Woolworth’s, Lowe’s may pull plug on JV

SYDNEY — Analysts consulted by the Sydney Morning Herald believe Woolworth’s will exit its struggling joint venture with Lowe’s, Masters Home Improvement, if Lowe’s exercises its put option. Under the current terms of the agreement between the partners, Lowe’s became eligible on Tuesday to serve Woolworth’s with 13 months’ notice and require it to buy Lowe’s 33% stake in the loss-making venture. “If Lowe’s wants out, Woolies will want out as well,” one analyst told the Herald.