MSC Industrial Direct (MSM)


Market Price (9/5/2026): $121.425 | Market Cap: $6.8 BilSector: Industrials | Industry: Trading Companies & Distributors

MSC Industrial Direct (MSM)


Market Price (9/5/2026): $121.425
Market Cap: $6.8 Bil
Sector: Industrials
Industry: Trading Companies & Distributors

Investment Highlights Why It Matters Detailed financial logic regarding cash flow yields vs trend-riding momentum.

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Attractive yield
Total YieldTotal Yield = Earnings Yield + Dividend Yield, Earnings Yield = Net Income / Market Cap Dividend Yield = Total Dividends / Market Cap is 5.9%, Dividend Yield is 2.8%

Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 27%

Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Automation & Robotics, and E-commerce & DTC Adoption. Themes include Factory Automation, Process / Warehouse Automation, Show more.

Trading close to highs
Dist 52W High is -4.6%, Dist 3Y High is -4.6%

Weak multi-year price returns
3Y Excs Rtn is -38%

Weak revenue growth
Rev Chg 3Y AvgRevenue Change % averaged over trailing 3 years is -0.5%

Key risks
MSM key risks include [1] soft demand in its key manufacturing markets leading to declines in net sales and [2] operational inefficiencies and challenges executing strategic initiatives, Show more.

0 Attractive yield
Total YieldTotal Yield = Earnings Yield + Dividend Yield, Earnings Yield = Net Income / Market Cap Dividend Yield = Total Dividends / Market Cap is 5.9%, Dividend Yield is 2.8%
1 Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 27%
2 Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Automation & Robotics, and E-commerce & DTC Adoption. Themes include Factory Automation, Process / Warehouse Automation, Show more.
3 Trading close to highs
Dist 52W High is -4.6%, Dist 3Y High is -4.6%
4 Weak multi-year price returns
3Y Excs Rtn is -38%
5 Weak revenue growth
Rev Chg 3Y AvgRevenue Change % averaged over trailing 3 years is -0.5%
6 Key risks
MSM key risks include [1] soft demand in its key manufacturing markets leading to declines in net sales and [2] operational inefficiencies and challenges executing strategic initiatives, Show more.

MSM in ETFs

Weight = MSM's share of each fund

VTI0.01%
ITOT0.01%
IWB0.01%
IJH0.15%
SCHD0.14%
VYM0.02%
VB0.07%
DVY0.46%
+18 more covered ETFs

Valuation & Metrics

Price Chart

Why The Stock Moved

Qualitative Assessment

AI Analysis | Feedback

Updated on 9/1/2026

MSC Industrial Direct (MSM) stock has gained about 10% since 5/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Strong Fiscal Q3 2026 Earnings Beat Exceeding Analyst Expectations.

MSC Industrial Direct reported robust financial results for its fiscal third quarter ended May 30, 2026, which were released on July 1, 2026. The company's net sales reached $1,047.1 million, marking a 7.8% increase year-over-year and surpassing analyst consensus estimates of $1.03 billion. Additionally, adjusted diluted Earnings Per Share (EPS) for the quarter came in at $1.43, a 32.4% increase from the prior fiscal year quarter, significantly beating the analyst consensus estimate of $1.28 by $0.15.

2. Significant Operating Margin Expansion Driven by Operational Efficiency and Pricing.

The company demonstrated enhanced profitability in fiscal Q3 2026, achieving an adjusted operating margin of 10.6%, which expanded by 160 basis points year-over-year, with an incremental operating margin of 32%. This improvement was primarily attributed to effective pricing strategies, disciplined cost management, and the positive impact of its completed sales force optimization initiative, leading to higher sales representative productivity.

Show more
Updated on 9/1/2026

MSC Industrial Direct (MSM) stock has gained about 10% since 5/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Strong Fiscal Q3 2026 Earnings Beat Exceeding Analyst Expectations.

MSC Industrial Direct reported robust financial results for its fiscal third quarter ended May 30, 2026, which were released on July 1, 2026. The company's net sales reached $1,047.1 million, marking a 7.8% increase year-over-year and surpassing analyst consensus estimates of $1.03 billion. Additionally, adjusted diluted Earnings Per Share (EPS) for the quarter came in at $1.43, a 32.4% increase from the prior fiscal year quarter, significantly beating the analyst consensus estimate of $1.28 by $0.15.

2. Significant Operating Margin Expansion Driven by Operational Efficiency and Pricing.

The company demonstrated enhanced profitability in fiscal Q3 2026, achieving an adjusted operating margin of 10.6%, which expanded by 160 basis points year-over-year, with an incremental operating margin of 32%. This improvement was primarily attributed to effective pricing strategies, disciplined cost management, and the positive impact of its completed sales force optimization initiative, leading to higher sales representative productivity.

3. Positive Industrial Market Inflection and Strategic Growth Initiatives.

MSC Industrial Direct observed an improving demand environment, with a positive inflection in volume trends beginning in April and continuing through June 2026, signaling early stages of an industrial recovery, particularly within the automotive and manufacturing sectors. The company also reported strong daily sales growth from its digital platforms, including mscdirect.com, and expanded its vending and in-plant solutions footprint. Furthermore, MSC Industrial acquired the remaining interest of Wm. F. Hurst Co., LLC for $8.2 million during the fiscal year up to May 30, 2026, further bolstering its strategic growth.

4. Favorable Analyst Sentiment and Upgraded Price Targets.

Following the strong fiscal Q3 2026 performance, several Wall Street analysts revised their outlooks on MSC Industrial Direct, contributing to positive market sentiment. For example, Weiss Ratings upgraded the stock from a "hold" to a "buy" rating on July 7, 2026, and Rothschild & Co Redburn initiated coverage with a "buy" rating and a $155 price target on July 13, 2026. These positive revisions reflected increased confidence in the company's operational execution and future growth prospects.

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Stock Movement Drivers

Fundamental Drivers

The 11.7% change in MSM stock from 5/31/2026 to 9/4/2026 was primarily driven by a 11.7% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)53120269042026Change
Stock Price ($)108.68121.4111.7%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)3,8333,8330.0%
Net Income Margin (%)5.4%5.4%0.0%
P/E Multiple29.232.611.7%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)56560.0%
Cumulative Contribution11.7%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

5/31/2026 to 9/4/2026
ReturnCorrelation
MSM11.7% 
Market (SPY)1.8%28.0%
Sector (XLI)1.2%45.4%

Fundamental Drivers

The 31.6% change in MSM stock from 2/28/2026 to 9/4/2026 was primarily driven by a 29.6% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)22820269042026Change
Stock Price ($)92.27121.4131.6%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)3,8073,8330.7%
Net Income Margin (%)5.4%5.4%0.9%
P/E Multiple25.232.629.6%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)56560.0%
Cumulative Contribution31.6%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

2/28/2026 to 9/4/2026
ReturnCorrelation
MSM31.6% 
Market (SPY)12.6%39.3%
Sector (XLI)-0.8%53.3%

Fundamental Drivers

The 39.6% change in MSM stock from 8/31/2025 to 9/4/2026 was primarily driven by a 33.7% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)83120259042026Change
Stock Price ($)86.94121.4139.6%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)3,7443,8332.4%
Net Income Margin (%)5.3%5.4%2.2%
P/E Multiple24.432.633.7%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)5656-0.2%
Cumulative Contribution39.6%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

8/31/2025 to 9/4/2026
ReturnCorrelation
MSM39.6% 
Market (SPY)20.4%31.7%
Sector (XLI)16.5%52.0%

Fundamental Drivers

The 33.5% change in MSM stock from 8/31/2023 to 9/4/2026 was primarily driven by a 130.6% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)83120239042026Change
Stock Price ($)90.95121.4133.5%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)3,9963,833-4.1%
Net Income Margin (%)9.0%5.4%-39.8%
P/E Multiple14.132.6130.6%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)56560.3%
Cumulative Contribution33.5%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

8/31/2023 to 9/4/2026
ReturnCorrelation
MSM33.5% 
Market (SPY)77.1%46.3%
Sector (XLI)68.7%62.3%

Return vs. Risk

Price Returns Compared

 202120222023202420252026Total [1]
Returns
MSM Return3%1%29%-23%17%44%73%
Peers Return26%-5%44%38%15%37%277%
S&P 500 Return27%-19%24%23%16%13%106%

Monthly Win Rates [3]
MSM Win Rate58%42%67%33%58%67% 
Peers Win Rate62%43%60%63%53%67% 
S&P 500 Win Rate75%42%67%75%67%56% 

Max Drawdowns [4]
MSM Max Drawdown-17%-17%-13%-27%-16%-10% 
Peers Max Drawdown-22%-28%-17%-24%-25%-15% 
S&P 500 Max Drawdown-5%-25%-10%-8%-19%-9% 


[1] Cumulative total returns since the beginning of 2021
[2] Peers: GWW, FAST, AIT, DXPE, GIC. See MSM Returns vs. Peers.
[3] Win Rate = % of calendar months in which monthly returns were positive
[4] Max drawdown represents maximum peak-to-trough decline within a year
[5] 2026 data is for the year up to 9/4/2026 (YTD)

How Low Can It Go

EventMSMS&P 500
2025 US Tariff Shock
  % Loss-15.2%-18.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven17.9%23.1%
  Time to Breakeven42 days79 days
2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening
  % Loss-11.8%-24.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven13.4%32.4%
  Time to Breakeven32 days427 days
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-34.3%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven52.1%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven65 days140 days
Q4 2018 Fed Policy Error / Growth Scare
  % Loss-16.0%-19.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven19.1%23.8%
  Time to Breakeven680 days105 days
2015-2016 China Devaluation / Global Growth Scare
  % Loss-22.7%-12.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven29.3%13.9%
  Time to Breakeven75 days62 days
2014-2016 Oil Price Collapse
  % Loss-34.9%-6.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven53.6%7.3%
  Time to Breakeven329 days15 days

Compare to GWW, FAST, AIT, DXPE, GIC

In The Past

MSC Industrial Direct's stock fell -15.2% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 17.9% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

EventMSMS&P 500
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-34.3%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven52.1%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven65 days140 days
2015-2016 China Devaluation / Global Growth Scare
  % Loss-22.7%-12.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven29.3%13.9%
  Time to Breakeven75 days62 days
2014-2016 Oil Price Collapse
  % Loss-34.9%-6.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven53.6%7.3%
  Time to Breakeven329 days15 days
2011 US Debt Ceiling Crisis & European Contagion
  % Loss-24.6%-17.9%
  % Gain to Breakeven32.6%21.8%
  Time to Breakeven74 days123 days
2008-2009 Global Financial Crisis
  % Loss-33.8%-53.4%
  % Gain to Breakeven51.0%114.4%
  Time to Breakeven59 days1085 days

Compare to GWW, FAST, AIT, DXPE, GIC

In The Past

MSC Industrial Direct's stock fell -15.2% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 17.9% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

About MSC Industrial Direct (MSM)

MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc. (MSM) is a prominent distributor of industrial products and services, specializing in metalworking and Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) supplies. The company serves as a vital supply chain partner for manufacturing and industrial businesses across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the United Kingdom, providing essential items needed to keep operations running.

The company offers an extensive inventory of approximately 1.9 million stock-keeping units (SKUs). Its comprehensive product range includes cutting tools, measuring instruments, tooling components, various metalworking products, fasteners, abrasives, machinery, hand and power tools, safety and janitorial supplies, plumbing, electrical, and material handling products. MSC distributes these items through a multi-channel approach, leveraging its e-commerce website (mscdirect.com), catalogs, call centers, and a wide network of branch offices and customer fulfillment centers, often enhanced by inventory management solutions for clients.

MSC Industrial Direct's primary customer base is highly diverse, encompassing a broad spectrum of the manufacturing industry and government entities. It serves clients ranging from individual machine shops and small manufacturers to large Fortune 1000 manufacturing corporations and various government agencies, ensuring they have access to the critical supplies necessary for their day-to-day operations and specialized projects.

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Here are 1-3 brief analogies for MSC Industrial Direct:
  • Amazon for industrial parts and supplies.
  • The Home Depot for businesses and manufacturers.
  • Grainger for machine shops and maintenance teams.

AI Analysis | Feedback

  • Cutting Tools: Tools used for shaping or removing material from workpieces.
  • Measuring Instruments: Devices used to determine the dimensions, quantity, or capacity of something.
  • Tooling Components: Parts that make up tools or fixtures for manufacturing processes.
  • Metalworking Products: A broad category encompassing various items used in the process of working with metals.
  • Fasteners: Hardware devices that mechanically join or affix two or more objects together.
  • Flat Stock Products: Sheets or plates of raw materials.
  • Raw Materials: Unprocessed or minimally processed substances used in manufacturing.
  • Abrasives: Materials used for grinding, polishing, or cleaning surfaces.
  • Machinery Hand and Power Tools: Manual and electrically/pneumatically powered devices used for construction, repair, or fabrication.
  • Safety and Janitorial Supplies: Products essential for workplace safety and maintaining cleanliness.
  • Plumbing Supplies: Materials and components used in the installation and repair of water and drainage systems.
  • Materials Handling Products: Equipment and systems used for moving, storing, protecting, and controlling materials.
  • Power Transmission Components: Mechanical parts that transmit power from a prime mover to a driven machine.
  • Electrical Supplies: Components and equipment used in electrical systems and installations.
  • Inventory Management Solutions: Services designed to help customers efficiently manage their stock of MRO products.

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MSC Industrial Direct (MSM) primarily sells to other companies and government agencies. Based on the company description, its major customer categories include:

  • Individual machine shops: These are typically smaller, specialized businesses in the manufacturing sector.
  • Fortune 1000 manufacturing companies: Large, established manufacturing enterprises across various industries.
  • Government agencies: Various federal, state, and local government entities.
  • Manufacturers of various sizes: This broad category encompasses a wide range of manufacturing businesses, from small to large, including those not specifically identified as individual machine shops or Fortune 1000 companies.

The company serves a diverse and fragmented customer base, and specific named customer companies (with symbols) are not disclosed in the provided information.

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Martina McIsaac, President & Chief Executive Officer

Martina McIsaac assumed the role of President and Chief Executive Officer of MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc. on January 1, 2026. Prior to her appointment at MSC, Ms. McIsaac served as the Region Head and Chief Executive Officer of Hilti, Inc.

Greg Clark, Interim Chief Financial Officer

Greg Clark serves as the Interim Chief Financial Officer for MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc. He also holds the position of Vice President of Finance and Corporate Controller. Mr. Clark is a long-standing veteran of the company, having been with MSC for 22 years, and previously served as interim CFO in 2020.

Erik Gershwind, Non-Executive Vice Chair of the Board

Erik Gershwind became the Non-Executive Vice Chair of the Board on January 1, 2026. He previously held the positions of President and Chief Executive Officer of MSC Industrial Supply Co. from 2013 until January 1, 2026. Mr. Gershwind is the grandson of MSC's founder, Sidney Jacobson, and has been with the company since 1996, progressing through various leadership roles including sales, product management, marketing, and eCommerce. He was instrumental in establishing MSC's internet business in 1999. Mr. Gershwind is a graduate of the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard Law School.

John Reichelt, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer

John Reichelt serves as the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc.

Neal Dongre, Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary

Neal Dongre holds the title of Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Here are the key risks to MSC Industrial Direct (MSM):

  1. Macroeconomic Softness and Demand Uncertainty: MSC Industrial Direct faces significant risk from the continuation or deepening of soft demand environments across key manufacturing end markets. Industrial production readings continue to contract, impacting the company's performance, particularly in sectors such as automotive, heavy truck, primary metals, fabricated metals, and machinery and equipment. Hesitancy among customers due to factors like tariff uncertainty, potential inflation, and high interest rates contributes to this demand volatility and uncertainty.
  2. Competitive Landscape and Pricing Pressure: The company operates in a highly competitive and fragmented industrial supply sector, facing competition from national, regional, local, and online distributors. This competitive environment can lead to pricing pressures, especially as larger companies may gain advantages through economies of scale.
  3. Tariff Uncertainty and Trade Policies: MSC Industrial Direct is exposed to risks associated with changes in trade policies and tariffs. New tariffs, particularly on components from countries like China, can increase product costs and affect market access, introducing cost volatility for the company.

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The clear emerging threat for MSC Industrial Direct is the aggressive expansion of large e-commerce platforms, particularly Amazon Business, into the B2B industrial supply and MRO distribution market. These platforms offer a vast array of products, competitive pricing, sophisticated logistics, and a highly convenient purchasing experience, directly challenging MSC's established distribution model, e-commerce channels, and inventory management solutions. As more businesses shift their procurement to these large online marketplaces, MSC faces significant pressure on its market share, pricing power, and customer relationships.

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MSC Industrial Direct (symbol: MSM) operates in the significant markets of metalworking and maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) products and services across North America and the United Kingdom.

The addressable markets for MSC Industrial Direct's main products and services are as follows:

Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) Products and Services

  • Global: The global MRO distribution market was estimated at approximately USD 691.90 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach around USD 887.11 billion by 2034.
  • North America: The North America MRO distribution market is anticipated to reach USD 188.48 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.6% from 2025 to 2030. Additionally, the North American MRO market is expected to grow by USD 29.6 billion with a CAGR of 2.2% between 2024 and 2029.
  • United States: The U.S. Maintenance, Repair, and Operations market was valued at USD 93.17 billion in 2025 and is estimated to grow to USD 102.86 billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 1.66% during the forecast period (2026-2031).
  • Canada: The Canada maintenance, repair & overhaul distribution market size reached USD 14.67 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 20.82 billion by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.77% during 2026-2034.
  • Mexico: The Mexico maintenance, repair and operations market size reached USD 8.4 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 10.2 billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 1.90% during 2025-2033.
  • United Kingdom: The UK Aircraft Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) Market is projected to grow from USD 45.2 billion in 2025 to USD 78.6 billion by 2032, registering a CAGR of 8.0% during the forecast period.

Metalworking Products and Services

  • Global: The global metalworking market was valued at USD 12.02 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 15.43 billion by 2032. The global metalworking fluids market was valued at USD 13.6 billion in 2025 and is expected to grow to USD 25.7 billion by 2035.
  • United States: The U.S. metalworking machinery manufacturing industry had a market value of USD 33.8 billion in 2024. The U.S. metalworking machinery industry was valued at USD 14.7 billion in 2024 and is projected to surpass USD 21.4 billion by 2032.
  • North America (Fabricated Metal Products): The North American metal fabrication market is estimated at USD 71.36 billion in 2026, growing from USD 68.22 billion in 2025, with projections showing USD 89.34 billion by 2031.
  • Canada (Metalworking Machinery Manufacturing): The market size of the Metalworking Machinery Manufacturing in Canada is $6.7 billion in 2026. The Canada Metal Fabrication Equipment Market is expected to grow from USD 1.09 billion in 2025 to USD 1.15 billion in 2026 and is forecast to reach USD 1.47 billion by 2031 at a 5.06% CAGR over 2026-2031.
  • Mexico (Metalworking): The Mexico metal fabrication market size reached USD 1,102.50 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 1,558.37 million by 2033. The Mexico metal cutting machine tools market was valued at USD 1617.14 million in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 2511.37 million by 2035. The Mexico metal cutting tools market size reached USD 78.8 million in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 125.1 million by 2034.
  • United Kingdom (Metal Fabrication): The UK Metal Fabrication Market was valued at USD 8.65 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 13.72 billion by 2031.

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MSC Industrial Direct (MSM) is expected to drive future revenue growth over the next 2-3 years through several strategic initiatives and market factors:

  1. Strategic Price Increases: The company continues to implement price increases, particularly within its metalworking segment. For example, in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, sales growth was notably influenced by a 4.2% price increase, contributing to a 4% year-over-year sales increase. MSC Industrial Direct anticipates continued benefits from price realization, supporting its target of approximately 20% adjusted incremental operating margins for the full fiscal year under a mid-single-digit growth scenario.
  2. Growth and Re-engagement with Core Customers: A key focus for MSC Industrial Direct is to reconnect and expand its relationships with core customers. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, core customer growth was up 6% year-over-year, surpassing the overall company sales growth for two consecutive quarters. This growth is being supported by enhanced e-commerce marketing and sales optimization efforts, and the company expects this segment to outperform others in the coming two to three years due to higher margins and lower support costs.
  3. Expansion of High-Touch Solutions (Vending and Implant Programs): MSC Industrial Direct is actively expanding its high-touch solutions, which include industrial vending and implant programs. In Q1 FY2026, the installed vending machine base increased by 9% year-over-year, and daily sales from implant program customers grew by 13%, both exceeding the company's total sales growth. These solutions, critical for inventory management and operational efficiency for customers, are expected to provide incremental growth.
  4. E-commerce Enhancements and Digital Transformation: The company is making significant investments in its e-commerce platform, mscdirect.com, which already accounts for over 60% of its revenue. Planned upgrades for fiscal year 2025 aim to improve the user experience and bolster marketing efforts. This ongoing digital transformation is a key element of MSC Industrial Direct's growth strategy.
  5. Strategic Acquisitions ("Bolt-on M&A"): MSC Industrial Direct is pursuing a "bolt-on M&A" strategy to strategically expand its geographic footprint and acquire specialized capabilities. For instance, in 2024, the company completed three acquisitions, including ApTex, Premier Tool Grinding, and KAR Industrial Inc., which specifically enhanced its metalworking presence in Canada. These targeted acquisitions are designed to access new customer segments and deepen expertise.
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Share Repurchases

  • MSC Industrial Direct authorized a share repurchase program on October 20, 2021. Since this authorization, the company completed repurchases of 3,686,577 shares, totaling US$332.57 million, which represented 6.6% of its shares.
  • In fiscal year 2025, MSC Industrial Direct returned approximately $229 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases, including the repurchase of approximately 496,000 shares.
  • During the first quarter of fiscal year 2025 (ended November 30, 2025), the company repurchased 100,000 shares for US$8.59 million.

Share Issuance

  • While there are minor fluctuations, the number of shares outstanding has remained relatively stable, with a slight decline of 0.97% in 2025 from 2024, after small increases in 2024 and 2023.

Outbound Investments

  • MSC Industrial Direct has engaged in recent acquisitions which contributed to net sales and influenced gross margin and operating expenses in fiscal year 2025.

Capital Expenditures

  • For the full fiscal year 2025, MSC Industrial Direct anticipated capital expenditures (including cloud computing) to be in the range of $100 million to $110 million.
  • The company's capital expenditures in fiscal Q1 2025 were $20 million, and in fiscal Q2 2025, they were $30 million.
  • These investments are primarily focused on digital initiatives, advanced analytics, digital upgrades, and expanding its solutions footprint, such as vending and implant programs.

Better Bets vs. MSC Industrial Direct (MSM)

Peer Outperformance in Trading Companies & Distributors

MSM has outperformed 67% of its 18 Trading Companies & Distributors peers over 5Y. Trading Companies & Distributors ranks 9th of 23 industries in Industrials by median 5Y return.
Share of Trading Companies & Distributors constituents that MSM has outperformed, by holding period. Peers without a full price history over a given window are excluded from that window.
1Y
84%
of 19 industry peers · 36.0% return
3Y
50%
of 18 industry peers · 39.0% return
5Y
67%
of 18 industry peers · 77.2% return
No Trading Companies & Distributors peer with a comparable growth profile has beaten MSM by more than 20pp over 5Y.
Median price return by industry across the Industrials sector, ranked by 5Y. Trading Companies & Distributors is MSM's own industry. Use this to see which corners of the sector have carried the returns.
Industry Names 1Y med3Y med5Y med Top 3 by 5Y
Construction & Engineering 31 18.0%111.1%190.3% CDNL 2702% · FIX 2049% · STRL 2005%
Marine Transportation 5 72.8%70.4%164.7% HOS 48321% · MATX 188% · KEX 165%
Construction Machinery & Heavy Transportation Equipment 13 14.7%63.4%115.4% CAT 322% · ALSN 270% · WAB 223%
Aerospace & Defense 55 -1.3%57.5%70.3% ATI 1074% · FTAI 885% · HWM 739%
Passenger Ground Transportation 3 -11.4%41.2%58.1% UBER 88% · CAR 58% · LYFT -65%
Rail Transportation 7 30.7%72.2%46.1% FSTR 135% · CSX 65% · UNP 51%
Industrial Machinery & Supplies & Components 71 8.8%49.3%45.1% CRS 1411% · PSIX 952% · EROC 609%
Cargo Ground Transportation 16 35.6%5.9%35.4% XPO 258% · R 251% · CVLG 209%
Trading Companies & Distributors ← 19 0.7%39.0%32.8% DXPE 533% · AIT 289% · WCC 214%
Diversified Support Services 33 13.1%32.4%26.8% LIME 4173% · TH 371% · WLFC 360%
Electrical Components & Equipment 41 19.1%51.3%21.7% POWL 2201% · BE 1055% · VRT 900%
Building Products 33 -9.7%7.2%19.4% LMB 575% · GFF 398% · PPIH 300%
Research & Consulting Services 13 -9.7%-20.5%-6.3% HURN 214% · GRNQ 137% · CRAI 89%
Agricultural & Farm Machinery 17 14.0%-1.4%-7.2% BLBD 213% · DE 90% · GENC 59%
Industrial Conglomerates 17 10.4%15.4%-8.5% RCMT 676% · CSW 141% · CSL 80%
Environmental & Facilities Services 29 -8.8%16.4%-12.0% CECO 880% · ADUR 558% · NVRI 352%
Data Processing & Outsourced Services 6 -31.6%-12.8%-26.0% EXLS 49% · BR 11% · G -23%
Passenger Airlines 11 3.6%-1.0%-26.4% LTM 2504% · UAL 141% · SKYW 117%
Office Services & Supplies 9 12.7%23.7%-30.4% PBI 186% · TILE 157% · HNI 59%
Human Resource & Employment Services 22 5.8%-18.3%-35.7% BBSI 86% · ADP 49% · KFY 31%
Air Freight & Logistics 12 -6.0%-22.3%-39.1% CHRW 85% · FDX 67% · EXPD 62%
Security & Alarm Services 10 -33.9%5.0%-45.5% CIX 137% · MG 96% · NL 53%
Airport Services 3 -66.4%-76.9%-57.6% JOBY -34% · ASLE -58% · UP -100%
Median of constituents with a full price history over each window. Top names are unfiltered by size in this render.

Latest Trefis Analyses

Recent Active Movers

Peer Comparisons

Peers to compare with:

Financials

MSMGWWFASTAITDXPEGICMedian
NameMSC Indu.W.W. Gra.Fastenal Applied .DXP Ente.Global I. 
Mkt Price121.411,324.4949.60325.57184.0039.81152.70
Mkt Cap6.862.556.912.02.91.59.4
Rev LTM3,83318,8458,7494,9672,1391,4364,400
Op Inc LTM3232,7451,775549188116436
FCF LTM2151,5101,15646111987338
FCF 3Y Avg2881,5591,0594248871356
CFO LTM3012,1751,39948413590393
CFO 3Y Avg3842,1451,28544911474417

Growth & Margins

MSMGWWFASTAITDXPEGICMedian
NameMSC Indu.W.W. Gra.Fastenal Applied .DXP Ente.Global I. 
Rev Chg LTM2.2%7.8%12.5%8.8%11.5%8.4%8.6%
Rev Chg 3Y Avg-0.5%5.6%6.6%4.1%9.2%7.7%6.1%
Rev Chg Q2.9%10.3%14.7%10.4%15.6%7.7%10.4%
QoQ Delta Rev Chg LTM0.7%2.5%3.6%2.6%3.8%2.0%2.6%
Op Inc Chg LTM-6.0%2.8%13.6%10.2%13.9%31.0%11.9%
Op Inc Chg 3Y Avg-13.9%3.3%5.9%5.2%15.4%9.0%5.5%
Op Mgn LTM8.4%14.6%20.3%11.1%8.8%8.1%9.9%
Op Mgn 3Y Avg9.7%15.0%20.3%11.0%8.4%7.2%10.4%
QoQ Delta Op Mgn LTM0.0%0.3%0.0%0.2%0.1%1.0%0.2%
CFO/Rev LTM7.9%11.5%16.0%9.7%6.3%6.3%8.8%
CFO/Rev 3Y Avg9.9%12.2%16.1%9.6%6.0%5.4%9.8%
FCF/Rev LTM5.6%8.0%13.2%9.3%5.5%6.1%7.0%
FCF/Rev 3Y Avg7.5%8.9%13.3%9.1%4.6%5.1%8.2%

Valuation

MSMGWWFASTAITDXPEGICMedian
NameMSC Indu.W.W. Gra.Fastenal Applied .DXP Ente.Global I. 
Mkt Cap6.862.556.912.02.91.59.4
P/S1.83.36.52.41.31.12.1
P/Op Inc21.022.832.121.915.113.121.4
P/EBIT22.822.632.021.414.913.122.0
P/E32.633.442.129.030.617.531.6
P/CFO22.528.740.724.821.216.823.7
Total Yield5.9%3.8%4.2%4.1%3.3%8.5%4.1%
Dividend Yield2.8%0.8%1.9%0.6%0.0%2.7%1.3%
FCF Yield 3Y Avg5.8%3.1%2.4%4.5%7.3%6.0%5.2%
D/E0.10.00.00.00.30.10.1
Net D/E0.10.00.00.00.20.00.0

Returns

MSMGWWFASTAITDXPEGICMedian
NameMSC Indu.W.W. Gra.Fastenal Applied .DXP Ente.Global I. 
1M Rtn-3.3%3.3%-0.8%-9.0%9.3%3.5%1.2%
3M Rtn5.9%2.1%6.6%3.4%16.9%30.2%6.2%
6M Rtn35.1%19.5%7.9%22.0%36.0%27.9%24.9%
12M Rtn36.0%29.9%0.8%22.3%46.2%7.9%26.1%
3Y Rtn39.0%96.0%90.1%113.7%421.7%29.2%93.0%
1M Excs Rtn-2.1%3.4%-2.5%-9.3%-7.3%0.9%-2.3%
3M Excs Rtn1.3%-2.5%2.1%-1.1%12.4%25.7%1.7%
6M Excs Rtn20.6%5.0%-6.6%7.4%21.4%13.4%10.4%
12M Excs Rtn17.3%11.2%-17.9%3.6%27.5%-10.8%7.4%
3Y Excs Rtn-37.6%16.3%13.5%43.8%340.0%-38.5%14.9%

Financials

Segment Financials

Revenue by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222021
Single segment3,7703,8214,0093,6923,243
Total3,7703,8214,0093,6923,243


Operating Income by Segment
$ Mil202520242023
Single segment302390484
Total302390484


Net Income by Segment
$ Mil202520242023
Single segment198256343
Total198256343


Price Behavior

Price Behavior
Market Price$121.41 
Market Cap ($ Bil)6.8 
First Trading Date12/15/1995 
Distance from 52W High-4.6% 
   50 Days200 Days
DMA Price$121.94$100.71
DMA Trendupup
Distance from DMA-0.4%20.5%
 3M1YR
Volatility24.8%26.9%
Downside Capture53.4358.16
Upside Capture68.8481.66
Correlation (SPY)32.8%32.3%
MSM Betas & Captures as of 8/31/2026

 1M2M3M6M1Y3Y
Beta1.100.900.550.790.680.82
Up Beta0.500.47-0.480.470.480.91
Down Beta2.051.250.980.990.680.71
Up Capture79%75%93%102%80%52%
Bmk +ve Days10213268138427
Stock +ve Days8183159126376
Down Capture231%126%57%69%71%95%
Bmk -ve Days11213259113324
Stock -ve Days13243367124373

[1] Upside and downside betas calculated using positive and negative benchmark daily returns respectively
Based On 1-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with MSM
MSM36.1%26.9%1.12-
Sector ETF (XLI)17.0%17.1%0.7552.0%
Equity (SPY)19.7%12.8%1.1331.2%
Gold (GLD)24.6%29.2%0.7515.1%
Commodities (DBC)44.1%20.4%1.69-9.3%
Real Estate (VNQ)9.1%13.6%0.3924.8%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)-26.9%43.8%-0.590.3%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 5-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with MSM
MSM11.5%25.0%0.41-
Sector ETF (XLI)12.4%17.6%0.5465.8%
Equity (SPY)12.8%17.2%0.5752.1%
Gold (GLD)19.1%18.8%0.827.8%
Commodities (DBC)10.7%19.5%0.439.6%
Real Estate (VNQ)1.7%18.9%-0.0146.7%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)10.6%52.6%0.3815.1%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 10-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with MSM
MSM10.1%26.8%0.39-
Sector ETF (XLI)13.4%20.0%0.5964.6%
Equity (SPY)15.3%17.9%0.7253.3%
Gold (GLD)12.4%16.3%0.622.8%
Commodities (DBC)7.9%18.1%0.3518.4%
Real Estate (VNQ)4.8%20.7%0.1943.5%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)64.0%66.2%1.046.0%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How

Short Interest

Short Interest: As Of Date8142026
Short Interest: Shares Quantity1.9 Mil
Short Interest: % Change Since 7312026-10.2%
Average Daily Volume0.7 Mil
Days-to-Cover Short Interest2.9 days
Basic Shares Quantity55.8 Mil
Short % of Basic Shares3.4%

Earnings Returns History

Updated 8/19/2026
Expand for More
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
7/1/20263.7%0.8%2.9%
4/1/2026-0.8%4.6%11.9%
1/7/2026-4.5%-0.9%13.0%
10/23/20253.1%-3.3%-3.1%
7/1/20256.2%7.7%2.8%
4/3/2025-5.2%-4.0%-0.9%
1/8/20253.5%1.3%1.5%
10/24/2024-3.8%1.5%5.1%
...
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive111520
# Negative14105
Median Positive2.4%1.9%4.7%
Median Negative-2.8%-2.5%-3.1%
Max Positive6.2%10.9%33.1%
Max Negative-5.5%-4.7%-5.5%
Collapse to Preview
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
7/1/20263.7%0.8%2.9%
4/1/2026-0.8%4.6%11.9%
1/7/2026-4.5%-0.9%13.0%
10/23/20253.1%-3.3%-3.1%
7/1/20256.2%7.7%2.8%
4/3/2025-5.2%-4.0%-0.9%
1/8/20253.5%1.3%1.5%
10/24/2024-3.8%1.5%5.1%
7/2/20242.3%-2.1%14.9%
3/28/2024-2.5%-4.0%-5.5%
1/9/2024-3.1%0.3%2.4%
10/25/2023-3.0%-0.7%4.3%
6/29/2023-1.7%-1.6%5.0%
4/4/2023-0.9%3.0%8.6%
1/5/2023-5.5%0.6%10.1%
10/20/2022-0.9%3.9%8.8%
6/29/20222.4%1.1%11.1%
3/30/20223.9%1.9%3.9%
12/22/2021-0.4%1.4%-0.7%
10/20/2021-2.4%-4.7%0.3%
7/7/20210.7%-0.9%-4.7%
4/7/2021-5.4%-3.0%2.0%
1/6/20211.2%3.8%3.5%
10/27/20202.2%10.9%33.1%
9/10/20200.4%2.8%4.2%
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive111520
# Negative14105
Median Positive2.4%1.9%4.7%
Median Negative-2.8%-2.5%-3.1%
Max Positive6.2%10.9%33.1%
Max Negative-5.5%-4.7%-5.5%

SEC Filings

Expand for More
Report DateFiling DateFiling
02/28/202604/01/202610-Q
11/30/202501/07/202610-Q
08/31/202510/23/202510-K
05/31/202507/01/202510-Q
02/28/202504/03/202510-Q
11/30/202401/08/202510-Q
08/31/202410/24/202410-K
05/31/202407/02/202410-Q
02/29/202403/28/202410-Q
11/30/202301/09/202410-Q
08/31/202310/25/202310-K
05/31/202306/29/202310-Q
02/28/202304/04/202310-Q
11/30/202201/05/202310-Q
08/31/202210/20/202210-K
05/31/202206/29/202210-Q
Collapse to Preview
Report DateFiling DateFiling
02/28/202604/01/202610-Q
11/30/202501/07/202610-Q
08/31/202510/23/202510-K
05/31/202507/01/202510-Q
02/28/202504/03/202510-Q
11/30/202401/08/202510-Q
08/31/202410/24/202410-K
05/31/202407/02/202410-Q
02/29/202403/28/202410-Q
11/30/202301/09/202410-Q
08/31/202310/25/202310-K
05/31/202306/29/202310-Q
02/28/202304/04/202310-Q
11/30/202201/05/202310-Q
08/31/202210/20/202210-K
05/31/202206/29/202210-Q
02/28/202203/30/202210-Q
11/30/202112/22/202110-Q
08/31/202110/20/202110-K
05/31/202107/07/202110-Q
02/28/202104/07/202110-Q
11/30/202001/06/202110-Q
08/31/202010/27/202010-K
05/31/202007/08/202010-Q
02/29/202004/08/202010-Q
11/30/201901/08/202010-Q
08/31/201910/24/201910-K
05/31/201907/10/201910-Q

Recent Forward Guidance

Updated 7/12/2026

Latest: Q3 2026 Earnings Reported 7/1/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
Q4 2026 ADS GrowthReported6.5%7.5%8.5% 1.5%Higher NewGuidance: 6.0% for Q3 2026
Q4 2026 Adjusted Operating MarginReported10.0%10.4%10.8% 0.4%Higher NewGuidance: 10.0% for Q3 2026
2026 Depreciation and amortization expenseReported 100.00 Mil 2.6% RaisedGuidance: 97.50 Mil for 2026
2026 Interest and other expenseReported 30.00 Mil -14.3% LoweredGuidance: 35.00 Mil for 2026
2026 Tax rateReported24.5%25.0%25.5% 0AffirmedGuidance: 25.0% for 2026
2026 Capital expendituresReported 90.00 Mil -14.3% LoweredGuidance: 105.00 Mil for 2026
2026 Free cash flow conversionReported 0.95  5.0%RaisedGuidance: 0.9 for 2026


Prior: Q2 2026 Earnings Reported 4/1/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
Q3 2026 ADS GrowthReported5.0%6.0%7.0%   
Q3 2026 Adjusted Operating MarginReported9.7%10.0%10.3%   
2026 Depreciation and amortization expenseReported95.00 Mil97.50 Mil100.00 Mil0 AffirmedGuidance: 97.50 Mil for 2026
2026 Interest and other expenseReported 35.00 Mil 0 AffirmedGuidance: 35.00 Mil for 2026
2026 Tax rateReported24.5%25.0%25.5%00AffirmedGuidance: 25.0% for 2026
2026 Capital expendituresReported100.00 Mil105.00 Mil110.00 Mil0 AffirmedGuidance: 105.00 Mil for 2026
2026 Free cash flow conversionReported 0.9 0 AffirmedGuidance: 0.9 for 2026

Q1 2026 Earnings Reported 1/7/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
Q2 2026 ADS Growth (YoY)Reported3.5%4.5%5.5%   
Q2 2026 Adjusted Operating MarginReported7.3%7.6%7.9%   
2026 Depreciation and amortization expenseReported95.00 Mil97.50 Mil100.00 Mil0 AffirmedGuidance: 97.50 Mil for 2026
2026 Interest and other expenseReported 35.00 Mil 0 AffirmedGuidance: 35.00 Mil for 2026
2026 Tax rateReported24.5%25.0%25.5% 0AffirmedGuidance: 25.0% for 2026
2026 Capital expendituresReported100.00 Mil105.00 Mil110.00 Mil0 AffirmedGuidance: 105.00 Mil for 2026
2026 Free cash flow conversionReported 0.9  0AffirmedGuidance: 0.9 for 2026

Q4 2025 Earnings Reported 10/23/2025

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
Q1 2026 ADS GrowthReported3.5%4.0%4.5% 3.5%Higher NewActual: 0.5% for Q4 2025
Q1 2026 Adjusted Operating MarginReported8.0%8.3%8.6% -0.4%Lower NewActual: 8.75% for Q4 2025
2026 Depreciation and amortization expenseReported95.00 Mil97.50 Mil100.00 Mil5.4% Higher NewActual: 92.50 Mil for 2025
2026 Interest and other expenseReported 35.00 Mil -22.2% Lower NewActual: 45.00 Mil for 2025
2026 Tax rateReported24.5%25.0%25.5% 0.2%Higher NewActual: 24.75% for 2025
2026 Capital expendituresReported100.00 Mil105.00 Mil110.00 Mil0 Same NewActual: 105.00 Mil for 2025
2026 Free cash flow conversionReported 0.9  -30.0%Lower NewActual: 1.2 for 2025

Insider Activity

Updated 7/21/2026
Expand for More
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Seseri, Rudina DirectSell202202686.831,800156,294528,795Form
2Peller, Philip DirectBuy1117202590.146,666600,873859,665Form
3Jacobson, MitchellDirectBuy1103202584.4351,9544,386,290194,630,093Form
4Jacobson, MitchellDirectBuy1103202584.7634,0732,888,167191,004,710Form
5Jacobson, MitchellDirectBuy1103202584.9295,7798,133,974188,472,296Form
Collapse to Preview
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Seseri, Rudina DirectSell202202686.831,800156,294528,795Form
2Peller, Philip DirectBuy1117202590.146,666600,873859,665Form
3Jacobson, MitchellDirectBuy1103202584.4351,9544,386,290194,630,093Form
4Jacobson, MitchellDirectBuy1103202584.7634,0732,888,167191,004,710Form
5Jacobson, MitchellDirectBuy1103202584.9295,7798,133,974188,472,296Form
6Shacklett, KimberlySVP, Sales & Customer SuccessDirectSell711202592.002,130195,9601,348,444Form
7Shacklett, KimberlySVP, Sales & Customer SuccessDirectSell710202590.602,129192,8871,327,924Form
8Peller, Philip DirectSell707202590.002,000180,000258,390Form
9Gershwind, ErikChief Executive OfficerDirectSell707202589.392,000178,779137,385,697Form

Investor Activity (13F)

Updated Sep 5, 2026
13F holdings as of Mar 31, 2026 (Q1 2026)

Active managers (13F portfolio over $250M, at least 3 holdings) with a position over $5M that is either over 10% of their portfolio or held in a concentrated book of 50 or fewer total positions. Index/ETF, sovereign, bank, community-bank and charitable/donor-advised filers are excluded.

Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Medina Value Partners, LLC$26.7 Mil5.6%30New13F
Lone Peak Global Investors LLC$15.8 Mil2.6%42ADD +3411.0%13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Medina Value Partners, LLC$26.7 Mil5.6%30New13F
Lone Peak Global Investors LLC$15.8 Mil2.6%42ADD +3411.0%13F
Active Manager
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Medina Value Partners, LLC$26.7 Mil5.6%30New13F
Lone Peak Global Investors LLC$15.8 Mil2.6%42ADD +3411.0%13F
Core Cache Last Updated: 9/4/2026