BMTC GROUP $13.15 (Toronto symbol GBT.A; TSINetwork Rating: Extra Risk) (514-648-5757; No website; Shares outstanding: 37.2 million; Market cap: $486.6 million; Dividend yield: 1.8%) has 38 outlets and is one of Quebec’s biggest retailers of furniture, electronics and appliances. The company mainly sells these items through its two affiliates: Brault & Martineau and Ameublements Tanguay.
In the three months ended March 31, 2016, BMTC’s sales rose 3.8%, to $154.9 million from $149.3 million a year earlier.
The company lost $958,000, or $0.02 a share, in the quarter. It made a profit of $59,000, or nil per share, a year ago. The 2016 loss came despite the higher sales. That’s because BMTC earned less on its investments and spent more on marketing, renovations and improving its store websites.
The retailer bought back 7.0 million shares in July 2015 at $15.50 each for a total of $108.2 million. As a result, per-share earnings for the quarter rose 2.5%, to $0.41 from $0.40, on fewer shares outstanding.
BMTC’s website and store improvements are a big part of its growth plans. However, the cost of these upgrades—$25.6 million—will keep weighing on its earnings for the next year or two. As well, the company’s near-term outlook is uncertain in a tough retail climate.
BMTC Group is still a hold.