Topic: How To Invest

Hi Pat: Could I have your purchase advice on United Natural Foods? Thanks so much.

Article Excerpt

United Natural Foods, $65.17, symbol UNFI on Nasdaq (Shares outstanding: 49.7 million; Market cap: $3.3 billion; www.unfi.com), distributes over 65,000 natural products, including grocery items, nutritional supplements, bulk goods, personal care products, perishables and frozen foods. The company serves more than 31,000 accounts in the U.S. and internationally. United also owns 13 natural product stores in Florida, Maryland and Massachusetts. In the three months ended May 3, 2014, the company’s revenue rose 13.8%, to $1.8 billion from $1.6 billion a year earlier. Earnings per share gained 14.1%, to $0.73 from $0.64. United’s results have benefited from the trend toward healthier lifestyles and greater awareness of product ingredients. The company’s Albert’s Organics and Woodstock Farms Manufacturing segments have performed well, as demand strengthens for naturally raised and antibiotic-free meat. In addition, demand for the company’s Blue Marble-brand goods has grown, and the Field Day label has also sold well, as consumers continue to look for low-cost, high-quality organic produce. Meanwhile, United is doing a good job…