Topic: How To Invest

What is Pat’s commentary for the week of September 24, 2024

Article Excerpt

Like its rival Loblaw, supermarket operator Metro has delivered solid gains for our subscribers over the past several years. In fact, since we first recommended it as a buy in June 1998 at $3.54 a share (adjusted for splits), the stock is up a whopping 2,275.4%. We expect Metro will continue to move up in the years ahead, thanks in part to improving efficiency. Retailers typically operate on low margins, so even small cost savings can have a big impact on profits. For example, Metro is building new distribution warehouses with robotic sorting equipment. That will cut its long-term labour costs. The company also continues to expand its customer loyalty programs and private label brands. Both of these initiatives should help it compete with Loblaw, but also big U.S.-based chains like Walmart and Costco. I asked our Successful Investor research department to draw up this Inner Circle Spotlight report on the stock. It explains why Metro remains a solid addition to any portfolio, as…