Latest news with #TractorSupply
Daily Mail
14 hours ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
Lowe's rival opening 90 stores by the end of this year
Tractor Supply Company is coming for Lowe's with a whopping new store count. The nation's largest rural lifestyle retailer is set to open 90 new locations by the end of the year. With these 90 stores, the number of Tractor Supply locations will rise to about 3,200 across 49 states. At least 18 of these new locations were former Big Lots stores, which the retailer bought during a last minute rescue deal after Big Lots filed for bankruptcy last year. A spokesperson told USA Today that those locations are strategically positioned in areas to serve the needs of farmers, animal owners, ranchers, gardeners, homeowners, and tradesmen. The openings also occurred just in time for Tractor Supply to launch its new Field & Stream-branded hunting and outdoor gear. The chain is also planning to open 10 new Petsense by Tractor Supply stores, crossing the 200 unit mark. As of now, the retailer has already opened 15 new stores in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio, and West Virginia. The openings are part of Tractor Supply's 'Life Out Here' strategy, created to help with its growth. 'Over the last five years, we have delivered strong financial performance and enhanced our competitive advantages through the execution of our Life Out Here strategy,' said CEO Hal Lawton. 'Our Life Out Here 2030 strategy continues the momentum of our existing initiatives as well as launches new initiatives such as Pet Rx and Direct Sales.' Tractor Supply initiated the original plan in 2020, which featured a new store layout and remodeling program in half of its stores. It helped the chain land 22 million Neighbor's Club loyalty program members, open 13 distribution facilities, and increase sales by more than 300 percent. With its updates, the chain is now aiming to finish the year with $225 billion in revenue instead of its original $180 billion expectation. The chain started its goal off on a high note after delivering a 2.1 percent increase in first quarter scales amounting to $3.47 billion. The company said that new store openings and the contribution from Allivet pet pharmacy helped make its quarterly goal a reality. Some new locations are strategically positioned in areas to serve the needs of farmers, animal owners, ranchers, gardeners, homeowners, and tradesmen Tractor Supply backtracked on its DEI initiatives following 'disappointment' from its conservative customer base in 2024. Fans have been concerned over the future of home improvement stores long before fears of a looming recession. Home Depot and Lowe's both suffered significant sales drops last year amid high inflation. Home Depot bounced back with a 9.4 percent revenue during the first quarter of 2025 and confirmed there would be no major price changes this year from tariffs. Lowe's was not as lucky with a 1.7 percent revenue decrease, but it did earn the top spot in customer satisfaction among home improvement retailers by J.D. Power. As for Tractor Supply, the chain's abundance of baby chicks has given shoppers a solution on what to do during the egg shortage.
Business Wire
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Tractor Supply Celebrates Hometown Heroes Anniversary With Its Largest-Ever Volunteer Event and $1 Million Donation
BRENTWOOD, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ: TSCO), the largest rural lifestyle retailer in the United States, and the Tractor Supply Company Foundation announced today they are donating an additional $1 million in total to charity organizations committed to supporting our nation's military service members, veterans and first responders. The Company and its foundation made an initial $1 million donation in June 2024 to celebrate the launch of its Hometown Heroes initiative, which brings together the Company's efforts to support the selfless men and women who serve America under one banner. Tractor Supply launched the second year of its Hometown Heroes initiative yesterday with a Back-to-School Brigade® event in partnership with Operation Homefront, one of the program's 10 recipient organizations. More than 250 Team Members, as well as soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) at Fort Campbell and members of 4-H and FFA gathered at the Company's Store Support Center (SSC) to pack 500 backpacks with school supplies for military children—marking the largest volunteer event ever held by Tractor Supply. 'At Tractor Supply, support for our military service members, veterans, military families and first responders is entrenched in our culture and values,' said Colin Yankee, chief supply chain officer at Tractor Supply and former U.S. Army Captain. 'Many of our Team Members and customers have served our country or communities, and we're proud to stand with them. From charitable giving to hands-on volunteerism, we're committed to showing appreciation for our Hometown Heroes in meaningful ways.' Tractor Supply and the Tractor Supply Company Foundation have selected 10 nonprofit organizations to receive $100,000 each as part of this year's $1 million donation. They are: 9/11 Day: Inspires millions of Americans to volunteer, donate to charities and perform other good deeds and acts of kindness on September 11 to honor the memory of those killed or injured on 9/11. In addition to the $100,000 donation, Tractor Supply Team Members, including members of the Veterans Team Member Engagement Group, will gather on September 11, 2025, for a day of service. In 2024, more than 100 Team Members joined Tractor Supply President and CEO Hal Lawton to pack thousands of meals for Americans in need. Bob Woodruff Foundation: Invests in programs that help our service members, veterans, their families and caregivers thrive. Hometown Heroes funding supports the organization's grant-making, research, community-building and public education initiatives to ensure these individuals have stable and successful futures. Farmer Veteran Coalition: Provides micro grants to veterans who are in their beginning years of farming or ranching. Tractor Supply has partnered with FVC for the last seven years to assist farmer veterans from all branches of service. Through the joint initiative, the Company has provided more than 400 farmer veterans with Tractor Supply gift cards to access supplies, equipment and training to successfully launch their farm businesses. Folds of Honor: Provides educational scholarships to the families of fallen and disabled service members and first responders. K9s For Warriors: Fights veteran suicide by providing trained service dogs (many that are rescue animals) to military veterans suffering from PTSD and other traumas. Through this donation, Tractor Supply will sponsor three dogs—Scarlett on behalf of Tractor Supply, named after former Tractor Supply CEO Joe Scarlett; Murphy on behalf of Petsense by Tractor Supply, named after a heroic military veteran; and Rex (Rx) on behalf of Allivet by Tractor Supply. National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Foundation (NLEOMF): Honors fallen law enforcement officers, tells the story of American law enforcement and makes it safer for those who serve. In addition to supporting NLEOMF's work in remembering those who have lost their lives protecting our communities and providing best practices to help keep officers safe, Yankee represented Tractor Supply at the 2025 National Law Enforcement Memorial Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C., paying tribute to fallen officers from across the country by reading their names aloud. National Police Dog Foundation: Raises funds for the purchase, training and veterinary care of law enforcement K-9s. Every October 28, National First Responders Day, Tractor Supply stores across the country host police dogs and their handlers for a celebratory demonstration. National Volunteer Firefighters Council: Provides critical resources, programs, education and advocacy for volunteer fire, EMS and rescue services across the nation. With the ability to balance volunteer firefighting with their work commitment, thousands of Tractor Supply Team Members serve as passionate and dedicated volunteer firefighters within their communities. Operation Homefront: Provides relief and recurring family support programs and services to help military families overcome short-term difficulties. Operation Homefront is one of Tractor Supply's newly selected Hometown Heroes donation recipients. Team Rubicon: Serves global communities before, during and after disasters and crises. Tractor Supply first supported the veteran-led humanitarian organization in its recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene in 2024. The Hometown Heroes initiative also includes: A Spotlight Series that recognizes Team Members who embody the spirit of being Hometown Heroes with a $5,000 donation made to a Hometown Hero charity of their choice. The Neighbor's Club Hometown Heroes benefit, which includes automatic top-tier Preferred Plus Neighbor status, where veterans, service members and first responders are eligible to enroll. This Hometown Heroes benefit is one of the few recognition programs that provide everyday savings with no limit on total savings and no brand exclusions. To learn more, visit About Tractor Supply Company For more than 85 years, Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ: TSCO) has been passionate about serving the needs of recreational farmers, ranchers, homeowners, gardeners, pet enthusiasts and all those who enjoy living Life Out Here. Tractor Supply is the largest rural lifestyle retailer in the U.S., ranking 296 on the Fortune 500. The Company's more than 52,000 Team Members are known for delivering legendary service and helping customers pursue their passions, whether that means being closer to the land, taking care of animals or living a hands-on, DIY lifestyle. In store and online, Tractor Supply provides what customers need – anytime, anywhere, any way they choose at the low prices they deserve. As part of the Company's commitment to caring for animals of all kinds, Tractor Supply is proud to include Petsense by Tractor Supply, a pet specialty retailer, and Allivet, a leading online pet pharmacy, in its family of brands. Together, Tractor Supply is able to provide comprehensive solutions for pet care, livestock wellness and rural living, ensuring customers and their animals thrive. From its stores to the customer's doorstep, Tractor Supply is here to serve and support Life Out Here. As of March 29, 2025, the Company operated 2,311 Tractor Supply stores in 49 states and 206 Petsense by Tractor Supply stores in 23 states. For more information, visit and
Fox News
2 days ago
- Business
- Fox News
More Americans seek eggs at home as chicken coop interest surges: What experts want you to know
Interest in chicken coops is up among Americans in search of a more affordable way to consume eggs. More people are searching for do-it-yourself chicken coops and purchasing from retailers frequently, according to recent reports and search trends. Research conducted by Australia-based real estate company Eden Emerald Buyers Agent found that searches for "easy DIY chicken coop plans" on Pinterest skyrocketed by 212% in the U.S. within the first three months of 2025. Searches for "backyard chicken coop plans" during this same time on Pinterest surged by 81%, while searches for "chicken coop run" and "chicken coop décor" also increased by 163% and 108%, research showed. Josh Roth, chief buyers agent at Eden Emerald, spoke to Fox News Digital about the growing trend. "As the study suggests, we can expect that chicken coops will appear in many Americans' backyards," he said. A Tractor Supply Co. spokesperson confirmed to Fox News Digital the uptick in chicken coop sales and chicks. "Tractor Supply is the largest retailer of live poultry in the country," the spokesperson said. "We have consistently sold more than 10 million baby chicks each year, and we expect that number to rise this year." "Additionally, the number of poultry shoppers in our stores has increased by more than 50% over the past five years." Kate Murphy, animal preserve caretaker at Hoyt Farm Town Park in Long Island, New York, shared advice for Americans who are interested in raising their own chickens. Having fresh eggs in the backyard avoids the need to pay inflated egg prices. It also offers nutritious eggs without added steroids, Murphy told Fox News Digital. In addition, it can encourage the whole family to participate in a rewarding, outdoor activity. "Chickens are a huge responsibility." But the animal care expert of more than 20 years noted there are "a lot of factors" to consider before making the switch. "Owning any animal is a lot of work, but chickens are a huge responsibility," she said. Murphy first prompted people to consider their ability to commit, since chickens can live up to 10 years or more if cared for properly. "You must take into consideration that your feathered friends may be around a while," she said. "If you are like most Americans and looking to raise chickens for fresh eggs, hens can lay eggs for two to three years at the most and then enter retirement, which they most definitely deserve, because egg laying is brutal on the hen's body." Murphy said chickens "need love" once they're done laying eggs. "The most frequent call I get on the farm is from someone looking to re-home their chickens," she revealed. "They either want to donate their retired hens to me after they have served their purpose, or they thought hatching eggs would be fun … and now they have several loud, crowing roosters in their home." Only hens lay eggs, not roosters – but there's no way to tell the gender of an egg or even a baby chick until several weeks old, Murphy said. "If you really want hens for egg production purposes for your homestead, I recommend doing your research and finding a reputable backyard breeder – someone who specializes in egg-laying breeds and can provide you with healthy, happy chickens who have been sexed as hens." Murphy also instructed homeowners to make sure the hens they purchase are an egg-laying breed, since not all chickens lay eggs the same. But perhaps the biggest commitment is financial, according to Murphy — who noted that avian veterinarians are "not cheap." "Avian vets are a specialty, so they can cost a pretty penny when needed, especially in an emergency," she said. Chicken feed also comes at a price, since the birds require a balanced diet to remain "healthy and productive." Roth agreed that expenses related to raising chickens can add up, such as keeping the coop clean and refurbishing the space to preserve its appearance. "If you're prepared, once you have installed your chicken coop, you will need to keep up with wood care to maintain a polished look and check for damage, such as dampness, to prevent rotting," he said. For those with free-range chickens, Murphy warned that they could be prey and recommended setting up a predator-proof enclosure. An enclosure with a covered hard top and fencing will also protect your flock from exposure to bird flu, which has hit record highs across the country this year. Murphy stressed the importance of making sure it's legal to own a chicken coop where you live. "You have to put in the effort," she said. "Like owning any animal, chickens require a tremendous amount of care. It takes a special person to care for chickens."
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Tractor Supply: Dividend Strength Ahead
Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ:TSCO) is one of the . The company continued to deliver solid returns to its shareholders, distributing over $1 billion in fiscal year 2024. This included $472.5 million in dividends and $560.8 million spent on share buybacks. With a dividend payout ratio of around 43%, the company maintains a healthy balance between rewarding investors and preserving capital for future growth. An equestrian rider proudly leading a horse around a competition course. In the first quarter of 2025, Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ:TSCO) returned another $216.4 million to shareholders, $122.4 million through cash dividends and $94 million via the repurchase of approximately 1.7 million shares. These returns were supported by strong cash flow, with the company generating $216.7 million in operating cash during the quarter. On May 15, Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ:TSCO) announced a quarterly dividend of $0.23 per share, consistent with the previous payout. It has now increased its dividend for 16 straight years. The stock supports a dividend yield of 1.79%, as of June 14. Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ:TSCO) is one of the largest rural lifestyle retailers in the United States. With a legacy spanning over 85 years, the company has remained committed to meeting the needs of hobby farmers, ranchers, homeowners, gardeners, pet lovers, and anyone who embraces the 'Life Out Here' way of living. While we acknowledge the potential of TSCO as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: and Disclosure. None. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
1 in 5 Tractor Supply customers now raise chickens, thanks to egg inflation
The high price of eggs is spurring many Americans to invest in a new backyard pet — chickens. That poultry, in turn, is an important catalyst for retailer Tractor Supply (TSCO), which sells everything from coops to feed to the chicks themselves. Around 11 million Americans now own chickens, according to the American Pet Products Association, a 28% jump from 2023. That's good news for Tractor Supply, whose just over 2,300 locations cater to hobbyist farmers and serve for many as a sort of general store. 'Nearly 1 in 5 of our customers raise chickens now,' Tractor Supply CEO Hal Lawton told Yahoo Finance in a recent interview. 'I think part of it is just the overall wave that's occurring in that category and in that animal species. And then some of it was also driven by the concern of egg prices. But even as egg prices have come down, we've not seen any slowdown in that category in the business.' Prices have fallen from a high of $6.23 on average for a dozen large Grade A eggs in March of this year, but they were still $4.55 a dozen in May, up from $2.70 in May 2024. Still, Tractor Supply expects to sell a record number of chickens during its 'Chick Days,' a spring event at which it sells live baby birds. In 2024, the chain sold 10.5 million chicks as part of the promotion. While the category is still a small proportion of revenue, according to Mizuho analyst David Bellinger, it's a traffic driver. 'We estimate about 20% of Neighbors Club loyalty members (approx. 7-8M) own chicks, and spend $300+ per year across ~10x transactions - on par with the "backyard homesteader" customer set per TSCO's analyst day,' Bellinger wrote in a March note. Tractor Supply's stock has been in a late post-pandemic normalization phase. When urbanites fled cities and leaned into remote work, some also embraced the rural lifestyle and became Tractor Supply customers. From its low in March 2020, the stock continued to rise through October 2024, ultimately climbing about 350%. Since then, shares have slid by about 15%. That slowdown has mirrored same-store sales, which spiked by 23% and 17% in 2020 and 2021, respectively, before slowing in 2022 and flatlining in 2023 and 2024. 'If I look back over the last five years, we've basically doubled the size of our business,' Lawton said in the interview. 'I think different than a lot of retailers, we've not given back any of those gains that we've had over the last five years.' One pressure point over the past 18 to 24 months, Lawton said, has been pricing for animal feed, a big business for Tractor Supply for owners of everything from chickens to cows to dogs and cats. It's tied to commodity prices, which have been trending lower. Lawton is optimistic they're starting to move higher. As for shoppers, Lawton said demand has remained consistent: 'I think the consumer continues to be stable and strong.' Investors will have to wait until the company's next earnings report, scheduled for late July, to determine just how strong demand has been — and just how many chicks Tractor Supply sold this quarter. Julie Hyman is the co-host of Market Domination on Yahoo Finance. You can find her on social media @juleshyman. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
