China Sales and Outlook
Q: How is China performing, and any impact from stimulus?
A: China demand remains weak across all end markets, with sales expected to be down high single digits for the full year, but we anticipate positive growth in the second half due to easier comparisons. " " We haven't seen any impact from the government stimulus yet, which is focused on high-quality segments like AI, new energy, biopharma, and new materials. " " Our teams are assisting customers in applying for these programs, but we haven't included any stimulus effects in our Q3 and Q4 guidance, expecting benefits mainly in 2025. " " "

Guidance and Outlook
Q: Any changes to the full-year guidance amid market uncertainties?
A: We are maintaining our outlook of 2% growth for the full year. " " Despite outperforming in Q2, we remain cautious due to macro uncertainties, longer sales cycles, and customer caution, especially in China. " " We feel good about sequential trends but need more visibility before adjusting our guidance. " "

Margins and Pricing
Q: Can you elaborate on margin expansion and pricing expectations?
A: Margin expansion is driven by volume leverage and productivity initiatives. " We expect gross margin to increase about 70 basis points for the full year, up from previous estimates. " " Operating margins are projected to be up 40 basis points for the year. " " Pricing came in at 2% this quarter, in line with expectations, and we anticipate 2% for the full year. " "

Bioprocessing Recovery
Q: What is the outlook for your bioprocessing business?
A: We see encouraging signs in bioprocessing, particularly in the downstream business where we faced headwinds due to single-use exposure. " In Europe and the U.S., destocking issues are behind us, and we expect a more favorable situation in the second half. " "

Market Share Gains
Q: Is Mettler's market share gain accelerating?
A: While it's hard to quantify quarterly share gains, we are pleased with our performance compared to competitors. " With about 25% market share, there's ample room to grow by investing in innovation that enhances customer productivity and automation. "

Lab Business Performance
Q: What drove the upside in the lab business this quarter?
A: Our new lab platform and competitive portfolio led to better funnel conversion and some larger projects, especially in Europe. " " While customer buying behavior hasn't significantly changed, we saw good momentum in Europe and the U.S., positioning us well to capture market recovery. " "

Services Growth
Q: How is the growth in your services business?
A: Services grew by 6% in the quarter despite tough comparisons. " We've continued to invest in our service team and offerings, focusing on unique solutions and expanding coverage of our large installed base. "

Acquisitions and Share Buybacks
Q: What are your thoughts on M&A environment and share repurchases?
A: We remain selective on acquisitions but see ourselves as a great platform when strategic opportunities arise. " Absent acquisitions, we use free cash flow to buy back shares, with an estimated $850 million in share repurchases this year, approximating our free cash flow. "