-- CFRA, an independent research provider, has providedwith the following research alert. Analysts at CFRA have summarized their opinion as follows:
L's Q1 revenue of CAD14.4B (+4% Y/Y) missed consensus by CAD90M, while adjusted EPS of CAD0.49 (+9% Y/Y) fell short of CAD0.52 estimates, though we think PC Financial's presentation in discontinued operations may affect comparability. Food retail same-store sales of 2.4% accelerated from Q4's 1.5%, with drug retail posting 4.1% growth. We view the solid same-store sales momentum as encouraging, particularly given internal food inflation remained well below the 4.4% CPI, indicating L's strong value proposition. Management reiterated 2026 guidance for high single-digit EPS growth and CAD2.4B in gross capex. Store expansion accelerated with 13 net openings, including five hard discount locations, aligning with consumer preference shifts toward value formats. Strong FCF of CAD621M (+189% Y/Y) supported aggressive share repurchases of CAD648M. We believe the pending PC Financial divestiture in Q3 2026 will simplify operations and provide additional capital flexibility for core retail growth.