Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q3 2025 was $2.3 billion, representing a 10.5% increase on a reported basis and an 8% increase on a like-for-like basis, reflecting strong underlying growth across segments [13][19] - Net income decreased due to a $10 million loss in discontinued operations and an $8 million non-cash fair value charge, partially offset by $10 million in insurance proceeds and higher earnings in equity method investments [13][19] - Adjusted EBITDA decreased by $1.3 million, primarily due to declines in the fresh fruit segment, while adjusted net income decreased by $3 million [14][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fresh fruit revenue increased by 11%, driven by higher volumes and pricing of bananas, pineapples, and plantains, but faced higher sourcing costs leading to decreased adjusted EBITDA [15][16] - Diversified EMA segment reported an 11% revenue increase, with adjusted EBITDA rising by $10 million or 34%, driven by strong performance in Scandinavia, Spain, and the Netherlands [16][10] - Diversified Americas segment saw an 8% revenue increase, with adjusted EBITDA up by $4 million or 46%, attributed to strong performance in the southern hemisphere export business and North American market [16][11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Demand for bananas remained robust in North American and European markets, contributing to tight supply and cost pressures [10][9] - The company is experiencing strong underlying growth in key markets, particularly in Spain and the Netherlands, with positive momentum continuing into Q4 [10][11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company completed the sale of its non-core fresh vegetable division, enhancing capital allocation flexibility and allowing for a $100 million share repurchase program [5][6] - The launch of the new Dole Collada Royale Pineapple aims to provide a competitive edge and stimulate excitement in the tropical category, reinforcing the company's commitment to community support [8][9] - The company is focused on integrating operations and streamlining its business model to enhance efficiency and attractiveness to key customers [57][56] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving full-year adjusted EBITDA at the upper end of the targeted range of $380-$390 million despite macroeconomic volatility and industry-specific challenges [20][19] - The company is optimistic about the future, with ongoing negotiations for annual contracts and a strong consumer demand for affordable and healthy products [59][53] Other Important Information - Cash capital expenditure for the quarter was $20.9 million, with a reduction in full-year routine capital expenditure expectations to approximately $85 million [17][18] - The company declared an $8.50 dividend for Q3, to be paid on January 6th [19][18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook for Q4 and 2026 - Management acknowledged the challenges in forecasting due to macroeconomic volatility and highlighted specific headwinds impacting procurement costs, particularly in the banana segment [25][26] Question: Tariffs and Exclusions - Management stated there is no new information regarding tariff exclusions for tropical produce, but expressed confidence in future positive changes [28][29] Question: Capital Allocation and Buyback Program - The $100 million buyback program is part of a broader capital allocation strategy, allowing for flexibility in pursuing growth opportunities while maintaining a progressive dividend policy [39][38] Question: Annual Contracting Negotiations - Management indicated that negotiations are ongoing and that customers are aware of supply challenges, expressing optimism about the outcomes [53][52] Question: Strength in Diversified Fresh Produce - Management highlighted the strong market position in Europe and North America, emphasizing the benefits of integrating operations and investments in distribution capabilities [56][57]