Debt is abnormally large at the moment because SVU is paying for its acquisition of Albertson's, a high-end grocer. As debt is paid down, the Company can convert more of its cash into shareholder earnings.
Sales could remain level for years as debt is serviced and EPS will grow more than 0-1%. The current price is too pessimistic. Assume a modest and organic increase in sales over the long term and it's not hard to imagine SuperValu growing earnings at a more impressive rate.
Debt is abnormally large at the moment because SVU is paying for its acquisition of Albertson's, a high-end grocer. As debt is paid down, the Company can convert more of its cash into shareholder earnings.
No matter what happens with inflation, people have to eat. At the current price, SVU represents a dreary sentiment for growth in earnings. The current price assumes the company will grow earnings 0% for the next five years followed by a future growth rate of 1% (10% discount assumed, DFCF).