
TSE:WN
This summary was created by AI, based on 4 opinions in the last 12 months.
George Weston Ltd. (WN-T) has garnered varied opinions among analysts, highlighting its nature as a defensive and stable investment amidst a volatile market. Several experts commend its core business in staples and hard assets, noting its resilience even if the tech sector experiences downturns. However, one analyst expresses concern over the complexities associated with holding companies and references a competitor they favor. Despite positive metrics like market share and analysts' price targets indicating potential upside, there are also mentions of negative publicity regarding product pricing that could impact brand trust and loyalty. Overall, opinions range from cautious optimism to reservations about the inherent risks of its structure and market performance.
WN vs. L A bit like splitting hairs. Weston controls Loblaw. When you buy Weston, you get 95% Loblaw and 5% bakery. A great business. A buy and hold through the cycles. If you get a rip roaring cyclical market, it will probably lag. High single digit or low double digit return. He doesn't like the bakery, so Loblaw gets the nod.
One of the few companies with good newss--people are cleaning out the shelves at Loblaw (and other supermarkets). Shoppers will stay open early for seniors. During worry about the Choice REIT not getting its rent from Loblaw. After a few years of turning around, Weston is improving and coming out with better sales. (Analysts’ price target is $124.00)
(A Top Pick Aug 22/18, Up 10%) They also have the bakery side of the business where they have invested a lot into the business. A lot of it depends on L-T plus exposure to CHP.UN-T. He would highly recommend it at $100. They are the dominant player in the Canadian grocery business.
They just bought Choice Properties reit from Loblaw in a complicated deal. This creates a lot of cash flow that will likely go towards M&A. He suspects WN will invest in healthcare to synergize with the supermarkets. The bakeries, though, make up only 6% of the business and he's not thrilled by them.
WN-T vs. L-T This sector is just not loved right now. Investors just aren't looking at these kinds of stocks right now. Their costs have been moving up but people aren't eating more. Their sweet spot is late April until late May. L-T could be okay so he would hold on to it.