How did HLMN's Q3 2024 earnings surprise analysts?

Hillman Solutions Corp. (HLMN) experienced a slight earnings miss in Q3 2024, according to the latest available data. Here are the key details:

1. **Earnings Surprise**: The EPS (Earnings Per Share) surprise for HLMN in Q3 2024 was -$0.01. This indicates that the actual EPS was lower than what analysts had anticipated.

|code|Ticker|Name|Date|Revenue Surprise|EPS Surprise|market_code|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|HLMN|HLMN.O|Hillman Solutions|2022 Q4|4593000|0.01|185|
|HLMN|HLMN.O|Hillman Solutions|2023 Q1|-8753000|0.04|185|
|HLMN|HLMN.O|Hillman Solutions|2023 Q2|-1.7491E7|0.04|185|
|HLMN|HLMN.O|Hillman Solutions|2023 Q3|443000|-0.01|185|

2. **Net Sales and Income**: Net sales for the quarter decreased by 1.4% to $393.3 million compared to $398.9 million in the prior year quarter. Net income totaled $7.4 million, or $0.04 per diluted share, which is an improvement from the $5.1 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, in the prior year quarter.
3. **Analyst Ratings and Price Targets**: Despite the earnings miss, analysts have maintained a positive outlook on HLMN. Benchmark reiterated a "buy" rating with a price target of $16.00. This suggests that analysts believe the stock has potential for growth despite the recent earnings shortfall.

In conclusion, while HLMN experienced a slight earnings miss in Q3 2024, the company's net sales and income showed resilience. Analysts remain optimistic about the company's future prospects, as evidenced by the "buy" ratings and positive price targets.