wickedone, I too like Panera. It has much of the same consumer cache as does Darden. .. it's what I call "upscale/downscale" meaning a cut above fast food but a modest price point compared to an Applebee's or Chili's. Chipotle fits the same relevent model, but I think its $300 share price is toppy entering 2013.
I LOVE Costco for 2013. robb is correct, I do see a split in the next two forward quarters. Don't overlook Overstock.com which is over its problems and is well positioned to give AMZN a run for their money in many categories such as fashion and home furnishings.
I recently transferred two Rx's for my dog from Walgreens to Costco. The Costco membership fee is slightly higher than the Walgreens Prescription Savings Club cost... $55 vs. $35. However, The Gengraff (cyclosporin/60 count) cost was $44 vs. $77 at Walgreens. The Lataniprost was $13 vs. $81 at Walgreens. I buy these two Rx's every month so the savings is HUGE, and the service at Costco is superb, other than their pharmacy hours being somewhat limited (opens at 10AM).
Costco membership renewal was over 90%, even during the economic downturn, their 10 year S/P performance is absolutely stellar compared even to Walmart or Target, and they plan on opening another 30 new stores in 2013. They recently paid a $7/share special dividend, showing management alignment with shareholder interests.
Happy New Year to all,
Yank
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