2024 Financial Performance: O'Reilly Automotive, Inc. reported a 2.9% increase in comparable store sales for the full year 2024 and a diluted earnings per share (EPS) increase of 5.7%, marking the 32nd consecutive year of growth in these metrics since going public. However, financial results fell short of prior expectations due to headwinds faced throughout the automotive aftermarket.
Fourth-Quarter Results: In Q4, comparable store sales grew by 4.4%, driven by a balanced performance across both professional and DIY segments, with professional business showing mid-single-digit growth. Fourth-quarter diluted EPS growth was only 2.6%, impacted by a $35 million charge affecting EPS by approximately 5%.
2025 Guidance: The company established a 2025 comparable store sales growth forecast of 2% to 4%, lower than previous guidance of 3% to 5%. The cautious outlook reflects ongoing pressure on discretionary spending and softer consumer demand, although a stable vehicle population supports long-term demand.