We Still Like Both

Article Excerpt

MAPLE LEAF FOODS INC. $16 (Toronto symbol MFI; Conservative Growth Portfolio, Consumer sector; Shares outstanding: 127.2 million; Market cap: $2.0 billion; SI Rating: Average) is a leading producer of fresh and frozen meat products. It also owns 88% of Canada Bread (see at right). At current prices, Canada Bread accounts for around $10 of each Maple Leaf share. That means the company’s remaining businesses, which provide 75% of its sales, are trading at around $6 a share. Maple Leaf’s core businesses are less profitable than Canada Bread’s. However, its broader range of revenue sources cuts its long-term risk. Maple Leaf’s plan to scale back its fresh meat operations and focus on value-added branded meat products also adds to its appeal. As part of this plan, Maple Leaf recently agreed to sell its animal feed business for $500 million. It also plans to close hog processing plants in Saskatoon and Toronto. Exports of fresh meat account for 30% of Maple Leaf’s sales, so the…