We upgrade our recommendation on Hormel Foods (HRL) from Neutral to Outperform based on the expectations of an increase in market demand and food prices in future.

Hence, the first quarter and fiscal 2011 Zacks estimate went up by $0.09 and $0.15 per share, respectively. With several acquisitions including the recent Don Miguel, Hormel has been strengthening its position. Acquisitions are likely to be its key growth strategy in future combined with strong liquidity.

Although the food market is highly competitive, a greater share of value-added branded products in Hormel’s product-mix will help it to strengthen its margins and reduce exposure to commodity prices in the long term.
 
HORMEL FOODS CP (HRL): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
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