Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total Hershey net sales increased by 7% in Q4 2025, with full-year growth of 4.4% [4][13] - Consolidated net sales for 2025 reached approximately $11.7 billion, reflecting a 4.4% increase year-over-year [13] - Adjusted gross margin for Q4 was 38.3%, a decrease of 650 basis points compared to the previous year due to commodity inflation and tariff expenses [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America Confectionery net sales increased by 5.3% in Q4, with net price realization contributing approximately 10 points to growth [14] - North America Salty Snacks segment net sales surged by 28% in Q4, with organic constant currency growth of 18.2% [14] - The international segment saw a slight increase in net sales by 0.4% in Q4, but organic constant currency net sales declined by 1.9% [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. confection retail sales growth was in line with the category in Q4, driven by strong innovation and holiday programming [4] - The U.S. salty snacking business experienced a retail sales growth of 15.6% in Q4, contributing to an 11.3% increase for the full year [5] - International segment achieved full-year organic constant currency net sales growth of 2.2%, with market share gains in Mexico, Brazil, and the U.K. [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to accelerate sustainable sales growth and restore margins while positioning itself for long-term success [3] - Strategic priorities for 2026 include delivering top-line growth, improving margins, and evolving the organization for future competitiveness [8][12] - The company plans to introduce innovative products and increase brand investments to drive category excitement and growth [9][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating a challenging environment marked by cocoa inflation and macroeconomic volatility [3] - The outlook for 2026 includes expected net sales growth of 4% to 5%, with a focus on strategic pricing and innovation [19] - Management is cautious about potential demand headwinds, including health trends and consumer financial pressures [20] Other Important Information - The AAA Program has generated over $300 million in net savings over the past two years, with an additional $100 million projected for 2026 [7] - The company completed the acquisition of LesserEvil, enhancing its position in the salty snacks market [17] - Capital expenditures for 2026 are projected to be between $425 million and $475 million, focusing on technology investments [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the expectations for 2026 net sales growth? - The company expects total net sales growth of 4% to 5% for 2026, with contributions from the acquisition of LesserEvil [19] Question: How is the company addressing commodity inflation? - The procurement team effectively navigated cocoa markets, using hedging strategies to mitigate inflation impacts [7] Question: What are the plans for advertising and brand investment in 2026? - The company plans to increase media investment by double digits, supporting momentum across its business [21]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total Hershey net sales increased by 7% in Q4 2025, with full-year growth of 4.4% [4][15] - Consolidated net sales for 2025 reached approximately $11.7 billion, reflecting a 4.4% increase year-over-year [15] - Adjusted gross margin for Q4 was 38.3%, a decrease of 650 basis points compared to the previous year, primarily due to commodity inflation and tariff expenses [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America Confectionery net sales increased by 5.3% in Q4, with net price realization contributing approximately 10 points to growth [16] - North America Salty Snacks segment net sales surged by 28% in Q4, with organic constant currency growth of 18.2% [16] - The international segment saw a slight increase in net sales by 0.4% to $256 million, but organic constant currency net sales declined by 1.9% [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Retail sales growth in the U.S. salty snacking business accelerated to 15.6% in Q4, resulting in an 11.3% increase for the full year [5] - Hershey's U.S. confection retail sales growth was in line with the category, reflecting strong performance in innovation and holiday programming [4] - The international segment achieved full-year organic constant currency net sales growth of 2.2%, with market share gains in Mexico, Brazil, and the U.K. [6][7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to deliver top-line growth at or above market categories, restore margins, and increase investments for sustainable growth in 2027 and 2028 [9] - Strategic priorities for 2026 include driving sustainable top-line growth, restoring margins, and evolving the strategy for future competitiveness [9][12] - The company plans to introduce innovative products and activate major cultural moments to enhance brand presence [10][11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in entering 2026, highlighting the momentum from 2025 and the ability to navigate macroeconomic challenges [3] - The company is monitoring factors such as consumer financial pressure and health trends, which could impact future performance [8] - For 2026, the company expects net sales growth of 4% to 5%, with a focus on innovation and brand investment [20] Other Important Information - The AAA Program has generated over $300 million in net savings over the past two years, with an additional $100 million projected for 2026 [8] - The company completed the acquisition of LesserEvil, enhancing its position in the salty snacks market [19] - Capital expenditures for 2026 are projected to be between $425 million and $475 million, with a focus on technology investments [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the expectations for 2026 net sales growth? - The company expects total net sales growth of 4% to 5% for 2026, with contributions from the acquisition of LesserEvil [20] Question: How is the company addressing commodity inflation? - The company is utilizing agile hedging and sourcing strategies to mitigate the impact of cocoa inflation [8] Question: What are the plans for advertising and brand investment in 2026? - Advertising and related consumer spending are expected to increase by double digits, supporting momentum across the business [22]

Hershey reported lower fourth-quarter profit as tariff costs and high cocoa prices continued to hurt its bottom line. ...

Exhibit 99.1 • Consolidated net sales of $3,091.0 million, an increase of 7.0%. • Organic, constant currency net sales increased 5.7%. • The impact of acquisitions on net sales was a 1.2 point benefit and currency exchange was a 0.1 point benefit. 2 • Reported net income of $320.0 million, or $1.57 per share-diluted, a decrease of 59.9%. • Adjusted earnings per share-diluted of $1.71, a decrease of 36.4%. 2025 Full-Year Financial Results Summary 3 All comparisons for the fourth quarter of 2025 are with resp ...

Core Insights - The Hershey Company reported a consolidated net sales increase of 7.0% to $3,091.0 million for the fourth quarter of 2025, with organic, constant currency net sales rising by 5.7% [8][16] - The company anticipates full-year 2026 net sales growth of 4% to 5%, driven by net price realization and increased innovation [9][10] Fourth-Quarter 2025 Financial Results Summary - Reported net income for the fourth quarter was $320.0 million, or $1.57 per share-diluted, reflecting a decrease of 59.9% [8][19] - Adjusted earnings per share-diluted for the fourth quarter were $1.71, a decrease of 36.4% compared to the previous year [8][36] - Reported gross margin decreased by 17.0 percentage points to 37.0%, influenced by higher commodity costs and lower volume [17][19] Full-Year 2025 Financial Results Summary - Consolidated net sales for the full year reached $11,692.6 million, an increase of 4.4% [8] - Reported net income for the full year was $883.3 million, or $4.34 per share-diluted, a decrease of 60.3% [8][19] - Adjusted earnings per share-diluted for the full year were $6.31, a decrease of 32.7% compared to 2024 [8][36] 2026 Full-Year Financial Outlook Summary - The company expects reported earnings per share-diluted to be in the range of $7.77 to $8.19, an increase of 79% to 89% versus 2025 [9][10] - Adjusted earnings per share-diluted are projected to be between $8.20 and $8.52, reflecting a growth of 30% to 35% compared to 2025 [9][10] Segment Performance - North America Confectionery segment net sales increased by 5.3% to $2,478.5 million, driven by net price realization [22] - North America Salty Snacks segment net sales surged by 28.0% to $357.0 million, with the acquisition of LesserEvil contributing approximately 10 percentage points to growth [25] - International segment net sales increased by 0.4% to $255.6 million, but organic, constant currency net sales decreased by 1.9% due to volume declines [28][29] Cost and Expense Analysis - Selling, marketing, and administrative expenses rose by 12.1% in the fourth quarter, driven by higher compensation and advertising costs [18] - Unallocated corporate expenses increased by 20.9% to $236.3 million, attributed to higher compensation costs and capability investments [30]

Core Insights - The Hershey Company is launching new products for the Easter season, including Jolly Rancher Gummies Fruity Mix and expanded sizes of popular items like Cadbury and Reese's [1][2][3] Product Offerings - New Jolly Rancher Gummies Fruity Mix features a cheerful assortment with five shapes: egg, chick, bunny, butterfly, and flower, combining fruity flavors like peach and pineapple with classic favorites [5] - Reese's Peanut Butter Mini Eggs are now available in a new King Size, while Cadbury Mini Creme Egg and Mini Caramel Egg are offered in new stand-up shareable pouches [4][10] - Hershey's Kisses Harry Potter Butterbeer Flavor is introduced in a new stand-up shareable pouch, appealing to fans of both the franchise and seasonal treats [7][10] Market Position - Hershey is recognized as a multi-year category leader in Easter sweets, with strong consumer favorites like Reese's and Cadbury [2][6] - The company emphasizes the importance of variety and convenience in its Easter assortments, catering to family celebrations and egg hunts [7][10] Company Overview - The Hershey Company generates over $11.2 billion in annual revenues and has a portfolio of more than 90 brand names, including iconic products like Hershey's, Reese's, and Jolly Rancher [8] - The company has a commitment to ethical and sustainable operations, with a focus on community support and education initiatives [9]

Core Insights - The article highlights the significant American companies that have shaped the nation's identity and economy as it approaches its 250th birthday, emphasizing their cultural and historical impact rather than just financial metrics [1][2]. Group 1: Visa - Visa was established in 1958 as BankAmericard, launching the first consumer credit card in the U.S. [3][6] - The company rebranded as Visa in 1976 and went public in 2008, currently holding a market cap of $632 billion [4][6]. - Visa operates in over 220 countries and territories, accepted at more than 175 million merchants [7]. Group 2: Meta (Facebook) - Facebook was founded in 2004 by Mark Zuckerberg and quickly grew to 1 billion users by 2012, later rebranding to Meta in 2021 [9][13][14]. - The platform has faced controversies regarding user data and misinformation but remains a dominant social media service with over 3 billion regular users [15]. Group 3: Boeing - Boeing, established in 1916, is a leading aerospace company known for producing commercial jets and military aircraft [15][16]. - The company has faced challenges in recent years, including safety allegations and COVID-19 impacts, but continues to be a major player in the industry with a market cap of $185 billion [20][21]. Group 4: Tesla - Tesla was founded in 2003, with Elon Musk joining in 2004, and has become synonymous with electric vehicles, launching the Model 3 in 2017 as the best-selling electric car [23][27]. - The company has a market cap of $1.4 trillion and is recognized for driving electric vehicles into the mainstream [28]. Group 5: Patagonia - Patagonia was founded in 1973 by Yvon Chouinard, known for its commitment to sustainability and donating 1% of sales to environmental causes [30][33]. - The company has expanded from climbing gear to a wide range of outdoor apparel and is estimated to have a market cap of $3 billion [33]. Group 6: Intel - Intel was founded in 1968 and became a leader in semiconductor technology, introducing the first programmable microprocessor in 1971 [34][35]. - The company has maintained a significant market presence, controlling approximately 75% of the CPU market as of 2025 [38]. Group 7: HP - HP was established in 1939, initially focusing on sound equipment and later becoming a leader in personal computers and printers [40][42]. - The company split into HP Inc. and Hewlett Packard Enterprises in 2015, with HP Inc. having a market cap of $18 billion [45]. Group 8: Nike - Nike was founded in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports and rebranded in 1971, becoming a dominant player in the sportswear market with a 14% share in 2024 [46][50]. - The company gained fame through its endorsement deal with Michael Jordan, significantly boosting its brand recognition [48]. Group 9: Kodak - Kodak was founded in 1888 and became a pioneer in photography, introducing innovations like roll film and the first digital camera [51][54]. - The company filed for bankruptcy in 2012 and now focuses primarily on commercial printing and imaging [56]. Group 10: IBM - IBM was established in 1911 and became synonymous with computing, initially focusing on tabulating machines and later dominating the PC market [59][62]. - The company has shifted its focus to consulting, software, and cloud computing, with a market cap of $291 billion [67]. Group 11: Paramount Pictures - Paramount Pictures, founded in 1912, is recognized as the longest-operating major studio in Hollywood, producing numerous iconic films [68][70]. - The studio has undergone various mergers and continues to be a significant player in the entertainment industry with a market cap of $12 billion [74]. Group 12: Netflix - Netflix was founded in 1997 as a DVD rental service and transitioned to streaming in 2007, becoming a leader in the industry [77][80]. - The company has a market cap of $351 billion and announced plans to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery in 2025 [81]. Group 13: FedEx - FedEx was founded in 1971, revolutionizing overnight delivery with a centralized hub model [83][84]. - The company has introduced several innovations in the shipping industry and has a market cap of $74 billion [88]. Group 14: Motown - Motown Records, established in 1959, played a crucial role in integrating Black artists into mainstream pop music [91][92]. - The label produced numerous hits and helped launch the careers of many iconic artists, although it faded in prominence during the 1970s [94][96]. Group 15: PepsiCo - PepsiCo was formed in 1965 through the merger of the Pepsi-Cola Company and Frito-Lay, becoming a leading global food and beverage brand [99][100]. - The company is known for its innovative marketing strategies and has a significant rivalry with Coca-Cola [101]. Group 16: Levi Strauss - Levi Strauss, founded in 1853, is known for creating the first riveted blue jeans, which have become a cultural staple [104][106]. - The company continues to sell a wide range of apparel and remains a significant player in the fashion industry [106]. Group 17: Microsoft - Microsoft was founded in 1975 and became a leader in software development, particularly with its Windows operating system [109][110]. - The company has expanded into gaming, cloud services, and AI, with a market cap of $7.8 billion [112]. Group 18: The Home Depot - The Home Depot was established in 1978, focusing on providing a wide range of building supplies and home improvement products [115][116]. - The company has a strong commitment to community initiatives, particularly supporting veterans, and has a market cap of $3.2 trillion [118]. Group 19: WK Kellogg Company - WK Kellogg Company was formed from the original Kellogg's brand, known for its iconic cereals and snacks [121][123]. - The company underwent a reorganization in 2023, with its cereal business spun off into a new entity [123].

HERSHEY, Pa., Feb. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hershey Company (NYSE: HSY) today announced that it will host an Investor Day on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. ET at the New York Stock Exchange in New York City. President and Chief Executive Officer Kirk Tanner, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Steve Voskuil, and other members of the executive leadership team will discuss the company's key strategic and financial priorities, followed by a Q&A session. A live webcast of the event wil ...

Core Viewpoint - Hershey's stock has shown resilience with a recent increase, outperforming major indices, and upcoming earnings are anticipated to reveal a significant decline in EPS while revenue is expected to rise slightly [1][2]. Group 1: Stock Performance - Hershey closed at $194.75, marking a +2.21% increase from the previous day, outperforming the S&P 500's loss of 0.43% [1] - Over the last month, Hershey's shares have increased by 4.7%, surpassing the Consumer Staples sector's gain of 4.16% and the S&P 500's gain of 0.89% [1]. Group 2: Earnings Forecast - Hershey's upcoming earnings report is scheduled for February 5, 2026, with an expected EPS of $1.4, indicating a 47.96% decline compared to the same quarter last year [2]. - The consensus estimate for revenue is $2.99 billion, reflecting a 3.62% increase from the same quarter last year [2]. Group 3: Full Year Projections - For the full year, Zacks Consensus Estimates project earnings of $6.01 per share and revenue of $11.6 billion, representing changes of -35.86% and 0% respectively from the prior year [3]. - Recent changes to analyst estimates indicate a positive outlook, with a 1.44% rise in the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate over the past month [5]. Group 4: Valuation Metrics - Hershey is currently trading with a Forward P/E ratio of 27.17, which is a premium compared to the industry average Forward P/E of 18.41 [6]. - The Food - Confectionery industry, part of the Consumer Staples sector, holds a Zacks Industry Rank of 1, placing it in the top 1% of over 250 industries [6].

Core Insights - The Hershey Company (HSY) is expected to report a revenue of $2.99 billion for Q4 2025, reflecting a 3.6% increase from the previous year [1] - Earnings per share (EPS) consensus remains at $1.40, indicating a nearly 48% decline year-over-year [2] Revenue Growth Factors - Hershey's revenue growth is anticipated to be driven by strong demand in its core confectionery portfolio, brand momentum, innovation, and disciplined revenue management [3] - Management noted improving consumption trends, strong performance in flagship brands, and sustained consumer interest in both core and new products during the Q3 earnings call [4] - Seasonal demand for holiday products, effective in-store execution, and marketing support are expected to further enhance revenue growth [4] Pricing and Market Dynamics - Strategic price increases in collaboration with retailers are a significant factor supporting revenue growth [5] - The salty snacks portfolio is performing well, benefiting from consumer trends favoring healthier snacking options [5] - International markets are contributing to growth through brand expansion and distribution, although some regions face macroeconomic and regulatory challenges [5] Profitability Challenges - Despite revenue strength, profitability is likely under pressure due to higher commodity costs and inflation not fully offset by pricing actions [6] - Increased spending on marketing, innovation, and capabilities to support long-term growth is expected to negatively impact near-term earnings [6] - An unfavorable product mix and elevated supply chain costs may further limit earnings improvement [6] Earnings Prediction - The model predicts an earnings beat for Hershey, supported by a positive Earnings ESP of +1.66% and a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy) [7]