Despite top line growth, Freshpet's EBIT loss last year and risky balance sheet, marked by high liabilities and debt, raise concerns. The company's negative free cash flow of US$163m over the past year adds to the risk profile.
Investors are likely expecting Freshpet's strong revenue performance to continue, justifying the high P/S ratio. The strong future revenue forecasts are expected to keep the share price buoyant unless the analysts have significantly missed their predictions.
Freshpet's Q4 results outperformed analysts' expectations, with impressive EPS and revenue figures. Despite negative free cash flow, the company's margin has improved over the last year. The stock is up 5.5% post-report.
Benchmark's John Lawrence rates the stock as a Buy with a $100 target, citing strong sales growth. The company's investments to create scale and extend its first-mover advantage have begun to generate improved profitability and significant operating cash flow, says CEO Billy Cyr.
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