US food giant Sara Lee Corp. has reversed its decision to suspend its share buyback programme just a day after it said it would postpone repurchases.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


The company said yesterday (6 November) a fall in the group’s share price means it will buy back stock “on an opportunistic basis”. Sara Lee, however, refused to be drawn on how many shares it would snap up.


The U-turn came amid criticism of the company earlier this week after it said it would suspend its buyback scheme “until market conditions improve”.


According to the Chicago Tribune, one analyst, Morningstar’s Erin Swanson had said the plans to postpone the buyback programme had sent a “mixed message” to investors.


The company, Swanson said, was “trying to convince the markets that its stock is undervalued at the same time it was pulling back” from buying it, the Chicago Tribune reported yesterday.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Shares in Sara Lee were down 6.67% at US$9.52 at the close of trading in New York last night.

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now