** Canada-based packaging and labeling company CCL Industries CCLb.TO on Tuesday posted better-than-expected third quarter net sales of C$1.97 billion ($1.40 billion) compared with analysts' estimate of C$1.92 billion, according to data compiled by LSEG
** CCL’s core labeling segment sales rose 9.4% to $1.26 billion, driven by 6.6% organic growth and a 2.8% favorable foreign exchange impact
** Average rating of 11 analysts tracking stock is "buy" or higher; median PT is $96 - data compiled by LSEG
STRONG Q3 RESULTS AND LONG-TERM RFID GROWTH
** Stifel (lifts PT to C$103 from C$92) says CCL segmental orders remain healthy, co continues to invest in new product innovations, and retain $2.2 bln capital for buybacks and potential M&A
** TD Cowen (lifts PT to C$100 from C$95) sees moderate organic growth in the CCL segment due to softer CPG demand, highlights long-term RFID growth potential as tariff-related apparel disruptions ease, and notes co will pursue external growth opportunities
** Scotiabank (lifts PT to C$94 from C$91) expects CCL segment margins to stay elevated given its reputation as a flight-to-safety choice, sees strong CCL design offsetting softer CPG volumes, and notes no change in the long-term RFID adoption trend
($1 = 1.4024 Canadian dollars)
(Reporting by Megavarshini G. Somasundaram in Bengaluru)
((Megavarshini.SomasundaramGnanasundari@thomsonreuters.com))