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Atlanta, Georgia-based Genuine Parts Company (GPC) distributes automotive and industrial replacement parts. The company has a market cap of $18.7 billion and operates in three segments: North America Automotive Parts Group, International Automotive Parts Group, and Industrial Parts Group. It distributes automotive replacement parts, accessories, tools, equipment, and related solutions for hybrid and electric vehicles, trucks, buses, and more.
GPC stock has lagged behind the broader market over the past year, falling 2.4% compared to the S&P 500 Index’s ($SPX) 18.3% surge. Moreover, in 2026, the stock has risen nearly 10.5%, underperforming the SPX’s 11.8% rise.
Focusing on its industry benchmark, the State Street Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLY) has grown 1.6% over the past year, outpacing the stock. In 2026, XLY has fallen 1% and has underperformed the stock.
GPC has not been a winner in the eyes of investors and analysts due to its weaker-than-average fundamentals. The company’s sales grew at a sluggish 3.1% over the last three years, falling short of the sector average and indicating a declining market for its products. This sentiment is also supported by weak demand, showcased by stagnant same-store sales over the last couple of years. Additionally, GPC’s operating margin is far lower than the sector average, again pointing towards inefficiency.
For the current year, which ends in December, analysts expect GPC’s EPS to grow 4.9% to $7.73 on a diluted basis. The company has failed to surpass the consensus estimate in only one of the last four quarters, while missing on three other occasions.
However, among the 12 analysts covering GPC stock, the consensus is a “Moderate Buy.” That’s based on five “Strong Buy” ratings and seven “Holds.”
The configuration has grown more bullish as the stock now has five “Strong Buy” ratings, up from four recorded three months ago.
On Aug. 4, DA Davidson analyst Chris Dankert maintained a “Buy” rating for GPC stock and raised its price target from $150 to $170.
GPC’s mean price target of $141 indicates a premium of 3.5% from the current market price. Its Street-high target of $170 implies a robust 24.8% upside from current levels.
