Shaw owns more than $1 billion stake in Sysco, sources say

D.E. Shaw, one of the world’s largest hedge funds, owns a Sysco stake worth more than $1 billion, according to two sources, disclosed shortly after the Houston-based food distributor said it will refresh its board to speed up growth. Sysco’s market value is about $40 billion, and the stake size has not been previously reported, though D.E. Shaw has invested in Sysco for a decade. Sysco plans to add two directors next month with experience in technology, e-commerce, and food service distribution. The company is pressing to accelerate its use of AI to improve operational performance and boost its shares; it expects $100 million in savings from AI, automation, and process improvements in fiscal 2027. Despite strong annual results forecasts, Sysco’s stock is up less than 4% over the past 12 months due to rising food and transportation costs and cautious consumers. D.E. Shaw managing director Michael O’Mary linked the investment to Sysco’s AI transformation and upcoming Restaurant Depot acquisition.