After selling its minority stake in Deliveroo for a hefty loss, Delivery Hero's shares plummeted to an all-time low. The stake, sold for £76.8M (≈€87.9M), was a significant markdown from its original investment in 2021, reflecting less than a third of the purchase price. Deliveroo's shares also took a hit, dropping by 7%. This sale is part of Delivery Hero's strategy to reallocate its cash more efficiently, amidst a backdrop of tech share recovery and Deliveroo's optimistic earnings forecast for 2023.
Delivery Hero offloaded 68M Deliveroo shares at £1.13 each, marking a 7% discount from the previous close. This sale fetched £76.8M (≈€87.9M), a stark contrast to the £284M (≈€324.7M) investment in 2021. This move highlights the volatile nature of the food delivery market and Delivery Hero's shift towards more disciplined capital allocation.
The announcement sent Delivery Hero's stock to a record low, nearly 6% down, reflecting investors' concerns over the loss incurred. Deliveroo's shares also suffered, dropping 7%. This reaction underscores the competitive and unpredictable food delivery sector, where strategic shifts can have immediate market repercussions.
The food delivery industry is facing intense scrutiny and operational challenges. Delivery Hero recently closed tech hubs and cut jobs, mirroring broader sector trends towards consolidation and cost-cutting, amid antitrust investigations and a post-pandemic adjustment phase.
Despite the stake sale, Deliveroo's 2023 outlook remains positive, expecting earnings slightly above its £60-80M (€68.6-91.5M) guidance. This indicates a potential resilience and growth trajectory for Deliveroo, even as it navigates market fluctuations.
The shake-up signals a potential realignment within the food delivery sector, with companies like Delivery Hero and Deliveroo adjusting strategies to navigate post-pandemic realities and regulatory landscapes. The focus on disciplined investment and operational efficiency could redefine competitive dynamics.
❓ How will Delivery Hero's strategic pivot influence its market position?
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