Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. (NYSE:ABG) is one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States, owning and operating 206 new vehicle franchises (157 dealership locations) representing 31 brands of automobiles and 37 collision centers across 15 states as of March 31, 2023. The company's diverse brand portfolio, which includes 29% luxury, 41% imports, and 30% domestic brands, has enabled it to navigate the evolving automotive landscape and deliver consistent financial performance.
Financials
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022, Asbury reported annual revenue of $14.80 billion, annual net income of $602.5 million, annual operating cash flow of $313.0 million, and annual free cash flow of $170.7 million. These robust financial results demonstrate the company's ability to generate sustainable growth and profitability across its diversified business segments.
In the first quarter of 2023, Asbury continued to build on its strong momentum, reporting revenue of $4.20 billion, a 17% increase compared to the prior year period. This top-line growth was driven by a 17% increase in new vehicle revenue, a 20% increase in used vehicle revenue, and a 15% increase in parts and service revenue. The company's finance and insurance (F&I) business also contributed to the strong quarterly performance, with a 10% increase in F&I revenue, net.
Asbury's gross profit for the first quarter of 2023 was $750.0 million, an 8% increase compared to the prior year period. The company's gross profit margin was 17.9%, reflecting the strength of its diversified business model and ability to navigate industry challenges. Asbury's parts and service business was a standout performer, with same-store gross profit growing 6% and gross profit margin expanding by 213 basis points to 56.9%.
Operational Performance
The company's operational excellence was also evident in its same-store performance. While new vehicle revenue decreased 1% and new vehicle unit volume remained flat, Asbury was able to maintain a strong new vehicle gross profit per unit of $3,988 and a new vehicle gross margin of 7.8%. In the used vehicle segment, same-store revenue decreased 2%, but the company was able to increase used vehicle retail unit volume on a sequential basis, demonstrating its ability to adapt to market conditions.
Asbury's finance and insurance business continued to be a key contributor to its overall profitability, with same-store F&I revenue, net decreasing 10% and F&I gross profit per vehicle retailed of $2,218. The company's TCA segment, which provides various vehicle protection products, generated $19.5 million of pre-tax income in the first quarter of 2023 and is expected to contribute between $30 million and $45 million on a pre-tax basis for the full year.
The company's strategic focus on operational efficiency was evident in its selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses, which were 62.5% of gross profit in the first quarter of 2023. Asbury expects its SG&A as a percentage of gross profit to be in the low 60s for the full year 2023, reflecting its ability to leverage its scale and cost structure.
Liquidity
Asbury's strong financial position is further bolstered by its liquidity, which stood at $712.3 million as of March 31, 2023, comprising cash and cash equivalents, available funds in its floor plan offset accounts, and availability under its revolving credit facility and used vehicle floor plan facility. The company's pro forma adjusted net leverage ratio was 2.6 times at the end of the first quarter, providing it with the financial flexibility to pursue strategic initiatives.
Capital Allocation
During the first quarter of 2023, Asbury repurchased 239,790 shares of its common stock for $50.0 million as part of its ongoing capital allocation strategy, which also includes evaluating acquisition and divestiture opportunities. The company's disciplined approach to capital allocation has enabled it to create value for its shareholders while maintaining a strong balance sheet.
Outlook
Looking ahead, Asbury expects to face some near-term headwinds, such as brand mix influencing new vehicle volumes and continued challenges in sourcing quality used vehicles. However, the company remains optimistic about its long-term growth prospects, driven by its diversified brand portfolio, focus on operational excellence, and commitment to delivering a best-in-class customer experience.
Conclusion
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. is a well-diversified automotive retail powerhouse that has consistently delivered strong financial and operational performance. The company's strategic initiatives, including its focus on parts and service, finance and insurance, and disciplined capital allocation, position it well to navigate the evolving automotive landscape and continue creating value for its shareholders.