Form 4: Graco Inc. Director Archie C. Black Reports Acquisition of Deferred Stock Shares

Director Archie C. Black reports acquisition of deferred stock shares in Graco Inc. under the company's 2019 Stock Incentive Plan.

Summary

• On July 1, 2024, Archie C. Black, a director of Graco Inc., reported the acquisition of 315.34 deferred stock shares.
• These shares were accrued under the Graco Inc. 2019 Stock Incentive Plan and will be settled in Graco common stock upon termination of service on the Board.
• The shares were received in lieu of quarterly retainer fees.
• The price of the deferred stock was $79.28.
• Following the transaction, Mr. Black beneficially owns 1,644.6368 deferred stock shares, which includes shares acquired under the Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRIP).

Sentiment

Score: 7

Explanation: The sentiment is neutral to slightly positive. The filing indicates a director's continued investment in the company through deferred stock acquisition, which is generally viewed favorably. There are no explicitly negative aspects mentioned.

Positives

• The acquisition of deferred stock demonstrates the director's continued investment in the company's future.
• The use of the Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRIP) further increases the director's stake in the company.

Future Outlook

The deferred stock shares will be settled in Graco common stock upon the director's termination of service on the Board.

Industry Context

This filing is a routine disclosure related to insider transactions, which are common in publicly traded companies. It provides transparency regarding the holdings of company directors.

Comparison to Industry Standards

• Form 4 filings are standard practice for publicly traded companies like Graco Inc., similar to filings made by directors and officers at companies like Illinois Tool Works (ITW) and Dover Corporation (DOV).
• The Graco Inc. 2019 Stock Incentive Plan is a common compensation tool, comparable to stock option and restricted stock plans offered by other industrial companies to align management interests with shareholder value.

Stakeholder Impact

• The transaction provides transparency to shareholders regarding the director's holdings.
• The director's continued investment in the company may be viewed positively by shareholders.

Key Dates