Acme United (ACU) Proxy filing summary

Executive summary

• The 2026 Annual Meeting will be held virtually on April 27, 2026, with shareholders able to vote and submit questions online.

• Shareholders of record as of March 10, 2026, are entitled to vote on four main proposals, including director elections and amendments to the stock option plan.

• The Board recommends voting in favor of all proposals and emphasizes the importance of shareholder participation.

Voting matters and shareholder proposals

• Election of seven directors for one-year terms.

• Proposal to amend the 2022 Employee Stock Option Plan, increasing authorized shares from 500,000 to 700,000.

• Advisory vote on executive compensation (say-on-pay).

• Ratification of CBIZ CPAs, P.C. as independent auditor for fiscal year ending December 31, 2026.

• Shareholder proposals for the 2027 meeting must be submitted by November 30, 2026, for inclusion in proxy materials.

Board of directors and corporate governance

• Board consists of seven members, with five deemed independent under NYSE American rules.

• CEO and Chairman roles are combined; no lead independent director.

• Standing committees: Executive, Audit, Compensation, and Nominating, all comprised of independent directors.

• Board emphasizes diversity in skills, background, and experience for director nominees.

• Shareholders can nominate directors with proper notice and may communicate directly with the Board.