CT-CAT-ROCK-CAPITAL
27.7.2021 07:02:05 CEST | Business Wire | Press release
Cat Rock Capital Management LP (together with its affiliates, “Cat Rock Capital”), a long-term oriented investment firm and beneficial owner of approximately 10.0 million shares of the common stock of Just Eat Takeaway.com NV (“Just Eat Takeaway.com”, “JET”, or “the Company”) (LSE: JET, AMS: TKWY, NASDAQ: GRUB), representing circa 4.7% of Just Eat Takeaway.com’s outstanding shares, today issues a public presentation on recent developments at the Company. This presentation is available at JustEatMustDeliver.com and upon request via info@catrockcap.com . Cat Rock Capital also comments:
“Cat Rock Capital has been a shareholder of Just Eat Takeaway.com and its predecessor companies for over four years, and we have intensively researched the global online food delivery sector over the past six years.
“We believe JET is a fantastic online food delivery business with #1 positions in markets representing 90% of its revenue,(1) a huge runway for continued organic growth, and highly experienced operational management.
“While we have been pleased with JET’s strong operational performance under CEO Jitse Groen and his team, we have been deeply disappointed by the Company’s poor handling of its relationship with investors.
“JET’s deeply flawed communication has made it the worst-performing online food delivery stock over the past two years despite strong operational performance. JET’s share price has declined -11% over the past two years even as its Gross Merchandise Value (“GMV”) has grown over 100%.(2) Accordingly, the Company’s valuation has dropped approximately 75% from ~11x revenue in mid-2019 to just ~2.6x revenue today.(3) Amazingly, JET and DoorDash are expected to generate similar amounts of GMV this year, yet DoorDash is worth over four times as much as JET.(4)
The Problem
“We believe it is clear why JET’s stock performed so poorly despite the Company’s strong growth:
-
Profit Guidance: The Company has not been transparent in communicating the costs of its investments and the corresponding short-term impact on EBITDA, seriously undermining its credibility with the market.
JET completely failed to proactively communicate the cost of its logistics investments. Analyst estimates for 2021 EBITDA have come down from positive €400 million in August 2020 to negative €350 million today,(5)
a stunning €750 million reduction in profit estimates in less than a year. The updated profit guidance of -1.0% to -1.5% 2021 EBITDA / Gross Transaction Value (“GTV”) is not concerning in its own right – Delivery Hero and iFood both experienced -1% to -8% EBITDA / GTV during their own logistics transitions,(6)
and heavy startup investments are expected given the hyper-growth of JET’s logistics orders (+766% in the UK and +131% overall in 2Q21).(7)
However, JET’s failure to flag these investments early has undermined its credibility with the market.
-
Logistics and Grocery Commentary: JET has itself publicly criticized the potential of businesses it is actively investing in, such as logistics and grocery delivery, causing immense confusion and misunderstanding.
JET has bizarrely insisted that logistics and grocery will never achieve profits in Europe, even as it invests aggressively in logistics and enters the grocery market. Investors therefore naturally give JET no credit for these attractive and fast-growing businesses. Indeed, we know it has been a recent surprise to some that JET is already active in the grocery market. JET’s effort to dampen investor enthusiasm for logistics- and grocery-based competitors has completely backfired, leaving the Company in the awkward position of downplaying the long-term profit potential of its own investments.
- Responses to Competitor Aspersions: JET has failed to address competitor attacks and correct misinformation on its operational acumen. JET’s competitors have branded it as a marketing company with poor technology. Just one example of this occurred very publicly when Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi sent a tweet to Jitse Groen saying that he should pay ‘more attention to [his] Tech and Ops’. JET management responded by challenging the labor practices of its competitors, which is highly ineffective, instead of pointing to the clear evidence of JET’s operational and technical acumen – such as its ability to scale logistics at a >700% pace for the largest and most demanding global restaurant chains like McDonald’s, Burger King, KFC, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, Starbucks, Subway, and many others.(8)
The Solution
“Cat Rock Capital believes the path forward for JET is clear.
-
Fix Communication:
JET needs to provide investors with transparency on the expected magnitude, composition, and returns of its investments. Specifically, JET should provide disclosure on the current and future unit economics of its logistics and grocery businesses.
-
Clean House:
JET needs to aggressively address and exploit the deep undervaluation of its equity by selling non-core assets, using the proceeds to invest in its growth and repurchase the shares issued in the Grubhub transaction.
- Explore Strategic Options: JET should explore strategic combinations with other global players that could strengthen the Company and generate significant shareholder value.”
Alex Captain, Founder and Managing Partner, Cat Rock Capital, commented:
“Just Eat Takeaway.com is a fantastic business with #1 positions in many of the world’s most valuable online food delivery markets and a long runway for growth.
“However, JET has failed to upgrade its communications with investors and the markets since IPO, leaving it deeply undervalued and vulnerable to takeover bids at far below intrinsic value.
“JET can quickly and materially improve its standing in the capital markets by improving transparency, selling non-core assets, and exploring strategic options to strengthen the business and generate significant shareholder value.
“We remain incredibly excited about JET’s prospects and look forward to continued engagement with management and shareholders to help the Company achieve its great potential.
“We welcome interested investors to review our research at JustEatMustDeliver.com . We would also be happy to connect with other Just Eat Takeaway.com shareholders who reach out to us at info@catrockcap.com .”
Cat Rock Capital’s previously released research and public commentary can also be found at JustEatMustDeliver.com .
White & Case LLP serves as legal advisor to Cat Rock Capital.
About Cat Rock Capital Management LP
Cat Rock Capital Management LP is a long-term focused investment firm that manages capital on behalf of pension funds, endowments, foundations, and other institutional investors. It seeks to invest in a select number of high-quality companies, with a long-term approach that emphasizes deep fundamental research. Cat Rock Capital is based in Connecticut, USA and was founded in 2015 by Alex Captain.
Notes:
(1) Excluding recent acquisition of Grubhub. According to Just Eat Takeaway.com March 2021 investor presentation dated 10 March 2021.
(2) Share price according to S&P Capital IQ as of 23 July 2021. Gross Merchandise Value (“GMV”) growth based on FY20 and FY18 GMV according to Just Eat Takeaway.com 2020 Annual Report dated 17 March 2021.
(3) According to Bloomberg as of 23 July 2021. Current NTM revenue based on Cat Rock Capital estimates, as consensus has yet to be fully updated for the acquisition of Grubhub.
(4) Gross Merchandise Value (“GMV”) according to company guidance. Expected JET GMV based on mid-point of FY21 Gross Transaction Value (“GTV”) guidance issued on 15 July 2021. Expected DoorDash GMV based on mid-point of FY21 Marketplace Gross Order Value guidance issued on 13 May 2021. Valuation reflects Total Enterprise Value (“TEV”). TEV based on share price according to S&P Capital IQ as of 23 July 2021, fully diluted shares outstanding calculated by Cat Rock Capital using the treasury stock method, and net debt according to the most recently published financial report. JET GMV and TEV converted from EUR to USD based on EURUSD exchange rate according to S&P Capital IQ as of 23 July 2021.
(5) Historical analyst estimates for FY21 EBITDA based on consensus FY21 EBITDA according to S&P Capital IQ as of 31 December 2020. Current analyst estimates for FY21 EBITDA based on consensus FY21 EBITDA according to S&P Capital IQ as of 23 July 2021, among analysts that have updated their forecasts following JET’s 2Q21 trading update provided on 15 July 2021.
(6) Reflects annual Adjusted EBITDA losses as a percentage of GMV during the roll-out of logistics. Delivery Hero Adjusted EBITDA and GMV according to Delivery Hero 2020 Annual Report dated 28 April 2021. iFood Adjusted EBITDA and GMV according to Just Eat Takeaway.com investor presentation dated 10 March 2021.
(7) According to JET 2Q21 trading update provided on 15 July 2021.
(8) According to restaurant listings on JET digital properties (websites and apps).
DISCLAIMER
Cat Rock Capital Management LP and certain of its affiliates and controlling persons (collectively, “Cat Rock Capital”), is publishing this announcement solely for the information of other shareholders in Just Eat Takeaway.com NV (“Just Eat Takeaway.com”). This announcement is not intended to be and does not constitute or contain any investment recommendation as defined by Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 (as it forms part of the domestic law in the United Kingdom by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018). No information in this announcement should be construed as recommending or suggesting an investment strategy. Nothing in this announcement or in any related materials is a statement of or indicates or implies any specific or probable value outcome in any particular circumstance. This announcement is provided merely for general informational purposes and is not intended to be, nor should it be construed as (1) investment, financial, tax or legal advice, or (2) a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any security or other investment, or to pursue any investment style or strategy. Neither the information nor any opinion contained in this announcement constitutes an inducement or offer to purchase or sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase or sell any securities or other investments in Just Eat Takeaway.com or any other company by Cat Rock Capital or any fund or other entity managed directly or indirectly by Cat Rock Capital in any jurisdiction. This announcement does not consider the investment objective, financial situation, suitability or the particular need or circumstances of any specific individual who may access or review this announcement and may not be taken as advice on the merits of any investment decision. This announcement is not intended to provide the sole basis for evaluation of, and does not purport to contain all information that may be required with respect to, any potential investment in the Company. Any person who is in any doubt about the matters to which this announcement relates should consult an authorised financial adviser or other person authorised under the UK Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. To the best of Cat Rock Capital’s ability and belief, all information contained herein is accurate and reliable, and has been obtained from public sources that Cat Rock Capital believes to be accurate and reliable. However, such information is presented “as is”, without warranty of any kind, whether express or implied, and Cat Rock Capital has not independently verified the data contained therein. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice, and Cat Rock Capital does not undertake to update or supplement any of the information, analysis and opinion contained herein. This announcement, and its content, distribution and use, is subject to the terms specified at www.JustEatMustDeliver.com .
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
This announcement contains certain forward-looking statements and information that are based on Cat Rock Capital’s beliefs, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, Cat Rock Capital. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements about strategies, plans, objectives, expectations, intentions, expenditures and assumptions and other statements that are not historical facts. When used herein, words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan” and “project” and similar expressions (or their negative) are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect our current views with respect to future events, are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. Actual results, performance or achievements may vary materially and adversely from those described herein. There is no assurance or guarantee with respect to the prices at which any securities of Just Eat Takeaway.com or any other company will trade, and such securities may not trade at prices that may be implied herein. Any estimates, projections or potential impact of the opportunities identified by Cat Rock Capital herein are based on assumptions that Cat Rock Capital believes to be reasonable as of the date hereof, but there can be no assurance or guarantee that actual results or performance will not differ, and such differences may be material and adverse. No representation or warranty, express or implied, is given by Cat Rock Capital or any of its officers, employees or agents as to the achievement or reasonableness of, and no reliance should be placed on, any projections, estimates, forecasts, targets, prospects or returns contained herein. Neither Cat Rock Capital nor any of its directors, officers, employees, advisers or representatives shall have any liability whatsoever (for negligence or misrepresentation or in tort or under contract or otherwise) for any loss howsoever arising from any use of information presented in this announcement or otherwise arising in connection with this announcement. Any historical financial information, projections, estimates, forecasts, targets, prospects or returns contained herein are not necessarily a reliable indicator of future performance. Nothing in these materials should be relied upon as a promise or representation as to the future. Nothing in this announcement should be considered as a profit forecast.
PERMITTED RECIPIENTS
In relation to the United Kingdom, this announcement is being issued only to, and is directed only at, (i) investment professionals specified in Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 as amended (the “Order”), (ii) high net worth entities, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order and (iii) persons to whom an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000) in connection with the issue or sale of any securities of Just Eat or any member of its group may otherwise lawfully be communicated or caused to be communicated (all such persons together being referred to as “Permitted Recipients”). Persons who are not Permitted Recipients must not act or rely on the information contained in this announcement.
DISTRIBUTION
Not for release, publication or distribution, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, in, into or from any jurisdiction where to do so would constitute a violation of the relevant laws of that jurisdiction. The distribution of this announcement in certain countries may be restricted by law and persons who access it are required to inform themselves and to comply with any such restrictions. Cat Rock Capital disclaims all responsibility where persons access this announcement in breach of any law or regulation in the country of which that person is a citizen or in which that person is residing or is domiciled. Cat Rock Capital is subject to supervision by, and registered with, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210726005849/en/
Link:
About Business Wire
Subscribe to releases from Business Wire
Subscribe to all the latest releases from Business Wire by registering your e-mail address below. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Latest releases from Business Wire
IFF Identifies the Life-Stage Insights Shaping Dairy’s Future6.10.2026 13:00:00 CEST | Press release
IFF (NYSE: IFF)—a global leader in flavors, fragrances and health and biosciences, published its latest resource, Dear Dairy: The Life Stages Guide. This strategic guide reveals how manufacturers can unlock new opportunities by aligning dairy innovation with consumers' evolving needs throughout life. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20261005026164/en/ “Dairy is one of the few categories that evolves alongside consumers throughout their lives,” said Rogerio de Almeida Prado, vice president of Global Dairy & BBC (Bakery, Bars and Confectionery) for IFF Taste. “Over time, expectations change. What builds trust in childhood may need to support identity, convenience or vitality later in life. The next wave of dairy innovation will be defined not by a single trend, ingredient or claim, but by an understanding of what consumers need at different times of their lives — and why.” Drawing on insights from Panoptic™, IFF's
Invivoscribe® Advances Molecular Clonality Testing Portfolio with Comprehensive LymphoTrack® Flex Suite6.10.2026 12:15:00 CEST | Press release
New ultra-high sensitivity tests enable objective, automation-ready, high-throughput clonality and MRD workflow. Invivoscribe, a global leader in precision diagnostics and measurable residual disease (MRD) testing, today announced the launch of the complete LymphoTrack Flex suite, an integrated next-generation sequencing (NGS) solution to identify and track immunoglobulin and T-cell receptor gene rearrangements. As NGS-based immune receptor MRD analysis moves from academic laboratories into routine use in oncology research centers, the demand for standardized, high-throughput workflows is accelerating. Laboratories are seeking both greater efficiency and ultra-high sensitivity. This requires increasing DNA inputs while ensuring higher testing throughput and analytical performance. Translational programs need testing that is both reproducible and scalable across sites. LymphoTrack Flex meets these demands, bringing seven molecular targets (IGHV leader, IGH FR1, IGH FR2, IGH FR3, IGK, TR
Degreed Agents Enable Every Leader to Upskill Their Organization with Ease6.10.2026 12:00:00 CEST | Press release
Degreed was born with the mission to help everyone get credit for all of their learning and skills. Today, the company announces the latest phase of that journey with the release of Degreed agents, a connected system of AI agents that lets leaders and L&D teams automate personalized learning and skill building. Leaders set the direction, agents do the work, and together they form the foundation of a hybrid operating system for their workforce. Businesses today run workforce transformations as a relay. The CEO sets a mandate to get everyone AI-fluent. A talent leader then defines the end state while managers try to spot gaps on their own teams. L&D pulls reports by hand and builds what they can. Each handoff adds a delay. Now, agents can orchestrate all of that in real time. Degreed agents notice details that matter, like a promotion, a skill gap, or an engagement dip, and act on them without requiring a manager to notice, an admin to flag it, or L&D to build it. At launch, agents build
OPEX® Corporation Offers a Simplified, One-Touch Document Scanning Solution with the Introduction of Axis™6.10.2026 10:00:00 CEST | Press release
OPEX® Corporation, a global leader in Next Generation Automation providing innovative solutions for warehouse, document and mail automation, has announced the launch of Axis™, a new document scanner that brings the benefits of one-touch scanning to a simplified, single-bin configuration. Designed for document capture workflows where minimal document preparation, mixed media handling or operational simplicity are priorities, Axis bridges the gap between OPEX’s desktop scanner series and its multi-bin production scanner portfolio. “We developed Axis in direct response to market demands,” said Dann Worrell, President, Document and Mail Automation, OPEX. “Our customers want to simplify their scanning processes, reduce operating costs, and improve quality. Axis delivers on these priorities by combining our minimal-prep, One-Touch scanning technology with a single-bin design. With a lower market accessible entry point, Axis helps customers process documents more efficiently while achieving m
Rothera Goes Live on Smartstream’s Air to Automate High-Volume Derivatives Reconciliations6.10.2026 10:00:00 CEST | Press release
Key Facts - Rothera, a derivatives exchange and clearinghouse regulated by the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), has gone live on Smartstream’s Air, deploying the Cash and Data modules to automate its reconciliation operations. - The new implementation replaces manual processes, enabling Rothera to reconcile circa 1.7 million daily transactions within a fully automated, fully audited environment. - Go-live for two data reconciliations: Exchange-to-Clearing Instruments and Exchange-to-Clearing Trades – with further reconciliation flows to follow. Smartstream, the trusted data solutions provider for leading global financial institutions and enterprises, today announced that Rothera, the U.S.-based CFTC-regulated event contract market, has gone live on Smartstream’s Air. Rothera has deployed Smartstream’s Cash and Data modules to automate high-volume derivatives reconciliations across its CFTC-regulated exchange and clearinghouse business. As transaction volumes on the exc
In our pressroom you can read all our latest releases, find our press contacts, images, documents and other relevant information about us.
Visit our pressroom
