Leon’s Furniture (LNF) got a 6% lift on earnings, which came in well ahead of expectations on the back of continued same-store sales growth - thanks to a stronger inventory position and improved furniture sales.

Management increased the dividend by 20%, supported by a sub-40% payout ratio and a net cash position of nearly $200M…

… which should grow if the company carves out its real estate assets into a separate vehicle - taking a page out of Empire, Loblaw, and Canadian Tire’s playbook.