Industry Description
The electricians industry comprises a wide range of on-site electrical services, including new installations, modifications, maintenance, and repairs, as well as the sale and installation of electrical equipment (NAICS 238210). The industry also includes professionals who are responsible for executing various electrical projects.
The following are some basic characteristics of the electricians industry:
- Electricians industry has a combined revenue of $179.8 billion, with a growth rate of 2.1% in 2019-2024
- There are approximately 208,400 businesses
- The electricians industry employs approximately 1,000,000 people
Industry Trends
The electricians industry is highly fragmented and has low levels of market share concentration, with the top four industry operators comprising approximately 3% of industry revenue. The largest players have numerous locations across the US, while small players are typically independently owned and operated in 1-2 states. Some key external factors that influence this industry are (i) technological advancements, (ii) private nonresidential construction, and (iii) shortage of skilled labor. Each of these is described in further detail below.
The high rates of technological advancements have increased demand on the industry. Home automation systems and the use of renewable energy sources have created a demand for skilled electricians. Smart energy systems were implemented in 15% of the buildings that need additional electrical work. This has led to demand for professional electricians who possess niche skills. Smart grid installation, new energy storage solutions, and the Internet of Things devices are vital for upgrading current energy capacities and improving efficiency.
Private nonresidential construction is another factor that determines the demand for electricians. The contribution made by this construction sector in 2019 was 68.7% of industry revenue. The construction spending on private nonresidential buildings rose by 4% in 2022, driving demand for electrical solutions. Nonresidential construction has gradually increased. This has generated many opportunities for electricians involving large construction projects in terms of installation and renovation.
The scarcity of human capital affects this industry with 7,000 new electricians joining the industry each year, but 10,000 retiring from it. Yet the demand for electricians is constantly increasing. This shortage affects the productivity of the industries, especially in the execution of the projects. Also, the cost is affected as service providers feel the pinch due to a lack of qualified electricians. The efforts used in recruiting members are crucial to keep up with industry growth.
The electricians industry has been influenced by external factors such as private nonresidential construction, technological advancement, and demand for skilled labor. In the technological front, there is potential for growth, while in the labor front, there is a problem of shortage of labor. Solving these problems with advancements in recruiting and training measures will be crucial for the sustainable development of the industry.
Key Performance Metrics
In evaluating the electricians industry, the following metrics can provide useful information in comparing a subject company to guideline companies and transactions.
- Backlog
- Bid-win ratio
- Client satisfaction
- Completion time
- First-time fix rate
- Response time
Industry Organizations & Publications
The following organizations publish useful information:
- Electrical Construction & Maintenance (EC&M)
- Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC)
- International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW)
- National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA)
Guideline Information: Private Purchase Transactions
Most electricians companies are privately owned. While there are publicly traded companies, data regarding the sale of 100% of closely held electricians companies is generally the best source of information to appraise a subject company.
The following are typical appraisal multiples from sale of electricians companies:
- Revenue multiples between 0.2 and 0.9 times
- Gross Profit multiples between 0.5 and 2.4 times
- EBITDA multiples between 1.7 and 8.8 times
In selecting guideline transactions, it is of critical importance to select transactions that are similar to the subject company. Unique factors for any subject company must be considered to yield credible results. Additionally, industry economic conditions also vary over time, which must also be considered.
Guideline Information: Publicly Traded Companies
Most electricians companies are privately owned; however, there are a few that are publicly traded, meaning it is possible to compare a subject company based on industry metrics and appraise using industry multiples. However, as with the guideline transactions described above, it is of critical importance to select publicly traded companies that are similar to the subject company. Also be aware that multiples of certain publicly traded companies may not accurately reflect a subject company.
The four largest publicly traded U.S electricians companies ranked by market capitalization are:
- Hubbell Inc. (HUBB) – $20.3 billion market capitalization
- Emcor Group, Inc. (EME) – $16.7 billion market capitalization
- IES Holdings Inc. (IESC) – $3.3 billion market capitalization
- MYR Group Inc. (MYRG) – $1.6 million market capitalization
The Price-to-Earnings (P/E) ratios of these four companies range between 18.3 times and 32.3 times.
Appraisal Rules of Thumb
Please note you should never use a Rule of Thumb in place of a professional appraisal. You will never see a competent professional appraiser do their work using a Rule of Thumb. The professional standards that govern professional appraisal practice, which all professional appraisers should follow, specifically prohibit the use of Rules of Thumb.
Electricians companies are businesses sold based on sound economics. These economic considerations can be measured using the key performance indicators described above, but such economics cannot be accurately summarized in these simple formulae.