Baillie Gifford Boosts Stake in Savers Value Village Amid Retail Sector Focus

Baillie Gifford increased its stake in Savers Value Village by 3,062,875 shares, raising its total position to 9,572,853 shares. The transaction, executed at $10.2 per share, increased Baillie Gifford's position in Savers Value Village to 6.10% of its total holdings. This strategic move aligns with the firm's investment philosophy of identifying companies with growth potential, despite Savers Value Village's low GF-Score of 26/100.

July 02, 2025

Baillie Gifford & Co has recently increased its stake in Savers Value Village, Inc. (CUSIP 80517M109) by acquiring an additional 3,062,875 shares. The transaction, executed at $10.2 per share, has raised Baillie Gifford's total position to 9,572,853 shares, representing 6.10% of Savers Value Village's total holdings. This strategic move aligns with Baillie Gifford's investment philosophy of identifying companies with growth potential, despite Savers Value Village's relatively low GF-Score of 26/100 [1].

The filing, reported under Schedule 13G, indicates that Baillie Gifford holds sole voting power for 7,086,462 shares and sole dispositive power for all 9,572,853 shares. The shares are held in the ordinary course of business and were not acquired with the intent to change or influence control [1]. This classification is significant as it differentiates the filing from an activist intent filing, which typically involves a more substantial stake and a clear intention to influence the company's governance.

Baillie Gifford's expanded position in Savers Value Village is notable for several reasons. Firstly, the 6.10% stake is material and requires public disclosure. Secondly, the sole voting and dispositive powers indicate that Baillie Gifford can direct sales and votes for most of its holdings, providing it with substantial influence over the company's operations. Lastly, the fact that the shares are held for advisory clients rather than to influence control suggests that Baillie Gifford's investment strategy is focused on long-term growth rather than short-term activism.

In conclusion, Baillie Gifford's strategic move to increase its stake in Savers Value Village aligns with its investment philosophy and demonstrates a commitment to identifying companies with growth potential. The expanded position provides Baillie Gifford with significant influence over the company's operations, but the filing indicates that this influence is intended to be exercised in the ordinary course of business rather than to effect control changes.

References:
[1] https://www.stocktitan.net/sec-filings/SVV/schedule-13g-savers-value-village-inc-sec-filing-1b0d0b061445.html