FedEx Delivery Demands Rocket Profits Despite Pandemic

by Maureen Blas / Mar 19, 2021 06:28 AM EDT

FedEx confirmed on Thursday that its quarterly profit multiplied, exceeding the delivery company's expectations. During the holiday seasons, the volume of deliveries increased. It's because of the pandemic that restricts people from going out and buying gifts to give them personally to their loved ones.

Since last year, FedEx shares became more than two-fold. This happened when the federal government shut down businesses and disseminate stay-at-home orders. Shares sprang from 4% to $274 on Thursday in extended trading.

The average daily package volume of FedEx Ground climbed to 25% to 13.2 million during the quarter. Revenue per package, on the other hand, inflated 11% to $9.72. Walmart has been one of its leading e-commerce shipping associates.

"As manufacturers obtain approval to ship COVID-19 vaccines with greater temperature ranges and varying dosing allotments, we anticipate more of these packages moving to more places through our global network," FedEx Express CEO Don Colleran said in a March 1 statement.

The quarter, which ended on February 28, accumulated growth of 23% to $21.5 billion in revenue. It was jacked up by the half-billion holiday package deliveries together with the COVID-19 vaccines shipments.

FedEx escalated prices to secure profits due to the pandemic that overwhelmed high-margin shipments between businesses. It received tons of online deliveries, which include massive items such as bicycles and sofas.

The giant logistics company became a major constituent in America's COVID-19 vaccine distribution efforts, working together with rival UPS. CEO Fred Smith dubbed the endeavor as "the most significant responsibility in FedEx's history."

The giant delivery firm estimates a full-year assimilated profits per share of $17.60 to $18.20. This is supposing that the margin grows in all of its business divisions. It's a better outlook compared to Wall Street's average goal of $17.40. FedEx has gained more despite the harsh winter weather conditions in February.