The Globe and Mail reports in its Wednesday edition that Mullen Group is a transportation company that should appeal to income investors. The Globe's guest columnist Gordon Pape writes that Mullen has an annual payout of 72 cents. It currently yields 4.6 per cent. Mr. Pape puts the risk level at "moderate." It has a market cap of $1.4-billion. Most people think of it as a trucking company, but Mullen also provides specialized services related to the energy, mining, forestry and construction industries in Western Canada. These include water management, fluid hauling and environmental reclamation.
Mullen has a decentralized business model, with a number of subsidiaries and limited partnerships. Mr. Pape says he likes the stock because it is cheap. Mullen has a history of regularly increasing its dividend in small increments. Mullen is actively repurchasing shares. During the first quarter, it bought almost 2.2 million shares for cancellation at a cost of $31.6-million. The average cost was $14.45 a share. The monthly payments are eligible for the dividend tax credit if the shares are held in a non-registered account. In conclusion, Mr. Pape says: "Good company, good yield, strong track record. What's not to like?"
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