Saputo Aims For Global Gains

Article Excerpt

Saputo has nearly tripled for us since we first recommended it in our April, 2003 issue at $11 a share (adjusted for a 2-for-1 stock split in November 2007). We liked its ability to quickly absorb new operations and improve their profits, which offset the risk of its aggressive growth-by-acquisition strategy. Despite its success, the company receives little broker/media attention. That may be because the dairy industry seems dull to many investors. We still like Saputo’s strategy, and its latest purchases should fuel its growth for years to come. SAPUTO INC. $29 (Toronto symbol SAP; Aggressive Growth Portfolio, Consumer sector; Shares outstanding: 205.8 million; Market cap: $6.0 billion; SI Rating: Average) is Canada’s largest producer of dairy products. It accounts for around 35% of Canada’s cheese production, and 25% of milk output. Major brands include Saputo, Armstrong, Stella and Dairyland. Canada supplies 60% of its total sales. The company is also one of the top five cheese producers in the United States, with roughly…