ServiceMaster Global Holdings (SERV, Financial) is a leading provider of termite and pest control services, home warranties and other residential services. The company had problems with marketing and service missteps at its lawn care division, which is no longer part of the company. We invested in ServiceMaster because of its dominant positions in fragmented markets, including 40% market share in home warranties, and consistent sales growth, driven by 80% customer retention and share gains from smaller competitors. The stock outperformed over the past year, as earnings results showed continued revenue growth and much better than expected profit margins driven by cost-saving initiatives, lower fuel costs and product mix. We remain ServiceMaster shareholders as its business continues to improve and the sectors in which it operates remain attractive. We maintain a significant position in ServiceMaster though we have reduced our position, as the valuation multiple has increased significantly since our initial investment.
From Meridian Growth Fund’s annual letter.
