Lifeway Food Stock Price, News & Analysis

Lifeway Foods announced the expansion of its kefir distribution in Ireland, now available at Tesco stores. The initial launch includes 1L Lifeway Kefir bottles, marking a significant step in Lifeway's European strategy. CEO Julie Smolyansky emphasized the importance of this partnership, aiming to reach a wider audience. The demand for kefir drinks surged by 400% last year, with projections showing global kefir sales could hit $2.05 billion by 2025 due to increasing health awareness. Lifeway is recognized as a leading contender in the probiotic market.

Lifeway Foods announces its intent to acquire certain assets of GlenOaks Farms, a California-based drinkable yogurt brand, for $5.8 million. This acquisition aims to strengthen Lifeway's position in the better-for-you drinkable dairy market, particularly in the Western U.S. GlenOaks' products, featuring 3.5 billion probiotic cultures per serving, align closely with Lifeway's health-driven mission. The deal is expected to close in August 2021 and will facilitate distribution expansion and market growth.

Lifeway Foods has launched its mango kefir in Costco France, marking its first entry into the French market. The company, a leader in kefir production, is shipping 250ml bottles aimed at harnessing France's appreciation for fermented dairy. CEO Julie Smolyansky expressed confidence in replicating U.S. success within this new market. The global kefir market is projected to reach $1.23 billion by 2027, underscoring potential growth. Lifeway also established an Instagram presence for marketing in France, enhancing brand visibility.

Lifeway Foods, Inc. (Nasdaq: LWAY) announced a new share repurchase program approved by its Board of Directors, allowing the buyback of up to 250,000 shares in a two-year period. The program will be funded using the company's available cash resources. CEO Julie Smolyansky stated that this initiative reflects the company's confidence in its business and results achieved, which have strengthened its financial reserves. The company aims to return capital to shareholders through this buyback.

Lifeway Foods reported robust Q1 2021 results, achieving a 15.7% increase in net sales to $29.4 million, driven by higher volumes of drinkable kefir and USDA's Food Box program. Net income soared nearly 800%, rising to $1.3 million from $150,000 in Q1 2020. Gross profit margin improved to 27.4% from 23.6% due to operating leverage and favorable milk pricing. Despite a 25.1% increase in selling expenses related to advertising, general and administrative expenses decreased by 8.1%, leading to a promising outlook for 2021.

Lifeway Foods (Nasdaq: LWAY) has highlighted a recent study published in Microbiome that identifies molecules in kefir as potential drug candidates to combat pathogenic bacteria and treat inflammatory conditions, including those caused by COVID-19. The study reveals how a compound secreted by the probiotic yeast K. marxianus modulates bacterial communication and reduces virulence in V. cholerae. Lifeway emphasizes the significance of this research amid the ongoing pandemic, aiming to provide consumers with insights on maintaining health through probiotics.

Lifeway Foods reported a strong financial performance for the year ending December 31, 2020, with net sales increasing 8.9% year-over-year to $102 million. The company's net income rose significantly from $0.5 million in 2019 to $3.2 million in 2020. Factors contributing to this growth included higher sales of branded drinkable kefir and improved gross profit margins, which increased to 26.4%. Lifeway decreased selling and administrative expenses, showcasing effective cost management. The company aims to expand retail partnerships and focus on digital engagement.

Lifeway Foods, a leading supplier of kefir and probiotic products, will report its financial results for Q4 and the full year ended December 31, 2020, on March 25, 2021, before market hours. A conference call featuring CEO Julie Smolyansky will follow at 9:00 a.m. ET to discuss the results, available via the Company’s Investor Relations website. The company is recognized for its line of probiotic beverages sold across the U.S., Mexico, and Europe.

Lifeway Foods has expanded its probiotic product portfolio with the addition of two new lines: 3.5oz Functional Shot Multipacks and Organic Grassfed Kefir. With growing consumer interest in functional foods, these products are designed to promote health by providing essential nutrients and probiotics. Each item contains 12 active cultures, while the Functional Shots offer convenience for on-the-go consumers.