Over the past year, three medical supplies distributors — Cardinal Health (CAH), McKesson (MCK), and Cencora (COR) — have delivered impressive stock returns, outperforming the broader market with gains of 66.4%, 39.5%, and 42.2%, respectively. This performance comes despite challenges such as high interest rates and cautious hospital spending, indicating a strong business execution in healthcare distribution.
In the first quarter of fiscal 2026, Cardinal Health reported a 22% revenue increase, reaching $64 billion, driven by strong pharmaceutical demand. McKesson achieved 10% revenue growth in the second quarter of fiscal 2026, totaling $103 billion, alongside a 39% adjusted EPS growth. Cencora, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025, saw a 6% revenue rise, supported by its U.S. Healthcare Solutions segment. These companies illustrate the potential for solid shareholder returns even in a challenging economic environment.
