Core Insights - The HORMEL® SQUARE TABLE® brand is expanding its protein-rich portfolio with the introduction of two new chicken varieties: Tuscan Style Chicken and Maple Bourbon Chicken, in response to the growing demand for convenient meal solutions [1][3]. Product Details - Tuscan Style Chicken features tender, fully cooked chicken breast in a rich Tuscan-style sauce, designed for easy preparation with pasta and vegetables [4]. - Maple Bourbon Chicken combines tender chicken breast with savory uncured bacon in a sweet-and-smoky maple bourbon sauce, recommended to be served with mashed potatoes and vegetables [4]. Market Trends - There is a notable increase in consumer preference for heat-and-eat meal solutions, as shoppers seek quick and satisfying meal options that require minimal preparation [5]. - The trend indicates that ready-made meals are becoming a preferred choice for consumers who prioritize convenience and quality without compromising on flavor [6]. Pricing and Availability - Both new chicken varieties are priced at $9.98 and are available at select retailers nationwide [6]. Company Overview - Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minnesota, generates approximately $12 billion in annual revenue and operates in over 80 countries, offering a diverse range of well-known brands [7].

Company Overview - The HERDEZ® brand is recognized as the No. 1 selling brand of salsa in Mexico and leads the authentic Mexican salsa market in the US [6] - HERDEZ® is part of MegaMex Foods, a rapidly growing Mexican food company in the US focused on innovative flavor experiences [6] - Hormel Foods Corporation, the parent company, generates approximately $12 billion in annual revenue and operates in over 80 countries [7] Product Launch - HERDEZ® is expanding its Mexican Refrigerated Entrées line with the introduction of HERDEZ® Al Pastor Seasoned Shredded Pork with Sauce, which features seasoned shredded pork in a rich sauce [1][2] - The new product is designed to cater to the growing consumer demand for global-inspired meal solutions that are convenient and flavorful [3][4] Market Trends - There is a significant rise in demand for convenient meal solutions, particularly among younger consumers who prefer quality, nutrition, and ease of preparation [4] - Heat-and-eat meat entrees like HERDEZ® Al Pastor provide a smart alternative to takeout or traditional cooking, maintaining taste and quality [4] Pricing and Availability - The retail price for HERDEZ® Al Pastor Seasoned Shredded Pork with Sauce ranges from $9.98 to $10.98 and is available in major retailers nationwide [5]

Financial Performance & Outlook - The company reaffirmed its fiscal year 2025 net sales expectations to be between $119 billion and $122 billion [5, 32] - The company reaffirmed its adjusted diluted earnings per share expectations for fiscal year 2025 to be between $158 and $172 [5, 32] - The company anticipates organic net sales growth of 1% to 3% in fiscal year 2025 [33] - The company expects incremental benefits from the Transform and Modernize (T&M) initiative in the range of $100 million to $150 million [33] - The company's capital expenditures are projected to be in the range of $275 million to $300 million [33] Segment Performance (Q1 FY25 YoY) - The Retail segment experienced a volume decrease of 4%, a net sales decrease of 1%, and a segment profit decrease of 20% [19] - The Foodservice segment saw organic volume increase by 2% and organic net sales increase by 5%, but segment profit decreased by 8% [28] - The International segment experienced a volume decrease of 7% and a net sales decrease of 2%, but segment profit increased by 4% [29] Strategic Initiatives & Capital Allocation - The company divested a non-core sow operation to reduce commodity exposure and simplify the portfolio [9] - The company announced its 59th consecutive increase to the annual dividend [13, 16] - The company's operating cash flow was $866 million [11]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales for Q1 2025 were $3 billion, reflecting a 1% organic increase compared to the previous year [35] - Gross profit margin was reported at 15.9%, impacted by margin pressures related to the Planters recovery and higher commodity input costs [36][41] - Diluted earnings per share (EPS) for Q1 2025 were $0.31, with adjusted diluted EPS at $0.35 [38] - Operating cash flow was $309 million, with capital expenditures of $72 million focused on value-added capacity [39] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The food service segment led top-line growth, driven by strong performance in premium prepared proteins, turkey, and breakfast sausage categories [25][35] - Retail segment growth was supported by flagship brands like Spam, Applegate, and Hormel Black Label Bacon, with overall volume and net sales increasing [12][13][35] - The international segment saw growth from branded exports, particularly in China, with a focus on snacking strategies [27][28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Planters brand experienced significant sequential recovery, contributing to the retail segment's performance [18][35] - The turkey supply chain faced pressures due to bird illnesses, impacting pricing and supply dynamics [71][72] - The demand for ground turkey is increasing, particularly among consumers seeking lean protein options [74][76] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on its Transform and Modernize initiative, aiming to generate growth through investments in people, processes, and technology [29][31] - A multi-brand marketing strategy is being implemented to enhance retail presence and drive consumer engagement [20][22] - The company anticipates broad-based growth in food service and continued international expansion, particularly in China [46][47] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving fiscal 2025 goals, citing strong performance in value-added businesses and a recovery in the Planters brand [32][47] - The company expects mid-single-digit growth in food service and high single-digit growth in the international segment for the second quarter [42][46] - Management acknowledged challenges in the turkey supply chain but remains optimistic about long-term growth prospects [44][72] Other Important Information - The company is committed to dividend growth, having paid its 386th consecutive quarterly dividend at an annual rate of $1.16 per share, a 3% increase from the previous year [40] - The upcoming retirement of the Group Vice President of Food Service was noted, with a succession plan in place [24][25] Q&A Session Summary Question: EPS cadence and confidence in ramping EPS in the second half - Management highlighted strong performance in the value-added business and expected favorable year-over-year comparisons in the second half, despite near-term pressures [54][56] Question: Turkey supply chain pressures and pricing acceptance - Management clarified that strategic pricing actions are being taken across the turkey complex, with a focus on value-added products [70][72] Question: Timing of CEO retirement announcement - Management explained that the timing allows for a thorough search for a successor while ensuring continuity in executing the Transform and Modernize initiatives [81][84] Question: Planters brand distribution recovery - Management confirmed that distribution is improving, with inventory levels ramping back up and advertising efforts increasing [145]