Key Takeaways Mission Produce posted record Q3 revenues of $357.7M, up 10% on higher avocado volumes.Dole delivered Q2 revenues of $2.4B, up 14.3%, with strength across bananas, pineapples and citrus.AVO trades at a premium P/E of 25.08X, while DOLE offers value at 10.42X with diversified stability.Mission Produce, Inc. (AVO) and Dole plc (DOLE) have long dominated the fresh produce market. While both companies thrive in the global fruit supply chain, their strategies, scale and market focus set them apart. ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Group revenue increased by 14.3% to $2.4 billion, and adjusted EBITDA rose by 9.3% to $137 million [4][12] - Adjusted net income was $53 million, with adjusted diluted EPS at $0.55, reflecting a 12% growth compared to the prior year [5][14] - Operating income increased by 20% to $103 million, driven by higher revenue and gross profit [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fresh Fruit segment achieved adjusted EBITDA of $72.7 million, with strong volume growth in bananas and pineapples, although constrained by higher sourcing costs due to tropical storm Sarah [6][14] - Diversified EMEA segment saw adjusted EBITDA increase by approximately 15% to $49 million, driven by strong revenue growth in key markets [9][10] - Diversified Americas segment reported revenue growth of 8.5%, with adjusted EBITDA increasing by 27%, primarily due to strong performance in Southern Hemisphere exports [11][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In North America, strong volume growth was noted in bananas and pineapples, with higher pricing contributing to revenue increases [6][14] - The European market experienced higher volumes and pricing across products, supported by tight sourcing conditions and a strengthening euro [7][10] - Industry supply was tighter than anticipated, impacting sourcing costs and overall market dynamics [8][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The sale of the fresh vegetable division was completed, allowing the company to focus on core business activities and strategic priorities [5][21] - The company is optimistic about internal and external development opportunities, particularly in fresh produce and diversified EMEA [54] - The company plans to maintain capital expenditures in line with depreciation and invest in rehabilitation projects following tropical storm damage [20][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the resilience of the diversified business model despite short-term disruptions in the macroeconomic environment [20] - The company has adjusted its full-year adjusted EBITDA guidance upwards to a range of $380 million to $390 million [20] - Management acknowledged the complexity of forecasting in the current environment, particularly regarding supply chain disruptions and tariff impacts [28][42] Other Important Information - The company declared a dividend of $0.85 for the second quarter, reflecting its commitment to returning value to shareholders [19] - Cash capital expenditure from continuing operations was $19.4 million, with additional investments in logistics and infrastructure [17][18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Reconciliation of updated EBITDA outlook - Management noted strong performance in 2024 but highlighted challenges from weather issues and sourcing costs impacting EBITDA guidance [24][26] Question: Impact of tariffs on pricing - Management explained the complexity of pricing adjustments due to various factors, including tariffs, sourcing issues, and foreign exchange volatility [30][34] Question: Fresh vegetables disposal and debt repayment - Management confirmed that proceeds from the fresh vegetable division sale would primarily be used for debt repayment and to clarify strategic focus [35][36] Question: Supply outlook beyond Q3 - Management indicated that while supply disruptions would continue into Q4, the industry typically stabilizes quickly [41][43] Question: Discussions on tariff exclusions - Management stated that they believe in the benefits of international trade and have seen some positive discussions regarding tariff exemptions for products not grown in the U.S. [44][46] Question: Future development opportunities - Management highlighted ongoing evaluations of acquisition opportunities and internal projects across various regions [52][54]

Dole (DOLE) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.55 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.47 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.49 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non- recurring items. This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of +17.02%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this fresh fruit and vegetable company would post earnings of $0.39 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.35, delivering a surprise of -10.26%. Over the last four qu ...

Q2'25 Financial Highlights - Revenue reached $2.4 billion, a 14% increase LFL(Like-for-like) [10] - Adjusted EBITDA was $137 million, up 12% LFL [10] - Adjusted Diluted EPS stood at $0.55, reflecting a 9% increase [10] Segment Performance - Fresh Fruit revenue increased by 14.2% to $972 million [32, 35], with Adjusted EBITDA up by 3% to $72.7 million [32, 35] - Diversified Fresh Produce – EMEA saw a revenue increase of 16.5% to $1.101 billion [37, 40], with Adjusted EBITDA up 14.7% to $49 million [37, 40] - Diversified Fresh Produce – Americas & ROW experienced an 8.5% increase in revenue to $386 million [42, 45], and Adjusted EBITDA increased by 27% to $15.4 million [42, 45] Capital Allocation and Debt - Cash CAPEX for continuing operations was $(19.4) million in Q2'25 and $(72.2) million in H1'25 [46] - Free Cash Flow from continuing operations was $(1.0) million in Q2'25 and $(132.6) million in H1'25 [46] - Net Debt stood at $(788.8) million with a Net Leverage of 2.0x as of June 30, 2025 [47] FY'25 Outlook - The company anticipates Adjusted EBITDA for continuing operations to be approximately $380 - $390 million [51] - Maintenance CAPEX for continuing operations is projected to be around $100 million [51] - Interest expense is expected to be approximately $67 million [51]

Table of Contents The term "Credit Agreement" refers to the March 26, 2021 credit agreement with Coöperatieve Rabobank U.A., New York Branch, as amended from time to time. Forward-Looking Statements The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition, results of operations and notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included herein may contain forward-looking statements that relate to our plans, objectives, estimates and goals and involve risks and uncertainties. Our ...

Core Insights - The article compares Mission Produce, Inc. (AVO) and Dole plc (DOLE) in the fresh produce market, highlighting AVO's focus on avocados and DOLE's diversified portfolio [1][9] - AVO is expanding aggressively in response to rising avocado demand, particularly in Asia and Europe, while DOLE leverages its scale and diverse product range to maintain market dominance [2][10] Group 1: Company Strategies - Mission Produce has established a vertically integrated model that controls sourcing, ripening, distribution, and marketing, ensuring product quality and reliability [4][8] - AVO's geographic expansion and supply-chain agility are key strategies, with recent gains in Europe and the U.K. reflecting investments in local infrastructure [5][6] - Dole's strength lies in its diversification across various produce categories, allowing it to serve diverse consumer segments and remain resilient amid market fluctuations [11][13] Group 2: Financial Performance - AVO's fiscal 2025 sales are estimated to grow by 8.1%, but EPS is expected to decline by 20.3%, with annual sales and earnings projected to decrease by 8% and 20.3% year-over-year in fiscal 2026 [14] - Dole's fiscal 2025 sales are expected to grow by 1.8%, with EPS indicating a slight decline of 0.8%, while annual sales and earnings are projected to increase by 3.1% and 18.8% year-over-year in fiscal 2026 [14] Group 3: Valuation and Market Position - AVO trades at a forward P/E of 27.87X, significantly higher than DOLE's 9.93X, reflecting its higher growth positioning [10][21] - AVO's recent stock performance shows a total return of 16.1% over the past three months, outperforming DOLE's decline of 1.7% [19] - The valuation gap indicates that investors view AVO as a higher-growth, specialized business, while DOLE's lower multiple may appeal to value-focused investors [23][25] Group 4: Market Outlook - AVO is positioned for continued leadership in the avocado market and long-term growth in the broader fresh produce category, appealing to health-conscious consumers [8][26] - Dole remains a global heavyweight with impressive scale and stability, offering income-oriented appeal through dividends and a lower valuation [27][28]

Core Viewpoint - Dole plc (NYSE: DOLE) appears to be an attractive investment opportunity, trading at approximately 5.5 times EBITDA, while being a leader in its core categories and a well-known brand in the industry [1]. Company Analysis - Dole is recognized as a leader in its primary market segments, which enhances its competitive positioning [1]. - The current valuation of Dole at 5.5x EBITDA suggests potential undervaluation compared to industry peers [1]. Industry Context - The article indicates a general focus on value investing, which may align with current market trends favoring established brands with strong fundamentals [1].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Group revenue increased by 4.2% to $2.1 billion on a like-for-like basis, while adjusted EBITDA decreased by 2% to $104.8 million [4][5] - Adjusted net income was $33.1 million, with adjusted EPS down to $0.35 from $0.43 in Q1 2024, primarily due to the decrease in adjusted EBITDA [5][17] - The company announced a 6.25% increase in dividend to $0.85 per share, marking the first dividend increase since 2021 [5][23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fresh Fruit segment reported adjusted EBITDA of $63.3 million, exceeding expectations despite challenges from Tropical Storm Sarah [6][18] - Diversified EMEA segment achieved adjusted EBITDA of $27.7 million, with strong growth driven by the UK, Spain, and the Netherlands [9][19] - Diversified Americas segment saw a like-for-like revenue decline of 6.8%, primarily due to lower export pricing for Southern Hemisphere products [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America experienced good volume growth in bananas, while European markets showed stable performance with volume growth in bananas and improved pineapple performance [8][9] - The company noted a favorable balance in supply and demand for bananas and pineapples, with expectations of robust demand continuing throughout the year [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on exploring internal and external investment opportunities to drive growth, particularly in the Diversified EMEA segment [10][25] - Capital allocation will be influenced by the outcome of the fresh vegetable division's strategic review, with ongoing projects in automation technology and facility expansions [40][44] - The company aims to maintain a baseline capital expenditure of approximately $100 million while anticipating increased spending related to reinvestments in Honduras [25][22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating macroeconomic challenges, revising full-year adjusted EBITDA guidance upwards to at least $380 million [24][52] - The company is monitoring evolving international trade dynamics and believes existing trade deals will remain favorable [24] - Management acknowledged potential short-term disruptions but emphasized the resilience of the business model [25] Other Important Information - The company completed a €1.2 billion refinancing of its credit facility, enhancing financial flexibility [5][21] - Free cash flow from continuing operations was an outflow of £131.6 million, primarily due to seasonal working capital trends [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Follow-up on EBITDA guidance and tariff impacts - Management indicated that the EBITDA guidance reflects better-than-expected Q1 performance and considers current tariffs [28][29] Question: Fresh vegetables business exit strategy - Management is actively working on a strategic exit for the fresh vegetables business, emphasizing the complexity of the process [31][33] Question: Capital allocation policy and growth initiatives - Management stated that all capital allocation options are on the table, with a focus on internal development projects and potential acquisitions [39][41] Question: Performance drivers in Diversified Americas - Management highlighted strong performance in North American distribution and handling businesses, with a return to normal market conditions in South America [46][48] Question: Incremental CapEx for reinvestment in Honduras - Management estimated additional CapEx for reinvestment in Honduras to be around $10 million to $12 million, aimed at improving yields and flood protections [49]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Group revenue increased by 4.2% to $2.1 billion on a like-for-like basis, while adjusted EBITDA decreased by 2% to $104.8 million [4][5] - Adjusted net income was $33.1 million, with adjusted EPS at $0.35 per share, down from $0.43 in Q1 2024 [5][17] - The company announced a 6.25% increase in dividend to $0.85 per share, marking the first dividend increase since 2021 [5][23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fresh Fruit segment reported adjusted EBITDA of $63.3 million, exceeding expectations despite challenges from Tropical Storm Sarah [6][18] - Diversified EMEA segment achieved adjusted EBITDA of $27.7 million, with strong growth driven by the UK, Spain, and the Netherlands [9][19] - Diversified Americas segment saw a like-for-like revenue decline of 6.8%, primarily due to lower export pricing for Southern Hemisphere products [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North American operations showed good volume growth in bananas, with stable performance in Europe despite challenging pricing conditions [6][8] - The company noted a favorable balance in supply and demand for bananas and pineapples, with expectations of robust demand continuing throughout the year [9][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on exploring internal and external investment opportunities to drive growth, particularly in the Diversified EMEA segment [10][42] - There is an ongoing evaluation of the fresh vegetables business, with a commitment to finding a strategic outcome that benefits all stakeholders [32][34] - The company aims to maintain a capital expenditure level in line with depreciation expenses, while also planning for increased CapEx related to reinvestments in Honduras [26][40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating macroeconomic challenges, revising full-year adjusted EBITDA guidance upwards to at least $380 million [24][50] - The company is monitoring evolving international trade dynamics and believes existing trade deals will remain favorable [25][26] - Management highlighted the importance of a resilient and diverse business model in facing current economic volatility [24][50] Other Important Information - The company completed a €1.2 billion refinancing of its credit facility, enhancing financial flexibility [5][21] - Free cash flow from continuing operations was an outflow of £131.6 million, expected to unwind as the year progresses [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Follow-up on EBITDA guidance and tariff impacts - Management acknowledged the complexity of forecasting in the current environment, attributing the guidance raise to better-than-expected Q1 performance and favorable foreign exchange translation [30][31] Question: Fresh vegetables business exit strategy - Management confirmed ongoing efforts to find a strategic exit for the fresh vegetables business, emphasizing the complexity of the process and the importance of stakeholder interests [32][34] Question: Capital allocation policy and growth initiatives - Management stated that all capital allocation options are on the table, with a focus on internal development projects and potential acquisitions [40][42] Question: Performance drivers in Diversified Americas - Management highlighted strong performance in North American distribution and handling businesses, with a return to normal market conditions in South America [46][47] Question: Incremental CapEx for Honduras reinvestment - Management indicated that additional CapEx for reinvestment in Honduras would be in the range of $10 million to $12 million, aimed at improving yields and flood protections [48]

Company Performance - Dole reported quarterly earnings of $0.35 per share, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.39 per share, and down from $0.43 per share a year ago, representing an earnings surprise of -10.26% [1] - The company posted revenues of $2.1 billion for the quarter ended March 2025, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 4.54%, but down from $2.12 billion year-over-year [2] - Over the last four quarters, Dole has surpassed consensus EPS estimates two times and topped consensus revenue estimates four times [2] Stock Performance - Dole shares have increased approximately 9% since the beginning of the year, contrasting with the S&P 500's decline of -3.8% [3] - The current consensus EPS estimate for the coming quarter is $0.48 on revenues of $2.14 billion, and for the current fiscal year, it is $1.33 on revenues of $8.39 billion [7] Industry Outlook - The Agriculture - Operations industry, to which Dole belongs, is currently in the top 36% of over 250 Zacks industries, indicating a favorable outlook [8] - Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions, suggesting that industry performance can significantly impact stock performance [5][8]