Jefferies Turns Bullish on 2 Industrial-Product Stocks, Citing Double-Digit Earnings Growth Potential
Yahoo Finance·2025-12-17 11:03

Company Overview - Middleby Corporation is a $7.5 billion company that generated $3.88 billion in total revenue last year, highlighting the importance of food and kitchens in daily life [2] - The company operates in three business segments: food service, residential, and food processing, with over 120 brands in the market [3] Recent Developments - On December 4, Middleby announced the sale of a 51% stake in its Residential Kitchen business to 26North Partners LP for $885 million, allowing the company to focus on its core business of commercial foodservice equipment [1] - The transaction is expected to be completed during the first half of 2026 [1] Financial Performance - In the last reported financial quarter (3Q25), Middleby had revenues of $982.13 million, which is a 4% increase year-over-year and $21 million above forecasts [6] - The non-GAAP EPS for the same period was $2.37, up 4 cents from the prior year and 30 cents above estimates [6] Analyst Insights - Jefferies analyst Saree Boroditsky upgraded Middleby to a Buy rating, citing a recovery in commercial foodservice demand as a key catalyst for growth [7] - The standalone Commercial Foodservice business is expected to generate double-digit growth, with potential earnings exceeding $8.50 per share by 2027 [7] - The new price target for Middleby is set at $175, raised from $130, indicating a one-year upside potential of 19% [7] - The stock currently has a Moderate Buy consensus rating, based on 6 recent recommendations, including 4 Buys and 1 Hold [7]