A Yield to Caution: PetMed Express

Article Excerpt

PETMED EXPRESS INC. $15 (Nasdaq symbol PETS; Shares o/s: 21.1 million; Market cap: $316.5 million; Divd. yield: 7.9%; www.1800petmeds.com) is a leading online pet pharmacy selling across the U.S. The company does business as 1-800-PetMeds. It sells prescription and non-prescription medications, and other health-related products, through three main channels: online, telephone contact centres, and direct mail. In January 2023, PetMed Express announced that it would expand its offerings with the acquisition of PetCareRx. It is an online supplier of pet food and supplies. PetCareRx carries dry, wet and freeze-dried dog and cat food formulas, as well as treats, vitamins and supplements from a variety of pet nutrition brands. PetMed’s shares yield a very high 7.9%, but that high rate may not be sustainable. While the company will continue to benefit from increased pet ownership, it faces a lot of competition. Its expansion into pet food and supplies (through PetCareRx) only heightens its competitive risks. Meanwhile, PetMed is paying out more in dividends than its cash flow: in the…