Ingles Markets, Incorporated Class A (IMKTA)

In the past six months, Ingles Markets' stock has been impacted by several events, including Hurricane Helene, which severely affected the company, with rebuilding efforts for damaged stores still ongoing as of October 2025. Ingles Markets announced its Q3 2025 earnings on August 7, 2025, reporting an EPS of $1.38. The stock price saw fluctuations, trading at $68.55 per share as of December 31, 2025, an increase from $64.28 per share on January 2, 2025. The stock received an upgrade to a "Hold/Accumulate" candidate on January 12, 2026, following a buy signal from a pivot bottom point on December 31, 2025. Furthermore, Ingles Markets went ex-dividend on January 8, 2026, for a $0.165 dividend per share, with payment scheduled for January 15, 2026.

Demand seasonality for Ingles Markets' products and services is evident, particularly in its produce offerings. The company actively promotes "what's in season" and partners with local farms to provide seasonal items. As a grocery retailer, Ingles Markets likely experiences increased demand during major holidays and specific periods associated with fresh produce harvests.

Ingles Markets, Inc. operates as a supermarket chain in the southeastern United States, with a business model that includes real estate ownership and a dairy processing facility. The company is involved in the retail grocery sector, owning and operating neighborhood shopping centers, most of which house an Ingles supermarket. Milkco, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary, processes and packages fluid milk, bottled water, and juices, supplying both Ingles supermarkets and unaffiliated customers. Ingles supermarkets offer a wide array of products, including nationally advertised food and non-food items, private label items under brands like Laura Lynn and Harvest Farms, and organic and locally sourced items.

Ingles Markets operates approximately 198 to 212 supermarkets primarily in the Appalachian region of the Southeastern United States. Its geographic footprint spans six states: North Carolina (approximately 75 stores), Georgia (approximately 65 stores), South Carolina (approximately 35 stores), Tennessee (approximately 21 stores), Virginia (1 store), and Alabama (1 store). The stores are typically located in suburban areas, small towns, and neighborhood shopping centers. Additionally, the company operates around 111 to 115 in-store pharmacies and 107 to 108 fuel stations at select retail locations.

In the past year, specific events directly impacting Ingles Markets' brand reputation were not prominently reported in the search results. However, the company's reputation is generally associated with its focus on customer service, quality products, and community engagement. Forbes recognized Ingles Markets at #210 in its "Best Customer Service (2026)" list. The company also highlights its commitment to local farm producers and providing fresh, seasonal produce.

Ingles Markets, Inc. has a mixed ownership structure, with significant institutional and insider holdings. The Ingle Family maintains a substantial stake, owning 50% of the company. Institutional investors collectively hold a significant portion, with 422 institutions owning a total of 17,405,641 shares. Individual insiders own 27.8% of the shares, amounting to 5,271,751 shares, while the general public holds 0.159% (30,206 shares) and employee share schemes account for 0.394% (74,884 shares).