O’Reilly Automotive reported record third quarter 2026 results, exceeding analyst expectations on both the top and bottom lines. Growth was primarily fueled by a 7.2% increase in comparable store sales, reflecting significant market share gains in the professional service provider segment and resilient DIY demand. The company also benefited from a $39 million non-recurring tariff refund and aggressive share repurchases totaling $1.03 billion during the quarter.
Key Highlights
- Comparable store sales growth reached 7.2% in the quarter, significantly exceeding the 4.4% analyst estimate and resulting in a two-year stack of 12.8%.
- Professional (DIFM) segment performance was a primary driver with double-digit growth, while the DIY segment maintained mid-single-digit expansion.
- Management raised full-year 2026 guidance, now projecting comparable sales growth of 5.5% to 6.5% and diluted EPS between $3.25 and $3.35.
- Operating margin expanded to 21.4% from 20.7% year-over-year, supported by the timing of $39 million in tariff refunds.