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Important information: The value of investments can go down as well as up so you may get back less than you invest. Investors should note that the views expressed may no longer be current and may have already been acted upon. This is a third-party news feed and may not reflect Fidelity’s views.

Shore Capital still sees upside at AB Foods despite recent woes

(Sharecast News) - Shore Capital has kept a 'buy' rating on Associated British Foods despite a "mellow" trading update from the food and retail company last week, saying that it still sees upside following a disappointing run in the shares so far this year. ABF shares dropped last week after the company reported that it was facing a number of challenges, from weaker shopper sentiment in France to oversupplied sugar markets across Europe and a flat performance at its Primark division.

As a result, Shore Capital has cut its EPS estimates for the year to 13 September by 1.8% to 170.4p, implying a 14% year-on-year fall.

The broker has also reduced forecasts for the following year, saying that a recovery in the struggling Sugar division "may be a bit further out than [the company] first thought".

Nevertheless, Shore Capital kept an optimistic view on the shares, saying: "The stock trades on disappointing multiples, reflecting the news flow of 2025, where EPS is forecast to fall by c.14% YoY. However, whilst a poor equity performer this year, the investment programme, financial constitution and prospects for the firm mean we see value and so keep our somewhat bruised BUY stance."

ABF shares were 1% lower at 1,981.5p by 1328 BST, putting it down 13% over the past month alone.

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Important information: This information is not a personal recommendation for any particular investment. If you are unsure about the suitability of an investment you should speak to one of Fidelity’s advisers or an authorised financial adviser of your choice. When you are thinking about investing in shares, it’s generally a good idea to consider holding them alongside other investments in a diversified portfolio of assets. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns.