Topic: How To Invest

Q: Pat, what do you think of Tractor Supply (TSCO), and is it a buy? Thank you.

Article Excerpt

A: Tractor Supply Co., $229.41, symbol TSCO on Nasdaq (Shares outstanding: 110.1 million; Market cap: $25.2 billion; Consumer sector; TSINetwork Rating: Average; www.tractorsupply.com) is the largest “rural lifestyle” retailer in the U.S. The company offers an extensive mix of products necessary for the care of home, land, pets and agriculture animals. Many of its offerings are tailored to specific regions, and the company focuses on its exclusive brands and strong customer service. Tractor Supply operates over 2,066 Tractor Supply-branded stores in 49 states, as well as an expanding e-commerce website. The company also owns and operates Petsense; it’s a chain of small-format pet-supply stores in small and mid-size communities. There are 186 Petsense stores in 23 states. In October 2022, Tractor Supply completed the acquisition of 81 stores from Orscheln Farm and Home for $238 million. These will be rebranded to Tractor Supply by the end of 2023. Based in Missouri, Orscheln is a 60-year-old family-owned operation. Tractor Supply expects the purchase to add…