Waste Connections Reports 6.4% Revenue Growth to $2.56 Billion in Q2 2026

Waste Connections, Inc. reported a notable increase in financial performance for the second quarter of 2026, with revenues reaching $2.56 billion, a 6.4% rise from $2.41 billion in the same period last year. For the first half of 2026, total revenues also increased by 6.4% to $4.93 billion compared to $4.64 billion in the first half of 2025. The growth was driven by a combination of price increases, contributions from acquisitions, and a rise in disposal volumes, particularly in the company's Central and Western segments. However, the company experienced volume losses in its Eastern, Southern, and Canada segments, which partially offset revenue gains.

Operating income for the second quarter decreased to $437.6 million, down 4.8% from $459.5 million in the prior year, while for the first half, it fell to $801.6 million from $849.8 million. The decline in operating income was attributed to increased impairments and operating expenses, including higher taxes on revenue, depreciation, and labor costs. The company's net income for the second quarter was $296.4 million, slightly up from $290.3 million a year earlier, while for the first half, net income decreased to $515.7 million from $531.8 million.

In terms of strategic developments, Waste Connections completed several acquisitions, adding six non-hazardous solid waste collection and recycling businesses in the first half of 2026. These acquisitions contributed approximately $104.5 million to revenues during the period. The company also repurchased 3.76 million shares at a cost of $614.5 million under its normal course issuer bid, which is set to continue until August 2026. Additionally, the company increased its quarterly cash dividend to $0.350 per share, reflecting a commitment to returning value to shareholders.

Operationally, Waste Connections managed 108 owned landfills and reported a total disposal tonnage of 25.5 million tons for the first half of 2026, an increase from 24.7 million tons in the same period of 2025. The company’s employee headcount remained stable, with no significant changes reported. The company also noted a favorable impact from a stronger Canadian dollar against the U.S. dollar, which contributed to revenue growth.

Looking ahead, Waste Connections anticipates continued revenue growth driven by price increases and operational efficiencies, despite facing challenges from fluctuating volumes and rising operational costs. The company remains focused on its sustainability initiatives and strategic acquisitions to enhance its market position in the solid waste industry.