U.S. futures subdued as government shutdown stretches into second week
Investing.com - Wolfe Research initiated coverage on Middleby Corp (NASDAQ:MIDD) with an Outperform rating and a price target of $163.00, citing the company’s defensive growth profile and upcoming business separation. The company, currently valued at $6.9 billion, has demonstrated strong profitability with a 38% gross margin and generates over $580 million in free cash flow.
The research firm described Middleby as a "high-quality, defensive growth business" with strong margins and an underappreciated free cash flow profile, noting its entrenched position in the commercial foodservice equipment industry. InvestingPro data reveals the company maintains a healthy financial position with a "GOOD" overall score, supported by management’s aggressive share buyback program.
Wolfe Research highlighted that 54% of Middleby’s Commercial sales in fiscal year 2024 come from replacements/upgrades (37%) and parts (17%), providing a foundation of recurring, durable growth alongside global quick-service restaurant expansion.
The firm pointed to strong tailwinds for Middleby, including restaurant operators adopting high-tech equipment to boost efficiency and reduce labor costs, plus a backlog of aging equipment due to COVID-related deferrals creating replacement demand.
Wolfe Research also noted the planned separation of Middleby’s Food Processing segment, expected to close in the first half of 2026 following activist investor Garden Investments’ involvement in January 2025, which the firm believes will help shares re-rate higher toward peer valuations of approximately 17x EBITDA.
In other recent news, Middleby Corporation reported its Q2 2025 earnings with an adjusted EPS of $2.35, slightly above expectations of $2.29. However, the company faced a revenue shortfall, reporting $977 million against a forecast of $980.67 million. Meanwhile, Middleby has expanded its food processing portfolio by acquiring German manufacturer Oka-Spezialmaschinenfabrik GmbH & Co. KG, which generates annual revenues of $12 million. Additionally, the company has entered into a third amendment to its Eighth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, extending the maturity date from October 2026 to April 2028.
Canaccord Genuity recently adjusted its outlook on Middleby, initially lowering the stock price target to $162 due to tariff impacts but later raising it to $175 following a positive survey of industry dealers and distributors. The firm maintained a Buy rating on the stock throughout these adjustments. Middleby’s Commercial Foodservice segment has experienced its seventh consecutive quarter of organic sales declines, although the Food Processing segment outperformed with sales approximately 9% above consensus. These developments reflect ongoing strategic adjustments and market responses for Middleby Corporation.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.