George Weston Limited Reports Second Quarter 2024 Results

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TORONTO, ON, July 30, 2024 /CNW/ - George Weston Limited (TSX: WN) ("GWL" or the "Company") today announced its consolidated unaudited results for the 12 weeks ended June 15, 2024(2).

George Weston Limited logo (CNW Group/George Weston Limited)
George Weston Limited logo (CNW Group/George Weston Limited)

GWL's 2024 Second Quarter Report has been filed on SEDAR+ and is available at www.sedarplus.ca and in the Investor Centre section of the Company's website at www.weston.ca.

The Company's results in the second quarter of 2024 reflected the strong performance of its operating companies and the impact of the settlement of the bread price-fixing class actions commenced in 2017 which negatively impacted net earnings by $253 million. For details regarding the settlement, please see the Company's news release here.

Loblaw Companies Limited ("Loblaw") delivered strong operational performance in the quarter, as Canadian consumers remained focused on value and responded favourably to Loblaw's market leading banners, private label brands, and personalized PC Optimum? offers. Loblaw maintained its focus on retail excellence across its businesses, driving sales growth, and maintaining a careful focus on cost control. Drug retail sales continued to outperform food retail. Drug front store sales reflected continued strength in the beauty category but were pressured by Loblaw's exit from certain low margin electronics categories. Pharmacy sales growth rates returned to more normal levels, reflecting ongoing momentum in new healthcare services. Food retail sales reflected increased customer visits in the quarter, despite lapping very strong sales growth last year. Food sales growth was led by the ongoing strength of Loblaw's Maxi and NoFrills hard discount stores. A sharp focus on value was reflected in another sequential reduction in Loblaw's internal inflation rate. Food inflation rates have been declining and remain below Canada's total household inflation rate, as Canada's Consumer Price Index ("CPI") for Food Purchased From Stores declined for the sixth consecutive quarter.

Choice Properties Real Estate Investment Trust ("Choice Properties") delivered another solid quarter operationally, as it continued to operate at a high level of occupancy and delivered strong leasing and same-asset NOI growth. Choice Properties further strengthened its balance sheet, completing $788 million in financings with an average term of 9.6 years and an average interest rate of approximately 5.0%.

"George Weston's strong results reflect the consistent operational and financial performance of its businesses," said Galen G. Weston, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, George Weston Limited. "Loblaw's commitment to providing excellent value and service was recognized by its customers, while Choice Properties strengthened its balance sheet and further improved its already high occupancy rate."