Question · Q1 2026
Patrick Bowman sought clarification on December's ADS growth before Christmas compared to the overall 2.5% for the month. He also questioned the rationale behind the 3% combined January and February ADS growth expectation, how it compares to historical trends, and the confidence level given limited visibility. Additionally, he asked about the goals and expected impact of the upcoming supplier event on volume growth.
Answer
Greg Clark, VP Finance and Corporate Controller, MSC Industrial, estimated ADS growth before Christmas at roughly 4-5%. Ryan Mills, VP of Investor Relations and Business Development, MSC Industrial, explained that the 3% combined January and February ADS growth is slightly above the historical 2% for that period, factoring in a 50 basis point public sector benefit (partially offset by the supplier conference headwind) and confidence from mid-January price actions and continued core customer/national account acceleration. Martina McIsaac, President and CEO, MSC Industrial, stated that the supplier event, designed in collaboration with suppliers, aims to rebuild trust, strengthen relationships, and drive growth through detailed joint business planning and field engagement, expecting it to be a growth accelerator.
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