Tupperware (TUP) really benefits from home cooking

Continuing with our defensive stock series: given the current choppy / consolidating markets (or perhaps worse), Tupperware (NYSE: TUP) doesn't strictly-fit the defensive stock definition, as it's in the consumer / discretionary segment. Still, given TUP's potential, it warrants a review by investors.

Tupperware's signature product is the food storage container that carries the company's patented seal. One could make the case that U.S. shoppers will buy fewer of these containers as the U.S. economy slows, as they are, strictly speaking, a discretionary purchase. Still, we know from previous belt-tightening periods Americans tend to cut back on dining out. Undoubtedly that means more home prepared meals, and leftovers, which need containers -- a positive trend for Tupperware.

Further, with sales in more than 100 countries, Tupperware is adequately-positioned to benefit from continued good-to-excellent GDP growth in emerging markets. The Reuters F2007/2008 revenue consensus estimates for TUP are $1.91 billion / $1.99 billion. Tupperware's shares fell $1.83 to $33.63 in Wednesday afternoon trading.