BEST OF THE BROKERS

HEINEKEN
Broker JP Morgan yesterday raised its price target for beer brewer Heineken from €23.00 (£19.70) to €26.00, forecasting an improvement in beer volumes during this year and next.  JP Morgan added it did not believe that  Heineken is again the “cheap value, recovery player” in the sector, but said that the worst is over in terms of volume pains and cash flow. JP Morgan said it now believes Heineken’s earnings for 2009 to be in line with its peers, but the risks remain greater for the group.

CARPETRIGHT
Deutsche Bank has reiterated its “Hold” recommendation on carpet retailer Carpetright after positive signs in the housing market have started to emerge. Rival Allied Carpets has recently sold a number of stores to Carpetright, improving market share. But like-for-like sales continue to “bump along the bottom.” The broker has forecast improved Carpetright trading if Allied Carpets closes more stores, or the housing market picks up, but warns of a lurch in consumer confidence.

CRANSWICK
Evolution is the latest broker to put out a bullish note on the sausage-maker’s stock, noting that the warm UK summer so far has led to a surge in demand for barbecue products – especially pork, which has been popular in the downturn due to its relative cheapness in comparison to beef and lamb. The broker also believes the firm’s recent acquisition of pork processor Bowes of Norfolk will strengthen its strategic position, and retains its “buy” rating and 700p target price.