GREELEY, Colo., July 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation (NASDAQ: PPC) announced today that it will release its second quarter 2025 financial results after the U.S. market closes on Wednesday, July 30. The company’s executives will review the results on a conference call and webcast on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 7:00 a.m. MT (9:00 a.m. ET). Prepared remarks regarding the company’s financial and operational results will be followed by a question and answer period with the Pilgrim’s exec ...

Core Insights - Pilgrim's Pride Corporation (PPC) reported a strong first-quarter 2025 performance with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 12%, an increase of 350 basis points from the previous year, primarily driven by the U.S. business where the margin rose to 14.3% from 9.4% [1][8] - The margin improvement was supported by strong performance in Prepared Foods and Case Ready segments, as well as favorable market pricing for Big Bird [1][8] Financial Performance - The adjusted EBITDA margin of 12% reflects significant operational execution aligned with favorable market conditions [4] - The U.S. business's adjusted EBITDA margin increased to 14.3%, indicating robust performance in key product areas [1][8] - Mexico's operations faced $8.5 million in foreign exchange headwinds, contributing to quarterly volatility [3][8] Market Conditions - The sustainability of the margin increase is questioned due to potential challenges such as live production volatility, hatchability concerns, and overall foodservice softness [2][4] - Quick service restaurant volumes remain strong, but foodservice traffic is under pressure across the industry [2] Regional Performance - Europe achieved an 8.1% margin, indicating progress from ongoing structural reorganization efforts, including support function integration and manufacturing optimization [3][8] - Key initiatives in Europe have enhanced performance, supported by continued product innovation [3] Valuation Metrics - Pilgrim's Pride currently trades at a forward 12-month P/E ratio of 8.78, which is below the industry average of 12.11 and the sector average of 17.31, positioning the stock at a modest discount [9]

Company Performance - Pilgrim's Pride (PPC) closed at $45.75, reflecting a +1.42% change from the previous day's closing price, outperforming the S&P 500's daily gain of 0.38% [1] - Over the past month, shares of Pilgrim's Pride have decreased by 1.27%, underperforming the Consumer Staples sector's gain of 2.14% and the S&P 500's gain of 6.6% [1] Earnings Projections - The upcoming earnings per share (EPS) for Pilgrim's Pride is projected at $1.63, indicating a 2.40% decline compared to the same quarter last year [2] - For the entire fiscal year, the Zacks Consensus Estimates forecast earnings of $5.39 per share and revenue of $0 million, representing changes of -0.55% and 0% from the prior year, respectively [2] Analyst Estimates - Recent changes to analyst estimates for Pilgrim's Pride indicate a dynamic nature of near-term business trends, with positive revisions reflecting analyst optimism regarding the company's profitability [3] Zacks Rank and Valuation - The Zacks Rank system, which ranges from 1 (Strong Buy) to 5 (Strong Sell), currently ranks Pilgrim's Pride at 3 (Hold), with a recent downward shift of 0.37% in the consensus EPS estimate [5] - Pilgrim's Pride is trading at a Forward P/E ratio of 8.38, which is a discount compared to the industry average Forward P/E of 12.24 [6] Industry Context - The Food - Meat Products industry, part of the Consumer Staples sector, has a Zacks Industry Rank of 164, placing it in the bottom 34% of over 250 industries [6][7] - The Zacks Industry Rank measures the strength of industry groups by averaging the Zacks Rank of individual stocks, with top-rated industries outperforming the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1 [7]

Core Insights - The article does not provide specific insights or analysis regarding any companies or industries, focusing instead on disclaimers and disclosures [1][2] Summary by Sections - No relevant company or industry information is presented in the content [1][2]

Group 1 - Consumer behavior is shifting as individuals seek to cut costs, leading to an increase in car payment delinquencies and rising credit card delinquencies [1] - Despite relatively stable inflation, these financial challenges are becoming more pronounced [1] - Observing megatrends can provide insights into societal advancements and potential investment opportunities, although identifying the right companies to capitalize on these trends is complex [1] Group 2 - The focus on fundamentals, quality of leadership, and product pipeline is essential for uncovering investment opportunities [1] - Recent emphasis has been placed on marketing and business strategy for medium-sized companies and startups [1] - Experience includes evaluating startups and emerging industries/technologies, indicating a strong background in assessing growth potential [1]

Core Insights - Pilgrim's Pride Corporation (PPC) is currently trading at a forward 12-month price-to-earnings ratio of 9.84X, which is below the industry average of 12.55X and the S&P 500's average of 21.49X, indicating it may be undervalued [1] - The company reported first-quarter 2025 adjusted earnings of $1.31 per share, a significant increase from 77 cents in the prior-year quarter, reflecting strong operational performance [5] - PPC's shares have gained 2.3% over the past three months, contrasting with declines in both the industry and the S&P 500 index [4] Financial Performance - In the first quarter of 2025, PPC's cost of sales decreased to $3,908.1 million from $3,978 million in the prior-year quarter, leading to a gross profit increase to $554.9 million from $383.9 million [7] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PPC's earnings per share has seen upward revisions, with the current fiscal estimate rising by 13 cents to $5.41 and the next fiscal estimate increasing by 25 cents to $4.82 [11] Growth Strategy - PPC is well-positioned for growth due to strong consumer demand for chicken, strategic market positioning, and enhanced operational efficiencies [5] - The USDA projects a 1.7% year-over-year increase in U.S. chicken production for 2025, which, along with a 1.6% rise in overall protein availability, supports strong pricing for PPC's products [6] - The company introduced over 80 new products in the first quarter of 2025, with combined sales of the Just BARE and Pilgrim's brands surging more than 50% [8] Challenges - PPC faces challenges in its export business, with a decline in export volumes in the first quarter of 2025 due to trade uncertainties and domestic demand constraints [12] - Selling, general and administrative expenses (SG&A) increased to $133.8 million from $119.1 million in the prior-year quarter, primarily due to higher legal costs and elevated incentive compensation [13]

Core Insights - Pilgrim's Pride Corporation (PPC) reported a strong performance in Q1 2025, with both revenue and earnings increasing compared to the previous year, and earnings exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate [1][2] Financial Performance - Adjusted earnings per share were $1.31, up from $0.77 in the same quarter last year, and surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.26 [2] - Net sales reached $4,463 million, reflecting a 2.3% increase from the prior year [2] - Cost of sales decreased to $3,908.1 million from $3,978 million, leading to a gross profit increase to $554.9 million from $383.9 million [3] - Adjusted EBITDA rose to $533.2 million from $371.9 million, with an adjusted EBITDA margin expanding by 350 basis points to 12% [3] - Operating income increased to $404.5 million from $250.3 million year over year [3] Segment Analysis - U.S. operations generated net sales of $2,743.2 million, up from $2,579.3 million, benefiting from seasonal strength in commodity prices and production efficiencies [4] - The Case Ready and Small Bird segments experienced volume growth due to expanded distribution with key customers [5] - European operations saw a decline in net sales to $1,231.5 million from $1,267.9 million, but achieved an adjusted EBITDA margin of 8.1%, improving by over 150 basis points [6] - Mexico operations reported net sales of $488.3 million, down from $514.7 million, but improved profitability through stronger customer partnerships and favorable pricing [7] Financial Health - The company ended the quarter with cash and cash equivalents of $2,066.8 million and long-term debt of $3,199.7 million [8] - Cash from operating activities for the quarter was $126.9 million [8] - PPC's stock has gained 14.2% over the past three months, outperforming the industry growth of 3.3% [8]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q1 2025, the company reported net revenues of $4.5 billion, a 2.3% increase year-over-year [5][29] - Adjusted EBITDA was $533 million, up 62% compared to Q1 2024, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 12% compared to 8.5% last year [5][29] - U.S. net revenues increased by 6.2% to $2.74 billion, with adjusted EBITDA of $392.5 million, significantly up from $242.9 million in Q1 2024 [29][31] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Big Bird segment benefited from improved commodity values and production efficiencies, leading to strong profitability growth [6][19] - The case ready and prepared foods segments saw increased distribution and profitability improvements, with prepared foods growing over 20% year-over-year [21][31] - In Europe, adjusted EBITDA was $99.5 million, up from $81.5 million in Q1 2024, driven by structural reorganization and customer partnerships [32][22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. chicken production grew by 1.1% year-over-year, with USDA projecting a 1.7% growth for 2025 [8][9] - Retail demand for chicken, particularly boneless skinless breast and dark meat, showed strong growth, while food service traffic declined [10][45] - In Mexico, sales to key customers increased by 11%, with branded portfolio sales growing by 15% year-over-year [25][26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on diversifying its portfolio and expanding capacity in fresh and prepared foods, with ongoing investments in Mexico [7][27] - Sustainability efforts are being emphasized, with operational efficiencies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions [28] - The company plans to continue investing in growth projects while maintaining financial discipline [35][36] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that consumer concerns about inflation are shifting spending from food service to retail, impacting demand dynamics [44][45] - The company anticipates continued growth in the U.S. market, particularly in retail, despite challenges in production due to respiratory diseases [66][81] - In Mexico, the company is optimistic about growth prospects, driven by increasing consumer spending and expansion of operations [58][59] Other Important Information - The company incurred $16.6 million in restructuring charges during the quarter as part of its integration program [32] - The effective tax rate for the quarter was 24.1%, with expectations for a full-year rate of approximately 25% [33] - The company maintains a strong liquidity position with over $1.6 billion in cash and available credit, allowing for flexibility in growth opportunities [34][35] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the lower level of CapEx in Q1? - Management indicated that the lower CapEx was timing-related, with expectations for a ramp-up in capital spending in the coming quarters [41][42] Question: Have you seen any consumer softness affecting pricing? - Management noted a shift from food service to retail due to consumer concerns about high prices, leading to strong demand in retail [44][45] Question: What is the outlook for the EU and UK business margins? - Management expects continued margin expansion due to integration benefits and improving consumer confidence in Europe [51][54] Question: How do you view the market dynamics in Mexico? - Management expressed optimism about growth in Mexico, despite FX impacts, and highlighted ongoing expansion efforts [56][59] Question: What are the expectations for U.S. volume growth? - Management anticipates meaningful volume growth in the U.S., supported by improved live operations and retail demand [66][68] Question: Can you discuss the challenges related to mortality and diseases? - Management explained that higher mortality rates are linked to both diseases and genetics, with ongoing efforts to improve management practices [94][96]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q1 2025, net revenues were $4.5 billion, a 2.3% increase year-over-year. Adjusted EBITDA was $533 million, up 62% compared to Q1 2024, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 12% compared to 8.5% last year [6][31][36] - U.S. net revenues increased by 6.2% to $2.74 billion, with adjusted EBITDA rising to $392.5 million from $242.9 million in Q1 2024 [31][33] - European EBITDA margins improved to 8.1% from 6.4% year-over-year, while Mexico's EBITDA margins decreased to 8.4% from 9.2% [32][35] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Big Bird segment benefited from improved commodity values and production efficiencies, leading to significant profitability growth [7][21] - Prepared foods grew over 20% year-over-year, driven by increased distribution across retail and food service [22] - Sales of core branded offerings rose over 50%, with notable growth in the Just Bare and Pilgrim's brands [22][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. chicken production grew by 1.1% year-over-year, with USDA projecting a 1.7% growth for 2025 [10][11] - Retail demand for chicken increased, particularly for boneless skinless breasts and dark meat, with double-digit growth noted in the dark meat category [12][48] - Export volumes were impacted by winter weather disruptions and increased domestic demand, but pricing momentum is expected to strengthen in Q2 [13][16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on diversifying its portfolio and expanding capacity in fresh and prepared foods, with ongoing investments in Mexico and the U.S. [9][29] - Sustainability initiatives are being prioritized, with efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance climate resiliency [30] - The company aims to maintain operational excellence and drive differentiation through quality and service for key customers [20][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that consumer concerns about inflation are shifting spending from food service to retail, leading to strong demand in the retail segment [47][50] - The company anticipates continued growth in Mexico, supported by expanding operations and increasing consumer spending [60][64] - Challenges remain in the U.S. market due to respiratory diseases affecting production, but improvements in live operations are expected to support volume growth [70][85] Other Important Information - The company reported a strong liquidity position with over $1.6 billion in cash and available credit, even after a $1.5 billion special dividend [36][37] - Capital expenditures for the year are estimated at approximately $750 million, with a focus on disciplined investment in high-return projects [40][96] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the lower level of CapEx in Q1? - Management indicated that the lower CapEx was timing-related, with expectations for a ramp-up in capital spending in the coming quarters [42][43] Question: Are there any impacts from consumer softness or geopolitical issues? - Management noted a shift from food service to retail due to consumer concerns about high prices and inflation, which is positively impacting chicken demand [46][50] Question: What is the outlook for the EU and UK business margins? - Management expects continued margin expansion due to operational integration and improved consumer confidence in Europe [55][57] Question: How is the company addressing mortality issues in production? - Management explained that higher mortality rates are linked to diseases and genetics, with ongoing efforts to improve management practices [98][100] Question: What is the strategy for working capital and bond purchases? - Management acknowledged that working capital changes are typically negative in Q1 but anticipate a turnaround, while bond purchases were opportunistic [104][106]

Financial Results For The First Quarter Ended March 30th 2025 Pilgrim's Pride Corporation (NASDAQ: PPC) Cautionary Notes and Forward-Looking Statements ▪ Statements contained in this press release that state the intentions, plans, hopes, beliefs, anticipations, expectations or predictions of the future of Pilgrim's Pride Corporation and its management are considered forward-looking statements. Without limiting the foregoing, words such as "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "expects," "intends," "may," ...