Valvoline Adds 200 Stores, Grows Sales 11%, but One Fund Still Sold Off $67 Million in Stock
The Motley Fool
by newsfeedback@fool.com (Jonathan Ponciano)February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Valvoline Inc., a major player in automotive maintenance products and quick-lube services, has reported strong growth despite a notable shift in shareholder activity. The company added 200 new stores last year and saw its sales rise by 11%, signaling robust expansion and market presence. However, Wasatch Advisors, one of Valvoline’s key investors, reduced its holdings by over 2 million shares during the fourth quarter of 2025, valued at approximately $67 million based on average quarterly prices. This significant divestment highlights a strategic repositioning by Wasatch, which also saw the value of its remaining position drop by nearly $131 million due to both trading activity and market fluctuations.
Valvoline’s performance reflects its strong brand presence and global distribution network, which allows it to cater to a wide range of customers, from individual consumers to commercial clients. The company’s integrated business model, combining direct service centers with aftermarket product sales, positions it as a leader in the automotive maintenance sector. This growth is particularly notable given the competitive nature of the automotive aftermarket industry.
The sale by Wasatch Advisors raises questions about investor sentiment toward Valvoline. While the company’s expansion and sales figures suggest continued strength, the trading activity indicates that some major investors are reassessing their positions. Such moves can signal broader market trends or shifts in investor strategies, making this a key point of interest for finance professionals and investors monitoring the automotive sector.
For readers interested in finance and investing, this news underscores the importance of tracking both company performance and shareholder activity. Valvoline’s growth alongside significant trading by a major
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Originally published on The Motley Fool on 2/24/2026