Why the Woolworths share price will be on watch today

Woolworths could be on the move today.

| More on:

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

Key points
  • Woolworths announced its chair, Gordon Cairns has decided to retire as of 26 October 
  • Non-executive director of Woolworths, Scott Perkins will be appointed as the new chair 
  • In other news, Woolworths signed a deal with Pact Group to supply recycled plastic for its home brand products 

The Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) share price is one to keep an eye out for on Tuesday morning.

At yesterday's market close, the conglomerates' shares finished flat at $37.46.

Let's take a look at what news is surrounding the company.

A man looks a little perplexed as he holds his hand to his head as if thinking about something as he stands in the aisle of a supermarket.

Image source: Getty Images

What did Woolworths announce?

In a statement to the ASX, Woolworths advised that its chair, Gordon Cairns will retire after spending 7 years in the role.

The departure of Cairns will come into effect at the group's Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 26 October 2022.

Scott Perkins who has been a non-executive director for 8 years with Woolworths will be appointed as the new chair.

A public company director with extensive Australian and international experience, Perkins brings a wealth of knowledge to the position. Previously, he was a leading corporate advisor on strategy, mergers and acquisitions and capital markets matters.

Perkins held senior executive leadership positions at Deutsche Bank from 1999 to 2013. These included managing director and head of corporate finance for Australia and New Zealand, membership of the Asia Pacific corporate and investment bank management committee and CEO of Deutsche Bank New Zealand.

He is also serving as chair of energy giant, Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG) since October 2020 and Brambles Ltd (ASX: BXB) since June 2015.

Words from the board

Woolworths outgoing chair, Gordon Cairns commented:

It has been a privilege to be the chair of Woolworths Group for the last seven years.

I am proud of the work that the team and directors have achieved together in transforming Woolworths Group and delivering for our shareholders. Moreover, I am humbled to have been the chair of a purpose-led business dedicated to working towards a better tomorrow for our teams, customers and the community.

Cairns also went on to add:

We are fortunate to have someone of Scott's ability and experience, respected by his colleagues and management, to provide the oversight required to allow the business to reach its full potential

According to the Australian Financial Review, Woolworths signed an agreement with Pact Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: PGH) to supply recycled plastic for its home brand products.

This could also weigh in on the Woolworths share price at market open today.

Woolworths share price snapshot

A challenging 12 months caused by rampant inflation has led the Woolworths share price to move in circles, down 5%.

Last month, its shares hit a 52-week low of $32.62 before quickly rebounding by around 15% in the weeks after.

As Australia's largest supermarket chain, Woolworths commands a market capitalisation of roughly $45.22 billion.

Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras 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 Scott Phillips.

More on Consumer Staples & Discretionary Shares

A woman sniffs a glass of wine as part of a wine-tasting event.
Consumer Staples & Discretionary Shares

Treasury Wine shares hit 10-year lows last week. So why are buyers stepping in now?

Treasury Wine shares just bounced from decade lows as bargain hunters return.

Read more »

A man sitting at his desktop computer leans forward onto his elbows and yawns while he rubs his eyes as though he is very tired.
Consumer Staples & Discretionary Shares

Why is this ASX stock crashing 60% today?

This stock is having a bad finish to the shortened week.

Read more »

Young boy in business suit punches the air as he finishes ahead of another boy in a box car race.
Consumer Staples & Discretionary Shares

Why this ASX giant's shares just hit the accelerator today

Eagers shares jump after announcing two new metro dealership deals.

Read more »

A happy young woman in a red t-shirt hold up two delicious burritos.
Broker Notes

Guzman Y Gomez shares just sank to new all-time lows. Time to buy?

A leading analyst provides his outlook for the battered Guzman Y Gomez share price.

Read more »

Part of male mannequin dressed in casual clothes holding a sale paper shopping bag.
Consumer Staples & Discretionary Shares

KMD Brands shareholders to be stung with a hugely discounted capital raise

The Rip Curl and Kathmandu owner also posted a first-half loss.

Read more »

Pieces of fried chicken.
Consumer Staples & Discretionary Shares

KFC owner Collins Foods shares sliding on Taco Bell exit

Collins Foods is saying goodbye to Taco Bell to focus on growing KFC.

Read more »

Man with his hand on his face reading a letter with bad news in it.
Consumer Staples & Discretionary Shares

This beaten-down ASX stock just secured a $550 million lifeline. So why is it falling?

Star Entertainment secures fresh funding, yet investors keep selling the stock.

Read more »

Stressed shopper holding shopping bags.
Consumer Staples & Discretionary Shares

What's going on with KMD Brands shares?

What's going on behind the scenes?

Read more »