Walgreen Company (WAG), AFLAC Incorporated (AFL): Snatch Up Companies That Keep Giving Their Shareholders Raises

Hit a bull’s eye

Target Corporation (NYSE:TGT) is a North American retailer based in the United States. Its current dividend is $0.43 per share paid quarterly. This dividend is 30.8% of free cash flow. Target has raised its dividend at a 10-year growth rate of 18.6%. It has increased its dividend every year for the last 45 years.

Target Corporation (NYSE:TGT) is currently utilizing two main projects that will drive growth long term. The first is the introduction of fresh meat and produce for sale across its stores. While its sale margins will take a hit from this, the overall goal is to drive customer traffic through its stores. The second project is an expansion into Canada. This expansion is increasing store count, and unlocking a new market. This is a brand new venture, and the jury will be out on this project for a couple more years.

The bottom line

These companies are good starting points to look for companies that have a proven record of paying shareholders, and evidence that they will continue to do so. While no business strategy is without risk, these companies all benefit from consumer-based trends that will move upward over time.

Justin Pope has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Aflac and Lowe’s.

The article Snatch Up Companies That Keep Giving Their Shareholders Raises originally appeared on Fool.com.

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