Stock Analysis

Market Cool On Müller - Die lila Logistik SE's (ETR:MLL) Revenues

XTRA:MLL
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It's not a stretch to say that Müller - Die lila Logistik SE's (ETR:MLL) price-to-sales (or "P/S") ratio of 0.2x right now seems quite "middle-of-the-road" for companies in the Logistics industry in Germany, where the median P/S ratio is around 0.5x. Although, it's not wise to simply ignore the P/S without explanation as investors may be disregarding a distinct opportunity or a costly mistake.

See our latest analysis for Müller - Die lila Logistik

ps-multiple-vs-industry
XTRA:MLL Price to Sales Ratio vs Industry December 23rd 2023

How Has Müller - Die lila Logistik Performed Recently?

With revenue growth that's exceedingly strong of late, Müller - Die lila Logistik has been doing very well. Perhaps the market is expecting future revenue performance to taper off, which has kept the P/S from rising. If that doesn't eventuate, then existing shareholders have reason to be feeling optimistic about the future direction of the share price.

Want the full picture on earnings, revenue and cash flow for the company? Then our free report on Müller - Die lila Logistik will help you shine a light on its historical performance.

Do Revenue Forecasts Match The P/S Ratio?

The only time you'd be comfortable seeing a P/S like Müller - Die lila Logistik's is when the company's growth is tracking the industry closely.

Retrospectively, the last year delivered an exceptional 55% gain to the company's top line. The strong recent performance means it was also able to grow revenue by 62% in total over the last three years. Accordingly, shareholders would have definitely welcomed those medium-term rates of revenue growth.

In contrast to the company, the rest of the industry is expected to decline by 3.9% over the next year, which puts the company's recent medium-term positive growth rates in a good light for now.

With this in mind, we find it intriguing that Müller - Die lila Logistik's P/S matches its industry peers. Apparently some shareholders believe the recent performance is at its limits and have been accepting lower selling prices.

The Key Takeaway

Using the price-to-sales ratio alone to determine if you should sell your stock isn't sensible, however it can be a practical guide to the company's future prospects.

As mentioned previously, Müller - Die lila Logistik currently trades on a P/S on par with the wider industry, but this is lower than expected considering its recent three-year revenue growth is beating forecasts for a struggling industry. When we see a history of positive growth in a struggling industry, but only an average P/S, we assume potential risks are what might be placing pressure on the P/S ratio. Without the guidance of analysts, perhaps shareholders are feeling uncertain over whether the revenue performance can continue amidst a declining industry outlook. The fact that the company's relative performance has not provided a kick to the share price suggests that some investors are anticipating revenue instability.

Plus, you should also learn about these 2 warning signs we've spotted with Müller - Die lila Logistik.

Of course, profitable companies with a history of great earnings growth are generally safer bets. So you may wish to see this free collection of other companies that have reasonable P/E ratios and have grown earnings strongly.

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This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.