UPS Smashes EPS, Misses Revenue Target

United Parcel Service (NYSE:UPS), a leader in logistics and package delivery, released its fourth-quarter 2024 earnings on January 30, 2025.

The company reported a non-GAAP adjusted EPS of $2.75, surpassing the consensus estimate of $2.53, marking an 11.3% increase compared to the same period last year. However, UPS's revenue came in slightly below expectations at $25.3 billion, compared to the anticipated $25.41 billion, representing a modest 1.5% year-over-year increase.

Source: SEC filings. Analyst estimates for the quarter provided by FactSet. PP = percentage poiints.

Company Overview and Strategic Focus

UPS operates a vast logistics network providing package and freight transportation. It serves over 200 countries with advanced technological tools for efficiency and service quality. Maintaining a competitive edge in smart logistics is critical for UPS, as it enhances cost-effectiveness and improves customer satisfaction.

Recently, UPS has focused on technology integration and network efficiency, aiming for significant cost savings. This strategy underpins its enhanced profitability and aligns with its long-term vision of operational excellence. UPS continues to invest in technology-driven solutions and strategic improvements, particularly in complex healthcare logistics and e-commerce growth, to strengthen its market position.

Quarterly Highlights

During the quarter, UPS' U.S. Domestic Segment saw a rise in revenue to $17.31 billion, up 2.2% due to increased revenue per piece. The operating profit margin improved to 9.7%, indicating effective pricing strategies and efficient operations. Meanwhile, the International Segment experienced notable growth, with revenue increasing by 6.9% to reach $4.92 billion, backed by a significant 8.8% surge in average daily volume. This segment achieved a higher operating margin of 20.7%.

In contrast, the Supply Chain Solutions Segment saw revenue drop by 9.1% to $3.07 billion due to the sale of Coyote Logistics. Despite this, operating profit improved, highlighting operational efficiencies. UPS' recent network reconfiguration is set to deliver $1 billion in savings, enhancing its long-term efficiency goals. Strategic tariff adjustments further support this favorable trend.

Significant expenses related to labor and transformation were reported in the company's GAAP metrics. These include the "Efficiency Reimagined" initiative focusing on cost control and system upgrades. Such initiatives form part of a broader effort to transform infrastructure amidst labor and pension challenges. Despite these costs, adjusted metrics reflect the company's robust profitability trajectory.

Looking Ahead

UPS' management forecasts revenue of around $89 billion for fiscal year 2025, with an anticipated operating margin of approximately 10.8%. The company plans significant investments amounting to $3.5 billion, ensuring sustained development in key areas such as technology and operational capacity.

Moreover, UPS intends to return $5.5 billion to its shareholders to enhance investor value. Future quarters will see a continued focus on technological innovation and operational realignment, bolstering profitability and agility. Investors will want to watch for changes in market conditions and competitive pressures as the company navigates these dynamics.

Where to invest $1,000 right now

When our analyst team has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, Stock Advisor’s total average return is 908% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 176% for the S&P 500.*

They just revealed what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy right now…

Learn more »

*Stock Advisor returns as of January 27, 2025

JesterAI is a Foolish AI, based on a variety of Large Language Models (LLMs) and proprietary Motley Fool systems. All articles published by JesterAI are reviewed by our editorial team, and The Motley Fool takes ultimate responsibility for the content of this article. JesterAI cannot own stocks and so it has no positions in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends United Parcel Service. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.