Topic: How To Invest

Q: Could I have TSI’s thoughts on Hardwoods Distribution Inc.? Thank you.

Article Excerpt

A: Hardwoods Distribution Inc., $25.74, symbol HDI on Toronto (Shares outstanding: 21.1 million; Market cap: $515.3 million; www.hdidist.com), is one of North America’s largest distributors of architectural-grade building products to the residential and commercial construction markets. Hardwoods Distribution operates a North American network of 62 distribution centres, operating under three industry-leading distribution brands: Hardwoods Specialty Products; the Frank Paxton Lumber Company; and Rugby Architectural Building Products. It also operates one sawmill and kiln drying operation—Hardwoods of Michigan. In July 2011, the company converted from an income trust to a conventional corporation. Since then, it has grown steadily by acquisition, completing eight acquisitions from 2011 to 2019. That added over $565.0 million to annual sales. In the past year, Hardwood has added another $85.0 million in annual sales from acquisitions. In the last five years—in large part because of those acquisitions—revenue has jumped 105.0%, from $571.6 million in 2015 to $1.17 billion in 2019. Earnings (excluding one-time items) increased 58.6%, from $20.1 million ($1.21 a..