Woolworths Group shares jump 30% as analysts assess valuation and growth

Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) saw its share price rise about 30% over the past 12 months, reaching a new 52‑week high. The retailer reported a 5.9% rise in Australian food sales for the third quarter and an online sales increase of more than 20%, driven by investments in lower prices, convenience and supply‑chain automation. At a price of around AU$40.55, the stock trades at a forward P/E of roughly 31 times FY26 earnings, falling to about 25 times FY28 earnings. Consensus dividend forecasts point to yields between 2.5% and 3.2% over the same period.

A comparative analysis notes that Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH) has fallen about 54% since the start of 2025. Cochlear, a global leader in hearing‑implant devices, operates in over 50 countries and employs more than 5,000 people. Woolworths, with over 3,000 stores and more than 100,000 staff in Australia and New Zealand, holds a dominant 35%+ share of the Australian grocery market and offers a stable dividend above 3%. Analysts suggest both stocks merit monitoring, with Woolworths valued for its mature, defensive earnings stream and Cochlear for its growth profile despite recent price weakness.