Big investments paying off for Loblaw

Article Excerpt

Loblaw continues to cut costs and streamline its supply chain and computer systems. That’s helping it continue to prosper in Canada’s intensely competitive grocery business. At the same time, it’s adding new products and services that will further boost sales and profits. LOBLAW COMPANIES $37 (Toronto symbol L; Shares outstanding: 289.9 million; Market cap: $10.7 billion; TSINetwork Rating: Above Average; Dividend yield: 2.3%; www.loblaw.ca) is Canada’s largest food retailer, with about 1,000 stores. In the three months ended October 8, 2011, Loblaw’s sales rose 2.0%, to $9.7 billion from $9.5 billion a year earlier. Same-store sales rose 1.3%. The increase was mainly the result of growth at its Joe Fresh clothing stores and its financial services division. Loblaw also raised its food prices. Earnings jumped 19.8%, to $236 million, or $0.83 a share, from $197 million, or $0.70 a share. The company is benefiting from its recent cost cuts. As well, ongoing upgrades to its stores, computer systems and supply chain are helping…