Calavo(CVGW) - 2024 Q4 - Annual Report

Workforce and Employee Benefits - Calavo has 2,106 employees as of October 31, 2024, with 317 in the US and 1,789 in Mexico [49] - The company provides competitive compensation, including health and retirement benefits, and offers training and development opportunities through platforms like LinkedIn Learning [51][55] Production and Supply Chain Risks - The company's guacamole production capacity is consolidated in a single manufacturing plant in Michoacán, Mexico, making it vulnerable to production disruptions [77] - The company's supply chain is susceptible to disruptions from weather, climate change, natural disasters, and other factors, which could increase costs and limit product availability [65] - The company's avocado supply in the U.S. is dependent on long-term relationships with growers in California and Mexico [84] Financial Risks and Market Sensitivity - Calavo's business is sensitive to changes in market prices of avocados, agricultural products, and raw materials such as fuel and packaging [10] - Calavo's credit agreement with Wells Fargo Bank bears interest at a variable rate, which could increase costs as interest rates rise [66] - Dividend payments are not guaranteed and may be reduced or discontinued based on operational results, cash requirements, and financial conditions [85][86] - The company's ability to pay dividends is restricted by its Credit Agreement and may be impacted by substantial indebtedness [87] - Foreign currency remeasurement losses for fiscal 2024 were $5.8 million, with gains of $1.4 million in fiscal 2023 [262] Operational and Strategic Risks - Calavo faces risks from potential labor disputes, wage inflation, and dependence on key personnel and large customers [10] - Calavo's transition following the divestiture of its Fresh Cut business involves operational, strategic, and financial risks, including potential revenue fluctuations and challenges in managing fixed costs [63] - The company's business is impacted by seasonality and weather conditions, which can affect market conditions and supply chain stability [10] - Walmart accounted for approximately 12% of the company's total net sales in 2024 [83] Cybersecurity and Information Risks - Calavo faces risks from potential cyber-attacks, including ransomware, which could compromise confidential information and disrupt operations [81] Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Risks - ESG-related regulations and stakeholder expectations may increase management time and administrative expenses [88] - Climate change may negatively affect the company's business and operations due to potential impacts on global temperatures and weather patterns [99] Leadership and Talent Risks - The company faces risks from executive leadership transitions and potential difficulties in attracting and retaining qualified personnel [91][94] Commodity and Inflation Risks - Commodity price volatility, including fruits, ingredients, and packaging materials, could lead to increased costs or supply disruptions [260] - Inflation may increase costs, and selling price increases may not fully offset these cost increases if consumer purchasing power declines [261]