UniFirst Corporation is on the verge of disclosing its financial outcomes for the first fiscal quarter, with the announcement slated for January 7, 2025, prior to the commencement of trading. Market observers have put forth their expectations, forecasting a slight downturn in earnings per share compared to the previous year, yet projecting a rise in overall revenue. This upcoming report is keenly watched, especially in light of a recent acquisition bid, and various financial experts have updated their outlooks for the company, reflecting a mixed sentiment.
Financial experts project UniFirst's earnings per share for the first quarter to be around $2.06, a notable decline from the $2.40 reported during the corresponding period last year. Conversely, the revenue forecast shows an optimistic trend, with expectations of reaching $615.23 million, an increase from the $604.91 million recorded a year prior. These figures, derived from Benzinga Pro's comprehensive data, offer a glimpse into the company's anticipated performance.
A significant development preceding this earnings release was the acquisition proposal UniFirst received from Cintas Corporation on December 22, offering $275 per share in cash. This offer spurred a modest decline in UniFirst's stock price, which settled at $192.90 on Wednesday, marking a 1.1% decrease. Such a proposal often introduces volatility as investors weigh potential future valuations and the likelihood of the acquisition's completion.
Several leading financial analysts have adjusted their ratings and price targets for UniFirst recently. On October 23, 2025, UBS analyst Joshua Chan maintained a 'Neutral' stance but lowered the price target from $190 to $182. Barclays analyst Manav Patnaik also reiterated an 'Underweight' rating on the same date, further reducing the price target from $152 to $145. Earlier, on July 14, 2025, JP Morgan's Andrew Steinerman re-initiated coverage with an 'Underweight' rating and a price target of $175. Baird analyst Andrew Wittmann, on April 3, 2025, kept a 'Neutral' rating but decreased the price target from $218 to $197. These diverse adjustments reflect varying perspectives on UniFirst's financial health and future prospects.
As UniFirst prepares to unveil its first-quarter results, the market is particularly attuned to how these figures will align with or diverge from analyst expectations. The backdrop of an acquisition offer adds another layer of complexity, as investors assess the company's intrinsic value against the proposed buyout price. The collective assessments from prominent analysts indicate a cautious but analytical approach to UniFirst's immediate future, with their updated price targets offering critical insights into their valuations.