Bapcor Limited
(ASX: BAP)Share Price and News

About Bapcor

Bapcor operates as a leading distributor of automotive aftermarket products in Australia and New Zealand. The company was founded in 1989 and quickly established itself as a key player in the sector.

Today, Bapcor’s offerings include an extensive range of automotive parts, tools, accessories, and services, covering everything from retail to wholesale operations. Some of Bapcor’s most recognised brands include Burson Auto Parts, Midas, and Autopro.

With a footprint spanning hundreds of retail locations and distribution centres across Australia and New Zealand, Bapcor holds a dominant market position. The company’s customer base includes both trade professionals and do-it-yourself (DIY) customers, giving it access to a wide range of automotive needs.

Bapcor's Company History

Bapcor was founded in 1989 with a mission to provide Australian consumers with top-quality automotive parts and services. Initially focusing on wholesale distribution, the company expanded quickly and by the mid-1990s had established a network of retail stores.

One of Bapcor’s significant milestones occurred in 2014. At the time it was known as Burson, but the company was renamed in 2016 following further expansion. Specifically, it purchased Midas, a global brand known for its automotive repair services. This acquisition broadened Bapcor's capabilities, allowing it to offer both products and services under one umbrella.

Bapcor expanded its portfolio through a distribution agreement with Autopro, which is operated by a franchise network under Automotive Brands Group, a Bapcor subsidiary. The success of these acquisitions, coupled with a strong focus on customer satisfaction and innovation, has enabled Bapcor to increase its market share.

The past couple of years have been difficult for the company as it downgraded its profit a number of times and saw a CEO-elect walk away 2 days before he was meant to start. After making $2bn revenue and a $125.3m profit in FY23 and promising growth, it downgraded its guidance in October, January and May during FY24. It made a loss of $253.1m post-tax, although it made a pro-forma profit of $94.8m. Its revenue was $2bn, up 0.8% and EBITDA came in at $268.4m (down 10%).

Future Outlook of Bapcor (ASX: BAP)

In The future outlook for Bapcor appears positive. It finally found a CEO who actually started - in former 7/11 boss Angus McKay. McKay has told investors he joined the company due to the opportunity.

McKay boasted the company had a big opportunity with a growing car market by 2% per year up to CY28 as well as the average car age growing. This would lead to steady demand for aftermarket parts and servicing.

In 1H25, the company delivered $987.3m, up 0.3% and a pro-forma profit of $45.5m, down 15.2%. Revenues were boosted by the trade segment, but the retail and specialist wholesale segments were weaker, particularly in New Zealand. It gave no guidance for FY25 other than its $20-30m cost savings.

Is Bapcor (ASX: BAP) a Good Stock to Buy?

Bapcor may appear a 'buy the dip opportunity'. It seems the worst of the company's downgrades are over and that it has strategic growth opportunities.

However, Bapcor must navigate potential risks in the form of global supply chain disruptions, economic volatility, and changing consumer preferences.