tiprankstipranks
Trending News
More News >
Greencore Group PLC (GB:GNC)
LSE:GNC

Greencore (GNC) AI Stock Analysis

Compare
77 Followers

Top Page

GB:GNC

Greencore

(LSE:GNC)

Select Model
Select Model
Select Model
Outperform 70 (OpenAI - 5.2)
Rating:70Outperform
Price Target:
301.00p
▲(10.05% Upside)
Greencore's overall stock score is driven by its strong earnings call performance, indicating robust profitability and strategic growth initiatives. Financial performance is solid, with stable revenue growth and profitability margins. Technical analysis shows moderate bullish momentum, while valuation suggests the stock is fairly priced. The absence of significant corporate events further supports a stable outlook.
Positive Factors
Revenue Growth
Consistent 7.7% y/y revenue growth to nearly GBP 2bn demonstrates expanding scale and deepening retailer contracts. Sustainable top-line expansion supports investment in automation and new product development, strengthening market position and long-term cash generation.
Improving ROIC & Operating Profit
A 15% ROIC alongside a near 29% rise in adjusted operating profit indicates effective capital allocation and improving operating leverage. Higher returns and margin expansion enhance reinvestment capacity, resilience to cost shocks, and long-term shareholder value creation.
Cash Generation & Balance Sheet
GBP 120.5m of free cash inflow with 66.5% conversion, combined with a moderate debt-to-equity ratio (~0.42), provides financial flexibility. Robust cash conversion supports capex, dividends and planned M&A while preserving balance sheet strength over the medium term.
Negative Factors
Inflationary Cost Pressure
A GBP 45m inflation impact from labor and materials is a material structural headwind. Persistent input-cost inflation can compress margins unless offset by pricing or productivity gains, challenging competitiveness with major retailers and long-term margin sustainability.
Declining FCF Growth
A 12.34% decline in free cash flow growth reduces the pace of cash conversion improvement. Even with positive absolute FCF, slower growth limits reinvestment, organic expansion and the capacity to fund acquisitions without increasing leverage, constraining long-term flexibility.
Category Underperformance (Salads)
Weakness in the salad portfolio signals category-specific demand or competitive issues. Given Greencore's exposure to ready-to-eat categories, prolonged underperformance risks revenue mix deterioration, lost shelf space with retailers and pressure on margins over subsequent quarters.

Greencore (GNC) vs. iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF (EWC)

Greencore Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionGreencore Group plc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the manufacture and sale of convenience food products primarily in the United Kingdom and Ireland. The company provides various products, including sandwiches, salads, sushi, chilled snacking, chilled ready meals, chilled soups and sauces, chilled quiche, ambient sauces and pickles, and frozen Yorkshire Puddings. It is also involved in the trading of Irish ingredients; finance activities; and property business. The company supplies its products to supermarkets, convenience and travel retail outlets, discounters, coffee shops, foodservice, and other retailers. Greencore Group plc was incorporated in 1991 and is headquartered in Dublin, Ireland.
How the Company Makes MoneyGreencore generates revenue primarily through the production and sale of convenience food products to retailers and food service businesses. The company's key revenue streams include ready-to-eat meals, sandwiches, salads, and other prepared foods, which are sold to large supermarket chains and food service operators. Greencore's business model is centered around long-term contracts with major clients, which provide a stable source of income. Additionally, the company invests in innovation to develop new products that cater to changing consumer tastes and trends, enhancing its market position. Strategic partnerships with prominent retailers also play a crucial role in its earnings, as they facilitate broader distribution and increased sales volumes. Factors contributing to Greencore's earnings include its operational efficiency, ability to adapt to market demands, and a focus on sustainability, which resonates with environmentally conscious consumers.

Greencore Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Nov 18, 2025
(Q4-2025)
|
% Change Since: |
Next Earnings Date:May 26, 2026
Earnings Call Sentiment Positive
The earnings call presented a strong performance with record profitability, significant revenue growth, and successful new product launches. While there were challenges, such as inflationary pressures and underperformance in the salad category, these were outweighed by the positive financial metrics and progress in strategic initiatives like the Bakkavor acquisition.
Q4-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Record Profitability Achieved
The company reached a record level of profitability, achieving a 15% return on invested capital (ROIC), which is an increase of 350 basis points from the previous fiscal year.
Strong Revenue Growth
Revenue for FY 2025 was just under GBP 2 billion, representing a growth of 7.7% year-on-year.
Significant Operating Profit Increase
Adjusted operating profit increased by 28.9% year-on-year to GBP 125.7 million.
Successful New Product Launches
Launched 534 new products in partnership with customers, which is over 10 products per week.
Operational Excellence Improvements
Operational excellence initiatives led to a 4% increase in units per labor hour from FY 2024 and a 10% increase since FY 2023.
Strong Free Cash Flow
Recorded a free cash inflow of GBP 120.5 million, with a free cash flow conversion of 66.5%.
Bakkavor Acquisition Progress
Progressing according to plan with a positive Phase 1 decision from the CMA and expected completion in early 2026.
Dividend Increase
The Board recommended a dividend of 2.6p per share, an increase of 30% year-on-year.
Negative Updates
Challenges in the Salad Portfolio
Performance in parts of the salad portfolio was challenging in comparison to other segments.
Water Reduction Target Missed
The company did not meet its in-year target for water reduction due to high water usage at a couple of sites.
Inflationary Pressures
Experienced about GBP 45 million worth of inflation, mainly from labor and materials costs.
Company Guidance
In the fiscal year 2025, the company reported a strong performance across multiple financial metrics, achieving a revenue of nearly GBP 2 billion, which represents a 7.7% year-on-year growth. The adjusted operating profit increased by 28.9% to GBP 125.7 million, resulting in an operating margin growth of 110 basis points to 6.5%. The return on invested capital (ROIC) rose to 15%, a 350 basis point increase from the previous year. The company's free cash flow was GBP 120.5 million, with a leverage ratio of 0.4x net debt to EBITDA. The successful onboarding of new contracts, particularly in the ready meals segment, contributed significantly to this growth. Additionally, the company launched 534 new products and maintained over 99% service levels with ongoing operational excellence initiatives. Looking ahead, the company anticipates continued profitable growth and plans to close the acquisition of Bakkavor in early 2026, projecting at least GBP 80 million in cost synergies. The company remains committed to enhancing shareholder value through disciplined capital allocation and strategic investments.

Greencore Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Greencore exhibits a well-rounded financial profile with efficient operations and solid cash flow management. While the balance sheet is stable, the income statement indicates a need for margin enhancements. Continued focus on reducing debt and improving profitability will be crucial for sustained growth.
Income Statement
75
Positive
Greencore's income statement shows a stable revenue base with a slight decline from the previous year, indicating potential market challenges. The company maintains healthy gross and EBIT margins, implying strong operational efficiency. However, net profit margins are modest, suggesting room for improvement in managing expenses.
Balance Sheet
68
Positive
The balance sheet reflects a sound equity position with a manageable debt-to-equity ratio. Return on equity has been positive, indicating decent profitability for shareholders. Nevertheless, the company's total debt level should be monitored to prevent financial strain.
Cash Flow
70
Positive
Greencore's cash flow statement is robust, with consistent free cash flow generation and positive operating cash flow to net income ratio. The company has demonstrated effective cash management practices, supporting operational and strategic initiatives.
BreakdownTTMDec 2025Dec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021
Income Statement
Total Revenue1.86B1.95B1.81B1.91B1.74B1.32B
Gross Profit589.70M632.50M599.60M568.80M523.00M422.90M
EBITDA152.60M158.70M147.80M124.10M110.60M101.30M
Net Income54.60M57.60M46.30M35.90M32.30M25.40M
Balance Sheet
Total Assets1.23B1.27B1.20B1.30B1.34B1.29B
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments87.90M81.80M57.30M116.50M99.60M119.10M
Total Debt275.80M207.70M250.30M315.50M327.60M361.80M
Total Liabilities772.80M780.70M754.50M837.90M873.10M868.30M
Stockholders Equity452.30M492.00M450.20M459.80M465.60M423.20M
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow139.40M122.20M79.60M61.60M42.90M62.50M
Operating Cash Flow176.80M165.60M112.00M99.00M92.90M102.70M
Investing Cash Flow-37.50M-43.40M-31.70M-31.30M-50.00M-17.60M
Financing Cash Flow-138.30M-85.50M-98.70M-81.50M-69.40M-58.10M

Greencore Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price273.50
Price Trends
50DMA
241.73
Positive
100DMA
239.16
Positive
200DMA
229.02
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
5.55
Negative
RSI
69.85
Neutral
STOCH
90.66
Negative
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For GB:GNC, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 273.5 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 251.70, above the 50-day MA of 241.73, and above the 200-day MA of 229.02, indicating a bullish trend. The MACD of 5.55 indicates Negative momentum. The RSI at 69.85 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 90.66 is Negative, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for GB:GNC.

Greencore Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (62)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
78
Outperform
£2.74B18.5115.07%2.06%6.96%28.47%
76
Outperform
£1.48B11.229.47%1.62%0.50%20.52%
71
Outperform
£456.23M11.6512.72%7.01%8.58%-15.81%
70
Outperform
£1.19B20.6612.23%0.79%7.74%30.09%
69
Neutral
£13.14B13.139.22%2.98%-3.06%-26.93%
64
Neutral
£1.49B38.955.88%2.52%0.59%-41.66%
62
Neutral
$20.33B14.63-3.31%3.23%1.93%-12.26%
* Consumer Defensive Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
GB:GNC
Greencore
273.50
92.63
51.21%
GB:ABF
Associated British Foods
1,858.50
-84.29
-4.34%
GB:CWK
Cranswick
5,120.00
326.35
6.81%
GB:HFG
Hilton Food
508.00
-335.20
-39.75%
GB:PFD
Premier Foods
171.40
-5.09
-2.88%
GB:BAKK
Bakkavor Group plc
252.00
117.75
87.71%

Greencore Corporate Events

Executive/Board ChangesDelistings and Listing ChangesM&A TransactionsRegulatory Filings and Compliance
Greencore Advances Bakkavor Takeover With FCA-Approved Share Prospectus
Positive
Jan 8, 2026

Greencore Group has published a prospectus approved by the UK Financial Conduct Authority for the issue of new Greencore shares to Bakkavor shareholders, a key step in its recommended acquisition of Bakkavor Group. Under the agreed terms, Bakkavor investors will receive a mix of new Greencore shares, cash and a contingent value right, with up to 361.9 million new Greencore shares to be admitted to trading on the London Stock Exchange’s main market, expected from 19 January 2026, subject to court sanction of the scheme and other conditions. Bakkavor’s listing is slated to be cancelled on the same date, consolidating the combined group under Greencore’s London listing, while two Bakkavor directors, Mike Edwards and Lee Miley, are now expected to remain on the Bakkavor board for agreed periods after completion, signalling a measure of continuity in governance during the integration phase.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:GNC) stock is a Buy with a £266.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Greencore stock, see the GB:GNC Stock Forecast page.

Regulatory Filings and Compliance
Greencore Confirms Total Voting Rights at 443 Million Shares
Neutral
Dec 31, 2025

Greencore Group has confirmed that its issued ordinary share capital now comprises 443,017,199 ordinary shares, each carrying one vote, giving the company a total of 443,017,199 voting rights. The updated figure provides investors and other market participants with the denominator needed to assess and report any notifiable holdings or changes in their shareholdings under the UK Financial Conduct Authority’s disclosure and transparency rules, reinforcing transparency around Greencore’s ownership structure.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:GNC) stock is a Buy with a £266.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Greencore stock, see the GB:GNC Stock Forecast page.

Financial DisclosuresRegulatory Filings and ComplianceShareholder Meetings
Greencore Issues 2025 Annual Report and Sets Date for 2026 AGM
Neutral
Dec 19, 2025

Greencore Group plc has published its 2025 Annual Report and Financial Statements and issued the formal notice and documentation for its 2026 Annual General Meeting, which will take place on 29 January 2026 at the Maldron Hotel Dublin Airport in Ireland. Shareholders are being sent the chair’s letter and AGM notice, the full annual report and accounts for the year ended 26 September 2025, and a form of proxy, with all materials also being made available via the company’s website and the UK National Storage Mechanism; investors are encouraged to use proxy voting, submit questions in advance, and monitor the company’s website for any further updates regarding the AGM arrangements.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:GNC) stock is a Buy with a £266.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Greencore stock, see the GB:GNC Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyM&A Transactions
Greencore Set to Complete Bakkavor Acquisition in January 2026
Positive
Dec 17, 2025

Greencore Group PLC has announced the expected completion of its acquisition of Bakkavor Group PLC on January 16, 2026. The acquisition has cleared major regulatory hurdles, including approvals from the UK Competition and Markets Authority and the United States HSR Act. This strategic move is anticipated to strengthen Greencore’s position in the convenience food sector, with potential implications for stakeholders, including changes in board membership and the integration of Bakkavor’s operations.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:GNC) stock is a Buy with a £266.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Greencore stock, see the GB:GNC Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyExecutive/Board Changes
Greencore Announces Executive Share Vesting and Sale
Neutral
Dec 9, 2025

Greencore Group plc announced a transaction involving Dalton Philips, an Executive Director, who vested an award of 1,560,113 ordinary shares under the company’s Performance Share Plan. A portion of these shares was sold to cover tax liabilities, with the remaining shares subject to a mandatory two-year holding period, reflecting the company’s strategic approach to executive compensation and shareholder value management.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:GNC) stock is a Buy with a £300.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Greencore stock, see the GB:GNC Stock Forecast page.

Regulatory Filings and Compliance
Greencore Announces Current Share Capital Details
Neutral
Nov 28, 2025

Greencore Group PLC, a company with a focus on the food industry, has announced its current issued ordinary share capital, which consists of 442,920,676 ordinary shares with voting rights. This announcement is significant for shareholders as it provides the necessary information for them to calculate their interests under the FCA’s Disclosure and Transparency Rules.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:GNC) stock is a Buy with a £300.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Greencore stock, see the GB:GNC Stock Forecast page.

Executive/Board Changes
Greencore Group Announces Executive Share Awards
Neutral
Nov 26, 2025

Greencore Group PLC announced transactions involving its executive directors, Dalton Philips and Catherine Gubbins, under the company’s Deferred Bonus Plan. Dalton Philips was awarded 205,038 ordinary shares, while Catherine Gubbins received 90,562 ordinary shares and an additional 6,018 shares due to a previous administrative error. These shares will vest in three years, contingent on their continued employment, reflecting the company’s commitment to aligning executive incentives with long-term performance.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:GNC) stock is a Buy with a £300.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Greencore stock, see the GB:GNC Stock Forecast page.

Other
Greencore Chair Purchases 40,000 Shares, Signaling Confidence
Positive
Nov 19, 2025

Greencore Group plc announced a significant transaction involving its Non-Executive Chair, Leslie Van de Walle, and a closely associated person, Domitille Marie Renée Van de Walle, who purchased 40,000 ordinary shares at a price of £2.362 each. This transaction, conducted in London on November 19, 2025, may indicate confidence in the company’s future prospects and could positively influence stakeholder perceptions.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:GNC) stock is a Hold with a £185.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Greencore stock, see the GB:GNC Stock Forecast page.

Financial Disclosures
Greencore Group PLC Releases FY25 Annual Report
Neutral
Nov 18, 2025

Greencore Group PLC has announced the availability of its FY25 Annual Report and Financial Statements. The documents will be accessible on the company’s website and through the national storage mechanism. This release provides stakeholders with insights into the company’s financial performance over the past year, which could influence investor decisions and market perceptions.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:GNC) stock is a Hold with a £255.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Greencore stock, see the GB:GNC Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyM&A Transactions
Greencore Sells Bristol Site to Facilitate Bakkavor Acquisition
Neutral
Nov 18, 2025

Greencore Group PLC has signed a binding agreement to sell its Bristol site, which manufactures chilled soups and sauces, to Compleat Food Group. This sale is a strategic move to gain approval from the Competition and Markets Authority for Greencore’s acquisition of Bakkavor Group PLC, expected to complete in early 2026. The Bristol site accounts for approximately 1% of the combined revenues of Greencore and Bakkavor, and its sale is crucial for avoiding a Phase 2 investigation by the CMA, thereby facilitating the acquisition process.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:GNC) stock is a Hold with a £255.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Greencore stock, see the GB:GNC Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyFinancial DisclosuresM&A Transactions
Greencore Reports Strong FY25 Results and Strategic Acquisition Plans
Positive
Nov 18, 2025

Greencore Group plc has reported a robust financial performance for the fiscal year ending September 2025, with a 29% increase in adjusted operating profit and a 7.7% rise in group revenue. The company is set to strengthen its market position with the proposed acquisition of Bakkavor Group plc, expected to complete in early 2026, subject to regulatory approval. This acquisition, alongside strategic investments in automation and productivity, positions Greencore for continued growth despite economic uncertainties and inflationary pressures.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:GNC) stock is a Hold with a £255.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Greencore stock, see the GB:GNC Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyM&A Transactions
Greencore’s Acquisition of Bakkavor Approved by CMA
Positive
Nov 7, 2025

Greencore Group PLC announced that the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has approved in principle a remedy allowing Greencore to proceed with its acquisition of Bakkavor Group PLC, aiming for completion in early 2026. The remedy involves selling Greencore’s Bristol chilled soups and sauces site, which represents about 1% of the combined group’s revenue. This acquisition is expected to create a leading convenience food business, enhancing opportunities for employees, improving service and innovation for customers, and generating value for shareholders.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:GNC) stock is a Hold with a £255.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Greencore stock, see the GB:GNC Stock Forecast page.

Regulatory Filings and Compliance
Greencore Announces Current Voting Rights and Share Capital Structure
Neutral
Oct 31, 2025

Greencore Group PLC has announced that its issued ordinary share capital consists of 442,855,802 ordinary shares, each carrying one vote, resulting in a total of 442,855,802 voting rights. This information is crucial for shareholders as it serves as the denominator for calculations to determine if they need to notify changes in their interest under the FCA’s Disclosure and Transparency Rules.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:GNC) stock is a Hold with a £255.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Greencore stock, see the GB:GNC Stock Forecast page.

M&A TransactionsRegulatory Filings and Compliance
Greencore’s Acquisition of Bakkavor Clears CMA Phase 1
Positive
Oct 27, 2025

Greencore Group PLC has received a positive Phase 1 decision from the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) regarding its acquisition of Bakkavor Group plc. The CMA found no significant competition concerns for 99% of the combined group’s revenues, with only a potential issue in the supply of own label chilled sauces. Greencore now has the opportunity to propose remedies to address this concern, avoiding a more in-depth Phase 2 investigation. The transaction is expected to be completed in early 2026, with both companies expressing optimism about the merger’s benefits for stakeholders and the creation of a national food champion.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:GNC) stock is a Hold with a £255.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Greencore stock, see the GB:GNC Stock Forecast page.

Glossary
BuyA stock rated as a "Buy" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
HoldA stock rated as a "Hold" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly compelling nor unfavorable for investment. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
SellA stock rated as a "Sell" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock may deliver lower returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.Date of analysis: Dec 11, 2025