Despite this miss, Janney believes that Neogen is positioned to continue its strong growth. An expanding international footprint, partnership with Illumina Inc. (NASDAQ: ILMN), passage of rules from the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), and robust demand for rodenticides represent multiple levers to continue driving top-line growth.
In the earnings report, management highlighted the emergence of e-commerce as a meaningful percentage of Food Safety revenue. Representing 10% of Food Safety revenue, up from zero two years ago, e-commerce is particularly appealing to end-users who have a routine order schedule and know exactly what products they need.
DNA Testing growth was lower than Janney estimated at about 12%; however, management noted the recently announced Illumina partnership has not impacted revenue and order lumpiness. The firm believes the partnership will drive penetration in international markets and lead to industry-plus growth. Furthermore, panel pricing has fallen considerably over the past few years and may be stabilizing.
During the quarter, Neogen made two acquisitions, Lab M Holdings and Sterling Test House, for a combined $13 million. While it will be a minor contributor to revenue in the area of $650,000, Sterling represents a launchpad for additional opportunities in India. Management highlighted China and India as two key drivers of future growth.
The firm maintained its fair value estimate of $57 and Neutral rating, implying an upside of 16.25% from current prices.
Shares of Neogen were down 9.5% at $49.03 on Monday afternoon. The stock has a consensus analyst price target of $55.00 and a 52-week trading range of $38.74 to $62.70.
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