McCormick & Co

McCormick sets out the strategic rationale for the proposed merger with Unilever Foods, which would create a pure global flavors company with about $20 billion in sales. Management is targeting net cost synergies of $600 million, roughly two-thirds of which are expected to be realized by the end of the second year after closing. Closing is expected in mid-2027; McCormick aims to keep its standalone leverage below 2.9x by the end of 2026 and remains dividend- and cash-flow-oriented. Despite continued weakness in the US consumer business, the company sees growth potential in herbs, spices, seasonings, sauces and foodservice, and has clear integration and carve-out plans. » More on de.investing.com

McCormick will, after the planned acquisition of Unilever’s food business, add a listing on the London Stock Exchange in addition to the NYSE to ease capital flows and strengthen liquidity for shareholders. The merger, expected by mid‑2027, is set to create a company valued at more than $65 billion including debt. McCormick is structuring the combined business into four divisions and is also pursuing an international headquarters with a strong presence in the Netherlands. The announcement prompted share price losses for both stocks, and investors are skeptical about Unilever’s strategic shift. » More on finanzen.net

Jim Cramer said McCormick remains hurt by its acquisition of Unilever’s food brands, which Wall Street viewed as an overpayment and has driven the stock down. He expects McCormick management to justify the deal when they report and questioned whether the cost was excessive given pressures on packaged-food companies. Cramer previously said he was too lenient in questioning CEO Brendan Foley about the purchase price during an interview. » More on finance.yahoo.com