BofA lowers Lamb Weston stock price target on margin concerns

Published 18/06/2025, 16:52
BofA lowers Lamb Weston stock price target on margin concerns

BofA Securities lowered its price target on Lamb Weston (NYSE:LW) to $56.00 from $60.00 on Wednesday, while maintaining a Neutral rating on the food processing company. The new target represents modest upside from the current trading price of $53.60, with the stock having declined over 30% in the past six months according to InvestingPro data.

The research firm reduced its fourth-quarter 2025 adjusted earnings per share estimate to $0.59 from $0.61, citing ongoing challenges for the potato products manufacturer. BofA also cut its fiscal year 2026 adjusted earnings forecast to $2.90 from $3.30, reflecting expectations that Lamb Weston’s adjusted EBITDA margin will fall below the company’s previously stated medium-term range of 19-20%. Despite these challenges, InvestingPro analysis shows the company maintains strong fundamentals with a current ratio of 1.35, indicating adequate liquidity to meet short-term obligations.

BofA anticipates two key developments for Lamb Weston in the near future: details on Alix Partners’ turnaround plan being developed for the company, and potential letters from activist investors JANA Partners and Continental Grain, as Lamb Weston’s board nomination window is currently open.

The price target reduction reflects a valuation multiple of 19 times BofA’s calendar year 2026 earnings estimate, up from the previous multiple of 18 times, despite the lower earnings forecast. The higher multiple accounts for the potential positive impact of activist involvement in accelerating a turnaround.

BofA noted that while Lamb Weston’s earnings could remain challenged in the short term, the presence of activist investors could serve as "an accelerant to a turnaround" for the company. According to InvestingPro’s Fair Value analysis, the stock appears undervalued at current levels, suggesting potential upside if the turnaround efforts succeed. InvestingPro subscribers have access to additional insights, including 6 more ProTips and a comprehensive analysis of Lamb Weston’s financial health and valuation metrics.

In other recent news, Lamb Weston Holdings Inc . has been the focus of several analyst updates and strategic developments. Citi has lowered its price target for Lamb Weston to $60.00, citing pressures in the foodservice industry and potential pricing competition through 2026. The company’s EBITDA margin for fiscal year 2026 is projected by Citi to fall below consensus estimates, influenced by higher incentive compensation and inflation in parts of the portfolio. Meanwhile, S&P Global Ratings has revised Lamb Weston’s outlook to negative, maintaining a ’BB+’ credit rating due to competitive pressures and a challenging operating environment. Despite these challenges, S&P anticipates a modest rebound in EBITDA margins for fiscal 2026 as cost savings programs take effect.

Raymond (NSE:RYMD) James also adjusted its price target for Lamb Weston, reducing it to $75.00 while maintaining an Outperform rating, following the company’s positive earnings report and fiscal year 2025 guidance. Bernstein echoed a similar sentiment, lowering its price target to $62.00 but noting Lamb Weston’s improved quarterly results and utilization rates. On the strategic front, Lamb Weston has appointed Benjamin Heselton as Chief Information Officer to enhance its global technology strategy. Additionally, the company is working with AlixPartners to optimize its global supply chain, indicating potential for future efficiency improvements.

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