ANNUAL REPORT · FORM 10-K 

Ferguson Enterprises Inc. /de,
Fiscal Year 2025.

Aggressive inorganic growth is successfully driving top-line revenue increases within North America's construction sector, allowing major distributors to leverage market scale through rapid acquisitions. However, this expansion is currently being tempered by operational headwinds, as operating profit declined despite strong gross margin performance. This dynamic underscores a critical tension between the pursuit of aggressive market capture and managing deep exposure to commodity price volatility and massive non-recurring restructuring expenses.

Accession 0002011641-25-000027 8 sections analysed
  SYMBOLOGY.ONLINE l2 SYNTHESIS 

FERG · Form 10-K Synthesis

Growth Driven by Acquisitions Amid Profitability Headwinds

Ferguson Enterprises is executing a strategy of aggressive inorganic growth and operational refinement within North America’s $340 billion construction market, successfully driving top-line revenue increases. However, despite achieving strong gross margin performance through strategic pricing actions, operating profit declined due to significant non-recurring restructuring expenses. The company's future trajectory hinges on its ability to integrate acquired entities while managing deep exposure to commodity price volatility and macroeconomic cycles.

Strategic Posture and Operational Strength

Ferguson operates as a large value-added distributor, balancing revenue equally between residential (RMI) and non-residential construction markets. Its competitive advantage lies in scale—leveraging a massive network of over 1,746 US branches—and offering comprehensive services beyond simple distribution, including fabrication, pre-assembly, and project management.

Growth and Market Focus

  • Growth Engine: Acquisitions are central to the company's strategy, with recent periods showing increasing M&A activity (e.g., 9 acquisitions in FY2025). Management plans substantial capital allocation toward this growth, committing hundreds of millions to new distribution centers and network expansion.
  • Market Dominance: Ferguson is positioned as a top distributor in most end markets it serves, benefiting from synergies that help lower operating costs. The US segment remains dominant, accounting for 95% of total net sales.

Financial Performance Snapshot

The company demonstrated strong revenue generation while managing cost pressures:

  • Revenue Growth: Net sales increased by 3.8%, primarily driven by higher sales volume and incremental sales from acquisitions.
  • Margin Execution: Gross profit rose by 4.2%, attributed to specific management actions designed to capture customer value and effectively pass on supplier price increases.
  • Profit Pressure: Despite gross margin improvement, operating profit decreased by 1.7%. Management attributes this decline largely to $80 million in non-recurring restructuring expenses and operational factors such as one less sales day.

Key Risks and Mitigation Strategies

The filing highlights a complex risk profile where global market forces interact with highly specific supply chain dependencies. The most material risks relate to commodity prices, macroeconomic instability, and the integration of its rapid growth strategy.

Commodity Price Volatility

This is identified as a primary operational vulnerability, given that up to 15% of US net sales involve products made from volatile commodities (plastic, copper, steel). If global price increases cannot be fully passed onto customers, profit margins will erode. Management mitigates this risk through strategic measures, including maintaining alternative sourcing plans and actively passing inflation costs between customers and suppliers.

Macroeconomic and Supply Chain Vulnerability

  • Economic Dependence: Financial performance is highly sensitive to general economic conditions, interest rate fluctuations, and the health of residential/non-residential markets. Geopolitical instability and tariffs pose a direct threat to competitiveness.
  • Supply Chain Risk: The reliance on approximately 37,000 domestic and international suppliers presents vulnerability to supplier financial instability or disruptions in product movement. Furthermore, there is an inherent competitive risk that some key suppliers may vertically integrate and sell directly to end-users.

Strategic Execution Risks

While M&A drives growth, the company faces significant integration risks related to culture incompatibility, unknown liabilities from acquired businesses, and execution failure. The company also manages high-level technological threats (ransomware, APTs), which are mitigated through formalized governance, including ISO 27001:2022 standards and a dedicated Security Operations Center (SOC).

Governance and Financial Integrity

The company maintains a robust operational control environment. Management concluded that both its disclosure controls and internal controls over financial reporting (ICFR) were effective as of July 31, 2025. This conclusion was affirmed by an external audit providing an unqualified opinion, indicating high stability in the company's financial reporting processes with no reported material weaknesses.

  • Risk Management Framework: The Board oversees Enterprise Risk Management (ERM), ensuring that risks—including foreign currency and interest rate exposure—are monitored at a strategic level.
  • Financial Hedging: While the company uses specific instruments like interest rate swaps to hedge certain debt exposures, its reliance on formal hedging for foreign currency risk is noted as limited in current disclosures.
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What's changed since the last filing.

In the Risk Factors:

escalated

The disclosure significantly expands by adding detailed risks concerning general market price volatility, including potential stock declines related to internal control deficiencies and exposure to securities class action litigation. Furthermore, the share repurchase program update reflects that $4.0 billion has been completed of a total $5.0 billion program as of July 31, 2025.
§1A.14 Open

In the Risk Factors:

de-emphasised

The risk disclosure was expanded to include vendors alongside customers as parties affected by economic weakness and added a new paragraph detailing how conditions could affect key suppliers, potentially causing delivery delays or increased costs. Furthermore, the list of risks was updated to specifically mention trade restrictions such as tariffs, sanctions, and retaliatory countermeasures, and the net sales fiscal year reference was changed from 2024 to 2025.
§1A.1 Open

In the Risk Factors:

reworded

The initial supply chain risk disclosure was strengthened to specifically include "the loss of key suppliers," and a new section was added detailing that supplier agreements are generally terminable on limited notice, which could negatively impact margins or customer relationships. Furthermore, the list of factors causing serious disruption in the supply chain was updated to include foreign competition.
§1A.9 Open

In the Business Description:

de-emphasised

The detailed narrative describing the 2024 corporate merger, including specific dates and legal entity transitions, was replaced with a concise statement confirming that Ferguson Enterprises Inc. became the ultimate parent company for the business in August 2024.
§1.0 Open

In the Risk Factors:

reworded

The disclosure significantly expanded the scope of relied-upon IT systems to include associate data, demand forecasting, supply chain management, and payment processing; furthermore, a new risk category was introduced detailing substantial investment requirements for replacing or maintaining legacy systems and associated risks like implementation delays and cost overruns. In the payment section, the company added that it may pass along portions of interchange fees to customers, noting that disputes over these fees could lead to decisions not to accept select forms of payment.
§1A.10 Open

In the Risk Factors:

escalated

The company significantly expanded its health and safety risk disclosure by specifically detailing exposure risks related to operating a large fleet of trucks and noting that injuries could harm reputation; additionally, the typical initial lease term was reduced from around 5 to 10 years to around 3 to 10 years.
§1A.11 Open
  FILING HISTORY 

View specific filings

FY2024
FY2025
FY2026
FY2024
FY2025
FY2026
  DOCUMENTS 

8 filing documents, in order.

§1
Directors & Officers
§2
Executive Compensation
§3
Market Risk
§4
Legal Proceedings
§5
Controls & Procedures
§6
Management Discussion
§7
Risk Factors
§8
Business Description
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Side-by-side against the prior Management Discussion.

Management Discussion

18 changes
escalated Income tax expense Income tax expense decreased by $162 million to $567 million, while the effective tax rate declined from 29.6% to 23.4%. This decrease was primarily driven by the release of uncertain tax positions following the lapse of statute of limitations in fiscal 2025, as well as a non-recurring deferred tax charge of $137 million incurred in the prior year related to establishing a new corporate structure.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Income tax expense Income tax expense was $729 million for fiscal 2024, an increase of $154 million compared with fiscal 2023. The Company's effective tax rate was 29.6% for fiscal 2024 compared with 23.3% for fiscal 2023. The increase in income tax expense and the increase in the effective tax rate were primarily driven by one-time, non-cash deferred tax charges of $137 million due to the elimination of certain pre-existing U.K. tax attributes of the Company as part of the Merger.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Income tax expense Income tax expense was $567 million for fiscal 2025, a decrease of $162 million compared with fiscal 2024. The Company's effective tax rate was 23.4% for fiscal 2025 compared with 29.6% for fiscal 2024. The decrease in income tax expense and the decrease in the effective tax rate were primarily driven by non-recurring, non-cash deferred tax charges of $137 million incurred in the prior fiscal year due to the elimination of certain pre-existing U.K. tax attributes of the Company in connection with establishing a new corporate structure to domicile our ultimate parent company in the United States, as well as the release of uncertain tax positions following the lapse of statute of limitations in fiscal 2025.

de-emphasised Segment results of operations for fiscal 2025 and fiscal 2024 The detailed definition of adjusted operating profit, which previously specified exclusions such as restructuring costs, net interest expenses, and gains/losses on disposal of businesses, has been removed in the current period. The reporting timeframe was also updated to fiscal 2025 and 2024.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Segment results of operations for fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2023 The Company's reportable segments are the United States and Canada based on how the Company manages its business and allocates resources, which is on a geographical basis. The Company's measure of segment profit is adjusted operating profit which is defined as profit before tax, excluding central and other costs, restructuring costs, amortization of acquired intangible assets, net interest expenses, as well as other items typically recorded in net other (expense) income such as (loss)/gain on disposal of businesses, pension plan changes/closure costs and amounts recorded in connection with the Company's interests in investees. For further segment information, see Note 2, Revenue and segment information of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Segment results of operations for fiscal 2025 and fiscal 2024 The Company's reportable segments are the United States and Canada based on how the Company manages its business and allocates resources, which is on a geographical basis. The Company's measure of segment profit is adjusted operating profit. For further segment information, see Note 2, Segment and net sales information of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

de-emphasised Private Placement Notes Short-term debt increased significantly from $150 million to $400 million, raising total debt to $4,152 million. Furthermore, the Private Placement Notes disclosure shifted from detailing specific repayment schedules and future maturities to stating that $700 million in such notes were outstanding as of July 31, 2025.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

(In millions)20242023 Short-term debt$150$55 Long-term debt3,7743,711 Total debt$3,924$3,766 Private Placement Notes In June 2015 and November 2017, Wolseley Capital, Inc. ("Wolseley Capital"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, privately placed fixed rate notes in an aggregate principal amount of $800 million and $355 million, respectively (collectively, the "Private Placement Notes"). In September 2022 and November 2023, the Company repaid $250 million and $55 million, respectively, due to the maturing of certain Private Placement Notes. In November 2024, an additional $150 million of such notes will mature.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

(In millions)20252024 Short-term debt$400$150 Long-term debt3,7523,774 Total debt$4,152$3,924 Private Placement Notes In June 2015 and November 2017, Wolseley Capital, Inc. ("Wolseley Capital"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, privately placed fixed rate notes in an aggregate principal amount of $800 million and $355 million, respectively (collectively, the "Private Placement Notes"). As of July 31, 2025, $700 million in Private Placement Notes were outstanding.

de-emphasised Receivables Securitization Facility The aggregate total available amount of the Receivables Securitization Facility decreased from $1.1 billion to $915 million; additionally, details regarding the benchmark rate and credit spread adjustment were omitted in the current filing.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

As of July 31, 2024, no borrowings were outstanding under the Revolving Facility. Receivables Securitization Facility The Company maintains a Receivables Securitization Facility (as amended from time to time, the "Receivables Facility") with an aggregate total available amount of $1.1 billion, including a swingline for up to $100 million in same day funding. The Company has the ability to increase the aggregate total available amount under the Receivables Facility up to a total of $1.5 billion from time to time, subject to lender participation. The benchmark rate is Term SOFR (as defined in the Receivables Facility) plus a credit spread adjustment of 10 basis points.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

As of July 31, 2025, no borrowings were outstanding under the Revolving Facility. 37 Receivables Securitization Facility The Company maintains a Receivables Securitization Facility with an aggregate total available amount of $915 million (as amended from time to time, the "Receivables Facility"). The Company has the ability to increase the aggregate total available amount under the Receivables Facility up to a total of $1.5 billion from time to time, subject to lender participation.

reworded Item 7.Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations The discussion's primary focus shifted from fiscal 2024 compared to fiscal 2023 to fiscal 2025 compared to fiscal 2024. Furthermore, the reference to the prior period's report was generalized from a specific Form 10-K filing date and company name to "our fiscal 2024 Annual Report."

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Item 7.Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations Management's discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations ("MD&A") is intended to convey management's perspective regarding the Company's operational and financial performance and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes contained in this Annual Report. The discussion in this Annual Report generally focuses on fiscal 2024 compared to fiscal 2023. A discussion of our results of operations and changes in financial condition for fiscal 2023 compared to fiscal 2022 has been excluded from this report, but can be found in Part II, Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of Operations of the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed by Ferguson plc with the SEC on September 26, 2023 for fiscal 2023. The following discussion contains trend information and forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those discussed in these forward-looking statements, as well as from our historical performance, due to various factors, including, but not limited to, those discussed in the "Risk Factors" and "Forward-Looking Statements and Risk Factor Summary" sections and elsewhere in this Annual Report.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Item 7.Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations Management's discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations ("MD&A") is intended to convey management's perspective regarding the Company's operational and financial performance and should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes contained in this Annual Report. The discussion in this Annual Report generally focuses on fiscal 2025 compared to fiscal 2024. A discussion of our results of operations and changes in financial condition for fiscal 2024 compared to fiscal 2023 has been excluded from this report, but can be found in Part II, Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of Operations of our fiscal 2024 Annual Report. The following discussion contains trend information and forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those discussed in these forward-looking statements, as well as from our historical performance, due to various factors, including, but not limited to, those discussed in the "Risk Factors" and "Forward-Looking Statements and Risk Factor Summary" sections and elsewhere in this Annual Report.

reworded Overview

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Overview Ferguson is a value-added distributor serving the specialized professional in the residential and non-residential North American construction market. We help make our customers' complex projects simple, successful and sustainable by providing expertise and a wide range of products and services from plumbing, HVAC, appliances, and lighting to PVF, water and wastewater solutions, and more. Ferguson is headquartered and managed in Newport News, Virginia with its operations and associates solely focused on North America.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Overview Ferguson is a value-added distributor serving the water and air specialized professional in the residential and non-residential North American construction market. We help make our customers' complex projects simple, successful and sustainable by providing expertise and a wide range of products and services from plumbing, HVAC, appliances, and lighting to PVF, water and wastewater solutions, and more. Ferguson is headquartered in Newport News, Virginia.

reworded Selling, general and administrative expenses ("SG&A")

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Selling, general and administrative expenses ("SG&A") SG&A expenses in fiscal 2024 increased $146 million, or 2.5%, compared with fiscal 2023. SG&A as a percentage of sales was 20.5% and 19.9% in fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2023, respectively. The increase in SG&A as a percent of sales primarily reflects the impact of wage and infrastructure cost inflation, corporate restructuring costs and the impact of acquisitions.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Selling, general and administrative expenses ("SG&A") SG&A expenses in fiscal 2025 increased $338 million, or 5.6%, compared with fiscal 2024. SG&A as a percentage of sales was 20.7% and 20.4% in fiscal 2025 and fiscal 2024, respectively. The increase in SG&A as a percent of sales primarily reflects higher performance based incentive compensation and the impact of cost inflation on labor, infrastructure and fleet.

reworded Net interest expense

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Net interest expense Net interest expense was $179 million in fiscal 2024 compared with $184 million in fiscal 2023. The decrease in net interest expense was primarily due to lower average borrowings in fiscal 2024. 32

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Net interest expense Net interest expense was $190 million in fiscal 2025 compared with $179 million in fiscal 2024. The increase in interest expense was due to higher average borrowings in fiscal 2025 compared with the prior year.

reworded Net income

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Net income Net income for fiscal 2024 was $1.7 billion, a decrease of $154 million, or 8.2%, compared with fiscal 2023 due to the elements described in the sections above.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Net income Net income for fiscal 2025 was $1.9 billion, an increase of $121 million, or 7.0%, compared with fiscal 2024 due to the elements described in the sections above.

reworded 66 60 Net sales for the Canada segment increased by 3.7% in fiscal 2025, reversing a prior year decline of 0.2%, driven primarily by incremental sales from acquisitions and higher price inflation. Concurrently, adjusted operating profit reversed its trend from decreasing to increasing due to higher sales and gross profit.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Canada For the years ended July 31, (In millions)20242023 Net sales$1,440 $1,443 Adjusted operating profit 60 76 Net sales for the Canada segment were $1,440 million in fiscal 2024, a decrease of $3 million, or 0.2%, compared with the prior year. This decrease in net sales was primarily due to lower sales volumes, as well as a 1.3% unfavorable impact from foreign currency exchange rates. These impacts were partially offset by incremental sales from acquisitions of 2.7%, price inflation of approximately 1% and the benefit of one additional sales day of 0.5%. Adjusted operating profit for the Canada segment decreased compared with the prior year, primarily due to higher operating costs compared with the same period of prior year. 33

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Canada For the years ended July 31, (In millions)20252024 Net sales$1,493 $1,440 Adjusted operating profit 66 60 Net sales for the Canada segment were $1,493 million in fiscal 2025, an increase of $53 million, or 3.7%, compared with the prior year. This increase in net sales was primarily due to incremental sales from acquisitions of 4.7% and price inflation of approximately 2%, partially offset by the impacts of foreign currency exchange rates of 2.3%, one fewer sales day in the fiscal year of 0.5% and slightly lower sales volume. Adjusted operating profit for the Canada segment increased compared with the prior year, primarily due to higher sales and gross profit, partially offset by higher operating costs compared with the same period of prior year. 33

reworded Net sales$30,762$29,635

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

The following table presents highlights of our annual performance: For the years ended July 31, (In millions, except per share amounts)20242023 Net sales$29,635$29,734

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

The following table presents highlights of our annual performance: For the years ended July 31, (In millions, except per share amounts)20252024 Net sales$30,762$29,635

reworded 7 0.03 28 0.14

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

(In millions, except per share amounts)20242023 per share(1) per share(1) Net income$1,735 $8.53 $1,889 $9.12 Corporate restructurings(2) 28 0.14 - -

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

(In millions, except per share amounts)20252024 per share(1) per share(1) Net income$1,856 $9.32 $1,735 $8.53 Corporate restructurings(2) 7 0.03 28 0.14

reworded Supplemental non-GAAP financial measures:(1)

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Operating profit2,6522,659 Net income1,7351,889 Earnings per share - diluted8.539.12 Net cash provided by operating activities1,8732,723 Supplemental non-GAAP financial measures:(1)

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Operating profit2,6062,652 Net income1,8561,735 Earnings per share - diluted9.328.53 Net cash provided by operating activities1,9081,873 Supplemental non-GAAP financial measures:(1)

reworded Net cash used in investing activities decreased 9.7% to $0.5 billion in fiscal 2025.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Cash flows from investing activities As of July 31, (In millions)20242023 Net cash used in investing activities($601)($1,054) Net cash used in investing activities was $0.6 billion in fiscal 2024 compared with $1.1 billion in fiscal 2023. Capital expenditure totaled $372 million and $441 million in fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2023, respectively. These investments were primarily for strategic projects to support future growth, such as new market distribution centers, our branch network and new technology. In addition, the Company invested $260 million and $616 million in new acquisitions in fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2023, respectively.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Cash flows from investing activities As of July 31, (In millions)20252024 Net cash used in investing activities($543)($601) Net cash used in investing activities decreased 9.7% to $0.5 billion in fiscal 2025. Capital expenditure totaled $305 million and $372 million in fiscal 2025 and fiscal 2024, respectively. These investments were primarily for strategic projects to support future growth, such as new market distribution centers, our branch network and new technology. In addition, the Company invested $301 million and $260 million in new acquisitions in fiscal 2025 and fiscal 2024, respectively.

reworded Inventories

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Inventories Inventory reserves are recorded against slow‐moving, obsolete and damaged inventories for which the net realizable value is estimated to be less than the cost. The reserve is estimated based on the Company's current knowledge and judgment with respect to inventory levels, sales trends and historical experience.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Inventories Inventory reserves are recorded against slow‐moving, obsolete and damaged inventories for which the net realizable value is estimated to be less than the cost. The reserve is estimated based on the Company's current knowledge and judgment with respect to inventory levels, sales trends and historical experience. 39

reworded Discount rate, benefit obligation5.80%5.00%5.05%

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Rate assumption:202420232022 Discount rate, benefit obligation5.00%5.05%3.45% The sensitivity analyses below show the (increase)/decrease in the Company's defined benefit plan net asset/liability of reasonably possible changes of the respective assumptions occurring at the end of the reporting period, while holding all other assumptions constant.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Rate assumption:202520242023 Discount rate, benefit obligation5.80%5.00%5.05% The sensitivity analyses below show the (increase)/decrease in the Company's defined benefit plan net asset/liability due to reasonably possible changes of the respective assumptions occurring at the end of the reporting period, while holding all other assumptions constant.

reworded Refer to Note 1, Summary of significant accounting policies to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of new accounting pronouncements.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Life expectancy+1 year54 Accounting developments and changes Refer to Note 1, Summary of significant accounting policies to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of new accounting pronouncements. 39

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Life expectancy+1 year41 Accounting developments and changes Refer to Note 1, Summary of significant accounting policies to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of new accounting pronouncements. 40

reworded Foreign currency exchange rates risk

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Foreign currency exchange rates risk We are exposed to risks from foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations on the translation of our foreign operations into U.S. dollars and on the purchase of goods and services by these foreign operations that are not denominated in their local currencies. Our foreign currency related hedging arrangements outstanding at the end of fiscal 2024 and 2023 were not material. A hypothetical 10% change in the relative value of the U.S. dollar would not materially impact the Company's net earnings for 2024.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Foreign currency exchange rates risk We are exposed to risks from foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations on the translation of our foreign operations into U.S. dollars and on the purchase of goods and services by these foreign operations that are not denominated in their local currencies. Our foreign currency related hedging arrangements outstanding at the end of fiscal 2025 and 2024 were not material. A hypothetical 10% change in the relative value of the U.S. dollar would not materially impact the Company's net income for fiscal 2025.

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Side-by-side against the prior Risk Factors.

Risk Factors

15 changes
escalated People, products and facilities The company significantly expanded its health and safety risk disclosure by specifically detailing exposure risks related to operating a large fleet of trucks and noting that injuries could harm reputation; additionally, the typical initial lease term was reduced from around 5 to 10 years to around 3 to 10 years.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Although we maintain insurance we believe to be sufficient to cover estimated health and safety risks including product liability, health and safety in our operations, vehicle and driver related claims and other types of claims in various jurisdictions, there can be no assurance that such insurance will provide adequate coverage against potential claims. If we do not have adequate contractual indemnification or insurance available, such claims could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We occupy most of our facilities under non-cancelable leases with terms of 10 years or less. We may be unable to renew leases on favorable terms or at all. Also, when we close a facility, we may remain obligated under the applicable lease. Most of our branches are located in leased premises. Many of our current leases are non-cancelable and typically have initial terms of around 5 to 10 years, with options to renew for specified periods of time. There can be no assurance that we will be able to renew our current or future leases on favorable terms or at all which could have an adverse effect on our ability to operate our business and on our results of operations. In addition, we make decisions to close certain facilities from time to time. When we close or cease to use a facility, we generally remain committed to perform our obligations under the applicable lease, which include, among other things, payment of the base rent for the balance of the lease term. We have risks related to the management and protection of our facilities and inventory, including risks of personal injury to customers, suppliers or associates. We have office, showroom, counter, warehouse and distribution facilities located in all regions in which we operate which may be at risk for criminal acts that could impact our operations, financial performance or reputation. No security or audit program is 100% effective. There is a risk that our security programs will not prevent the occurrences of break-ins, theft, property damage, and workplace violence, including violent criminal acts such as interpersonal violence or an active shooter or mass casualty/damage event. Moreover, such programs may not be implemented as intended. In the current climate of global and regional political uncertainty and social unrest, a security breach could result in significant facility damage or loss, loss of inventory or personal injury to customers, suppliers or associates. There is a risk that inventory controls and facility security will fail, resulting in inventory shrinkage or loss due to inadequate inventory tracking or misconduct of associates, customers, vendors or other third parties. Moreover, our inventory is located across our distribution facilities and branches, and the disaggregated nature of our inventory could result in a failure to accurately record the existence and condition of our inventory. Any such security incidents, inventory loss or failure to maintain accurate records related to our inventory could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or reputation. 19

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

The nature of our operations can expose our associates, contractors, customers, suppliers and other individuals to health and safety risks, which can lead to loss of life or severe injuries or illness. Additionally, we operate a large fleet of trucks and other vehicles and therefore face the risk of traffic accidents and other fleet incidents involving the motoring public. Any injuries, illness or loss of life could harm our reputation and reduce customer demand and expose us to the potential for litigation from third parties. The outcome of any personal injury, wrongful death or other litigation is difficult to assess or quantify and the cost to defend litigation could be significant. Although we maintain insurance that we believe to be sufficient to cover estimated health and safety risks including product liability, health and safety in our operations, vehicle and driver related claims and other types of claims in various jurisdictions, there can be no assurance that such insurance will provide adequate coverage against potential claims. If we do not have adequate contractual indemnification or insurance available, such claims could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We occupy most of our facilities under non-cancelable leases with terms of 10 years or less. We may be unable to renew leases on favorable terms or at all. Also, when we close a facility, we may remain obligated under the applicable lease. Most of our branches are located in leased premises. Many of our current leases are non-cancelable and typically have initial terms of around 3 to 10 years, with options to renew for specified periods of time. There can be no assurance that we will be able to renew our current or future leases on favorable terms or at all which could have an adverse effect on our ability to operate our business and on our results of operations. In addition, we make decisions to close certain facilities from time to time. When we close or cease to use a facility, we generally remain committed to perform our obligations under the applicable lease, which include, among other things, payment of the base rent for the balance of the lease term. We have risks related to the management and protection of our facilities and inventory, including risks of personal injury to customers, suppliers or associates. We have office, showroom, counter, warehouse and distribution facilities located in all regions in which we operate which may be at risk for criminal acts that could impact our operations, financial performance or reputation. There is a risk that our security programs will not prevent the occurrences of break-ins, theft, property damage, and workplace violence, including violent criminal acts such as interpersonal violence or an active shooter or mass casualty/damage event. Moreover, such programs may not be implemented as intended. In the current climate of global and regional political uncertainty and social unrest, a security breach could result in significant facility damage or loss, loss of inventory or personal injury to customers, suppliers or associates. There is a risk that inventory controls and facility security will fail, resulting in inventory shrinkage or loss due to inadequate inventory tracking or misconduct of associates, customers, vendors or other third parties. Moreover, our inventory is located across our distribution facilities and branches, and the disaggregated nature of our inventory could result in a failure to accurately record the existence and condition of our inventory. Any such security incidents, inventory loss or failure to maintain accurate records related to our inventory could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or reputation.

escalated Our ability to pay dividends or effect other returns of capital in the future depends, among other things, on our financial performance. The disclosure significantly expands by adding detailed risks concerning general market price volatility, including potential stock declines related to internal control deficiencies and exposure to securities class action litigation. Furthermore, the share repurchase program update reflects that $4.0 billion has been completed of a total $5.0 billion program as of July 31, 2025.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Our ability to pay dividends or effect other returns of capital in the future depends, among other things, on our financial performance. There can be no guarantee that our historical performance will be repeated in the future, particularly given the competitive nature of the industry in which we operate, and our net sales, net income and cash flow may significantly underperform market expectations. If our cash flow underperforms market expectations, then our capacity to pay a dividend or effect other returns of capital (including, without limitation, share repurchases) may be negatively impacted. Any decision to declare and pay dividends or to effect other returns of capital will be made at the discretion of the Board and will depend on, among other things, Delaware corporate law, restrictions, if any, on the payment of dividends and/or capital returns in our financing arrangements, our financial position, retained earnings/net income, working capital requirements, interest expense, general economic conditions and other factors that the Board deems appropriate from time to time. We cannot guarantee that our share repurchase program will be fully consummated or that our share repurchase program will enhance long-term shareholder value, and share repurchases could increase the volatility of the price of our common stock and could diminish our liquidity. As of July 31, 2024, Ferguson had completed approximately $3.1 billion of its previously announced $4.0 billion share repurchase program with approximately $0.9 billion remaining under its share repurchase program. The timing and actual number of shares of common stock to be repurchased will depend on a variety of factors including cash availability and other market conditions. The share repurchase program could affect the price of our shares and increase volatility and we may suspend or terminate the share repurchase program at any time, which may result in a decrease in the trading price of our shares. The existence of a share repurchase program could also cause the price of our shares of common stock to be higher than it would be in the absence of such a program and could potentially reduce the market liquidity for our shares of common stock. Additionally, repurchases under our share repurchase program could diminish our liquidity. The Company is a holding company with no business operations of its own and depends on its subsidiaries for cash, including in order to pay dividends. The Company is a holding company with no independent operations and is dependent on its operating subsidiaries to generate cash, including in order to pay dividends to its shareholders. The Company's ability to pay dividends to its shareholders therefore depends on the ability of its subsidiaries to service intercompany loans, distribute profits and/or pay dividends, general economic conditions and other factors that the Board deems significant from time to time. The Company's distributable reserves can be affected by reductions in profitability, impairment of assets and severe market turbulence.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Ownership of shares of our common stock Our ability to pay dividends or effect other returns of capital in the future depends, among other things, on our financial performance. There can be no guarantee that our historical performance will be repeated in the future, particularly given the competitive nature of the industry in which we operate, and our net sales, net income and cash flow may significantly underperform market expectations. If our cash flow underperforms market expectations, then our ability to pay a dividend or effect other returns of capital (including, without limitation, share repurchases) may be negatively impacted. Any decision to declare and pay dividends or to effect other returns of capital will be made at the discretion of the Board of Directors of the Company (the "Board") and will depend on, among other things, Delaware corporate law, restrictions, if any, on the payment of dividends and/or capital returns in our financing arrangements, our financial position, retained earnings/net income, working capital requirements, interest expense, general economic conditions and other factors that the Board deems appropriate from time to time. 22 We cannot guarantee that our share repurchase program will be fully consummated or that our share repurchase program will enhance long-term shareholder value, and share repurchases could increase the volatility of the price of our common stock and could diminish our liquidity. As of July 31, 2025, Ferguson had completed approximately $4.0 billion of its previously announced $5.0 billion share repurchase program with approximately $1 billion remaining under its share repurchase program. The timing and actual number of shares of common stock to be repurchased will depend on a variety of factors including cash availability and other market conditions. The share repurchase program could affect the price of our shares and increase volatility and we may suspend or terminate the share repurchase program at any time, which may result in a decrease in the trading price of our shares. The existence of a share repurchase program could also cause the price of our shares of common stock to be higher than it would be in the absence of such a program and could potentially reduce the market liquidity for our shares of common stock. Additionally, repurchases under our share repurchase program could diminish our liquidity. The Company is a holding company with no business operations of its own and depends on its subsidiaries for cash, including in order to pay dividends. The Company is a holding company with no independent operations and is dependent on its operating subsidiaries to generate cash, including in order to pay dividends to its shareholders. The Company's ability to pay dividends to its shareholders therefore depends on the ability of its subsidiaries to service intercompany loans, distribute profits and/or pay dividends, general economic conditions and other factors that the Board deems significant from time to time. The Company's distributable reserves can be affected by reductions in profitability, impairment of assets and severe market turbulence. The price of our common stock may be subject to market price volatility and its market price may decline disproportionately in response to developments that are unrelated to our operating performance. The market price of our shares has been and may in the future be volatile and subject to wide fluctuations. The market price of our common stock may fluctuate as a result of a variety of factors including, but not limited to, general global and regional economic and political conditions, changes in, or announcements regarding proposed changes in, trade policy, period to period variations in our results of operations, changes in net sales or net income estimates by us, industry participants or financial analysts, our failure to meet our stated guidance, our failure to comply with the rules under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act related to accounting controls and procedures, changes in our capital allocation policy, the discovery of material weaknesses and other deficiencies in our internal control and accounting procedures, and the other factors discussed in this Item 1A. If we are unable to assert that our internal control over financial reporting is effective, or if our independent registered public accounting firm is unable to express an opinion as to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, when required, investor confidence in us may be adversely affected and, as a result, the value of our common stock may decline. In addition, the market price of our common stock could also be adversely affected by developments unrelated to our operating performance, such as the operating and share price performance of other companies that investors may consider comparable to us, speculation about us in the press or the investment community, unfavorable press, strategic actions by competitors (including acquisitions and restructurings), changes in market conditions, regulatory changes, broader market volatility and movements and delay in our inclusion in North American indices. Any or all of these factors could result in material fluctuations in the market price of our common stock, which could lead to investors getting back less than they invested or a total loss of their investment. In addition, where the market price of a company's shares have been volatile, the shareholders of such company may file securities class action litigation against that company based on various claims such as securities fraud and other violations of securities laws. While we have not been a target of this type of litigation, we may be in the future. The defense and disposition of litigation of this type could result in substantial costs and divert resources and the time and attention of our management, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. 23

escalated Role of Management The current filing explicitly states that the CDIO delegated primary responsibility for identifying and managing cybersecurity threats to the CISO and teams, while also adding a detailed description of the CDIO's over 25 years of executive experience leading IT teams.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Role of Management Pursuant to our ERM Program charter, our Executive Committee is responsible for assessing and managing the Company's exposure to enterprise risks. The Executive Committee is composed of the CEO and his direct reports, including the CDIO. Our CISO and the cybersecurity teams are primarily responsible for identifying, assessing, monitoring and managing our cybersecurity threats. They receive information regarding cybersecurity incidents and threats from the SOC and through internal escalation procedures detailed in the CIRP. The CISO then provides periodic reports to the Executive Committee, including reporting on significant cybersecurity incidents and resulting remedial actions, the cybersecurity team's strategic plan, the results of associate trainings, and any other notable cybersecurity matters. Our CISO has 25 years of industry experience, including in developing and leading cybersecurity risk management programs for Fortune 100 companies. Additionally, our CISO and members of the cybersecurity team hold a number of industry recognized certifications, such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional, Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard Internal Security Assessor, Certified Information Security Manager, Certified in Risk and Information Systems control, and Certified Ethical Hacker, among others.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Role of Management Pursuant to our ERM Program charter, our Executive Committee is responsible for assessing and managing the Company's exposure to enterprise risks. The Executive Committee is composed of the CEO and members of senior management appointed by the CEO, including the CDIO. Our CDIO has delegated to our CISO and the cybersecurity teams primary responsibility for identifying, assessing, monitoring and managing our cybersecurity threats. They receive information regarding cybersecurity incidents and threats from the SOC and through internal escalation procedures detailed in the CIRP. The CISO then provides periodic reports to the Executive Committee, including reporting on significant cybersecurity incidents and resulting remedial actions, the cybersecurity team's strategic plan, the results of associate trainings, and any other notable cybersecurity matters. Our CDIO has over 25 years of executive experience leading information technology teams and providing strategic vision for multiple Fortune 500 companies. For further details about our CDIO's background, see the "Information About Our Executive Officers" section of Part I of this Annual Report. Our CISO has over 25 years of industry experience, including in developing and leading cybersecurity risk management programs for Fortune 100 companies. Additionally, our CISO and members of the cybersecurity team hold a number of industry recognized certifications, such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional, Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard Internal Security Assessor, Certified Information Security Manager, Certified in Risk and Information Systems control, and Certified Ethical Hacker, among others.

de-emphasised Market conditions, competition, financial The risk disclosure was expanded to include vendors alongside customers as parties affected by economic weakness and added a new paragraph detailing how conditions could affect key suppliers, potentially causing delivery delays or increased costs. Furthermore, the list of risks was updated to specifically mention trade restrictions such as tariffs, sanctions, and retaliatory countermeasures, and the net sales fiscal year reference was changed from 2024 to 2025.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Market conditions, competition, financial Weakness in the economy, market trends, uncertainty and other conditions in the markets in which we operate, particularly in the U.S., may adversely affect the profitability and financial stability of our customers, and could negatively impact our sales growth and results of operations. Our financial performance depends significantly on industry trends and general economic conditions, including the state of the residential and non-residential markets, as well as changes in gross domestic product in the geographic markets in which we operate, particularly in the U.S. where we generated 95% of our net sales in fiscal 2024. We serve several end markets in which the demand for our products is sensitive to the construction activity, capital spending and demand for products of our customers. Many of these customers operate in markets that are subject to fluctuations resulting from market uncertainty, costs of goods sold, rising interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, labor shortages, including a shortage of skilled trade professionals, work stoppages and strikes, foreign competition, offshoring of production, oil, natural gas and other commodity prices, energy costs, geopolitical developments and conflicts and any related international response thereto, wage inflation and a variety of other factors beyond our control. In particular, our customers may be affected by the shortage of skilled trade professionals in the U.S. If the shortage continues, it could lead to existing customers delaying the placement of or failing to place additional orders due to a lack of sufficient skilled trade professionals needed to take on additional projects. Any of these factors could cause customers to idle or close facilities, delay purchases, reduce production levels or experience reductions in the demand for their own products or services. Adverse conditions in, or uncertainty about, the markets in which we operate, the global or regional economy or political climate could also adversely impact our customers and their confidence or financial condition, causing them to decide not to purchase our products or alter the timing of purchasing decisions or construction projects, and could also impact their ability to pay for products purchased from us. Other factors beyond our control, including but not limited to inflation, deflation, slow or stagnant economic growth or recession, government spending, unemployment, interest rate and mortgage rate fluctuations, mortgage delinquency and foreclosure rates, inventory loss due to theft, foreign currency fluctuations, labor and healthcare costs, the availability of financing, disruption in the financial and credit markets, including as a result of instability in the banking sector and the failure of financial institutions, changes in tax laws affecting the real estate industry, product availability constraints as a result of ineffectiveness of or disruption to our domestic or international supply chain or fulfillment networks, weather, cybersecurity incidents or network security breaches, natural disasters, acts of terrorism, acts of war, consumer activism, pandemics or epidemics, international trade tensions, civil unrest and geopolitical conditions, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 8 Any of these events could impair the ability of our customers to make full and timely payments for, or reduce the volume of, products these customers purchase from us and could cause increased pressure on our selling prices and terms of sale. Accordingly, a significant or prolonged slowdown in activity in our relevant end markets could negatively impact net sales growth and results of operations. In addition, we have closed and may in the future have to close underperforming branches and/or showrooms from time to time as warranted by general economic conditions and/or weakness in the end markets in which we operate. Such closures could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Market conditions, competition, financial Weakness in the economy, market trends, uncertainty and other conditions in the markets in which we operate, particularly in the U.S., have in the past and may in the future adversely affect the profitability and financial stability of some of our customers and vendors, and, in turn, negatively impact our business, financial condition and results of operations. Our financial performance depends significantly on industry trends and general economic conditions, including the state of the residential and non-residential markets, as well as changes in gross domestic product in the geographic markets in which we operate, particularly in the U.S. where we generated 95% of our net sales in fiscal 2025. Accordingly, a number of factors beyond our control, including but not limited to inflation, deflation, stagflation or recession, trade restrictions such as tariffs, sanctions and retaliatory countermeasures, the political climate, government spending, unemployment, interest rate and mortgage rate fluctuations, mortgage delinquency and foreclosure rates, foreign currency fluctuations, labor shortages, including as a result of changes in immigration policy, labor and healthcare costs, the availability of financing, disruption in the financial and credit markets, including as a result of instability in the banking sector and the failure of financial institutions, changes in tax laws, product availability constraints as a result of the ineffectiveness of or disruption to our domestic or international supply chain or fulfillment networks, cybersecurity incidents or network security breaches, adverse weather events or natural disasters, acts of terrorism, acts of war, consumer activism, pandemics or epidemics, civil unrest and geopolitical conditions, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Any of these events could impair the ability of our customers to make full and timely payments for, or reduce the volume of, products our customers purchase from us and could cause increased pressure on our selling prices. In particular, our customers may be affected by the shortage of skilled trade professionals in the U.S. If the shortage continues, it could lead to customers delaying or failing to place orders due to a lack of sufficient skilled trade professionals needed to take on additional projects. Furthermore, any of these conditions could affect key suppliers, which could impair their ability to deliver products and result in delays for our customers or added costs. Accordingly, any prolonged uncertainty about current or future micro- or macro-economic conditions and potential volatility in our relevant end markets has in the past and may in the future negatively impact our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, we have closed and may in the future choose to close underperforming branches and/or showrooms from time to time as warranted by general economic conditions and/or weakness in the end markets in which we operate. Such closures could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 9

reworded Risk factors

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Item 1A.Risk Factors Risk factors summary For a summary of risk factors, see our "Forward-Looking Statements and Risk Factor Summary" on page 1. Risk factors In addition to the other information contained in this Annual Report, you should carefully consider the following risk factors before investing in our common stock. The risks and uncertainties we describe below are not the only ones we face. Additional risks and uncertainties of which we are not aware or that we currently believe are immaterial may also adversely affect the business, financial condition and results of operations of the Company. If any of the possible events described below were to occur, the business, financial condition and results of operations of the Company could be materially and adversely affected. If that happens, the market price of our common stock could decline, and holders of shares of our common stock could lose all or part of their investment. This Annual Report also contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including the risks described below and elsewhere in this Annual Report.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Item 1A.Risk Factors Risk factors summary For a summary of risk factors, see our "Forward-Looking Statements and Risk Factor Summary" on page 1. Risk factors In addition to the other information contained in this Annual Report, you should carefully consider the following risk factors before investing in our common stock. The risks and uncertainties we describe below are not the only ones we face. Additional risks and uncertainties of which we are not aware or that we currently believe are immaterial may also adversely affect the Company. If any of the possible events described below were to occur, the business, financial condition and results of operations of the Company could be materially and adversely affected. If that happens, the market price of our common stock could decline, and holders of shares of our common stock could lose all or part of their investment. This Annual Report also contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including the risks described below and elsewhere in this Annual Report.

reworded A failure of a key information technology system or process could materially adversely affect the operations of our business. The disclosure significantly expanded the scope of relied-upon IT systems to include associate data, demand forecasting, supply chain management, and payment processing; furthermore, a new risk category was introduced detailing substantial investment requirements for replacing or maintaining legacy systems and associated risks like implementation delays and cost overruns. In the payment section, the company added that it may pass along portions of interchange fees to customers, noting that disputes over these fees could lead to decisions not to accept select forms of payment.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

A failure of a key information technology system or process could adversely affect the operations of our business. Technology systems and data are fundamental to the operations, future growth and success of our business. In managing our business, we rely on the integrity and security of, and consistent access to, data from these systems such as sales, customer data, merchandise ordering, inventory replenishment and order fulfillment. A major disruption of the information technology systems and their backup mechanisms may cause us to incur significant costs to repair the systems, experience a critical loss of data and/or result in business interruptions. For these information technology systems and processes to operate effectively, we rely on our service providers to continue to support and maintain them. Furthermore, we must retain and recruit information technology associates and other specialized associates that can operate, maintain and update these systems. In addition, our systems and the third-party systems on which we rely are subject to damage or interruption from a number of causes, including: power outages; infrastructure or network failures; aging of technology assets; computer and telecommunications failures; cybersecurity incidents, including the use of ransomware; catastrophic events such as fires, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, or other natural disasters; a pandemic or epidemic outbreak or resurgence; acts of war or terrorism; and design or usage errors by our associates, contractors or service providers. We and our service providers seek to maintain our respective systems effectively and to successfully address the risk of compromise of the integrity, security and consistent operations of these systems, utilizing all reasonable and appropriate means available. However, such efforts may not be successful. 16 We rely on data centers and other technologies and services provided by third parties in order to manage our cloud-based infrastructure and operate our business. If any of these services becomes unavailable or otherwise is unable to serve our requirements due to extended outages, interruptions, facility closure, or because it is no longer available on commercially reasonable terms, expenses could increase and our operations could be disrupted or otherwise impacted until appropriate substitute services, if available, are identified, obtained, and implemented, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Furthermore, while we regularly evaluate potential upgrades and enhancements to our information technology systems and processes, we may be unable to make such upgrades on a timely basis or at all due to a lack of specialized associates or insufficient resources. Aging technology may inhibit our efficiency and future growth as well as increase the likelihood of system interruption or failure. We are subject to payment-related risks that could increase our selling, general and administrative expenses, expose us to fraud or theft, subject us to potential liability, and potentially disrupt our business. We accept payments using a variety of methods, including cash, checks, credit and debit cards, PayPal and electronic payments, and we may offer new payment options over time. Acceptance of these payment options subjects us to rules, regulations, contractual obligations and compliance requirements, including payment network rules and operating guidelines, data security standards and certification requirements, and rules governing electronic funds transfers. These requirements may change over time or be reinterpreted, making compliance more difficult or costly. For certain payment methods, including credit and debit cards, we pay interchange and other fees, which may increase over time and raise our selling, general and administrative expenses. We rely on third parties to provide payment processing services, including the processing of credit cards, debit cards, and other forms of electronic payment. If these companies become unable to provide these services to us, or if their systems are compromised, it could potentially disrupt our business. The payment methods that we offer also subject us to potential fraud and theft by criminals, who are becoming increasingly more sophisticated, seeking to obtain unauthorized access to or exploit weaknesses that may exist in the payment systems. If we fail to comply with applicable rules or requirements for the payment methods we accept, or if payment-related data is compromised due to a breach or misuse of data, we may be liable for costs incurred by payment card issuing banks and other third parties or be subject to fines and higher transaction fees, or our ability to accept or facilitate certain types of payments may be impaired. In addition, our customers could lose confidence in certain payment types, which may result in a shift to other payment types, potential changes to our payment systems that may result in higher costs, or loss of business. As a result, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected. Also, certain of our customers, suppliers or other third parties may seek to obtain products fraudulently from, or submit fraudulent invoices to, us. We have sought to put in place a number of processes and controls to minimize opportunities for fraud. However, if we are unsuccessful in detecting fraudulent activities, we could suffer loss directly and/or lose the confidence of our customers and/or suppliers, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

A failure of a key information technology system or process could materially adversely affect the operations of our business. Technology systems and data are fundamental to the operations, future growth and success of our business. In managing our business, we rely on the integrity and security of, and consistent access to, data from these systems such as sales data, customer data, associate data, demand forecasting, merchandise ordering, inventory replenishment, supply chain management, payment processing and order fulfillment. A major disruption of the information technology systems and their backup mechanisms may cause us to incur significant costs to repair the systems, experience a critical loss of data and/or result in business interruptions. For these information technology systems and processes to operate effectively, we rely on our service providers to continue to support and maintain them. Furthermore, we must retain and recruit information technology associates and other specialized associates that can operate, maintain and update these systems. In addition, our systems and the third-party systems on which we rely are subject to damage or interruption from a number of causes, including: power outages; infrastructure or network failures; aging of technology assets; computer and telecommunications failures; cybersecurity incidents, including the use of ransomware; catastrophic events such as fires, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, or other natural disasters; a pandemic or epidemic outbreak or resurgence; acts of war or terrorism; and design or usage errors by our associates, contractors or service providers. We and our service providers seek to maintain our respective systems effectively and to successfully address the risk of compromise to the integrity, security and consistent operations of these systems; however, such efforts are not always successful. As a result, we or our service providers have experienced and are likely to experience in the future errors, interruptions, delays or cessations of service impacting the integrity or availability of our information technology infrastructure. While such incidents have not been material to date, any future incident could significantly disrupt our operations and key business processes, result in the impairment or loss of critical data, be costly and resource-intensive to remedy, harm our reputation and relationship with customers, suppliers and other stakeholders, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 16 In addition, our information technology systems, infrastructure and personnel require substantial investments, such as replacing existing systems, some of which are older, legacy systems that are less flexible and efficient, with successor systems; maintaining or enhancing legacy systems that are not currently being replaced; or designing or cost-effectively acquiring and implementing new systems with new functionality. These efforts can result in significant potential risks, including failure of the systems to operate as designed, potential loss or corruption of data, cost overruns, or implementation delays or errors, and may result in operational challenges, security control failures, reputational harm, and increased costs that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Furthermore, we may be unable to complete such efforts on a timely basis or at all due to a lack of specialized associates or insufficient resources. Aging technology may inhibit our efficiency and future growth as well as increase the likelihood of system interruption or failure. We are subject to payment-related risks that could increase our selling, general and administrative expenses, expose us to fraud or theft, subject us to potential liability, and potentially disrupt our business. We accept payments using a variety of methods, including, but not limited to, cash, checks, credit and debit cards, PayPal and electronic payments, and we may offer new payment options over time. Acceptance of these payment options subjects us to rules, regulations, contractual obligations and compliance requirements, including payment network rules and operating guidelines, data security standards and certification requirements, and rules governing electronic funds transfers. These requirements may change over time or be reinterpreted, making compliance more difficult or costly. For certain payment methods, including credit and debit cards, we pay interchange and other fees, which may increase over time and raise our selling, general and administrative expenses. In some cases, we have determined to pass along a portion of such fees to customers. In certain cases, disputes over such fees may result in a decision not to accept select forms of payment. Such actions could cause us to lose customers or negatively impact our brand or reputation. We rely on third parties to provide payment processing services, including the processing of credit cards, debit cards, and other forms of electronic payment. If these companies become unable to provide these services to us, or if their systems are compromised, it could potentially disrupt our business.

reworded People, products and facilities

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

People, products and facilities In order to compete, we must attract, retain and motivate key associates, and the failure to do so could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We believe the quality of our associates provides us with the capabilities and expertise to serve our customers better than our competitors do. Our ability to execute on this strategy depends, to a significant extent, on having an adequate number of qualified associates, including those in senior leadership, managerial, technical, sales, marketing and support positions. A failure to maintain an adequate number of associates with appropriate skill sets and talent could delay the execution of our operational strategies, result in loss of institutional knowledge and reduce our supply of future management skill. Competition in our industry for both existing and new talent is significant. We experience pressure regarding increases to wages, more flexible work arrangements, including remote and hybrid work, and expanded benefit offerings. Moreover, in the past, we have experienced volatility in our stock price, and we may experience such volatility again in the future, which may make it more difficult and expensive to recruit and retain associates, particularly senior leadership, through equity-based compensation. While our retention rates have not changed materially, we have experienced, and may continue to experience, extended lead times in backfilling roles, due in part to changing workforce dynamics and the lack of a sufficient number of people qualified for skilled roles. Although we believe we generally offer competitive employment packages, we can provide no assurance that our efforts to attract and retain associates will be successful. Our failure to do so could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Attracting and retaining experienced, skilled associates must be balanced with managing overall labor costs. In addition to measures we take to remain attractive in a competitive labor market, other external factors such as changing workforce demographics, labor market related employment laws and regulations, and increased health and insurance costs adversely affect our labor costs. We may also on occasion be subject to labor union organization efforts which may impact cost and operational flexibility. If the tight labor market persists, this may increase our costs to maintain our workforce as well as negatively impact our business, financial condition and results of operations. Failure to achieve and maintain a high level of product and service quality and comply with responsible sourcing standards could damage our reputation and negatively impact our business, financial condition and results of operations. To continue to be successful, we must continue to preserve, grow and leverage the value of our brand and our product brands in the marketplace. Reputational value is based in large part on perceptions of subjective qualities. Even an isolated incident, such as a high-profile product recall, or the aggregate effect of individually insignificant incidents, can erode trust and confidence, particularly if such incident or incidents result in adverse publicity, governmental investigations or litigation, and, as a result, could tarnish our brand and lead to adverse effects on our business. In particular, product quality and service issues, including as a result of our suppliers' or manufacturers' acts or omissions, could negatively impact customer confidence in our product brands and our product portfolio. As we do not have direct control over the quality of the products manufactured or supplied by third-party suppliers, we are exposed to risks relating to the quality of the products we distribute. If our product or service offerings do not meet applicable safety standards or customers' expectations regarding safety or quality or are alleged to have quality issues or to have caused personal injury or other damage, or our supplier does not meet our expectations on responsible sourcing outlined in our supplier code of conduct, we could experience lower net sales and increased costs and be exposed to legal, financial and reputational risks, as well as governmental enforcement actions. In addition, actual, potential or perceived product safety concerns could result in costly product recalls. 18 We seek to enter into contracts with suppliers which provide for indemnification from any costs associated with the provision of defective products. However, there can be no assurance that such contractual rights will be obtained or would be adequate, or that related indemnification claims will be successfully asserted by us. Moreover, our ability to recover damages from foreign sources of supply may be more difficult and expensive. The nature of our operations may expose our associates, contractors, customers, suppliers and other individuals to health and safety risks and we may incur property, casualty or other losses not covered by our insurance policies and damage to our reputation. The nature of our operations can expose our associates, contractors, customers, suppliers and other individuals, including the motoring public, to health and safety risks, which can lead to loss of life or severe injuries or illness. Such risks include, but are not limited to, potential exposure to public health crises, infectious diseases and viruses. Any such injuries, illness or loss of life could harm our reputation and reduce customer demand and expose us to the potential for litigation from third parties.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

People, products and facilities In order to compete, we must attract, retain and motivate key associates, and the failure to do so could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We believe the quality of our associates provides us with the capabilities and expertise to serve our customers better than our competitors do. Our ability to execute on this strategy depends, to a significant extent, on having an adequate number of qualified associates, including those in senior leadership, managerial, technical, sales, marketing and support positions. A failure to maintain an adequate number of associates with appropriate skill sets and talent could delay the execution of our operational strategies, result in loss of institutional knowledge and reduce our supply of future management skill. In addition, if we are unable to enforce certain non-compete covenants and confidentiality provisions when key associates leave for a competitor, we may lose a competitive advantage arising from confidential and proprietary company information known to such former associates. Competition in our industry for both existing and new talent is significant. We experience pressure regarding increases to wages, more flexible work arrangements, including remote and hybrid work, and expanded benefit offerings. Moreover, we have in the past, and may in the future, experience volatility in our stock price, which may make it more difficult and expensive to recruit and retain associates, particularly senior leadership, through equity-based compensation. While our retention rates have not changed materially, we have experienced, and may continue to experience, extended lead times in backfilling roles, due in part to changing workforce dynamics and the lack of a sufficient number of people qualified for skilled roles. Although we believe we generally offer competitive employment packages, we can provide no assurance that our efforts to attract and retain associates will be successful. Our failure to do so could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Attracting and retaining experienced, skilled associates must be balanced with managing overall labor costs. In addition to measures we take to remain attractive in a competitive labor market, other external factors such as changing workforce demographics, labor market related employment laws and regulations, and increased health and insurance costs adversely affect our labor costs. We may also on occasion be subject to labor union organization efforts which may impact cost and operational flexibility. Substantial increases in our operating costs to maintain our workforce may have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Failure to achieve and maintain a high level of product and service quality and comply with responsible sourcing standards could damage our reputation and negatively impact our business, financial condition and results of operations. To continue to be successful, we must continue to preserve, grow and leverage the value of our brand and our product brands in the marketplace. Reputational value is based in large part on perceptions of subjective qualities. Even an isolated incident, such as a high-profile product recall, or the aggregate effect of individually insignificant incidents, can erode trust and confidence, particularly if such incident or incidents result in adverse publicity, governmental investigations or litigation, and, as a result, could tarnish our brand and lead to adverse effects on our business. In particular, product quality and service issues, including as a result of our suppliers' or manufacturers' acts or omissions, could negatively impact customer confidence in our product brands and our product portfolio. As we do not have direct control over the quality of the products manufactured or supplied by third-party suppliers, we are exposed to risks relating to the quality of the products we distribute. If our product or service offerings do not meet applicable safety standards or customers' expectations regarding safety or quality or are alleged to have quality issues or to have caused personal injury or other damage, or our supplier does not meet our expectations on responsible sourcing outlined in our supplier code of conduct, we could experience lower net sales and increased costs and be exposed to legal, financial and reputational risks, as well as governmental enforcement actions. In addition, actual, potential or perceived product safety concerns could result in costly product recalls. We seek to enter into contracts with suppliers which provide for indemnification from any costs associated with the provision of defective products; however, there can be no assurance that such contractual rights will be obtained or would be adequate, or that related indemnification claims will be successfully asserted by us. Moreover, our ability to recover damages from foreign sources of supply may be more difficult and expensive. 18 The nature of our operations may expose our associates, contractors, customers, suppliers and other individuals to health and safety risks and we may incur property, casualty or other losses not covered by our insurance policies and damage to our reputation.

reworded Changes in tax law or interpretations thereof could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Regulatory and legal Changes in tax law or interpretations thereof could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. We are subject to income taxes in the U.S. and various other countries globally. Changes in tax laws, regulations and treaties, or the interpretation thereof can and do occur. Significant judgment is required for determining the Company's tax liabilities, and the Company's tax returns are periodically examined by various tax authorities. The ultimate resolution of any tax matters may result in payments greater or less than amounts accrued, which could have a negative impact on our provision for income taxes. In addition, our future earnings and the value of our deferred tax assets and liabilities could be negatively impacted by further changes in tax legislation, including changes in tax rates, tax laws and changes in the rules for earnings repatriations in the U.S. or other countries. For example, the current U.S. presidential administration has proposed a higher U.S. federal corporate tax rate and increased taxation of offshore income. Further, in July and October 2021, the OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework agreed on the general rules for redefined jurisdictional taxation rights and a global minimum tax. In December 2022, the European Union member states voted unanimously to adopt a Directive implementing the Pillar Two (global minimum tax) rules giving member states until December 31, 2023 to implement the Directive into national legislation. Certain jurisdictions in which we operate, under the OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework, have enacted legislation that adopts a subset of such rules effective for tax years beginning after January 1, 2024, with the remaining rules becoming effective January 1, 2025. The application of tax law is subject to interpretation. Additionally, administrative guidance can be incomplete or vary from legislative intent, and therefore the application of the tax law is uncertain. While we believe the positions reported by the Company comply with relevant tax laws and regulations, we could be subject to tax audits and taxing authorities could interpret our application of certain laws and regulations differently. Future tax controversy matters may result in previously unrecorded tax expenses, higher future tax expenses or the assessment of interest and penalties which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, the location of tax residence of Ferguson (Jersey) Limited (f/k/a Ferguson plc) could be challenged. If such entity were to cease, or failed, to maintain its place of central management and control in the location of its tax residency, our ability to rely on specific tax treaty benefits could be impacted, potentially causing withholding taxes on dividends and interest payments made by certain of our subsidiaries to increase while taxes on certain unrealized gains could possibly be imposed. Our tax expenses and liabilities are also affected by factors other than changes in law, such as changes in our business operations, acquisitions, investments, entry into new businesses and geographies, intercompany transactions, the relative amount of our foreign earnings, losses incurred in jurisdictions for which we are not able to realize related tax benefits, the applicability of special or extraterritorial tax regimes, changes in foreign exchange rates, changes in our stock price, changes to our forecasts of income and loss and the mix of jurisdictions to which they relate, and changes in our tax assets and liabilities and their valuation. In the ordinary course of our business, there are many transactions and calculations for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. Significant judgment is required in evaluating and estimating our tax expenses, assets, and liabilities. Our own brand products subject us to certain increased risks such as regulatory, product liability and reputational risks that could have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. As we expand our own brand product offerings organically and through acquisitions, we may become subject to increased risks due to our greater role in the design, sourcing, marketing and sale of those products. The risks include greater responsibility to administer and comply with applicable regulatory requirements, increased potential product liability and product recall exposure, and increased potential legal and reputational risks related to the responsible sourcing of those products. To effectively execute on our own brand product differentiation strategy, we must also be able to successfully protect our proprietary rights and successfully navigate and avoid claims related to the proprietary rights of third parties. In addition, an increase in sales of our own brand products may adversely affect sales of our suppliers' products, which in turn could adversely affect our relationships with certain of our suppliers. Further, the development of our own brand products may require us to make investments in specialized personnel and operating systems, increase marketing efforts and reallocate resources away from other uses. Any failure to appropriately address some or all of these risks could damage our reputation and have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. 20 We are and may continue to be involved in legal proceedings in the course of our business, and while we cannot predict the outcomes of those proceedings and other contingencies with certainty, some of these outcomes may adversely impact our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Regulatory and legal Changes in tax law or interpretations thereof could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. We are subject to income taxes in the U.S. and various other countries globally. Changes in tax laws, regulations and treaties and conflicts in related interpretations or guidance may result in payments greater or less than amounts accrued, which could have a negative impact on our provision for income taxes. In addition, our future earnings and the value of our deferred tax assets and liabilities could be negatively impacted by further changes in tax legislation, including changes in tax rates, tax laws and changes in the rules for earnings repatriations in the U.S. or other countries. Further, the application of tax law is subject to interpretation. Additionally, administrative guidance can be incomplete or vary from legislative intent, and therefore the application of the tax law is uncertain. While we believe the positions reported by the Company comply with relevant tax laws and regulations, we have in the past and may in the future be subject to tax audits and taxing authorities could interpret our application of certain laws and regulations differently. Tax controversy matters may result in previously unrecorded tax expenses, higher future tax expenses or the assessment of interest and penalties which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. 19 For example, the location of tax residence of certain subsidiaries could be challenged. If it was determined that one or more of our subsidiaries ceased or failed to maintain its place of central management and control in the location of its tax residency, our ability to rely on specific tax treaty benefits could be impacted, potentially causing withholding taxes on dividends and interest payments made by certain of our subsidiaries to increase while taxes on certain unrealized gains could be imposed. Our tax expenses and liabilities are also affected by factors other than changes in law, such as changes in our business operations, acquisitions, investments, entry into new businesses and geographies, intercompany transactions, the relative amount of our foreign earnings, losses incurred in jurisdictions for which we are not able to realize related tax benefits, the applicability of special or extraterritorial tax regimes, changes in foreign exchange rates, changes in our stock price, changes to our forecasts of income and loss and the mix of jurisdictions to which they relate, and changes in our tax assets and liabilities and their valuation. In the ordinary course of our business, there are many transactions and calculations for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. Significant judgment is required in evaluating and estimating our tax expenses, assets, and liabilities. Our private label products subject us to certain increased risks such as regulatory, product liability and reputational risks that could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. As we expand our private label, Own Brand, product offerings organically and through acquisitions, we may become subject to increased risks due to our greater role in the design, sourcing, marketing and sale of those products. The risks include greater responsibility to administer and comply with applicable regulatory requirements, increased potential product liability and product recall exposure, and increased potential legal and reputational risks related to the responsible sourcing of those products. To effectively execute on our private label product differentiation strategy, we must also be able to successfully protect our proprietary rights and successfully navigate and avoid claims related to the proprietary rights of third parties. In addition, an increase in sales of our private label products may adversely affect sales of our suppliers' products, which in turn could adversely affect our relationships with certain of our suppliers. Further, the development of our private label products may require us to make investments in specialized personnel and operating systems, increase marketing efforts and reallocate resources away from other uses. Any failure to appropriately address some or all of these risks could damage our reputation and have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We are and may continue to be involved in legal proceedings in the ordinary course of our business, and while we cannot predict the outcomes of those proceedings and other contingencies with certainty, some of these outcomes may adversely impact our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. We are and may continue to be involved in legal proceedings such as product liability, asbestos, personal injury, consumer, employment and other litigation that arises from time to time in the ordinary course of our business. In future periods, we could be subject to cash costs or non-cash charges to earnings if any of these litigation matters are resolved on unfavorable terms, or if our estimates regarding legal provisions accounting or our insurance coverage are incorrect. Shareholders are also able to pursue derivative actions on behalf of the Company, for, among other things, alleged breaches of fiduciary duties by our directors and officers. If we face such litigation, it could result in substantial costs and a diversion of management's resources and attention, which could harm our business and the value of our common stock.

reworded Changes in tax law or interpretations thereof could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

We are and may continue to be involved in legal proceedings such as negligence, consumer and employment and other litigation that arises from time to time in the course of our business. In future periods, we could be subject to cash costs or non-cash charges to earnings if any of these litigation matters are resolved on unfavorable terms, or if our estimates regarding legal provisions accounting or our insurance coverage are incorrect. Shareholders are also able to pursue derivative actions on behalf of the Company, for, among other things, alleged breaches of fiduciary duties by our directors and officers. If we face such litigation, it could result in substantial costs and a diversion of management's resources and attention, which could harm our business and the value of our common stock. Litigation is inherently unpredictable, and the outcome of some of these proceedings and other contingencies could require us to take or refrain from taking actions which could adversely impact the business or could result in excessive verdicts. Any such outcome could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Additionally, involvement in these lawsuits and related inquiries and other proceedings may involve significant expense, divert management's attention and resources from other matters, and negatively affect our reputation. Changes in accounting standards and subjective assumptions, estimates and judgments by management related to complex accounting matters, could significantly affect our financial results or financial condition. Accounting standards and related accounting pronouncements, implementation guidelines and interpretations with regard to a wide range of matters that are relevant to our business, such as revenue recognition and net sales, asset impairment, impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets, inventories, lease obligations, self-insurance, tax matters, pensions and litigation, are complex and involve many subjective assumptions, estimates and judgments. Changes in accounting standards or their interpretation or changes in underlying assumptions and estimates or judgments could significantly change our reported or expected financial performance or financial condition. We are subject to various risks related to the local and international nature of our business, including domestic and foreign laws, regulations and standards. Failure to comply with such laws and regulations or the occurrence of unforeseen developments such as litigation, investigations, governmental proceedings or enforcement actions could adversely affect our business. Our business operates in the U.S. and Canada and is subject to specific risks of conducting business in different jurisdictions across these countries and other parts of the world, including Barbados, China, South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, U.K. and Vietnam. Our business is subject to a wide array of domestic and international laws, regulations and standards in jurisdictions where we operate, including advertising and marketing regulations, anti-bribery and corruption/money laundering laws, anti-competition regulations, data privacy and data protection (including payment card industry data security standards) and cybersecurity requirements (including protection of information and incident responses), occupational health and safety regulations, consumer product safety regulations, consumer protection laws, cash and electronic payment regulations and industry standards, environmental protection laws, foreign exchange controls and cash repatriation restrictions, government business regulations applicable to us as a government contractor selling to federal, state and local government entities, import and export requirements, intellectual property laws, labor laws, product compliance laws, fleet and driver related laws, supplier regulations regarding the sources of supplies or products, tax laws, zoning laws, unclaimed property laws and laws, regulations and standards applicable to other commercial matters. Moreover, we are also subject to audits and inquiries by government agencies in the normal course of business. These laws, regulations and standards are often complex, subject to change and subject to varying interpretations, and compliance therewith may be subject to varying degrees of scrutiny. Moreover, we are also subject to audits and inquiries by government agencies in the normal course of business. In recent years, a number of new laws and regulations have been adopted, and there has been expanded enforcement of certain existing laws and regulations by federal, state and local agencies. These laws and regulations, and related interpretations and enforcement activity, may change as a result of a variety of factors, including political, economic or social events. For example, in recent years, there has been a steady increase in antitrust enforcement activity. The change in the U.S. presidential administration and possible congressional seat turnover as a result of the 2024 election cycle may result in increased regulatory uncertainty. Any changes in, expanded enforcement of, or adoption of new federal, state or local laws and regulations could increase our costs of doing business or impact our operations, including, among other factors, as a result of required investments in technology and the development of new operational processes. 21

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Litigation is inherently unpredictable, and the outcome of some of these proceedings and other contingencies could require us to take or refrain from taking actions which could adversely impact our business or could result in excessive verdicts. Any such outcome could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Additionally, involvement in these lawsuits and related inquiries and other proceedings may involve significant expense, divert management's attention and resources from other matters, and negatively affect our reputation. Changes in accounting standards and subjective assumptions, estimates and judgments by management related to complex accounting matters could significantly affect our financial condition or results of operations. Accounting standards and related accounting pronouncements, implementation guidelines and interpretations with regard to a wide range of matters that are relevant to our business, such as revenue recognition and net sales, asset impairment, impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets, inventories, lease obligations, self-insurance, tax matters, pensions and litigation, are complex and involve many subjective assumptions, estimates and judgments. Changes in accounting standards or their interpretation or changes in underlying assumptions and estimates or judgments could significantly change our reported or expected financial performance, financial condition or results of operations. 20 We are subject to various risks related to the local and international nature of our business, including domestic and foreign laws, regulations and standards. Failure to comply with such laws and regulations or the occurrence of unforeseen developments such as litigation, investigations, governmental proceedings or enforcement actions could adversely affect our business. Our business operates in the U.S. and Canada and is subject to specific risks of conducting business in different jurisdictions across these countries and other parts of the world, including Barbados, China, India, Mexico, South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, the U.K. and Vietnam. Our business is subject to a wide array of domestic and international laws, regulations and standards in jurisdictions where we operate, including advertising and marketing regulations, anti-bribery and corruption/money laundering laws, anti-competition regulations, data privacy and data protection (including payment card industry data security standards) and cybersecurity requirements (including protection of information and incident responses), occupational health and safety regulations, consumer product safety regulations, consumer protection laws, cash and electronic payment regulations and industry standards, environmental protection laws and regulations (including those covering per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances ("PFAS")), foreign exchange controls and cash repatriation restrictions, government business regulations applicable to us as a government contractor selling to federal, state and local government entities, import and export requirements, intellectual property laws, labor laws, product compliance laws, fleet and driver related laws, supplier regulations regarding the sources of supplies or products, tax laws, zoning laws, unclaimed property laws and laws, regulations and standards applicable to other commercial matters. These laws, regulations and standards are often complex, subject to change and subject to varying interpretations, and compliance therewith may be subject to varying degrees of scrutiny. Moreover, we are also subject to audits and inquiries by government agencies in the ordinary course of business. In recent years, a number of new laws and regulations have been adopted, new executive orders have been announced, and there has been expanded enforcement of certain existing laws and regulations by federal, state and local agencies. These laws and regulations, and related interpretations and enforcement activity, may change as a result of a variety of factors, including political, economic or social events. For example, since taking office, the current administration has sought to adopt new regulations and policies and to suspend, revise or rescind prior policies that are identified as conflicting with the administration's position, which has resulted in increased regulatory uncertainty. Any changes in, expanded enforcement of, or adoption of new federal, state or local laws and regulations could increase our costs of doing business or impact our operations, including, among other factors, as a result of required investments in technology and the development of new operational processes. Failure to comply with any of these laws, regulations and standards has in the past and may in the future result in civil, criminal, monetary and non-monetary penalties as well as potential damage to our reputation. Furthermore, while we have implemented policies and procedures designed to facilitate compliance with these laws, regulations and standards, there can be no assurance that associates, contractors or agents will not violate such laws, regulations and standards or our policies. Any failure to comply with or violation of the various laws, regulations and standards to which we are subject could individually or in the aggregate have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

reworded Risk Management and Strategy

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Item 1B.Unresolved Staff Comments None. Item 1C.Cybersecurity Risk Management and Strategy We recognize the importance of assessing, identifying, and managing material risks associated with cybersecurity threats. We maintain a strategic plan to protect our information and to manage and mitigate emerging cybersecurity threats. Our cybersecurity team, led by our Chief Information Security Officer ("CISO"), oversees our cybersecurity efforts on a day-to-day basis. Our cybersecurity team, in partnership with third parties, designs, implements and operates our data security and cybersecurity programs, risk assessments, monitoring procedures, and training programs for our associates. Cybersecurity risk management is integrated into our overall enterprise risk management program ("ERM Program") and our cybersecurity, legal, infrastructure, privacy and other cross-functional teams work together to evaluate and address cybersecurity risks in alignment with our business objectives and operational needs. Cybersecurity risk management is also integrated into our broader risk management framework through information technology general controls that are independently tested by our Internal Audit team and the findings reported to the Audit Committee. As part of our cybersecurity risk management and strategy, the Company invests in processes, resources and incremental technical defenses to help prevent, identify, escalate, investigate, resolve, and recover from identified vulnerabilities and security incidents in a timely manner. We have enterprise-level compliance processes, policies and insurance coverage in place, including related to data protection and cybersecurity. We utilize the ISO 27001:2022 information security standard to drive our risk assessment and to identify and prioritize technology and process investments. Additionally, Ferguson maintains a Security Operations Center ("SOC") with enterprise event visibility. The Company maintains a Cybersecurity Incident Response Plan ("CIRP") that establishes a foundation for capture, containment, escalation, and response to cybersecurity events across the Company. The CIRP details how the Company, including the SOC and cybersecurity team, prioritize and respond to cybersecurity events and incidents, including when and how incidents are escalated to key members of management who in turn determine whether further escalation to the Audit Committee or Board is appropriate. The CIRP also includes actions designed to enhance processes and responsiveness to address and prevent future incidents. Ferguson invests in associate training and education to prevent cyber attacks, including customized, role-based training provided to targeted internal audiences. In addition, we conduct periodic awareness campaigns and regular phishing email simulation tests to reinforce prior training and promote ongoing awareness of risks. We also periodically conduct tabletop exercises with management and other associates to practice cyber incident response and to improve our processes and strategies. In addition, Ferguson regularly engages with independent third-party partners, including cybersecurity assessors, consultants, and auditors, to assess and consult on our cybersecurity capabilities, prioritize areas of risk and assist with execution of our risk management systems and strategic plans. Our collaboration with these third parties includes regular audits, threat assessments, and consultation on security enhancements. To mitigate data or security incidents that may originate from third-party suppliers, we have a third-party risk management program that works to classify service provider or business partner risk based on several factors, including but not limited to data type accessed and/or retained. Using a risk-based approach, we perform diligence and security risk assessments for certain vendors and service providers, including appropriate obligations in our contractual arrangements where applicable. 25 As of the date of this Annual Report, cybersecurity incidents and risks, separately or in aggregate, have not materially affected our business strategy, results of operations, and financial condition. However, we face ongoing risks from cybersecurity threats and there can be no assurance that our security efforts and measures, and those of our third-party vendors, will prevent breakdowns or incidents to our or our third-party vendors' systems that could adversely affect our business. See "Risk Factors-If we are unable to protect our sensitive data and information systems against data corruption, cybersecurity incidents or network security breaches, or if we are unable to provide adequate security in the electronic transmission of sensitive data, it could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations" and "-A failure of a key information technology system or process could adversely affect the operations of our business" in Item 1A of this Annual Report for more information on our cybersecurity-related risks.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Item 1B.Unresolved Staff Comments None. 24 Item 1C.Cybersecurity Risk Management and Strategy We recognize the importance of assessing, identifying, and managing material risks associated with cybersecurity threats. We maintain a strategic plan to protect our information and to manage and mitigate emerging cybersecurity threats. Our cybersecurity team, led by our Chief Information Security Officer ("CISO"), who reports to our Chief Digital & Information Officer ("CDIO"), oversees our cybersecurity efforts on a day-to-day basis. Our cybersecurity team, in partnership with third parties, designs, implements and operates our data security and cybersecurity programs, risk assessments, monitoring procedures, and training programs for our associates. Cybersecurity risk management is integrated into our overall enterprise risk management program ("ERM Program") and our cybersecurity, legal, infrastructure, privacy and other cross-functional teams work together to evaluate and address cybersecurity risks in alignment with our business objectives and operational needs. Cybersecurity risk management is also integrated into our broader risk management framework through information technology general controls that are independently tested by our Internal Audit team, the findings of which are reported to the Audit Committee. As part of our cybersecurity risk management and strategy, the Company invests in processes, resources and incremental technical defenses to help prevent, identify, escalate, investigate, resolve, and recover from identified vulnerabilities and security incidents in a timely manner. We have enterprise-level compliance processes, policies and insurance coverage in place, including related to data protection and cybersecurity. We utilize the ISO 27001:2022 information security standard to drive our risk assessment and to identify and prioritize technology and process investments. Additionally, Ferguson maintains a Security Operations Center ("SOC") with enterprise event visibility. The Company maintains a Cybersecurity Incident Response Plan ("CIRP") that establishes a foundation for capture, containment, escalation, and response to cybersecurity events across the Company. The CIRP details how the Company, including the SOC and cybersecurity team, prioritize and respond to cybersecurity events and incidents, including when and how incidents are escalated to key members of management who in turn determine whether further escalation to the Audit Committee or Board is appropriate. The CIRP also includes actions designed to enhance processes and responsiveness to address and prevent future incidents. Ferguson invests in associate training and education on cybersecurity and risk management thereof. Ferguson provides annual phishing training to all associates who are issued a Company device, and our annual Code of Conduct training often features information technology subjects, such as protection of company and personal information and identifying and reporting cybersecurity and phishing incidents. In addition, we maintain a cybersecurity awareness hub on our company intranet, regularly distribute cyber newsletters and cyber tips, and conduct regular phishing email simulation tests, including customized role-based tests, to reinforce prior training and promote ongoing awareness of risks. We also periodically conduct tabletop exercises with management and other associates to practice cyber incident response and to improve our processes and strategies. In addition, Ferguson regularly engages with independent third-party partners, including cybersecurity assessors, consultants, and auditors, to assess and consult on our cybersecurity capabilities, prioritize areas of risk and assist with execution of our risk management systems and strategic plans. Our collaboration with these third parties includes regular audits, threat assessments, and consultation on security enhancements. To mitigate data or security incidents that may originate from third-party suppliers, we have a third-party risk management program that works to classify service provider or business partner risk based on several factors, including but not limited to data type accessed and/or retained. Using a risk-based approach, we perform diligence and security risk assessments for certain vendors and service providers, including appropriate obligations in our contractual arrangements where applicable. As of the date of this Annual Report, cybersecurity incidents and risks, separately or in aggregate, have not materially affected our business strategy, results of operations, and financial condition. However, we face ongoing risks from cybersecurity threats and there can be no assurance that our security efforts and measures, and those of our third-party vendors, will prevent or minimize cybersecurity risks. See "Risk Factors-If we are unable to protect our sensitive data and information systems against data corruption, cybersecurity incidents or network security breaches, or if we are unable to provide adequate security in the electronic transmission of sensitive data, it could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations" and "-A failure of a key information technology system or process could materially adversely affect the operations of our business" in Item 1A of this Annual Report for more information on our cybersecurity-related risks. 25

reworded Role of the Board

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Governance Role of the Board Our Board is ultimately responsible for the risk oversight of the Company, including risks from cybersecurity threats. The Board has delegated to the Audit Committee responsibility for monitoring the overall adequacy and effectiveness of the ERM Program, and the Audit Committee is specifically charged with discussing the Company's cybersecurity risk exposures and the steps management has taken to monitor and control these exposures. The Board and/or the Audit Committee receives periodic reports, briefings and presentations on data protection and cybersecurity matters from senior information technology leaders, including our Chief Digital and Information Officer ("CDIO") and CISO, as well as from our Internal Audit team. In addition, our Chief Legal Officer provides reports on the ERM Program. Periodically, our Board receives reports and/or presentations on cybersecurity matters prepared by third-party cybersecurity experts. In addition to these Board and Audit Committee updates, our CIRP provides that significant developments or incidents, even if immaterial to the Company, will be reviewed regularly by a cross-functional team to determine whether further escalation to the Audit Committee or Board is appropriate, enabling Audit Committee and Board oversight that is timely and responsive.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Governance Role of the Board Our Board is ultimately responsible for the risk oversight of the Company, including risks from cybersecurity threats. The Board has delegated to the Audit Committee responsibility for monitoring the overall adequacy and effectiveness of the ERM Program, and the Audit Committee is specifically charged with discussing the Company's cybersecurity risk exposures and the steps management has taken to monitor and control these exposures. Our Chief Legal Officer provides reports on the ERM Program twice a year. The Board and/or the Audit Committee receives periodic reports, briefings or presentations on data protection and cybersecurity matters from senior information technology leaders, including our CDIO or CISO, as well as from our Internal Audit team. In addition to these Board and Audit Committee updates, our CIRP provides that significant developments or incidents, even if immaterial to the Company, will be reviewed regularly by a cross-functional team to determine whether further escalation to the Audit Committee or Board is appropriate, enabling Audit Committee and Board oversight that is timely and responsive.

reworded We have in the past and may in the future be adversely impacted by declines in the residential and non-residential markets.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

We could be adversely impacted by declines in the residential and non-residential markets. In fiscal 2024, residential markets and non-residential markets each accounted for approximately half of our net sales, with net sales within these combined markets balanced between RMI (approximately two-thirds of our net sales) and new construction (approximately one-third of our net sales). Our end markets are dependent, in part, upon certain macroeconomic trends. For example, in the past we have seen a slowdown in our end markets caused by softer demand, inflation, higher interest or mortgage rates, and other issues in the market. While in the U.S. the pricing environment has declined, uncertainty remains as to the timing of the Federal Reserve reducing interest rates. Should the Federal Reserve defer the timing and/or magnitude of interest rate reductions, it could result in weak or no growth in our end markets. Any slowdown or stagnation may cause unanticipated shifts in our end market preferences and purchasing practices and in the business models and strategies of our customers. Such shifts may alter the nature and prices of products demanded by the end consumer and, in turn, our customers and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The industries in which we operate are highly competitive, and changes in competition could result in decreased demand for our products and related service offerings and could have a material adverse effect on our sales and profitability. We face competition in all markets we serve, including, but not limited to, from other companies of varying size that offer the same or similar products and services, wholesale distributors, supply houses, retail enterprises, online businesses, and manufacturers (including some of our own suppliers) that sell directly to certain segments of the market. Further, the competitive landscape is dynamic and subject to change. For example, the arrival of new or expansion of existing competitors with lower-cost non-value added transactional business models or new technologies may aggregate demand away from incumbents. In addition, certain competitors may devote more resources to systems development and automation or respond more quickly to emerging technologies (such as generative AI) and changes in customer preferences than we do. Furthermore, the industries in which we operate may be disrupted by non-traditional competitors through acquisitions of traditional competitors to expand their capabilities and/or targeted customer base. These non-traditional competitors, in some cases, have larger customer bases, greater brand recognition and greater resources than we do. Furthermore, this competitor consolidation could cause the industries in which we operate to become more competitive as greater economies of scale are achieved. Additionally, we have experienced competitive pressure from certain of our suppliers who are now selling their products directly to customers. Our suppliers can often sell their products at lower prices and maintain higher gross margins on their product sales than we can. Moreover, competition could further intensify in the future as new entrants have increasing interest in our industry. Increased competition may result in reduced net sales, lower operating margins, reduced profitability, loss of market share and diminished brand recognition. In response to these competitive pressures, among other initiatives, we are applying technology as an important medium for delivering better customer service alongside the supply of our products, and to create dedicated tools to save customers time and money. However, such initiatives may take longer than expected, we may not realize the anticipated benefits from such initiatives, and the initiatives may not be successful. In addition, failure to effectively execute our strategies, including the development and acquisition of such new business models or technologies, or to successfully identify future market and competitive pressures, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 9

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

We have in the past and may in the future be adversely impacted by declines in the residential and non-residential markets. In fiscal 2025, residential markets and non-residential markets each accounted for approximately half of our net sales, with net sales within these combined markets balanced between RMI (approximately two-thirds of our net sales) and new construction (approximately one-third of our net sales). Our end markets are dependent, in part, upon certain macroeconomic trends. For example, in the past we have seen a slowdown in our end markets caused by softer demand, inflation, higher interest or mortgage rates, and other issues in the market. It is uncertain if the Federal Reserve will raise or lower interest rates and, if so, to what level and for how long. Further, it is possible that mortgage rates could remain elevated despite any action taken by the Federal Reserve. Rate increases or the lack of anticipated rate decreases could result in weak or no growth in our end markets. Any slowdown or stagnation may cause unanticipated shifts in our end market preferences and purchasing practices and in the business models and strategies of our customers. Such shifts may alter the nature and prices of products demanded by the end consumer and, in turn, our customers and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. For example, rapid changes in demand may heighten the risks described in the risk factor titled "We may not rapidly identify or effectively respond to direct and/or end customers' wants, expectations or trends, which could adversely affect our relationship with customers, our reputation, the demand for our products and our market share." The industries in which we operate are highly competitive, and changes in competition could result in decreased demand for our products and related service offerings and could have a material adverse effect on our sales and profitability. The markets in which we operate are fragmented and highly competitive. We face competition in all markets we serve, including, but not limited to, from other companies of varying size that offer the same or similar products and services, wholesale distributors, supply houses, retail enterprises, online businesses, and manufacturers (including some of our own suppliers) that sell directly to certain segments of the market. Further, the competitive landscape is dynamic and subject to change. For example, the arrival of new, or the expansion of existing, competitors with new technologies or lower-cost non-value added business models may aggregate demand away from incumbents. In addition, certain competitors may devote more resources to systems development and automation or respond more quickly to emerging technologies (such as generative AI) and changes in customer preferences than we do. Furthermore, the industries in which we operate may be disrupted by non-traditional competitors through acquisitions of traditional competitors to expand their capabilities and/or targeted customer base. These non-traditional competitors, in some cases, have larger customer bases, greater brand recognition and greater resources than we do. Furthermore, this competitor consolidation could cause the industries in which we operate to become more competitive as greater economies of scale are achieved. Additionally, we have experienced and may continue to experience competitive pressure from certain of our suppliers vertically integrating and selling their products directly to customers. Our suppliers can often sell their products at lower prices and maintain higher gross margins on their product sales than we can. Moreover, competition could further intensify in the future as new entrants have increasing interest in our industry. Increased competition may result in reduced net sales, lower operating margins, reduced profitability, loss of market share and diminished brand recognition. In response to these competitive pressures, among other initiatives, we are leveraging technology to enhance customer service, streamline product delivery and develop tools to save customers time and money. However, such initiatives may take longer than expected, we may not realize the anticipated benefits from such initiatives, and the initiatives may not be successful. In addition, failure to effectively execute our strategies, including the development and acquisition of such new business models or technologies, or to successfully identify future market and competitive pressures, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 10

reworded Fluctuating product prices have in the past and may in the future adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Fluctuating product prices may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Some of our products contain significant amounts of commodity-priced materials, predominantly plastic, copper and steel, and other components that are subject to price changes based upon fluctuations in the commodities market, which can arise from changes in domestic and international supply and demand, general inflationary and deflationary pressures, labor costs, competition, tariffs and trade restrictions and geopolitical conflict, among other factors. To a lesser extent, fluctuations in the price of fuel could affect transportation costs. In addition, shipping capacity constraints and related fluctuations in shipping rates and space availability further impact the product cost. Our ability to adjust prices in a timely manner to account for price fluctuations will often depend on market conditions, our fixed costs, inflation and deflation, and other factors. In the event that circumstances require us to adjust our product prices and operational strategies to reflect fluctuating prices (inflation/deflation), there can be no assurance that such adjustments will be effective. For example, our inability to pass on all or a portion of product price inflation to our customers in a timely manner could reduce our profit margins. Similarly, downward pressure on product prices due to deflation could cause profit margins to decline, particularly in the case of sustained price deflation coupled with increasing costs of operations. Our efforts to monitor for signs of moderation or deflation, which would present risks that we may not be able to totally mitigate, may be ineffective. Any failure to appropriately address some or all of these risks could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Fluctuating product prices have in the past and may in the future adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Some of our products are, or contain significant amounts of, commodity-priced materials, predominantly plastic, copper and steel, and other components that are subject to price changes based upon fluctuations in the commodities market, which can arise from changes in domestic and international supply and demand, general inflationary and deflationary pressures, labor costs, competition, trade restrictions, such as tariffs, sanctions and retaliatory countermeasures and geopolitical conflict, among other factors. To a lesser extent, fluctuations in the price of fuel could affect transportation costs. In addition, shipping capacity constraints and related fluctuations in shipping rates and space availability further impact product cost. Our ability to adjust prices in a timely manner to account for price fluctuations will often depend on market conditions, our fixed costs, inflation and deflation, and other factors. In the event that circumstances require us to adjust our product prices and operational strategies to reflect fluctuating prices (inflation/deflation), there can be no assurance that such adjustments will be effective. For example, our inability to pass on all or a portion of product price inflation to our customers in a timely manner could reduce our profit margins. Similarly, downward pressure on product prices due to deflation have in the past and may in the future cause profit margins to decline, particularly in the case of sustained price deflation coupled with increasing costs of operations. Our efforts to monitor for signs of moderation or deflation, which would present risks that we may not be able to totally mitigate, may be ineffective. Any failure to appropriately address some or all of these risks could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

reworded Fluctuations in foreign currency may have an adverse effect on reported results of operations.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Fluctuations in foreign currency may have an adverse effect on reported results of operations. We are exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risk with respect to the USD relative to the local currencies of our international subsidiaries, predominantly CAD, arising from transactions in the normal course of business (such as sales and loans to wholly owned subsidiaries, sales to third-party customers, and purchases from suppliers). Our only significant foreign currency exchange exposure from a net sales perspective is CAD. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates could affect our results of operations and impact reported net sales and net income. 11

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Fluctuations in foreign currency may have an adverse effect on reported results of operations. We are exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risk with respect to the USD relative to the local currencies of our international subsidiaries, predominantly CAD, arising from transactions in the ordinary course of business (such as sales and loans to wholly owned subsidiaries, sales to third-party customers, and purchases from suppliers). Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates could affect our results of operations and impact reported net sales and net income. 12

reworded Operations and technology The initial supply chain risk disclosure was strengthened to specifically include "the loss of key suppliers," and a new section was added detailing that supplier agreements are generally terminable on limited notice, which could negatively impact margins or customer relationships. Furthermore, the list of factors causing serious disruption in the supply chain was updated to include foreign competition.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Operations and technology If our domestic or international supply chain or our fulfillment network for our products is ineffective or disrupted for any reason, or if these operations are subject to trade policy changes, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected. We source, distribute and sell products from domestic and international suppliers, and their ability to reliably and efficiently fulfill our orders is critical to our business success. As of July 31, 2024, we had approximately 36,000 suppliers located in various countries around the world. Our business could be negatively impacted by a serious disruption in the movement of products through our supply chain or by an increase in the cost of such products, including due to any of the following or other factors beyond our control: financial instability among key suppliers; global or regional political unrest, disputes or war, or labor unrest, in source countries or elsewhere in our supply chain; changes in the total costs in our supply chain (including, but not limited to, changes in fuel and labor costs and currency exchange rates); port or rail labor disputes and security; the outbreak or resurgence of pandemics or epidemics; weather- or climate-related events; natural disasters; work stoppages or strikes; shipping capacity constraints or embargoes; changes in trade policy and any trade restrictions; tariffs or duties; fluctuations in currency exchange rates; or transport availability, capacity and costs. Additionally, as we add fulfillment capabilities or pursue strategies with different fulfillment requirements, our fulfillment network becomes increasingly complex and operating it becomes more challenging. If our fulfillment network does not operate properly or if a supplier fails to deliver on its commitments, we could experience delays in inventory availability at our distribution facilities and branches, increased delivery costs or lack of availability, any of which could lead to lower net sales and decreased customer confidence, and adversely affect our results of operations. Furthermore, more of our existing suppliers may decide to supply products directly to end users that are our existing or potential customers, which could have a detrimental effect on our ability to keep and procure customers, and maintain and win business, thereby having a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 12 Execution of our operational strategies could prove unsuccessful, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. To achieve our key priorities, we must drive profitable growth across our operational businesses by fulfilling customer needs, capitalizing on attractive markets and growth opportunities and achieving planned execution. Meeting customer needs through comprehensive and differentiated products and solutions that support our customers' projects is a key part of our strategy to drive profitable growth. If service levels were to significantly decrease, customers might purchase from our competitors instead, resulting in reduced net sales, lower operating margins, reduced profitability, loss of market share and/or diminished brand recognition. Development of our operating model is a key part of driving profitable growth. If we are not sufficiently agile in adapting our operating model, we may be unable to adapt to changing customer wants and/or to flex our cost base when required. Moreover, we may not successfully execute our strategic initiatives on expected timelines or at all, including through failure to have the right talent in place or to achieve internal alignment or coordination. Any failure to appropriately address some or all of these risks could damage our reputation and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We may not rapidly identify or effectively respond to direct and/or end customers' wants, expectations or trends, which could adversely affect our relationship with customers, our reputation, the demand for our products and our market share. The success of our business depends in part on our ability to identify and respond promptly to evolving trends in demographics, as well as customer wants, preferences and expectations, while also managing appropriate inventory levels and maintaining sufficient staffing to deliver an excellent customer experience. It is difficult to successfully predict the products and solutions that customers will require. In addition, the customers in the markets we serve have different needs and expectations, many of which evolve as the demographics in a particular market change. Inventory levels in excess of customer demand due to the difficulty of calibrating demand for such products, the concentration of demand for a limited number of products, difficulties in product sourcing, or rapid changes in demand may result in inventory write-downs, and the sale of excess inventory at discounted prices could have an adverse effect on our operating results, financial condition and cash flows. Conversely, if we underestimate customer demand for our products or if our manufacturers fail to supply products we require at the time we need them, we may experience inventory shortages. Inventory shortages might delay shipments to customers and negatively impact customer relationships. Moreover, as we manage our cost base and resource allocation, our total number of associates may decrease due to natural attrition, decisions not to backfill open positions, or targeted headcount reductions. A failure to serve our customers on their required timeframes, including due to lack of available associates, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Operations and technology If our domestic or international supply chain or our fulfillment network for our products is ineffective or disrupted for any reason, including the loss of key suppliers, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected. We source, distribute and sell products from domestic and international suppliers. As of July 31, 2025, we had approximately 37,000 suppliers located in various countries around the world. Our ability to offer a wide variety of products to our customers is dependent upon our ability to obtain adequate product supply from our suppliers. The loss of, or an ongoing substantial decrease in the availability of, products from our suppliers, or the loss of key supplier arrangements, could materially adversely impact our financial condition, operating results, and cash flows. Any of the following, or additional other factors beyond our control, may cause serious disruption in the movement of products through our supply chain, leading to a substantial decrease in the availability of products or an increase in the cost of such products: financial instability among key suppliers; global or regional political unrest, disputes or war, or labor unrest, in source countries or elsewhere in our supply chain; changes in the total costs in our supply chain (including, but not limited to, changes in fuel and labor costs and currency exchange rates); port or rail labor disputes and security; the outbreak or resurgence of pandemics or epidemics; adverse weather events or natural disasters; foreign competition; work stoppages or strikes; shipping capacity constraints or embargoes; changes in trade policy and any trade restrictions; tariffs or duties; fluctuations in currency exchange rates; or transport availability, capacity and costs. These risks may be amplified if we are unable to maintain a diverse supply chain. Additionally, the loss of key supplier arrangements could have a material adverse impact on us. Although in many instances we have agreements with our suppliers, these agreements are generally terminable by either party on limited notice. Failure by our suppliers to continue to supply us with products on commercially reasonable terms, or at all, could put pressure on operating margins, result in reduced customer purchases or lead to termination of certain customer relationships, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. These risks may be amplified in cases where we are unable to identify and secure alternative sources of supply. Furthermore, more of our existing suppliers may decide to supply products directly to end users that are our existing or potential customers, which could have a detrimental effect on our ability to keep and procure customers, and maintain and win business, thereby having a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Further, as we add fulfillment capabilities or pursue strategies with different fulfillment requirements, our fulfillment network becomes increasingly complex and operating it becomes more challenging. If our fulfillment network does not operate properly or if a supplier fails to deliver on its commitments, we could experience delays in inventory availability at our distribution facilities and branches, increased delivery costs or lack of availability, any of which could lead to lower net sales and decreased customer confidence, and materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. Execution of our operational strategies could prove unsuccessful, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. To achieve our key priorities, we must drive profitable growth across our operational businesses by fulfilling customer needs, capitalizing on attractive markets and growth opportunities and achieving planned execution. Meeting customer needs through comprehensive and differentiated products and solutions that support our customers' projects is a key part of our strategy to drive profitable growth. If service levels were to significantly decrease, customers might purchase from our competitors instead, resulting in reduced net sales, lower operating margins, reduced profitability, loss of market share and/or diminished brand recognition. Development of our operating model is a key part of driving profitable growth. If we are not sufficiently agile in adapting our operating model, we may be unable to adapt to changing customer wants and/or to flex our cost base when required. Moreover, we may not successfully execute our strategic initiatives on expected timelines or at all, including through failure to have the right talent in place or to achieve internal alignment or coordination. Any failure to appropriately address some or all of these risks could damage our reputation and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 13 We may not rapidly identify or effectively respond to direct and/or end customers' wants, expectations or trends, which could adversely affect our relationship with customers, our reputation, the demand for our products and our market share.

  symbology.online · text diffs 

Side-by-side against the prior Business Description.

Business Description

16 changes
escalated Compensation and rewards The company introduced the "Bravo!" program to foster mutual associate recognition, and it updated its award criteria by defining four specific core behaviors—passionate, resilient, customer driven, and solution-oriented—instead of listing general traits such as integrity and teamwork.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Compensation and rewards To help attract and retain talent, we offer our associates rewards that are designed to be market competitive. We regularly assess our total rewards programs, including compensation and recognition programs, in an effort to provide equitable and competitive programs that align with our overall compensation philosophy. We are committed to rewarding our associates based on achievement of organizational goals and individual performance. We offer a variety of health, welfare, and financial benefits to our full-time and part-time associates, including health care and insurance benefits, mental health and well-being resources, retirement plans, and an employee share purchase plan, among others. We believe acknowledging exceptional performance contributes to company success. We have several established programs to recognize top performing sales associates and managers for their outstanding contributions. We also award associates who demonstrate the highest standards of integrity, teamwork, safety, service and impact.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Compensation and rewards We are committed to offering competitive, comprehensive compensation and benefits that support the wellbeing of our associates. We regularly assess our total rewards programs, including compensation and recognition programs, in an effort to provide equitable and competitive programs that align with our overall compensation philosophy. We are committed to rewarding our associates based on achievement of organizational goals and individual performance. We offer a variety of health, welfare, and financial benefits to our full-time and part-time associates, including health care and insurance benefits, mental health and wellbeing resources, retirement plans, and an employee share purchase plan, among others. We believe acknowledging exceptional performance contributes to company success. We have prioritized and invested in associate recognition. Our Bravo! program is designed to foster a culture of mutual recognition by enabling associates to recognize, appreciate and celebrate each other, no matter their role. Additionally, we have several established formal programs to recognize top performing sales associates and managers for their outstanding contributions. We also award associates who consistently demonstrate four core behaviors of being: passionate, resilient, customer driven and solution-oriented.

de-emphasised Overview The detailed narrative describing the 2024 corporate merger, including specific dates and legal entity transitions, was replaced with a concise statement confirming that Ferguson Enterprises Inc. became the ultimate parent company for the business in August 2024.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Item 1.Business Overview Ferguson is the largest value-added distributor serving the specialized professional in our $340 billion residential and non-residential North American construction market. We help make our customers' complex projects simple, successful and sustainable by providing expertise and a wide range of products and services from plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioning ("HVAC"), appliances, and lighting to pipes, valves and fittings ("PVF"), water and wastewater solutions and more. We sell through a common network of distribution centers, branches, counter service and specialist sales associates, showroom consultants and e-commerce channels. The Company has a long history and maintained businesses throughout Europe, Canada and the United States in the 1900s. In the early 2000s, the Company's focus shifted to attractive North American markets. As a result, the operating businesses across Europe were disposed of through various transactions. As part of this transition and following a corporate restructuring, Ferguson plc became the ultimate holding company for the business in 2019. The Company was incorporated and registered in Jersey as Alpha JCo Limited on March 8, 2019 under the Companies (Jersey) Law 1991, as amended (the "Jersey Companies Law"), as a private limited company with company number 128484. The Company converted its status to a public limited company and changed its name, first to Ferguson Newco plc on March 26, 2019, and then to Ferguson plc on May 10, 2019. At that time, our jurisdiction of organization was Jersey and we were centrally managed and controlled in the United Kingdom and therefore we were a tax resident of the United Kingdom. On May 30, 2024, the shareholders of Ferguson plc voted to approve a new corporate structure to domicile the Company's ultimate parent company in the United States. Effective on August 1, 2024, the Company implemented this new corporate structure by completing the Merger that resulted in (i) Ferguson plc becoming a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of Ferguson Enterprises Inc., a Delaware corporation, and (ii) the shareholders of Ferguson plc at the designated record time for the Merger no longer holding ordinary shares of Ferguson plc but instead holding shares of common stock of Ferguson Enterprises Inc. As a result of the Merger, Ferguson Enterprises Inc. became the successor issuer to Ferguson plc, which was renamed "Ferguson (Jersey) Limited" and converted into a private company.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Item 1.Business Overview Ferguson is the largest value-added distributor serving the water and air specialized professional in our $340 billion residential and non-residential North American construction market. We help make our customers' complex projects simple, successful and sustainable by providing expertise and a wide range of products and services from plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioning ("HVAC"), appliances, and lighting to pipes, valves and fittings ("PVF"), water and wastewater solutions and more. We sell through a common network of distribution centers, branches, counter service and expert sales associates, showroom consultants and e-commerce channels. The Company has a long history and maintained businesses throughout Europe, Canada and the United States in the 1900s. In the early 2000s, the Company's focus shifted to attractive North American markets. As a result, the operating businesses across Europe were disposed of through various transactions. As part of this transition and following a corporate restructuring, Ferguson Enterprises Inc. became the ultimate parent company for the business in August 2024.

de-emphasised Human capital management The description of the human capital management program was significantly shortened by removing the prior mention of three core pillars aligned with inclusion and diversity strategy. Additionally, the language describing foreign employment was generalized from naming specific jurisdictions (Asia, Switzerland, U.K.) to a general statement regarding associates residing outside the United States and Canada.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Human capital management Our associates are fundamental to the long-term success of the Company. We continue to invest in the development of our associates and are committed to attracting, developing, engaging and retaining the best talent. Our associate base includes a mix of tenured associates and external hires, blended with new talent through acquisitions. As of July 31, 2024, Ferguson employed approximately 35,000 associates, of which approximately 32,000 were in the United States, 3,000 were in Canada and a small number of associates were in certain other jurisdictions, including Asia, Switzerland, and the U.K. Our human capital management program is guided by three core pillars, which are aligned with our inclusion and diversity ("I&D") strategy: attracting top talent, promoting growth, and fostering engagement and retention.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Human capital management Our associates are fundamental to the long-term success of the Company. We continue to invest in the development of our associates and are committed to attracting, developing, engaging and retaining the best talent. Our associate base includes a mix of tenured associates and external hires, blended with new talent through acquisitions. As of July 31, 2025, Ferguson employed approximately 35,000 associates worldwide, including those employed on a full-time, part-time, seasonal or temporary basis, which includes approximately 32,000 associates in the United States, 3,000 associates in Canada and small number of associates who reside outside of the United States and Canada. 6

de-emphasised We strive to create an environment where our associates can bring their true, authentic selves to work every day. The disclosure eliminated the list of the five specific Business Resource Groups (BRGs), including their demographic focuses, and removed all mention of their detailed leadership structure involving executive sponsors and voting processes; additionally, the concluding statement referencing a strategic focus on I&D was deleted.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Fostering engagement and retention We strive to create an environment where our associates can bring their true, authentic selves to work every day. Our five Business Resource Groups ("BRGs") play a role in our effort to enhance the overall well being of our associates, support professional development and create a positive workplace environment. Our BRGs include: BOLD (Black), EmpowHER (Women), Building Pride (LGBTQ+), VALOR (Veterans) and HOLA (Hispanic/Latin American). Membership is open to all our associates and participation is voluntary. Each BRG is led by an executive sponsor, a chair and a leadership team who are voted into their roles by their respective BRG members. To support engagement and retention of our associates, we conduct an annual survey where associates can provide us with their feedback. From the resulting data, we develop an action plan designed to make improvements in the areas our associates indicated that they value most. In addition, we are committed to supporting our associates as well as customers and people within our communities. Through a variety of outreach efforts, we provide our associates with the opportunity to directly engage in community service. We offer these development and engagement programs to aid in the growth, engagement and retention of our associates. We believe that these programs, as well as our strategic focus on I&D, support our objective to retain the best talent.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Fostering engagement and retention We strive to create an environment where our associates can bring their true, authentic selves to work every day. Our Business Resource Groups ("BRGs") play a role in our effort to enhance the overall wellbeing of our associates, support professional development and create a positive workplace environment. Membership for each BRG is open to all our associates and participation is voluntary. Our associates' voices matter. To support engagement and retention of our associates, we conduct an annual survey where associates can provide us with their feedback. From the resulting data, we develop an action plan designed to make improvements in the areas our associates indicated that they value most. In addition, we are committed to supporting our associates as well as customers and people within our communities. Through a variety of outreach efforts, we provide our associates with the opportunity to engage directly in community service. We offer these development and engagement programs to aid in the growth, engagement and retention of our associates. We believe that these programs support our objective to retain the best talent.

de-emphasised The Canada segment contributed 5% of net sales in each of fiscal years 2025, 2024 and 2023. The Canada segment increased its branch count from 224 to 227 as of July 31, 2025, and the sales contribution history was updated to include fiscal year 2025.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Canada segment The Canada segment contributed 5% of net sales in each of fiscal years 2024, 2023 and 2022. The Canada segment operates primarily under the Wolseley brand and supplies plumbing, HVAC and refrigeration products to residential and commercial contractors. The Canada segment also supplies specialist water and wastewater treatment products to residential, commercial and infrastructure contractors, and supplies PVF solutions to industrial customers. As of July 31, 2024, the Canada business operated 224 branches with one regional distribution center and approximately 3,000 associates. In addition, our Canada business operates one MDC in Brampton, Ontario (Toronto) for branch replenishment and final mile distribution.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Canada segment The Canada segment contributed 5% of net sales in each of fiscal years 2025, 2024 and 2023. The Canada segment operates primarily under the Wolseley brand and supplies plumbing, HVAC and refrigeration products to residential and commercial contractors. The Canada segment also supplies specialized water and wastewater treatment products to residential, commercial and infrastructure contractors, and supplies PVF solutions to industrial customers. As of July 31, 2025, the Canada business operated 227 branches, one regional distribution center and one MDC with approximately 3,000 associates. 4

reworded Ferguson is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: FERG) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE: FERG).

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Ferguson is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: FERG) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE: FERG). The Company's corporate headquarters and management office are located at 751 Lakefront Commons, Newport News, Virginia, 23606 and its telephone number is +1 757-874-7795.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Ferguson is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: FERG) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE: FERG). The Company's corporate headquarters and management office are located at 751 Lakefront Commons, Newport News, Virginia 23606 and its telephone number is +1 757-874-7795.

reworded Promoting growth

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Promoting growth We place great emphasis on helping our associates develop and expand their skills. The career paths of our tenured leadership team demonstrate our emphasis in the area. Through internal mobility, many of our leaders shifted from frontline roles to managerial roles. Our learning and development initiatives are designed to foster both immediate and long-term growth, empowering our associates to advance their careers within Ferguson. We offer a variety of leadership and development programs that develop skills and capabilities for our associates and leaders. These programs are tailored to associates' leadership level and potential. The Company also offers associates professional development courses, many of which are on-demand and targeted at improving technical skills, sales, communication, well-being, critical thinking and relationship management skills.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Promoting growth Ferguson is committed to creating meaningful, long-term career opportunities for associates to grow and succeed. The career paths of our senior leadership team demonstrate our commitment to identifying and developing the next generation of talent. Through internal mobility, many of our leaders shifted from frontline roles to managerial roles. Our learning and development initiatives are designed to foster both immediate skill-building and sustained professional advancement, helping associates thrive throughout their careers. We offer a variety of leadership and development programs that develop skills and capabilities for our associates and leaders. These programs are tailored to associates' roles, leadership level and potential. The Company also offers associates professional development courses, many of which are on-demand and targeted at improving technical skills, sales, communication, wellbeing, critical thinking and relationship management skills.

reworded Culture and values

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Culture and values We strive to maintain a culture of integrity and are committed to acting ethically in all our business activities. Our core values provide guidance on ethical situations where there may be uncertainty over how to proceed and set out the standards that we expect of our associates and those who may work on our behalf. Our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics ("Code of Conduct") is a resource dedicated to helping our associates live by our values and understand Ferguson's commitment to compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, our Code of Conduct and Company policies. We require new associates to complete our Code of Conduct training upon hire and all current associates to complete our Code of Conduct training on an annual basis. 6

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Culture and values We strive to maintain a culture of integrity and are committed to acting ethically in all our business activities. This commitment is outlined in our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics ("Code of Conduct"), which sets forth the standards that we expect of our associates and those who may work on our behalf. The Code of Conduct is a resource dedicated to helping our associates live by our values and understand Ferguson's commitment to compliance with all applicable laws and regulations and Company policies. We require new associates to complete our Code of Conduct training upon hire and all current associates to complete our Code of Conduct training on an annual basis.

reworded Business segments

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Business segments The Company's reportable segments are established based on how the Company manages its business and allocates resources, which is on a geographical basis. The Company's reportable segments are the United States and Canada. For further segment information, see Part II, Item 7: Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and Note 2, Revenue and segment information of the Notes to the Ferguson plc Consolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8: Financial Statements and Supplementary Data of this Annual Report (the "Consolidated Financial Statements"). Below is a description of the Company's reportable segments.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Business segments The Company's reportable segments are established based on how the Company manages its business and allocates resources, which is on a geographical basis. The Company's reportable segments are the United States and Canada. For further segment information, see Part II, Item 7: Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and Note 2, Segment and net sales information of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8: Financial Statements and Supplementary Data of this Annual Report (the "Consolidated Financial Statements"). Below is a description of the Company's reportable segments.

reworded Available information

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Available information The Company is subject to the informational requirements of the Exchange Act. In accordance with these requirements, the Company files reports and other information with the SEC. The SEC maintains an internet site at http://www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding registrants that file electronically with the SEC. The Company's website is corporate.ferguson.com. The Company's reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, including Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and any amendments thereto, are available, free of charge, through the Company's website as soon as reasonably practicable after the material is electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC. Any references to the Company's website contained herein do not constitute incorporation by reference of information contained on such website and such information should not be considered part of this Annual Report.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Available information The Company is subject to the informational requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (as amended, the "Exchange Act"). In accordance with these requirements, the Company files reports and other information with the SEC. The SEC maintains an internet site at http://www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding registrants that file electronically with the SEC. The Company's website is corporate.ferguson.com. The Company's reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, including Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and any amendments thereto, are available, free of charge, through the Company's website as soon as reasonably practicable after the material is electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC. Any references to the Company's website contained herein do not constitute incorporation by reference of information contained on such website and such information should not be considered part of this Annual Report.

reworded The United States segment contributed 95% of net sales in each of fiscal years 2025, 2024 and 2023. The company expanded its distribution footprint by increasing Market Distribution Centers ("MDCs") from three to five, while the number of branches slightly decreased from 1,549 to 1,519 as of July 31.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

United States segment The United States segment contributed 95% of net sales in each of fiscal years 2024, 2023 and 2022. The United States segment operates primarily under the Ferguson brand, providing expertise and a wide range of products and services from plumbing, HVAC, appliances, and lighting to PVF, water and wastewater solutions, and more to residential and non-residential customers. Its products are delivered through a common network of distribution centers, branches, counter service and specialist sales associates, showroom consultants and e-commerce channels. As of July 31, 2024, the United States business operated 1,549 branches and 10 regional distribution centers serving all 50 states with approximately 32,000 associates. These locations provide same-day and next-day product availability, which we believe to be a competitive advantage and an important requirement for customers. In addition, our United States business operates three market distribution centers ("MDCs") in Denver, Colorado, Houston, Texas and Phoenix, Arizona for branch replenishment and final mile distribution to customers. 3

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

United States segment The United States segment contributed 95% of net sales in each of fiscal years 2025, 2024 and 2023. The United States segment operates primarily under the Ferguson brand, providing expertise and a wide range of products and services from plumbing, HVAC, appliances, and lighting to PVF, water and wastewater solutions, and more to residential and non-residential customers. Our products are delivered through a common network of distribution centers, branches, counter service and expert sales associates, showroom consultants and e-commerce channels. As of July 31, 2025, the United States business operated 1,519 branches, 10 regional distribution centers, as well as five market distribution centers ("MDCs") for branch replenishment and final mile distribution to customers. Our network serves our customers in all 50 states with approximately 32,000 associates, providing same-day and next-day product availability, which we believe to be a competitive advantage and an important requirement for customers.

reworded Business model

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Business model We have a balanced approach to attractive end markets and serve customers principally in North America. Residential and non-residential markets each account for approximately half of our net sales, with net sales within these combined markets balanced between repair, maintenance and improvement ("RMI") (approximately two-thirds of our net sales) and new construction (approximately one-third of our net sales), based on management's estimates. Ferguson operates in highly fragmented markets, with no one market dominated by any single distributor. We are positioned as one of the top distributors in most end markets we serve, including residential, commercial, civil/infrastructure and industrial. Our business bridges the gap between a large and fragmented supplier base with an even larger and more fragmented customer base. As of July 31, 2024, we had approximately 36,000 suppliers, with no supplier accounting for more than 5% of total inventory purchases, which provides us access to a diverse and broad range of quality products. We serve our customers through a network of 11 regional distribution centers, four MDCs, approximately 5,900 fleet vehicles, 1,773 branches and approximately 35,000 associates, in each case, as of July 31, 2024.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Business model We have a balanced approach to attractive end markets and serve customers principally in North America. Residential and non-residential markets each account for approximately half of our net sales, with net sales within these combined markets balanced between repair, maintenance and improvement ("RMI") (approximately two-thirds of our net sales) and new construction (approximately one-third of our net sales), based on management's estimates. Ferguson operates in highly fragmented markets, with no one market dominated by any single distributor. We are positioned as one of the top distributors in most end markets we serve, including residential, commercial, civil/infrastructure and industrial. Our business bridges the gap between a large and fragmented supplier base with an even larger and more fragmented customer base. As of July 31, 2025, we had approximately 37,000 suppliers, with no supplier accounting for more than 5% of total inventory purchases, which provides us access to a diverse and broad range of quality products. As of July 31, 2025, we serve our customers through a network of 11 regional distribution centers, six MDCs, approximately 5,900 fleet vehicles, 1,746 branches and approximately 35,000 associates.

reworded Customers

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Customers We help make our customers' complex projects simple, successful and sustainable. We offer expertise and a broad range of products delivered where and when our customers need them. Customers rely on us to help them deliver critical infrastructure spanning almost every stage of projects within the residential and non-residential markets. We partner with our customers to keep millions of homes and businesses operating while helping them to run their business more efficiently. No single customer accounted for more than 1% of our net sales in fiscal 2024.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Customers We help make our customers' complex projects simple, successful and sustainable. We offer expertise and a broad range of products delivered where and when our customers need them. Customers rely on us to help them deliver critical infrastructure spanning almost every stage of a project's life cycle within the residential and non-residential markets. We partner with our customers to keep millions of homes and businesses operating while helping them to run their business more efficiently. No single customer accounted for more than 1% of our net sales in fiscal 2025.

reworded Value-added products and solutions

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Value-added products and solutions Our value-added solutions include a variety of sales channels available to our customers ranging from inside and outside sales teams, sales centers, digital commerce capabilities, system-to-system capabilities, counter sales and showrooms. We also offer customized solutions such as virtual design, fabrication, valve actuation, pre-assembly, kitting, installation and project management services. With our value-added solutions, we aim to increase productivity for our customers and for the industry. We source, distribute and sell products from domestic and international suppliers. Our products include branded products and own brand products that the Company sells exclusively in the market. We purchase from approximately 36,000 suppliers. Over 95% of the products sold in the United States are sourced from U.S.-based suppliers, while approximately 90% of the products sold in Canada are sourced from Canada-based suppliers. Our branded and own brand products are generally available from several sources and are not typically subject to supply constraints in normal market conditions. In the United States, approximately 14% of net sales are derived from basic products containing significant amounts of commodity-priced materials, predominantly plastic, copper and steel, and other components which can be subject to volatile price changes based upon fluctuations in the commodities market. To a lesser extent, fluctuations in the price of fuel could affect transportation costs. In general, increases in such prices increase our operating costs and negatively impact our operating profit to the extent that such increases cannot be passed on to customers. Conversely, if competitive pressures allow us to hold prices despite relevant raw material prices falling, profitability can increase.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Value-added products and solutions Our value-added solutions include a variety of sales channels available to our customers ranging from inside and outside sales teams, sales centers, digital commerce capabilities, system-to-system capabilities, counter sales and showrooms. We also offer customized solutions such as virtual design, fabrication, valve actuation, pre-assembly, kitting, installation and project management services. With our value-added solutions, we aim to increase productivity for our customers and for the industry. We source, distribute and sell products from domestic and international suppliers. Our products include branded products and own brand products that the Company sells exclusively in the market. Approximately 95% of the products sold in the United States are sourced from U.S.-based suppliers, while approximately 90% of the products sold in Canada are sourced from Canada-based suppliers. Our branded and private label ("Own Brand") products are generally available from several sources and are not typically subject to supply constraints in normal market conditions. In the United States, net sales include basic products that contain significant amounts of commodity-priced materials, predominantly plastic, copper and steel, and other components which can be subject to volatile price changes based upon fluctuations in the commodities market. These commodity based products can represent up to approximately 15% of annual net sales. To a lesser extent, fluctuations in the price of fuel could affect transportation costs. In general, increases in such prices increase our operating costs and negatively impact our operating profit to the extent that such increases cannot be passed on to customers. Conversely, if competitive pressures allow us to hold prices despite relevant raw material prices falling, profitability can increase.

reworded We also offer after-sales support that comprises warranty, credit, project-based billing, returns and maintenance, repair and operations ("MRO") support.

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Fulfillment options for our customers include delivery, customer pick-up from our branches, counters and locker locations, and direct shipments. We also offer after-sales support that comprises warranty, credit, project-based billing, returns and maintenance, repair and operations ("MRO") support. 4

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Fulfillment options for our customers include delivery, customer pick-up from our branches, counters and locker locations, and direct shipments. We also offer after-sales support that comprises warranty, credit, project-based billing, returns and maintenance, repair and operations ("MRO") support.

reworded Global supply chain

FY 2024 10-K
Removed
Filed Sep 25, 2024

Global supply chain We have a global supply chain which provides access to approximately 36,000 suppliers and we sell more than 1 million unique products each year. We operate an extensive network across North America, including three import centers, 11 regional distribution centers and 1,773 branch locations as of July 31, 2024. Our network also includes four MDCs which provide greater access to key strategic markets and allows us to bring our products closer to our customers. These MDCs include automated picking and replenishment systems for the majority of items picked. This automation improves efficiency and reduces manual handling of certain products which supports associate health and safety.

FY 2025 10-K
Added
Filed Sep 26, 2025

Global supply chain We have a global supply chain which provides access to approximately 37,000 suppliers and we sell more than 1 million unique products each year. We operate an extensive network across North America, including three import centers, 11 regional distribution centers and 1,746 branch locations as of July 31, 2025. Our network also includes six MDCs which provide greater access to key strategic markets and allows us to bring our products closer to our customers. These MDCs include automated picking and replenishment systems for the majority of items. This automation improves efficiency and reduces manual handling of certain products which supports associate health and safety. 5