McCormick (MKC, Financial) is seeing a slight increase in its stock price following reports of potential talks to acquire Sauer Brands for up to $1 billion. Sauer is renowned for its Duke's Mayonnaise and owns other brands like Kernel Season's and The Spice Hunter. McCormick, famous for its seasonings, also owns Simply Asia and Thai Kitchen. This acquisition could be a strategic fit, complementing McCormick's existing portfolio.

• McCormick (MKC, Financial) has been recovering from a downward trend that started after its Q3 results in October. The company serves both households and foodservice firms, experiencing mixed impacts from fluctuating food prices.
• The rise in at-home food consumption has benefited McCormick's Consumer segment but affected its Flavor Solutions segment due to reduced restaurant traffic. This balance has led to stagnant revenue growth, with low single-digit year-over-year increases.
• Acquisitions could provide a revenue boost. If the Sauer Brands acquisition proceeds, it might enhance McCormick's revenue by 2025, aligning with the company's growth expectations. McCormick aims for EPS growth of 9-11% and operating income growth of at least 7% over the next three years, with significant growth in 2025.

Without acquisitions, McCormick typically returns cash to shareholders through buybacks. A costly acquisition of Sauer Brands might temporarily halt these buybacks as the company focuses on reducing debt. Neither company, including Sauer Brands' owner Falfurrias Capital Partners, has confirmed the transaction, keeping it speculative. Despite a potential pause in buybacks, acquiring Sauer Brands could benefit McCormick as it prepares for its "year of momentum" in 2025.