This poultry product producer has been a strong performer, though a key factor in 2004/2005 was a significant reduction in the cost of maize. With a maize shortage and higher prices this year, Sovereign will be under pressure. But this mainly Eastern Cape operation has impressed investors who noted its low price-to-earnings ratio (on June 1 its p:e was just over 7, way below the small-cap p:e of 13) and its high dividend yield. Bloomberg noted in May that other attractions are lower costs than at Sovereign's larger rivals; and, as the eighth-largest producer, it has the potential to grow or become a target.