Why did the Woolworths (ASX:WOW) share price have such a great month in November?

Woolworths' shares WOWed the market last month…

| More on:
A laughing woman pushes her friend, who has her arms outstretched, in a supermarket trolley.

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

November was a quiet month for Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW), although its share price managed to clock up an extra 7.2%.

Over the course of the month, Woolworths' stock grew from $38.08 at its final close of October to finish November trading at $40.82.

For context, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) slipped 0.92% over the same period.

There wasn't a lick of price-sensitive news from the supermarket giant last month. However, there were a few factors that might have boosted its shares' value.

A month of gains for the Woolworths share price

The first happening that likely impacted the Woolworths share price in November actually occurred in late October.

Then, the company released its earnings for the first quarter of financial year 2022.

Woolworths reported its supermarket leg had boomed during lockdowns affecting much of Australia and New Zealand over the 3 months ended 30 September.

Though, its Big W business saw sales tumble 18% year-on-year.

The company's CEO Brad Banducci said the period was the most challenging COVID-19-impacted quarter so far for the company.

Over the 3 days following the release of its results on 27 October, the Woolworths share price tumbled 5.9%. Thus, it started November in a dip. That was probably favourable to the stock's performance last month.

The supermarket also made a few moves towards becoming a 'greener' business in November.

It launched a BYO container program in all its Tasmanian stores and one Queensland store.

Customers of those stores can now bring their own storage solutions for products from Woolworths' deli, meat, and seafood counters, avoiding the single-use plastic containers and wrappings dispensed by the supermarket.

The launch followed a single store trial in 2020 and more stores will follow suit in New South Wales and Victoria next year.

Woolworths also ditched single-use plastic cutlery, cups, bowls, and plates from its shelves last month.

As of the end of November, the Woolworths share price was 20.45% higher than it was at the start of 2021.

It has since dipped 0.5% amid its takeover bid for Australian Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd (ASX: API).

Motley Fool contributor Brooke Cooper has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on Retail Shares

Stressed shopper holding shopping bags.
Retail Shares

Bell Potter names three retail stock picks for your Christmas hamper

These three retail stocks will help set you up for a strong start to 2026, the broker says.

Read more »

A happy young couple celebrate a win by jumping high above their new sofa.
Share Market News

What could keep Harvey Norman shares climbing in 2026?

The property assets and share buyback program could carry the rally into 2026.

Read more »

A woman smiles over the top of multiple shopping bags she is holding in both hands up near her face.
Broker Notes

Broker tips 68% upside for Myer shares following brutal sell-off

Could a turnaround be on the cards?

Read more »

A mature aged man with grey hair and glasses holds a fan of Australian hundred dollar bills up against his mouth and looks skywards with his eyes as though he is thinking what he might do with the cash.
Dividend Investing

Here's how another $5,000 invested in this high-yield ASX 200 star could boost my dividend income over time!

This high-yield ASX 200 retailer has slipped under $1, but its dividend profile remains one of the strongest in the…

Read more »

Woman looking at prices for televisions in an electronics store.
Retail Shares

Up 50% in 2025, should you buy Harvey Norman shares before Christmas?

Two leading investment experts deliver their verdicts on Harvey Norman’s surging shares.

Read more »

Two fashionable asx investors dancing among confetti.
Retail Shares

Why is the Myer share price rocketing 10% on Thursday?

ASX investors are piling into Myer shares today. But why?

Read more »

Stressed shopper holding shopping bags.
Retail Shares

How high does RBC Capital think JB Hi-Fi shares can go?

JB Hi-Fi shares have been under pressure recently, creating a buying opportunity, RBC Capital Markets says.

Read more »

Male hands holding Australian dollar banknotes, symbolising dividends.
Retail Shares

If I invest $5,000 in Wesfarmers shares, how much passive income will I receive in 2026?

How much income could one of the ASX’s best dividend stocks pay next year?

Read more »