Shares of UAC of Nigeria Plc (UACN) soared by 22.69% in the first trading week of December 2025, propelling its quarter-to-date gain beyond 44% and positioning the stock above N96. The strong performance follows an 18.65% surge in November, bouncing back after a three-month decline that began in August and keeping the stock on track toward the N100 milestone.
The recent rally comes on the back of UACN’s strategic acquisition of CHI Limited from Coca-Cola, makers of popular beverage brands including Chivita and Hollandia. In early November, UACN deposited N19.2 billion in escrow as part of the deal, signaling the company’s commitment to expanding its footprint in high-growth markets such as drinking yoghurt, evaporated milk, and fruit juices and nectars.
UACN executed the acquisition through its wholly-owned Special Purpose Vehicle, UAC Food and Beverage Company Limited, financed with N30.8 billion from reserves and a N151.6 billion USD bridge loan. The company has secured a long-term refinancing plan, including a 7-year Naira loan and a N150 billion SEC-approved bond program, ensuring it can manage interest costs as market rates decline.
Market response to the acquisition and strategic updates has been overwhelmingly positive. Year-to-date, UACN’s stock has jumped over 207% on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), far exceeding the 144.75% gain recorded in the entire 2024 fiscal year. Despite some short-term impact on third-quarter 2025 financials due to acquisition costs, investor sentiment remains strong, fueled by confidence in the company’s expansion strategy.
Looking ahead, UACN shares are poised to cross the N100 mark, trading around N96.80 in pre-market sessions on 8th December 2025. After starting the year at N32.95, the stock experienced steady growth, breaking the N70, N80, and recently N90 resistance levels. Analysts attribute the surge to a combination of strategic acquisitions, favorable market conditions, and sustained investor optimism.
source: nairametrics