Should I Buy Glanbia Stock in 2025? Expert Analysis for Ireland
Is Glanbia stock a buy right now?
ScoreGlanbia plc, a prominent name on the Irish Stock Exchange, currently trades at approximately €12.60 (as of late May 2025), with a solid average daily trading volume of 51,452 shares, reflecting consistent institutional and retail interest. The company stands out in the global nutrition and packaged food sector, with operations in more than 30 countries and a portfolio featuring leading brands like Optimum Nutrition. This year, Glanbia has faced some headwinds from input cost inflation, which marginally pressured its margins, yet it has responded with decisive transformation initiatives—including a portfolio reshuffle, robust cost-saving programmes, and the acquisition of Flavor Producers to strengthen its product offering. Financially, 2024 results were positive: revenues rose to $3.84 billion (up 5.8%), EBITDA margins improved, and cash flow conversion was strong. Dividend growth continues (+10% vs last year), supplemented by an active share buyback policy—signs of continued shareholder focus. Market sentiment remains constructive, with Glanbia’s adaptability and sector leadership well recognised. The consensus among more than 28 national and international banks now places the share price target at €16.38, a level within a realistic range given current trends. For retail investors in Ireland, Glanbia represents a balanced profile in a growth-focused sector that remains resilient despite volatility.
- ✅Sustained top-line and EBITDA growth, with margins moving up in core divisions.
- ✅Global leadership in sports and functional nutrition, backed by strong brand portfolio.
- ✅Robust cash flow conversion (88%) and increased dividend (+10%) in 2024.
- ✅Disciplined capital allocation: active buybacks and clear dividend policy support long-term value.
- ✅Recent acquisition (Flavor Producers) signals ongoing innovation and expansion.
- ❌Headwinds from rising input costs could moderately impact 2025 profit margins.
- ❌Sector faces competition and margin pressure, requiring continued transformation efforts.
- ✅Sustained top-line and EBITDA growth, with margins moving up in core divisions.
- ✅Global leadership in sports and functional nutrition, backed by strong brand portfolio.
- ✅Robust cash flow conversion (88%) and increased dividend (+10%) in 2024.
- ✅Disciplined capital allocation: active buybacks and clear dividend policy support long-term value.
- ✅Recent acquisition (Flavor Producers) signals ongoing innovation and expansion.
Is Glanbia stock a buy right now?
ScoreGlanbia plc, a prominent name on the Irish Stock Exchange, currently trades at approximately €12.60 (as of late May 2025), with a solid average daily trading volume of 51,452 shares, reflecting consistent institutional and retail interest. The company stands out in the global nutrition and packaged food sector, with operations in more than 30 countries and a portfolio featuring leading brands like Optimum Nutrition. This year, Glanbia has faced some headwinds from input cost inflation, which marginally pressured its margins, yet it has responded with decisive transformation initiatives—including a portfolio reshuffle, robust cost-saving programmes, and the acquisition of Flavor Producers to strengthen its product offering. Financially, 2024 results were positive: revenues rose to $3.84 billion (up 5.8%), EBITDA margins improved, and cash flow conversion was strong. Dividend growth continues (+10% vs last year), supplemented by an active share buyback policy—signs of continued shareholder focus. Market sentiment remains constructive, with Glanbia’s adaptability and sector leadership well recognised. The consensus among more than 28 national and international banks now places the share price target at €16.38, a level within a realistic range given current trends. For retail investors in Ireland, Glanbia represents a balanced profile in a growth-focused sector that remains resilient despite volatility.
- ✅Sustained top-line and EBITDA growth, with margins moving up in core divisions.
- ✅Global leadership in sports and functional nutrition, backed by strong brand portfolio.
- ✅Robust cash flow conversion (88%) and increased dividend (+10%) in 2024.
- ✅Disciplined capital allocation: active buybacks and clear dividend policy support long-term value.
- ✅Recent acquisition (Flavor Producers) signals ongoing innovation and expansion.
- ❌Headwinds from rising input costs could moderately impact 2025 profit margins.
- ❌Sector faces competition and margin pressure, requiring continued transformation efforts.
- ✅Sustained top-line and EBITDA growth, with margins moving up in core divisions.
- ✅Global leadership in sports and functional nutrition, backed by strong brand portfolio.
- ✅Robust cash flow conversion (88%) and increased dividend (+10%) in 2024.
- ✅Disciplined capital allocation: active buybacks and clear dividend policy support long-term value.
- ✅Recent acquisition (Flavor Producers) signals ongoing innovation and expansion.
- What is Glanbia?
- How much is the Glanbia stock?
- Our full analysis of the Glanbia stock
- How to buy Glanbia stock in Ireland?
- Our 7 tips for buying Glanbia stock
- The latest news about Glanbia
- FAQ
What is Glanbia?
| Indicator | Value | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| 🏳️ Nationality | Ireland | Key Irish multinational in global nutrition, listed in Dublin and London. |
| 💼 Market | ISE (GL9) & LSE (GLB) | Dual listing offers easy access for Irish and UK investors. |
| 🏛️ ISIN code | IE0000669501 | Unique identifier simplifies buying and tracking for investors. |
| 👤 CEO | Hugh McGuire | CEO since 2022, leading strategic transformation and international growth. |
| 🏢 Market cap | €3.2 billion | Medium-cap, reflecting its solid footprint in global nutrition markets. |
| 📈 Revenue | $3.84 billion (2024) | Revenue grew by 5.8% year-on-year, indicating strong sales resilience. |
| 💹 EBITDA | $551.3 million (2024) | EBITDA up 11.7%, showing improving operational efficiency and margin recovery. |
| 📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings) | 22.1x | Valuation is above sector average, suggesting growth expectations or some short-term risk. |
How much is the Glanbia stock?
The price of Glanbia stock is rising this week. As of 29 May 2025, the share is trading at €12.60, reflecting a 3.4% gain over the past week and a market capitalisation of €3.2 billion.
In the last 24 hours, the stock has shown positive movement, with an average three-month trading volume of 51,452 shares.
| P/E Ratio | Dividend Yield | Beta |
|---|---|---|
| 22.1 | 2.9% | 0.63 |
The beta of 0.63 suggests lower volatility compared to the broader market. This relatively stable profile and strong financials may appeal to Irish investors seeking steady long-term potential.
Compare the finest brokers in Ireland and find the best one for you!Compare brokersOur full analysis of the Glanbia stock
We have carefully reviewed Glanbia’s latest full-year 2024 financials, as well as the stock’s evolution over the past three years. Using our proprietary algorithms drawing on comprehensive financial indicators, technical trends, market data, and peer benchmarking, the analysis spotlights the unique position Glanbia occupies in the nutrition and food technology sector. So, what makes Glanbia a candidate for renewed strategic entry in global nutrition, especially as we approach 2025?
Recent Performance and Market Context
The current share price for Glanbia plc (ISE:GL9, LSE:GLB) stands at €12.60 (as of 29 May 2025), representing a dynamic profile shaped by recent sectoral headwinds and an emerging uptrend. Over the last week, the stock has climbed +3.4%, and posted a robust +8.43% in the past month alone, hinting at improving sentiment and renewed investor interest. While the share is down -32.2% year-on-year—mainly reflecting cost headwinds and portfolio restructuring—its five-year appreciation of nearly +30% demonstrates long-term resilience and value creation.
Catalysing renewed optimism, Glanbia’s transformation programme, successful divestitures (notably Body & Fit and SlimFast), and targeted acquisitions (such as Flavor Producers LLC) have streamlined the business for future growth. Wider macro trends remain supportive: global demand for health-centric, value-added nutrition is at record highs, and Glanbia’s portfolio is closely aligned with this shift towards functional, high-protein, and fortified foods. Irish and international investors alike are thus increasingly attuned to Glanbia’s favourable blend of market position, innovation, and strategic ambition—a context that justifies a positive reappraisal.
Technical Analysis
From a technical standpoint, Glanbia displays increasingly constructive signs for a potential inflection. The stock is trading in the lower half of its 52-week range (€9.10–€19.62), with recent daily closes in the €12.63–€12.90 band. Key technical support is identified at €9.10, which coincides with the year’s low, while primary resistance is flagged near €19.62, presenting a substantial potential re-rating window as confidence returns.
- Relative Strength Index (RSI): Recent readings point to a move out of oversold territory, consistent with a sustained recovery cycle.
- MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence): Signal lines are converging toward a bullish crossover, indicating a possible positive reversal.
- Moving Averages: The 30-day moving average is stabilising, suggesting the steep declines of 2024 are now behind us. Price structure hints at a bottoming process, confirmed by a recent +27% rebound cited by Simply Wall St.
The combination of these factors favours the view that Glanbia may be entering a new accumulation phase, with limited downside and enhanced upside capture for vigilant investors.
Fundamental Analysis
Glanbia’s operational performance in 2024 (USD $3.84bn revenue, +5.8% YoY) underscores the company’s ability to adapt and grow—even through cyclical challenges. EBITDA rose strongly by +11.7% to $551.3m, lifting margins to 14.4% (from 13.6% in 2023), reflecting disciplined cost management and improved business mix.
- Earnings per Share (EPS): Adjusted EPS increased +6.8% in constant currency, providing a clear indication of healthy underlying profitability.
- Cash Flow: Exceptional cash conversion (88.0%) enables ongoing capital returns—dividends and share buybacks—and ensures future flexibility.
- Valuation: With a current P/E of 22.1x and a consensus target price of €16.29 (implying a +29.3% expected re-rating potential), Glanbia trades at a justified premium, given its sector leadership and consistent execution.
- Structural Strengths: Dominant international brands (Optimum Nutrition, BSN, Isopure, Nutramino), global market penetration (30+ countries), and rapid growth in strategic segments (notably Nutritional Solutions, +14% YoY) position Glanbia at the forefront of the nutrition revolution.
- Innovation: The $355m Flavor Producers acquisition not only diversifies the portfolio but also supports Glanbia’s technological edge in value-added, science-driven ingredients—a high-valuation subsector within FoodTech.
Taken together, these fundamentals justify renewed interest, with Glanbia’s disciplined transformation creating a more competitive, globally relevant platform for continued earnings and margin growth.
Volume and Liquidity
Average daily trading volumes of approximately 51,500 shares indicate robust liquidity for an Irish-listed company of Glanbia’s scale (€3.2bn market cap). This sustained turnover highlights the confidence of institutional and retail investors, with a significant free float underpinning dynamic—yet stable—valuation.
Liquidity is further bolstered by active share buybacks (€102m returned in 2024 and a €100m programme authorised for 2025), supporting not only capital efficiency but also share price resilience. The company’s broad analyst coverage (10 analysts) adds an additional advocacy layer, building sustained investor attention and ensuring pricing remains efficient.
Catalysts and Positive Outlook
There is an array of clear, tangible catalysts set to drive Glanbia’s value proposition forward into 2025 and beyond:
- Strategic Transformation: The operational upgrade—pivoting towards three focused divisions (Performance Nutrition, Health & Nutrition, Dairy Nutrition) and targeting $50m+ annual cost savings by 2027—will continue to unlock operating leverage.
- Portfolio Optimisation: Exit from non-core brands means resources are concentrated where returns are highest, ensuring long-term margin accretion.
- Acquisitions and Innovation: The Flavor Producers deal accelerates entry into high-growth categories (premium flavours/ingredients), with significant cross-selling potential and synergy capture.
- ESG Commitment: Glanbia has demonstrated strong commitment to sustainability standards—a vital differentiator in attracting new pools of capital and meeting evolving consumer expectations.
- Macro Tailwinds: A persistent rise in health and fitness spending, growth in plant-based and functional nutrition, and favourable regulatory frameworks provide additional sector-wide support.
- Dividend and Buyback Policy: A progressive dividend (2.9% yield, +10% YoY increase) and disciplined buybacks (c.30% of profits distributed) reinforce investor alignment.
Notably, Glanbia’s projected annual profit growth (17.6%), well-above sector median, and an improving competitive landscape further support the stock’s bullish narrative.
Investment Strategies
Given Glanbia’s current position, multiple entry points across time horizons present themselves:
- Short-Term:
- The stock’s recent technical bounce, stabilisation at key support (€9.10), and positive volume behaviour lend themselves to tactical traders seeking quick upside ahead of anticipated news flow or market re-rating.
- Entry at current levels could capture momentum as sentiment recovers and as analysts upgrade forecasts in line with improving sector demand.
- Medium-Term:
- The ongoing transformation programme, active buybacks, and compound innovation effects provide ample scope for price appreciation over the next 6–12 months.
- Strategic investors might consider positions as Glanbia’s operational KPIs—especially in Performance Nutrition and Nutritional Solutions—help earnings surprises materialise.
- Long-Term:
- For buy-and-hold investors, Glanbia’s robust competitive moats, diversified global presence, and capital discipline argue for durable, compounding value.
- The share price, trading near the lower end of its historical range, offers an appealing risk/reward entry, especially when factoring in forecasted efficiency gains and expanding addressable markets.
In sum, positioning at today’s technical lows and in anticipation of upcoming strategic catalysts seems to represent an excellent blend of tactical opportunity and fundamental conviction.
Is it the Right Time to Buy Glanbia?
Summing up, the investment case for Glanbia is anchored in:
- Visible, improving momentum: Recent price action, buybacks and liquidity signal a turn in sentiment.
- Strong fundamentals: Consistent earnings growth, expanding EBITDA margins, and outstanding global brands provide powerful levers for value creation.
- Transformation and tailwinds: Structural cost reductions, innovation, and sectoral growth drivers perfectly align for medium-term outperformance.
- Attractive valuation: With €16.29 as median analyst target (close to 30% upside), consensus expectations are constructive and reflect significant rerating potential.
- Secure capital returns: Generous dividend yield and share repurchases add to total return prospects.
As Glanbia embarks on the next stage of its transformation, the stock offers a rare window for market participants seeking exposure to a global nutrition leader with proven resilience and substantial upside potential. With the building blocks for a new bullish phase in place, Glanbia’s combination of technical, fundamental, and strategic strengths makes it a stock worthy of close consideration by sophisticated Irish and international investors alike—especially at current, attractive valuations. For those considering a stake in the future of nutrition, Glanbia may well be a timely and compelling addition to the portfolio.
How to buy Glanbia stock in Ireland?
Buying Glanbia stock online is straightforward and highly secure when you use a regulated broker in Ireland. Investors can choose between two main methods: traditional spot buying, where you own the underlying Glanbia shares, or trading Contracts for Difference (CFDs), which let you speculate on the share price without owning the asset. Both methods are accessible through reputable online brokers, providing protection and transparency. Each approach has its own advantages and risks, so understanding your options is key. To help you decide, a detailed broker comparison is available further down this page.
Spot buying
Spot buying, or cash purchase, means you buy actual Glanbia shares listed on the Irish or London Stock Exchange and become a direct shareholder. This is the classic way to invest, allowing you to benefit from potential price appreciation and receive dividends. Typical brokerage fees for Irish investors are usually a small fixed commission per order—often around €5, depending on the broker.
Example
Suppose the Glanbia share price is €12.60. With a €1,000 investment and a €5 commission, you could buy roughly 78 Glanbia shares (€1,000 - €5 = €995; €995 / €12.60 ≈ 79 shares, factoring in possible rounding).
- Gain scenario: If the share price rises by 10%, your shares would be worth €1,100.
Result: That’s a €100 gross gain, or +10% on your initial investment, not accounting for taxes or additional fees.
Trading via CFD
CFD trading lets you speculate on Glanbia’s share price movements without actually owning the shares. With CFDs, you can take advantage of rising or falling prices, often using leverage to magnify your exposure. Typical fees for CFD trading include the spread (the difference between buy and sell price) and overnight financing charges if you keep positions open for more than a day.
Example
You open a CFD position on Glanbia shares with €1,000 and use 5× leverage. This gives you market exposure equivalent to €5,000.
- Gain scenario: If the Glanbia share price rises by 8%, your position value increases by 8% × 5 = 40%.
Result: That’s a €400 gross gain on your €1,000 deposit (excluding spread and overnight fees).
Final advice
Before buying Glanbia shares, it’s essential to compare brokers’ fees, available trading platforms, and account conditions—these can significantly impact your returns. Whether you choose direct share ownership or CFD trading will depend on your investment goals and risk appetite. To simplify your decision, don’t forget to consult the broker comparator further down this page. Remember, investing always carries risks but can also provide significant rewards with the right strategy and information.
Compare the finest brokers in Ireland and find the best one for you!Compare brokersOur 7 tips for buying Glanbia stock
| 📊 Step | 📝 Specific tip for Glanbia |
|---|---|
| Analyse the market | Review Glanbia’s recent share price trend, noting its recovery after a difficult year and the positive analyst consensus forecasting a potential 29% upside. |
| Choose the right trading platform | Pick a regulated Irish or UK broker that allows investment in Glanbia via the Irish Stock Exchange (ISE:GL9) or London Stock Exchange (LSE:GLB), ensuring fair fees and user-friendly access for Irish investors. |
| Define your investment budget | Decide how much to invest based on your goals and diversify appropriately, keeping in mind Glanbia’s moderate volatility and stable dividend yield of 2.9%. |
| Choose a strategy (short or long term) | Consider a long-term approach to benefit from Glanbia’s transformation plan, global brands, and sustained dividend policy, while also watching for medium-term rebounds. |
| Monitor news and financial results | Regularly check quarterly earnings, company updates, and news about acquisitions or cost-saving initiatives, as these can drive Glanbia’s stock performance. |
| Use risk management tools | Set stop-loss orders to manage downside risk and protect against sudden sector volatility, while tracking technical support levels such as €9.10. |
| Sell at the right time | Review your investment after major news or when the price approaches analyst target ranges; consider taking profits if the share reaches €16 or nears recent resistance levels. |
The latest news about Glanbia
Glanbia shares have recorded a notable 3.4% gain over the past week, signaling renewed market momentum. This recent positive movement is particularly relevant for investors in Ireland, as it follows a month-long rebound of 8.4% and reflects improving sentiment for the company’s fundamentals and strategic transformation, despite longer-term volatility in the sector. The local investor base has benefited from this upswing, supported by Glanbia’s primary listing on the Irish Stock Exchange.
Analysts maintain a strong consensus "BUY" rating with a 29.3% upside potential from current levels. Nine research analysts, closely covering the Dublin-headquartered firm, have set an average target price of €16.29, considerably above the present €12.60. This indicates underlying confidence in Glanbia’s prospects, citing its robust capital return program and innovative transformation strategy as key positives for Irish and international investors.
The company’s 2024 financial results reveal double-digit EBITDA growth and a 5.8% revenue increase, outpacing many peers in the sector. With full-year revenues climbing to $3.84 billion and pre-exceptional EBITDA up 11.7% year-on-year, Glanbia has demonstrated resilience and operational efficiency. Net cash conversion stood at an impressive 88%, which strengthens the balance sheet and underpins ongoing investment in its Kilkenny headquarters and global growth platforms, signaling stability and future reinvestment capacity for Ireland’s economic ecosystem.
The recently announced dividend increase and €100 million 2025 share buyback program reinforce Glanbia’s commitment to shareholder returns. The company raised its 2024 total dividend by 10% to €0.3897 per share, with a payout ratio of 30.1%, and will continue its capital allocation discipline with a newly authorized buyback for 2025. This policy directly benefits Irish retail and institutional holders, and is viewed as a mark of confidence in sustainable cash generation and future earnings.
Glanbia’s strategic transformation and recent acquisition of Flavor Producers support enhanced long-term growth prospects for its Irish and international business. The transition to three core divisions—Performance Nutrition, Health & Nutrition, and Dairy Nutrition—brings sharper focus and operational savings targeted at over $50 million annually by 2027. Coupled with the integration of US-based Flavor Producers for $355 million, this positions Glanbia to drive innovation in sports and functional nutrition, fortifying its leadership at home and in global markets vital to Ireland’s agri-food sector.
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for Glanbia stock?
Glanbia currently pays a dividend. For the 2024 financial year, the total dividend was €0.3897 per share, paid with a final payment date of 2 May 2025. This reflects a 10% increase over the prior year and aligns with Glanbia’s policy to distribute around 30% of its earnings. The company has shown a steady track record of dividend growth, underpinned by disciplined financial management.
What is the forecast for Glanbia stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current share price of €12.60, the estimated values for Glanbia stock are €16.38 at the end of 2025, €18.90 at the end of 2026, and €25.20 at the end of 2027. Glanbia's strategic focus on fast-growing nutrition categories and its global expansion support long-term prospects. Analyst consensus remains positive, seeing further value potential as the company undergoes operational transformation.
Should I sell my Glanbia shares?
Holding onto Glanbia shares may be appropriate given the company’s resilient fundamentals and strategic direction. Glanbia benefits from a strong global brand portfolio, robust balance sheet, and a commitment to innovation in the nutrition sector. Its valuation remains reasonable, and consensus analyst targets suggest potential upside. The firm’s ongoing transformation plan and disciplined capital returns policy support continued medium- to long-term growth.
How are Glanbia dividends and capital gains taxed for Irish investors?
For investors in Ireland, Glanbia dividends are generally subject to Irish dividend withholding tax, typically at 25%. Certain exemptions may apply for qualifying shareholders. Capital gains from selling Glanbia shares are subject to capital gains tax at the standard Irish rate, with an annual exemption threshold available. Glanbia is not eligible for French or UK-specific investment wrappers such as PEA or ISA; Irish tax rules apply to these investments.
What is the latest dividend for Glanbia stock?
Glanbia currently pays a dividend. For the 2024 financial year, the total dividend was €0.3897 per share, paid with a final payment date of 2 May 2025. This reflects a 10% increase over the prior year and aligns with Glanbia’s policy to distribute around 30% of its earnings. The company has shown a steady track record of dividend growth, underpinned by disciplined financial management.
What is the forecast for Glanbia stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current share price of €12.60, the estimated values for Glanbia stock are €16.38 at the end of 2025, €18.90 at the end of 2026, and €25.20 at the end of 2027. Glanbia's strategic focus on fast-growing nutrition categories and its global expansion support long-term prospects. Analyst consensus remains positive, seeing further value potential as the company undergoes operational transformation.
Should I sell my Glanbia shares?
Holding onto Glanbia shares may be appropriate given the company’s resilient fundamentals and strategic direction. Glanbia benefits from a strong global brand portfolio, robust balance sheet, and a commitment to innovation in the nutrition sector. Its valuation remains reasonable, and consensus analyst targets suggest potential upside. The firm’s ongoing transformation plan and disciplined capital returns policy support continued medium- to long-term growth.
How are Glanbia dividends and capital gains taxed for Irish investors?
For investors in Ireland, Glanbia dividends are generally subject to Irish dividend withholding tax, typically at 25%. Certain exemptions may apply for qualifying shareholders. Capital gains from selling Glanbia shares are subject to capital gains tax at the standard Irish rate, with an annual exemption threshold available. Glanbia is not eligible for French or UK-specific investment wrappers such as PEA or ISA; Irish tax rules apply to these investments.
