icon
icon
icon
icon
Upgrade
Upgrade

News /

Articles /

Mears Group: Hidden Gem or Market Overlook?

Wesley ParkTuesday, Nov 26, 2024 12:41 am ET
4min read
Mears Group plc (LON:MER), a leading UK housing services provider, has been steadily gaining traction in the market, but is it being overlooked, or is it a hidden gem ripe for investment? Let's delve into the company's financial performance, operational strategies, and market positioning to determine if there's an opportunity in Mears Group.

Over the past decade, Mears Group has demonstrated consistent financial growth, with revenue nearly tripling from £279 million in 2012 to £878 million in 2021. During this period, adjusted profit before tax has seen a significant increase, from £35 million in 2012 to £54 million in 2021. However, earnings per share (EPS) have fluctuated, peaking at 24.51p in 2022 but averaging around 10.5p over the decade.



Mears Group's revenue streams have shown a steady increase, with a 9% growth in 2022, driven by strong trading and increased operational and commercial focus. The company's profit margins have also strengthened, with operating margins improving from 3.4% in 2021 to 3.8% in 2022. This indicates a positive trend in the company's profitability and financial performance.

Mears Group's operational strategies, such as securing the Residential Living Accommodation Project contract and working with clients to secure potential work through the Social Housing Development Fund, have significantly contributed to its recent success. These strategies have resulted in a £2.9 billion order book, reflecting the Group's good progress on contract retentions and extensions.



Mears Group's commitment to ESG initiatives and sustainability has significantly enhanced its financial performance and market positioning. The company achieved a 38% increase in adjusted profit before tax in 2022, partially driven by a strong focus on environmental, social, and governance factors. Mears' approach to ESG includes a strategy for zero carbon emissions by 2030, which has helped differentiate the company in its sector.

In conclusion, Mears Group's strong financial performance, operational strategies, and commitment to sustainability present an opportunity for investors looking for a stable, predictable, and consistent growth story in the UK housing services sector. With a forward P/E ratio of 8.1x and a dividend yield of 3.6%, Mears Group may be an attractive option for long-term, value-oriented investors. However, it's essential to consider the company's risks and potential challenges, such as labor market dynamics and geopolitical tensions, when making investment decisions.

As always, it's crucial to conduct thorough research and consider your own investment goals, risk tolerance, and financial situation before making any decisions. Diversifying your portfolio and maintaining a balanced approach can help mitigate risks and optimize returns in the long run.
Disclaimer: the above is a summary showing certain market information. AInvest is not responsible for any data errors, omissions or other information that may be displayed incorrectly as the data is derived from a third party source. Communications displaying market prices, data and other information available in this post are meant for informational purposes only and are not intended as an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Please do your own research when investing. All investments involve risk and the past performance of a security, or financial product does not guarantee future results or returns. Keep in mind that while diversification may help spread risk, it does not assure a profit, or protect against loss in a down market.