Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a modest year-over-year recovery in top-line performance, although the operating environment remains challenging due to worsening consumer sentiment and ongoing inflation [3][4] - The profit revision of 25% is primarily due to lower expectations of consumption in the U.S. and increased inflation in meat and coffee, rather than additional investments [8][10] - Promotional investment in the U.S. is being increased by approximately $300 million, with an additional $80 million in marketing spending [10][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The North American grocery company experienced a significant improvement in trends in Q3 compared to the first half, but still declined in low single digits [34][35] - The Global Taste Elevation Co also declined in low single digits, but is expected to improve in Q4 [34] - Emerging markets, excluding Indonesia, grew by 9.2%, with the Heinz brand in these markets growing by 13% year-to-date [28][29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consumer sentiment in Indonesia has declined nearly 10 points year-over-year, leading to a softening of demand [27][29] - Indonesia represents approximately $300 million in revenue, accounting for about 12% of the emerging markets business [29] - The overall market in the U.S. is expected to worsen, impacting consumption despite improvements in market share [45][50] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains on track to separate into two independent companies by 2026, focusing on driving performance and positioning both businesses for long-term success [4][21] - The strategy includes a focus on brand growth and consumer-centric approaches, with an emphasis on R&D and marketing investments to drive product renovation [12][13] - The company is committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet and investment-grade ratings for both future entities [21][22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenges posed by consumer sentiment and inflation, which are influencing buying behavior globally [3][4] - The outlook for Q4 suggests revenue may decline compared to Q3, primarily due to inventory phasing and lower consumption expectations [42][44] - Management is optimistic about the long-term potential of the brand portfolio, despite current cyclical challenges [60] Other Important Information - The company is actively rightsizing inventory and transitioning to a new distributor in Indonesia to address current challenges [28][30] - There is a focus on tactical investments to build brand equity and drive consumer trial of new products [12][56] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of Weaker Consumer Sentiment on Profit Revision - Management clarified that the profit revision is not linked to additional investments but is due to lower consumption expectations and inflationary pressures [8][10] Question: Thoughts on Potential Pivot for Kraft Heinz - Management emphasized that the decision to separate into two companies was made to unlock shareholder value and that they are committed to the current plan [17][20] Question: Performance of Emerging Markets Excluding Indonesia - Emerging markets, excluding Indonesia, grew by 9.2%, with the Heinz brand showing strong growth [28][29] Question: Promotional Spending and Market Share - Management noted that promotional spending is concentrated around key holidays, and they are focusing on driving household penetration through strategic promotions [46][56] Question: Challenges in Commoditized Categories - Management acknowledged difficulties in categories like coffee and meats but emphasized the ongoing implementation of the brand growth system [62]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q3 2025, organic net sales declined by 2.5%, showing a modest year-over-year improvement of 80 basis points from a decline of 3.3% in the first half of the year [34] - Adjusted operating income decreased by 16.9%, with a margin decline of 310 basis points [37] - Free cash flow reached $2.5 billion, with a conversion rate of 109%, up over 30 percentage points from the previous year [42] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America organic net sales declined by 3.8%, with a 100 basis point improvement from the first half of the year [34] - Global away from home organic net sales declined by 2.4%, while international away from home saw growth for the 18th consecutive quarter [11][35] - Emerging markets experienced a 4.7% increase in organic net sales, driven by double-digit growth in Latin America and the Middle East and Africa [36] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. away from home industry remains under pressure, particularly in chains and restaurants, while non-commercial channels are growing [14] - In emerging markets, the Heinz brand grew by 14% in Q3, with a total of nearly 900,000 distribution points [16][18] - The company gained market share across 70% of its U.S. taste elevation portfolio in September [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is on track to separate into two focused entities by 2026, aiming to improve execution and drive efficiencies [5][6] - Investments in marketing, R&D, and technology are central to the company's recovery strategy [19][30] - The brand growth system is being utilized to enhance category growth and brand superiority [19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The operating environment remains challenging due to worsening consumer sentiment and inflation [5] - The company anticipates a longer path to consumer recovery, with pressures expected to persist beyond Q4 [50] - The outlook for 2025 has been updated, expecting organic net sales to decline by 3% to 3.5% [47] Other Important Information - The company has returned $1.8 billion to shareholders year-to-date through dividends and share repurchases [45] - Adjusted EPS is expected to be in the range of $2.50 to $2.57, reflecting a higher effective tax rate and interest expense [48] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the expectations for the consumer environment moving forward? - Management noted that the consumer is navigating a tough environment with worsening sentiment and rising costs, leading to a longer recovery path [50] Question: How is the company addressing challenges in Indonesia? - The company is executing a comprehensive plan to stabilize the distributor network and reset inventory levels in Indonesia [9] Question: What are the capital allocation priorities post-separation? - The company will focus on investing in the organic business, maintaining net leverage around three times, actively managing the portfolio, and returning excess capital to shareholders [43][44]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company announced plans to split into two separate entities: Global Taste Elevation Co and North American Grocery Co, aiming to improve focus and performance [3][4] - The expected dissynergies from the split are estimated at $300 million, with one-third attributed to cost of goods sold, one-third to technology, and the remainder to sales, marketing, and other SG&A [32][33] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Global Taste Elevation business has faced challenges in the U.S., with growth being flat, while outside the U.S., it has seen mid- to high single-digit growth [18][19] - North American Grocery Co is expected to have significant margin opportunities, with a focus on improving efficiencies and expertise in managing commodities and operations [38][40] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. market has been under pressure due to prolonged inflation and changing consumer behavior, leading to a trend of consumers trading down [21][22] - The company is adapting by expanding its product offerings in various price points and channels, including Dollar General, to meet consumer needs [24][25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The separation is intended to reduce complexity and enhance focus, allowing each entity to align resources and expertise with their specific market strategies [7][14] - The company aims to drive growth through targeted investments in brand quality, marketing, and innovation, particularly in emerging markets [15][16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges the current challenges in the food industry but remains committed to long-term investments in brand quality and consumer value [68][69] - The company is confident that its brand growth system will yield positive results over time, as seen with recent growth in specific product lines like Lunchables and Capri Sun [69][70] Other Important Information - The company emphasizes that the separation is not merely a financial engineering move but a strategic decision to enhance performance through increased focus [60][61] - A separation committee has been established to ensure smooth execution during the transition period [65][66] Q&A Session Summary Question: Why is the separation expected to improve performance? - Management believes that increased focus will lead to better performance and unlock shareholder value, as seen in past initiatives [4][5] Question: How does the split differ from the original Kraft Heinz merger? - Management asserts that the separation is based on current consumer behavior and future growth potential, not merely reversing past decisions [11][12] Question: What are the expected growth rates for the new entities? - Global Taste Elevation is expected to post growth towards the upper end of the 2% to 3% range, while North American Grocery is projected to grow in the low single digits [34][36] Question: Will there be a margin reset for North American Grocery? - Management does not foresee a significant margin reset but acknowledges the need for strategic investments to drive efficiencies [39][42] Question: What investments have been made for sustainable productivity? - The company has focused on operational excellence, with significant investments in manufacturing efficiencies, logistics, and procurement strategies [78][79]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Organic net sales declined 2% year-over-year, an improvement from a 4.7% decline in the first quarter [7][33] - Free cash flow generated year-to-date was $1,500,000,000, nearly 30% above prior year levels [8][40] - Adjusted operating income declined 7.5%, with a margin decrease of 120 basis points [35] - Adjusted EPS declined 11.5% to $0.09 compared to 2024 [40] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America organic net sales declined 3.2%, with growth in Canada offset by lower U.S. sales [33] - International developed markets saw a 2.2% decline in organic net sales, primarily due to the UK [34] - Emerging markets experienced a 7.6% increase in organic net sales, driven by double-digit growth in Latin America and the Middle East [34][25] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global Away From Home organic net sales declined 1.9%, with continued growth in international Away From Home [10] - The U.S. Away From Home industry continues to face pressure due to traffic headwinds [10] - Emerging markets are projected to reach a double-digit growth pace by year-end [44] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on long-term growth and value creation, unlocking efficiencies to reinvest in the business [9] - Investments are being made in North America retail, emerging markets, and away-from-home segments [5][12] - The brand growth system is on track to reach 40% sales coverage by year-end, up 30 percentage points from 2024 [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The macro environment remains volatile, with consumers seeking value through price and product benefits [6] - Management is optimistic about growth in emerging markets but does not anticipate improvement in the U.S. industry for the rest of 2025 [11] - The company is committed to maintaining a competitive annual dividend and targeting a net leverage ratio of three times [42] Other Important Information - The company announced an agreement to sell its infant and specialty food business in Italy to drive profitable growth [42] - A significant impairment charge of approximately $9,300,000,000 was recognized due to a sustained decline in share price [40] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the expectations for organic net sales in 2025? - The company expects organic net sales to decline in the range of 1.5% to 3.5%, with growth anticipated in emerging markets [44] Question: How is the company addressing inflationary pressures? - The company is increasing investments in price and marketing to mitigate inflationary headwinds and drive momentum [36][37] Question: What is the outlook for adjusted operating income? - The company expects a decline of 5% to 10% in constant currency adjusted operating income, reflecting macroeconomic uncertainties [45]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The second quarter results met expectations with an improvement in year-over-year top line performance [4] - A noncash impairment charge of $9.3 billion was recorded due to a sustained decline in stock price, affecting the carrying value of intangible assets [16][17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In emerging markets, top line growth was approximately 8% driven by both price and volume, with the highest operating income margin ever achieved [28] - North America retail showed a decline of 2.7% in the latest four weeks, excluding cold cuts and bacon, with year-to-date decline at 4% [29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is experiencing challenges in North America retail, but improvements are noted in other segments, particularly in emerging markets [28][29] - Inflation is expected to be around 5% to 7% for the year, with pricing actions taken to mitigate impacts [26][50] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on unlocking long-term shareholder value through strategic evaluations and investments in product superiority and manufacturing capabilities [4][10] - Continued investment in marketing and product innovation is planned, with a target of reaching 4.8% of net sales by the end of 2025 [22][30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the strategy and ongoing investments, emphasizing a disciplined approach to financial management [10][31] - The company is optimistic about growth opportunities in emerging markets and is committed to driving improvements in North America retail [28][30] Other Important Information - The company is actively expanding its brand growth system, which is expected to impact 40% of the business by the end of the year [46] - Significant product renovations are underway, with expectations of a 20% market increase year-over-year in the second half [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Strategic transactions and potential business separation - Management is evaluating strategic options to unlock long-term value while maintaining financial discipline [10][11] Question: Details on impairment charge - A $9.3 billion noncash impairment charge was recorded due to a decline in stock price, which was anticipated [16][17] Question: Pricing and promotion levels - The company is investing in pricing and marketing, with a 100 basis point increase in pricing year-over-year and a 30 basis point increase in marketing [22][26] Question: Sales trends in emerging markets - Emerging markets saw an 8% top line growth, with confidence in achieving double-digit growth by year-end [36][38] Question: Timing of inflation and promotions - The impact of inflation and promotions pushed from Q2 to Q3 is estimated at 30 to 40 basis points [40][41] Question: Organic sales growth in North America Retail - The company is focused on stabilizing North America retail through investments in product superiority and marketing [46][48] Question: Gross margin outlook and inflation - Inflation is expected to remain at 5% to 7%, with a 100 basis point impact from tariffs anticipated [50][51] Question: Pace of innovation - Innovation as a percentage of sales increased from 1.6% in 2022 to 3% by the end of last year, with plans for further growth [65][66]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The second quarter results met expectations with an improvement in year-over-year top line performance [4] - A noncash impairment charge of $9.3 billion was recorded due to a sustained decline in stock price, affecting the carrying value of intangible assets [16][17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In emerging markets, the top line grew approximately 8% driven by both price and volume, with the highest operating income margin ever achieved [28] - North America retail showed a decline of 2.7% in the latest four weeks, excluding cold cuts and bacon, with year-to-date performance down 4% [29] - Significant investments are being made in product renovations and marketing, particularly in key brands like mac and cheese, lunchables, and mayo [32] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is experiencing challenges in North America retail, which is seen as a gating factor for overall growth [45] - Inflation is expected to be around 5% to 7% for the year, with pricing actions being taken to mitigate impacts [52] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on unlocking long-term shareholder value through strategic evaluations and investments in product superiority and manufacturing capabilities [4][10] - Continued investment in marketing is planned, aiming for 4.8% of net sales by the end of 2025, the highest level in nearly a decade [22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the strategy and ongoing investments, emphasizing a disciplined approach to financial management [10][11] - The company is optimistic about growth in emerging markets and is committed to driving improvements in North America retail through strategic investments [28][30] Other Important Information - The company is actively expanding its brand growth system, which is expected to impact about 40% of the business by the end of the year [48] - The company is also focusing on innovation, with a goal to increase the percentage of sales from new products from 3% to a higher level [66][67] Q&A Session Summary Question: Discussion on strategic transactions and potential business separation - Management is evaluating strategic options to unlock long-term value while maintaining financial discipline [10][11] Question: Details on the sizable impairment recorded - A $9.3 billion noncash impairment charge was due to a sustained decline in stock price affecting intangible assets [16][17] Question: Pricing and promotion levels - The company is investing in pricing and marketing, with a 100 basis point increase in pricing year-over-year and an additional 30 basis points in marketing [22][24] Question: Sales trends in emerging markets - Emerging markets saw an 8% top line growth, with confidence in achieving double-digit growth rates [36][38] Question: Impact of inflation and promotions on quarterly performance - The impact of inflation and promotions pushed from Q2 to Q3 is estimated to be around 30 to 40 basis points [40][41] Question: Organic sales growth in North America Retail - The company is focused on stabilizing and improving North America retail performance through strategic investments [45][48] Question: Gross margin outlook and inflation - Inflation is expected to remain high, with a significant impact from tariffs anticipated [52][53] Question: Confidence in investment plans amid volume declines - The company maintains a disciplined approach to investments and is expanding its brand growth system to drive improvements [59][60] Question: Pace of innovation and future goals - Innovation as a percentage of sales has increased from 1.6% to 3%, with plans to continue driving this upward [66][67]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The second quarter results met expectations with an improvement in year-over-year top line performance [4] - A noncash impairment charge of $9.3 billion was recorded due to a sustained decline in stock price, affecting the carrying value of intangible assets [15][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In emerging markets, the top line grew approximately 8% driven by both price and volume, with the highest operating income margin ever achieved [26] - North America retail showed a decline of 2.7% in the latest four weeks, excluding cold cuts and bacon, with year-to-date performance down 4% [27] - Significant investments are being made in product renovations and marketing, particularly in key brands like mac and cheese, lunchables, and mayo [30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is experiencing a negative pricing trend in North America when excluding cost inflation, which is expected to be around 5% to 7% for the year [21][24] - The company is focusing on maintaining consumer-centric pricing strategies while investing in marketing to reach 4.8% of net sales by the end of 2025 [21][24] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is actively evaluating strategic options to unlock long-term shareholder value, maintaining financial discipline in any potential actions [9][10] - Continued investment in product superiority, manufacturing capabilities, and marketing is emphasized as a key strategy for growth [4][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the strategy and ongoing investments, indicating that the company is not done with its growth initiatives [29] - The focus remains on driving improvements in North America retail through brand growth systems and product renovations [46][49] Other Important Information - The company is expanding its distribution and innovation efforts in the away-from-home segment, particularly in emerging markets [26][37] - The company anticipates some relief from commodity inflation in Q4, with ongoing high inflation in certain areas like heat and coffee [52] Q&A Session Summary Question: Discussion on strategic transactions and potential business separation - Management confirmed that the board is working urgently on evaluating strategic options to unlock long-term value, emphasizing financial discipline [9][10] Question: Details on the sizable impairment recorded - A noncash impairment charge of $9.3 billion was due to a sustained decline in stock price, which had been monitored for some time [15][16] Question: Pricing and promotion levels - The company is investing in pricing and marketing, with a 100 basis point increase in pricing year-over-year and an additional 30 basis points in marketing [21][24] Question: Sales trends in emerging markets - Emerging markets saw an 8% top line growth, with confidence in achieving double-digit growth rates by year-end [36][37] Question: Gross margin outlook and inflation impact - Inflation is expected to remain at 5% to 7%, with a 100 basis point impact from tariffs anticipated for the year [52][53] Question: Innovation pace and future plans - Innovation as a percentage of sales increased from 1.6% in 2022 to about 3% by the end of last year, with plans to continue driving innovation [67][69]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The second quarter results met expectations with an improvement in year-over-year top line performance [4] - A noncash impairment charge of $9.3 billion was recorded due to a sustained decline in stock price, affecting the carrying value of intangible assets [15][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In emerging markets, top line growth was approximately 8% driven by both price and volume, with the highest operating income margin ever achieved [26] - North America retail showed a decline of 2.7% in the latest four weeks, excluding cold cuts and bacon, with year-to-date performance down 4% [27] - Significant investments in product renovations and marketing are expected to yield a 20% market increase year-over-year in the second half [30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is experiencing challenges in North America retail, which is seen as a gating factor for overall growth [44] - Inflation is expected to be around 5% to 7% for the year, with pricing actions taken to mitigate impacts [24][52] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on unlocking long-term shareholder value through strategic evaluations and potential transactions [9][10] - Investments are being made in product superiority, manufacturing capabilities, and marketing, with a goal to increase marketing spend to 4.8% of net sales by the end of 2025 [21][24] - The brand growth system is being expanded to more brands, with a focus on product renovation and innovation [60][69] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the strategy and ongoing investments, despite current challenges in certain business segments [29][37] - The company is committed to maintaining financial discipline while exploring strategic options [9][10] Other Important Information - The company is actively monitoring inflationary pressures and adjusting pricing strategies accordingly [24][52] - There is a strong emphasis on innovation, with a goal to increase the percentage of sales from innovative products [67][69] Q&A Session Summary Question: Discussion on strategic transactions and potential business separation - Management confirmed that the board is evaluating strategic options to unlock long-term value while maintaining financial discipline [9][10] Question: Details on the sizable impairment charge - The impairment charge was due to a sustained decline in stock price affecting intangible assets, which had been monitored for some time [15][16] Question: Pricing and promotion strategies - The company is investing in pricing and marketing, with a year-over-year pricing increase of about 100 basis points and additional marketing investments [21][24] Question: Sales trends in emerging markets - Emerging markets showed an 8% growth in top line, with confidence in achieving double-digit growth by year-end [36][37] Question: Gross margin outlook and inflation impact - Inflation is expected to remain a challenge, with actions in place to mitigate its effects, including pricing adjustments [52][53] Question: Innovation pace and future plans - The company aims to increase innovation as a percentage of sales, with a focus on core product renovations and new market entries [67][69]

Summary of Kraft Heinz Company Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Kraft Heinz Company - **Key Executives**: Carlos Abrams Rivera (CEO), Andre Maciel (CFO) Industry Context - **Consumer Health**: The year has been challenging for many companies, with unexpected pressures on consumer health due to high interest rates and inflation affecting various socioeconomic classes [5][6] - **Market Dynamics**: The company is focusing on providing value to consumers amidst economic pressures, emphasizing the importance of quality products at affordable prices [6][7] Core Business Insights - **Brand Growth System**: Kraft Heinz is implementing a proprietary system to enhance product quality, packaging, and marketing, aiming to better meet consumer needs [9][10] - **Product Innovations**: Introduction of family-sized mac and cheese packs priced at $2 to cater to families seeking value [11] - **Market Strategy**: The company is diversifying its channels, moving towards stadiums and leisure venues to improve margins and reduce reliance on restaurants [12] Financial Strategy - **Strategic Transactions**: The company is evaluating potential strategic transactions to unlock shareholder value, believing its stock is currently undervalued [14] - **Investment Focus**: Kraft Heinz plans to invest approximately $300 million in pricing strategies to maintain competitiveness without relying heavily on promotions [16][17] - **Marketing Investment**: The marketing budget is set to reach 4.8% of net sales, the highest in over a decade, to support product quality and communication [22] Operational Efficiency - **Productivity Initiatives**: The company has made significant investments in supply chain efficiency, technology, and marketing effectiveness, leading to improved ROI on promotions [53][54] - **Sustainability Efforts**: Kraft Heinz is reducing food waste in factories by 40% through improved operational practices [59] Regulatory Environment - **Government Regulations**: The company is proactively addressing potential regulations regarding artificial colors and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) exposure, with a significant portion of its portfolio already compliant [66][70] Future Outlook - **Stabilization and Growth**: The company views 2025 as a year of stabilization, with ambitions for growth in 2026 and a return to performance targets in 2027 [74][76] - **Commitment to Investment**: Despite challenges, Kraft Heinz is committed to investing in its brands and operations to navigate the current market landscape [78] Additional Insights - **Employee Engagement**: The company has seen high employee engagement levels, indicating a strong internal culture focused on efficiency and ownership [72] - **Consumer Trends**: There is a bifurcation in consumer behavior, with premium products growing while value-seeking consumers are also significant [19] This summary encapsulates the key points discussed during the Kraft Heinz Company conference call, highlighting the company's strategies, market conditions, and future outlook.

Group 1: Partnership and Program Launch - The Kraft Heinz Company (KHC) is collaborating with Uber Eats to launch the HEINZ Verified program, aimed at promoting restaurants that serve HEINZ products in major cities [1][4] - The program is designed to help consumers easily locate restaurants offering HEINZ Ketchup, which is favored by over 84% of diners [1] Group 2: Consumer Offers and Restaurant Support - Uber Eats users can receive a $5 discount on orders of $30 or more from HEINZ Verified restaurants, enhancing visibility for these locations [2] - Participating restaurants will receive exclusive support from Kraft Heinz, including consumer insights, free product samples, and marketing assistance to strengthen customer connections [3] Group 3: Business Strategy and Performance - KHC's Away From Home business unit is driving growth through the HEINZ Verified initiative, which aims to enhance dining experiences and support local communities [4][5] - Kraft Heinz has been implementing effective pricing strategies, with a 0.9 percentage point year-over-year increase in pricing in Q1 2025, primarily due to higher input costs [9] - Despite strategic initiatives, KHC has faced weak volume performance, with a 5.6 percentage point decline in volume/mix in Q1 2025 compared to the previous year [11] Group 4: Stock Performance - KHC shares have decreased by 6.7% over the past month, compared to a 3.5% decline in the industry [12]