Shake Shack faces proxy fight from activist investor: report

By Mike Murphy

Burger chain Shake Shack inc. is reportedly facing a proxy fight from an activist investor seeking changes to boost the company's stock price.

The Wall Street Journal reported Sunday that Engaged Capital, which has a roughly 6.6% stake in Shake Shack (SHAK), is seeking three board seats and is planning to run a proxy fight.

The Journal reported that Engaged has been in talks with Shake Shack for more than six months, and wants the company to hire a consulting company to improve efficiency, eyeing a way to double its profitability within two years. Engaged also reportedly seeks changes to Shake Shack's supervoting share structure.

Earlier this month, Shake Shack reported a narrower-than-expected first-quarter loss and sales that rose more than had been expected.

Shake Shack shares have rallied 57% year to date and 41% over the past 12 months, but are still less than half of their all-time high price in early 2021.

-Mike Murphy

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05-15-23 0821ET

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