Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has seen a cautious consumer environment impacting restaurant traffic and retail shopping behavior, with a shift towards more frequent retail shopping but lower spending per visit [6][7] - The company is optimistic about the growth of its value-added chicken business, which has been performing well despite the challenges in the market [8][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The chicken segment is highlighted as a strong performer, with significant growth in value-added sales and a robust innovation pipeline [19][20] - The beef segment is facing challenges due to limited availability and market volatility, but there are signs of herd rebuilding which could improve future performance [29][30] - The pork segment has shown positive performance, benefiting from consumers seeking value alternatives to beef, with ongoing operational improvements [50][52] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is observing a stable environment in the protein market, with USDA projections indicating minimal increases in production across all proteins [24] - The international business is expanding, with significant investments made in Southeast Asia, China, and other regions, although geopolitical and economic pressures remain [45][47] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to maintain operational excellence and continuous improvement across all business segments, focusing on innovation and consumer needs [15][38] - There is a strong emphasis on aligning communication and best practices globally to leverage opportunities in the protein market [4][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges the cautious consumer sentiment but remains confident in the essential role of protein in diets, which is expected to drive long-term growth [7][8] - The company is committed to executing its strategies effectively and is optimistic about maintaining momentum in its prepared foods and chicken segments [39][40] Other Important Information - The company has reopened share repurchases and is focused on maintaining a net leverage target of at or below 2x, with a balanced approach to capital allocation [54][56] - The expected normalized level of capital expenditures is around $1 billion, reflecting a disciplined approach to investments [58] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the key priorities for the new COO? - The COO emphasized the importance of alignment, clarity, and communication within the organization, aiming to accelerate existing momentum without major changes [3][4] Question: How is consumer behavior affecting protein consumption? - The COO noted a cautious consumer environment, with a shift towards retail shopping and a focus on value-added protein products [6][7] Question: What is the outlook for the chicken business? - The COO expressed optimism about the chicken segment, highlighting strong growth in value-added sales and a solid innovation pipeline [19][20] Question: What challenges are being faced in the beef segment? - Management discussed limited availability and market volatility in the beef segment, but indicated positive signs of herd rebuilding [29][30] Question: How is the company addressing input price pressures in prepared foods? - The COO mentioned the use of formula pricing and point-of-sale price adjustments to manage input cost pressures while maintaining consumer value [40][41] Question: What is the strategy for international growth? - The COO highlighted significant investments and a strong leadership team in international markets, with a focus on operational excellence and adapting to local conditions [45][47] Question: What are the future expectations for the pork segment? - Management acknowledged the positive performance in pork, driven by consumer demand for value, and emphasized ongoing operational improvements [50][52]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is on track with its investments and has set planning in motion for FY '26, indicating a disciplined approach to marketing and operational spending [18][19] - The company has maintained a 98% plus fill rate across prepared and poultry segments, showcasing operational efficiency [27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The chicken segment is currently performing well, with value-added sales gaining share and significant growth in volume and dollar share [20][21] - The beef segment is facing challenges due to limited availability and external factors like the New World Screwworm affecting cattle imports from Mexico, but there are signs of herd rebuilding [31][32] - The pork segment has seen improved performance attributed to operational execution and consumer demand for value, with a focus on seasoned and marinated offerings [54][56] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consumer behavior is cautious, with a shift towards retail shopping and lower spending per visit, but protein consumption remains a priority [5][7] - The company is observing a stable environment in the protein market, with USDA projections indicating minimal production increases [24][25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to maintain operational excellence and continuous improvement across all business lines, focusing on innovation and consumer needs [16][40] - There is a strong emphasis on capital allocation, with a net leverage target of at or below 2x and a balanced approach to share repurchases, dividends, and capital expenditures [58][60] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges the challenges in the beef market but remains optimistic about the potential for herd rebuilding and operational efficiencies [31][32] - The prepared foods segment is expected to continue performing well due to unique offerings and a strong operational strategy [37][41] Other Important Information - The company has made significant investments in its international business, focusing on operational excellence and adapting to local market conditions [48][52] - The company plans to maintain a normalized level of capital expenditures around $1 billion moving forward [63] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the key priorities for the new COO? - The COO emphasized the importance of alignment, clarity, and communication within the organization, aiming to accelerate existing momentum without major changes [3][4] Question: How is consumer behavior affecting the business? - Management noted a cautious consumer environment, with a shift to retail shopping and a focus on protein consumption as a key driver [5][7] Question: What are the challenges in the beef market? - The beef segment faces limited availability and external challenges, but there are positive signs of herd rebuilding [31][32] Question: How is the company addressing input price pressures in prepared foods? - The company is utilizing formula pricing and point-of-sale adjustments to manage input costs while ensuring value for consumers [42][45] Question: What is the outlook for the international business? - The company is optimistic about its international operations, having established strong leadership and customer partnerships [48][52]