

Stock-Based Compensation Plans

The Company maintains stock-based compensation plans primarily for its key employees and directors, although the plans permit awards to others expected to make significant contributions to the future of the Company. The plans authorize the compensation committee of the Company's board of directors (board committee) to award a variety of stock and stock-based incentives, such as restricted stock, RSUs, nonqualified and incentive stock options, stock bonus shares, or performance-based shares. The award recipients and the terms of awards granted under these plans are determined by the board committee. Upon a change of control, as defined in the plans, all options or other awards become fully vested and all restrictions lapse.

The Company recognizes compensation cost for all stock-based awards granted to employees and directors based on the grant date estimate of fair value for those awards. The fair value of RSUs is based on the grant date price of the Company's common stock, reduced by the present value of estimated dividends foregone during the requisite service period.

The Company grants RSUs to non-employee directors and certain employees. Holders of RSUs have no voting rights and are not entitled to receive cash dividends.

Each RSU issued to the directors represents the right to receive one share of the Company's common stock upon vesting. There were no unvested non-employee director RSUs at January 3, 2026.

Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units

The Company grants performance-based RSUs to certain officers of the Company. Each performance-based RSU represents the right to receive one share of the Company's common stock upon vesting. The RSUs are subject to adjustment based on the achievement of a performance measure selected for the fiscal year, which historically has been a specified target for adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (adjusted EBITDA) generated from operations. Following the adjustment, the RSUs are subject to additional time-based vesting, and vest in three equal annual installments, provided that the officer is employed by the Company on the applicable vesting dates.

The Company recognizes compensation expense associated with performance-based RSUs ratably over the requisite service period for each separately vesting portion of the award based on the grant date fair value, net of actual forfeitures recorded when they occur, and remeasured each reporting period until the total number of RSUs to be issued is known.

The performance-based RSU agreements provide for forfeiture in certain events, such as voluntary or involuntary termination of employment, and for acceleration of vesting in certain events, such as death, disability or a change in control of the Company. If death, disability, or a change in control occurs prior to the end of the performance period, the officer will receive the target RSU amount; otherwise, the officer will receive the number of deliverable RSUs based on the achievement of the performance goal, as stated in the RSU agreements.

Time-Based Restricted Stock Units

The Company grants time-based RSUs to its officers and other employees of the Company. Each time-based RSU represents the right to receive one share of the Company's common stock upon vesting. The Company recognizes compensation expense associated with these time-based RSUs ratably over the requisite service period for the entire award based on the grant date fair value, and net of actual forfeitures recorded when they occur. The time-based RSU agreement provides for forfeiture in certain events, such as voluntary or involuntary termination of employment, and for acceleration of vesting in certain events, such as death, disability, or a change in control of the Company.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Income Taxes – Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures (Topic 740). In December 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2023-09, to improve income tax disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures related to the income tax rate reconciliation and income taxes paid. This ASU is effective for fiscal year-end 2025, and the Company has elected to adopt this ASU on a prospective basis. See Note 5, Income Taxes, for the Company's enhanced income tax disclosures.

Income Statement – Reporting Comprehensive Income – Expense Disaggregation Disclosure (Topic 220). In November 2024, the FASB issued ASU No. 2024-03, to disaggregate operating expense into specific categories to provide enhanced transparency into the nature and function of expenses. This ASU is effective for fiscal year-end 2027 and interim periods beginning in fiscal 2028, with early adoption permitted and may be applied retrospectively. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that the adoption of this ASU will have on its consolidated financial statements.

Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses for Accounts Receivable and Contract Assets. In July 2025, the FASB issued ASU No. 2025-05, to provide for a practical expedient permitting an entity to assume that conditions at the balance sheet date remained unchanged over the life of the asset when estimating expected credit losses for current accounts receivable and current contract assets accounted for under ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. This ASU is effective for fiscal year 2026, with early adoption permitted. The amendments in this ASU should be applied prospectively. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that the adoption of this ASU will have on its consolidated financial statements.

Intangibles - Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Targeted Improvements to the Accounting for Internal-Use Software. In September 2025, the FASB issued ASU No. 2025-06, which improves the practicality of the guidance by removing all references to software development project stages so that the guidance is neutral to different software development methods. Under this ASU, eligible software development costs will begin capitalization when management has authorized and committed to funding the software project, it is probable that the project will be completed, and the software will be used to perform the function intended. This ASU is effective for fiscal year 2028, with early adoption permitted and may be applied retrospectively. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that the adoption of this ASU will have on its consolidated financial statements.

Interim Reporting (Topic 270): Narrow-Scope Improvements. In December 2025, the FASB issued ASU No. 2025-11, which clarifies the guidance to improve the consistency of interim reporting. This ASU provides a comprehensive list of required interim disclosures and introduces a disclosure principle requiring entities to disclose events since the end of the last annual reporting period that have had a material impact on the entity. This ASU is effective for fiscal year 2028,

with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that the adoption of this ASU will have on its consolidated financial statements.

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

The Company's eligible U.S. employees may elect to participate in its employee stock purchase plan. Under the plan, shares of the Company's common stock may be purchased at a 15% discount from the fair market value at the beginning or end of the purchase period, whichever is lower. Shares purchased under the plan are subject to a one-year resale restriction and are purchased through payroll deductions of up to 10% of each participating employee's gross wages.

401(k) Savings and Other Defined Contribution Plans

The Company's U.S. subsidiaries participate in the Kadant Inc. 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan sponsored by the Company. Contributions to the plan are made by both the employee and the Company and are immediately vested. Company contributions are based upon the level of employee contributions. Certain of the Company's subsidiaries sponsor other retirement plans, the majority of which are defined contribution plans. Company contributions to these plans are based on formulas determined by the Company.

Pension and Other Post-Retirement Defined Benefits Plans

The Company sponsors pension and other post-retirement defined benefit plans covering employees at certain U.S. and foreign subsidiaries.

In accordance with ASC 715, Compensation-Retirement Benefits, the Company recognizes the funded status of its plans as an asset or liability and changes in the funded status through AOCI, net of tax, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. The amounts in AOCI are recognized as net periodic benefit cost pursuant to the Company's accounting policy for amortizing such amounts. Actuarial gains and losses that arise in subsequent periods and are not recognized as net periodic benefit cost will be recognized as a component of AOCI, net of tax.

The Company records the non-service component of net periodic pension cost in other expense, net in the accompanying consolidated statement of income.

Commitments and Contingencies

Certain of the Company's contracts require the Company to provide a standby letter of credit or bank guarantee to a customer as beneficiary, limited in amount to a negotiated percentage of the total contract value, in order to guarantee warranty and performance obligations of the Company under the contract. Typically, these standby letters of credit and bank guarantees expire without being drawn by the beneficiary.

Right of Recourse

In the ordinary course of business, the Company's Chinese subsidiaries may receive banker's acceptance drafts from customers as payment for their trade accounts receivable. The drafts are non-interest-bearing obligations of the issuing bank and generally mature within six months of the origination date. The Company's Chinese subsidiaries may use these banker's acceptance drafts prior to the scheduled maturity date to settle outstanding accounts payable with vendors. Banker's acceptance drafts transferred to vendors are subject to customary right of recourse provisions prior to their scheduled maturity dates.

Contingencies

In the ordinary course of business, the Company is, at times, required to issue limited performance guarantees, some of which do not require the issuance of letters of credit to customers in support of these guarantees, relating to its equipment and systems. The Company generally limits its liability under these guarantees to amounts typically capped at 10% or less of the value of the contract. The Company believes that it has adequate reserves for any potential liability in connection with such guarantees.

Litigation

From time to time, the Company is subject to various claims and legal proceedings covering a range of matters that arise in the ordinary course of business. Such litigation may include, but is not limited to, claims and counterclaims by and against the Company for breach of contract or warranty, canceled contracts, product liability, or bankruptcy-related claims. For legal proceedings in which a loss is probable and estimable, the Company accrues a loss based on the low end of the range of estimated loss when there is no better estimate within the range. If the Company were found to be liable for any of the claims or counterclaims against it, the Company would incur a charge against earnings for amounts in excess of legal accruals.

Fair Value Measurement

Fair value measurement is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.

A fair value hierarchy is established, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value into three broad levels as follows:

•Level 1—Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

•Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices in active markets, that are observable either directly or indirectly.

•Level 3—Unobservable inputs based on the Company's own assumptions.

The Company uses the market approach technique to value its Level 1 and Level 2 financial assets and liabilities, and there were no changes in valuation techniques during 2025. Banker's acceptance drafts are carried at face value which approximates their fair value due to the short-term nature of the negotiable instrument. The fair values of the forward currency-exchange contracts are based on quoted forward foreign exchange rates at the reporting date. The forward currency-exchange contracts are hedges of either recorded assets or liabilities or anticipated transactions and represent the estimated amount the Company would receive or pay upon liquidation of the contracts. Changes in values of the underlying hedged assets and liabilities or anticipated transactions are not reflected in the table above.

The Company uses the income approach technique to estimate the fair value of its Level 3 contingent consideration, including valuation models that incorporate probability adjusted assumptions and simulations related to the achievement of milestones and the likelihood of making the related payment. The unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurements include the probability of successful achievement of certain revenue targets, forecasted revenue, revenue volatility, and discount rates. Projected contingent consideration related to revenue-based payments are discounted back to the current period using a discounted cash flow model. Changes to the fair value of contingent consideration can result from changes to one or multiple inputs, including the discount rate, projected revenue, revenue volatility, and the assumed probabilities of successful achievement of certain revenue targets.

The carrying value of the revolving credit facility approximates the fair value as the obligation bears variable rates of interest, which adjust frequently, based on prevailing market rates. The fair value of the revolving credit facility is based on observable market interest rates and credit spreads available for similar instruments, which represent Level 2 measurements. The fair values of the senior promissory notes are primarily calculated based on quoted market rates plus an applicable margin available to the Company at the respective period ends, which represent Level 2 measurements.

Segment Reporting

Each of our reportable segments is led by a segment vice president, who reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The Company has determined that its CEO is its Chief Operating Decision Maker (CODM) who is responsible for assessing performance and allocating resources. The CODM utilizes segment gross profit margin and segment operating income margin to evaluate the performance of each segment and allocate resources effectively. The CODM primarily reviews these profit measures in comparison to forecasts, trends, key performance targets, and results of industry peers to assess profitability, identify areas for improvement, and make strategic decisions regarding investments and resource allocation within each segment.