AutoZone Posts Weaker-Than-Expected Q4 Profit

Core Insights - AutoZone reported a weaker-than-expected profit for its fiscal fourth quarter, with net income dropping 7.2% to $837.0 million and diluted earnings per share at $48.71, missing analyst expectations [2][4] - Revenue increased by 0.6% to $6.24 billion, aligning closely with forecasts, while same-store sales grew by 4.5%, slightly exceeding estimates [2][3] Financial Performance - The company's operating, selling, general, and administrative expenses rose by 3.0% to $2.02 billion due to the addition of 141 new stores and a 14.1% increase in inventory [3] - Analysts had anticipated a net income of $867.5 million and earnings per share of $50.89, indicating a significant shortfall in performance [2] Strategic Outlook - CEO Phil Daniele indicated that AutoZone plans to continue its aggressive expansion strategy in the upcoming year, with expectations of increasing earnings and cash flow to enhance shareholder value [3][4] - The company's stock remained flat in morning trading but had previously increased by 29% year-to-date prior to the earnings announcement [3]