Core Viewpoint - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Inc. intends to file a Form 12b-25 for a late filing of its annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2025, allowing an automatic extension of 15 days for submission [1]. Company Overview - Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. is a leading franchiser of premium chocolate and confectionary retail stores, known as America's Chocolatier™, producing a wide range of products since 1981 [3]. - The company operates nearly 260 stores across the United States and has several international locations, ranking among Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 for 2025 and Franchise Times' Franchise 400 for 2024 [3]. - The company's common stock is listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol "RMCF" [3]. Filing Details - The company is working diligently to file the Fiscal 2025 10-K by the Rule 12b-25 deadline of June 13, 2025, and will announce the timing for its fiscal 2025 earnings release and conference call once the filing date is confirmed [2].

Core Viewpoint - The global cocoa price has surged over 140% since the end of 2023, exceeding $10,000 per ton, driven by climate anomalies in West Africa, supply chain disruptions in Ghana, and post-pandemic recovery in Europe and the US, compounded by increased capital speculation [1][4]. Group 1: Industry Challenges and Innovations - Japan's chocolate industry faces significant pressure due to its reliance on imported cocoa, with 70% of raw materials sourced from Africa, leading to challenges of "raw material control and consumer anxiety" [4]. - In response to the crisis, companies are innovating through technology and product restructuring, exemplified by Meiji's launch of two new "raw chocolate" products that redefine the category [4][10]. - Meiji's innovations are rooted in years of technical accumulation and industry understanding, showcasing that systematic innovation is key to navigating economic cycles [4][16]. Group 2: Meiji's Product Innovations - Meiji's "Amber Ganache" and "Smooth Milk Raw Chocolate Instant" represent significant technological breakthroughs, transforming chocolate from a passive market adaptation to an active consumer trend influencer [10][14]. - The "Amber Ganache" utilizes unique techniques to maintain a cold-storage-like texture without refrigeration, allowing for broader distribution and consumption [10][11]. - The "Smooth Milk Raw Chocolate Instant" is positioned as an affordable daily chocolate option, breaking the perception that good taste must come at a high price, with a retail price under 300 yen (approximately 15 RMB) [14][15]. Group 3: Broader Industry Responses - Other Japanese chocolate brands, such as Morinaga, Ezaki Glico, GODIVA, and Fujiya, are also adapting uniquely to the raw material crisis, each pursuing distinct paths based on their brand heritage and market positioning [30][44]. - Morinaga focuses on functional snacks, while Glico leverages cultural trends and partnerships to enhance brand visibility and reduce production costs [36][40]. - GODIVA's collaboration with convenience stores exemplifies a strategy to penetrate everyday consumer markets, offering premium experiences at accessible price points [40][41]. Group 4: Strategic Insights for Chinese Food Companies - The Japanese chocolate industry's experience highlights the importance of embedding innovation into daily consumer life rather than relying solely on marketing events [51]. - Building platform capabilities is essential for sustainable product development, as demonstrated by Meiji's ability to continuously innovate [52]. - Defining industry standards and creating unique value propositions can help brands avoid imitation and gain long-term respect in the market [53].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q1 2025 was $2.5 million, a significant decrease from $11.4 million in Q1 2024, primarily due to softening demand and increased competitive pressure [7] - Gross profit in Q1 2025 was $1.1 million compared to $4.6 million in the same period last year, with a gross margin improvement to 45% from 41% year-over-year [8] - Net loss for Q1 2025 was $2.6 million, or a loss of $0.23 per diluted share, compared to net income of $511,000, or $0.06 per diluted share, in Q1 2024 [9] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 2025 was negative $800,000, down from $2.5 million in Q1 2024 [9] - Cash and cash equivalents at the end of Q1 2025 were $1.6 million, down from $3.7 million at the end of 2024 [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 79% increase in revenue from Q4 2024 to Q1 2025, indicating a recovery trend [4] - The freeze-dried candy line has seen renewed consumer enthusiasm, although competitive pressure from larger CPG companies remains a challenge [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is experiencing a slow increase in sell-through data, with units per door rising from 12-13 to 16 over recent weeks [26] - Retail partners like Five Below and Ace Hardware are showing positive initial demand and reorders, indicating a return to normal reorder cadences [28][30] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on cost savings, cash conservation, and expanding candy distribution while exploring new category opportunities [11] - Strategic actions include reducing overhead costs, implementing automation in packaging, and postponing certain production activations to align with demand [12][13] - The company is also pursuing international expansion, having launched products in the Middle East with positive initial orders [17][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism about a gradual recovery in sales, expecting Q2 to show modest improvement over Q1 [21] - The company is focused on maintaining quality and innovation while navigating a competitive landscape with both large and small competitors [22] Other Important Information - The company has entered into exchange agreements with noteholders to extend maturities by five years, reflecting confidence in the recovery plan [10][13] - The management team is actively evaluating strategies to improve cash position, including converting inventory to cash [50] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you share insights on consumer enthusiasm and retail inventory? - Management noted a slow increase in sell-through data, with a return to normal reorder cadences as consumers return to the brand after trying competitors [26][30] Question: What is the current number of retail doors? - The company is currently in approximately 1,900 to 2,000 retail doors [34] Question: How is the quality of the inventory and plans for working it down? - Management indicated that most heat-affected inventory has been identified and removed, with a focus on working through remaining inventory strategically [35][36] Question: What are the competitive dynamics with larger CPG companies? - Management observed that smaller competitors have exited the space, while larger CPGs are not performing as expected, indicating room for improvement in product quality [38][40] Question: What are the plans for spare capacity in production? - The company is exploring opportunities for private labeling and home manufacturing to utilize spare capacity effectively [46] Question: What strategies are in place to improve cash position? - Management is focused on converting inventory to cash and evaluating all strategies to enhance cash flow [50]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q1 2025 was $2.5 million, a significant decrease from $11.4 million in Q1 2024, primarily due to softening demand and increased competitive pressure [7] - Gross profit in Q1 2025 was $1.1 million compared to $4.6 million in the same period last year, with a gross margin improvement to 45% from 41% due to lower cost of goods sold [8][10] - Net loss for Q1 2025 was $2.6 million, or a loss of $0.23 per diluted share, compared to net income of $511,000, or $0.06 per diluted share, in Q1 2024 [10] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 2025 was negative $800,000, down from $2.5 million in Q1 2024 [10] - Cash and cash equivalents decreased to $1.6 million from $3.7 million as of December 31, 2024 [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 79% increase in revenue from Q4 2024, indicating a recovery trend despite the overall decline year-over-year [5] - The freeze-dried candy line has seen renewed consumer enthusiasm, although competitive pressure from larger CPG companies remains a challenge [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is experiencing a slow increase in sell-through data, with units per door rising from 12-13 to 16 over recent weeks [27] - Retail partners like Five Below and Ace Hardware are showing positive initial demand and reorders, indicating a return to normal reorder cadences [29][31] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on cost savings, cash conservation, and expanding candy distribution while exploring new category opportunities [12] - Strategic actions include reducing overhead costs, enhancing operational efficiency through automation, and postponing certain production activations to align with demand [13][14] - The company plans to enter new categories such as beef jerky and freeze-dried yogurt snacks, emphasizing clean label ingredients [21][22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the recovery trajectory, expecting modest improvement in Q2 over Q1 as new partnerships take hold [23] - The company acknowledges ongoing challenges but believes it is positioning itself to emerge stronger through innovation and category expansion [24] Other Important Information - The company has entered into exchange agreements with noteholders to extend maturities by five years, reflecting confidence in its recovery plan [11][14] - Initial orders from the Middle East market exceeded expectations, presenting a significant growth opportunity [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the trend in weekly or monthly velocities and retail inventory position? - Management noted a slow increase in sell-through data, with units per door rising to 16, and excess inventory at Five Below is being worked through successfully [27][29] Question: How does the company view its inventory quality and expectations for the next quarters? - Management indicated that most heat-affected inventory has been identified and removed, and they have a two-year shelf life on most products, allowing time to work through remaining inventory [37][38] Question: What are the competitive dynamics with larger CPG companies? - Management observed that smaller competitors have exited the space, and while larger CPGs have entered, they are not performing as expected, with significant declines in their sell-through rates [41][43]

IRVING, Texas, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sow Good Inc. (Nasdaq: SOWG) ("Sow Good" or "the Company"), a trailblazer in the freeze dried candy and treat industry, is reporting financial and operating results for first quarter ended March 31, 2025. "We're encouraged by the progress we made in the first quarter of 2025, particularly the successful everyday launches at Winn-Dixie, Ace Hardware, and Orville Hardware, as well as Holiday launches at Albertsons" said Claudia Goldfarb, CEO of Sow Good. "While ...

Elevating your s'more game with more melt, more drip, more WOW HERSHEY, Pa., May 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Just in time for summer, there's a new treat in town: HERSHEY'S Milk Chocolate with Caramel bar. This delicious twist on the iconic HERSHEY'S Milk Chocolate bar adds new texture with a luscious caramel center to the classic – making snacking even sweeter, especially when there's a campfire around. The new HERSHEY'S Milk Chocolate with Caramel bar is now available at retailers nationwide in 6-packs for a ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company expects net sales growth of at least 2% in 2025, aligning with its long-term growth algorithm [11] - The three-year cost savings target has been increased to $350 million from $300 million due to a transformation program aimed at operating more efficiently [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The acquisition of Lesser Evil is expected to enhance the company's presence in better-for-you snacking and extend offerings in ready-to-eat popcorn [3][4] - The company has introduced several new products, including Reese's Caramel and Shackalicious extra-large gummies, which have resonated well with consumers [19][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is actively monitoring tariff policies and optimizing its supply chain to mitigate the impact of tariffs on cocoa sourcing [13][14] - Elevated cocoa costs are being addressed through aggressive actions, including price increases on half of the US confection portfolio [15][16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on innovation, expanding its chocolate variety brand portfolio, and enhancing seasonal execution to drive sales growth [11][12] - A partnership with VitaKey is being pursued to create a suite of health and wellness products, reflecting the ongoing health and wellness trends [10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management emphasized the importance of product safety and quality, ensuring compliance with regulations while adapting to consumer behavior changes [6][9] - The leadership team is committed to maximizing value creation through bold actions and organizational changes [24] Other Important Information - The company has a proactive approach to product changes in anticipation of regulatory developments, maintaining consumer trust [8] - The upcoming film about Milton Hershey is set to be released in 2026, highlighting the company's commitment to social good [21][22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Why is the CEO and named executive officer compensation considered fair? - The compensation is aligned with performance, with 89% of CEO pay and 78% of named executive officer pay at risk, and the entire board approves the package [1][2] Question: What is the strategy behind acquiring Lesser Evil? - The acquisition aims to expand the company's presence in better-for-you snacking and complement its salty portfolio [3][4] Question: How is the company addressing recent regulatory changes regarding food dyes? - The company prioritizes product safety and compliance, actively monitoring regulatory developments [6][8] Question: How is the company adapting to health and wellness trends? - The company is adjusting its product portfolio to include low sugar and high protein options, reflecting consumer preferences [9][10] Question: What new strategies are being implemented for growth after a challenging 2020? - The strategy includes a focus on innovation, broadening investments in chocolate, and driving seasonal execution [11][12] Question: What impact do tariffs have on the business? - The company is closely monitoring tariff policies and optimizing its supply chain to mitigate impacts, particularly on cocoa sourcing [13][14] Question: How is the company managing elevated cocoa costs? - Aggressive actions are being taken, including price increases and a transformation program to enhance efficiency [15][16] Question: What new products can consumers expect? - New products include various innovative flavors and partnerships, with more exciting launches planned for the year [19][20]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company expects EPS to decline about 30% for the first half of 2025, with Q2 expected to be down less than Q1, which was down over 30% [13][14] - Gross margin for Q2 is expected to decrease by approximately 700 basis points, influenced by tariff components and increased SG&A expenses [14][15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 10% increase in its business, with a 100 basis point gain in market share, particularly in the sweets category [22] - Seasonal chocolate is expected to be strong in the first half, with plans for low single-digit growth in everyday chocolate in the second half [36] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has seen strong growth in international markets, particularly in Brazil, with double-digit growth driven by Easter and innovation [98] - The competitive environment in the U.S. chocolate market remains stable, with no significant changes noted in competition from smaller players or private labels [124] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on becoming a snacking powerhouse, leveraging its core capabilities to maximize consumer reach and snacking occasions [80] - There is an emphasis on innovation and investment in iconic brands to meet consumer demands, with significant plans for new product launches in the fall [70] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges a weak consumer environment but notes that chocolate and salty snacks have held up well, with everyday chocolate pricing up 8% and volume down 4.5% [32] - The company remains optimistic about a path to earnings growth in 2026, even with current tariff levels, emphasizing the importance of mitigation actions [20][85] Other Important Information - The company does not anticipate a material impact from potential SNAP restrictions, as only about 2% of SNAP purchases are candy [48] - The company is not planning any buybacks for the year but remains open to reengaging in buybacks if the tariff headwind diminishes [99] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the risk of tariff expenses in Q2? - Management indicated that the unmitigated impact could be up to $100 million per quarter for Q3 and Q4, primarily from cocoa and Canadian retaliatory tariffs [10][11] Question: How should investors think about the magnitude of EPS decline in Q2? - EPS for the first half is expected to be down about 30%, with Q2 expected to be less impacted than Q1 due to strong net sales [14][15] Question: What is the outlook for balanced growth in 2026? - Management maintains a path to earnings growth next year, despite challenges, emphasizing the need for mitigation actions [20] Question: How is the company addressing changing consumer preferences? - The company has seen improvements in its instant consumable business and anticipates continued market share growth in the second half of the year [22] Question: What is the impact of cocoa prices on capacity expansion? - The new plant allows for greater agility and control over the supply chain, enabling the company to meet demand effectively despite high cocoa prices [42] Question: How does the company view the competitive landscape in the U.S. chocolate market? - The competitive landscape remains stable, with no significant changes noted in competition from smaller players or private labels [124] Question: What is the company's approach to pricing in light of cocoa inflation? - Pricing is expected to increase in Q2 and Q3 as seasonal pricing and price pack architecture are implemented [128]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company expects EPS to decline about 30% for the first half of the year, with Q2 expected to be down less than Q1, which was down over 30% [12][13][14] - Gross margin for Q2 is expected to decrease by approximately 700 basis points, influenced by tariff components and increased SG&A expenses [14][13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 10% increase in its business, with a 100 basis point increase in market share, particularly in the sweets category [23] - The company anticipates low single-digit growth in everyday chocolate for the second half of the year, driven by strong innovation [35] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has seen strong growth in international markets, particularly in Brazil, where organic sales grew double digits [98] - The competitive environment in international markets has normalized, aiding the company's performance [98] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on mitigating tariff impacts through various strategies, including lobbying and operational adjustments [10][9] - The company aims to continue growing its chocolate business while expanding into the salty snacks and sweets categories, targeting younger and more diverse demographics [79][78] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in a path to earnings growth next year, despite current tariff challenges [20][21] - The company is actively monitoring consumer sentiment and adapting its strategies to maintain market share amid a weak consumer environment [31][30] Other Important Information - The company is not planning any buybacks for the year but remains open to capital allocation opportunities depending on how the year unfolds [99] - The company is investing in innovation and marketing to ensure long-term growth, particularly in the chocolate category [113][114] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the risk of tariff expenses in Q3 and Q4? - Management indicated that unmitigated tariff impacts could reach up to $100 million per quarter, primarily from cocoa and Canadian retaliatory tariffs [8][9] Question: How should investors think about the magnitude of EPS decline in Q2? - Management expects EPS to be down about 30% for the first half, with Q2 showing a decline less than Q1 due to strong net sales [12][14] Question: What is the outlook for earnings growth next year? - Management maintains a positive outlook for earnings growth next year, despite the challenges posed by tariffs [20][21] Question: How is the company addressing consumer trends towards healthier eating? - Management noted that while consumer sentiment is weak, the chocolate category remains resilient, and they are focusing on premium and permissible products [31][30] Question: What is the competitive landscape in the U.S. chocolate market? - Management reported no significant changes in the competitive landscape, with smaller players softening and larger players increasing innovation [124] Question: How will the company approach pricing in light of cocoa prices? - Management confirmed that pricing will increase in Q2 and Q3 as part of their seasonal pricing strategy [128]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - First quarter net sales reported a decline of 13.8% year-over-year, impacted by a 90 basis point headwind from foreign currency translation and a 30 basis point benefit from the Sour Strips acquisition [22][23] - Adjusted earnings per share decreased by 32% in the quarter, with expectations for a less severe decline in the second quarter as seasonal impacts reverse [29] - Adjusted gross margin decreased by 370 basis points, primarily due to commodity inflation and negative sales mix, with expectations for further compression in the second quarter [26][27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America Confectionery segment net sales declined by 15%, in line with expectations, with volume down nearly 18% [23][24] - North America salty snacks segment net sales increased by 1%, with volume growth of nearly 4% driven by brands like Dots and Skinny Pop [24][25] - The salty snacks portfolio showed strong performance, with Skinnypop consumption increasing by 5.4% and Dots retail takeaway growing by 20.6% [14][22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International segment organic constant currency net sales declined by 7.9%, with performance ahead of expectations in key markets [24][15] - Constant currency net sales increased mid-teens in Brazil and mid-single digits in Mexico, driven by improved category dynamics [15] - The global cocoa grind declined by 3.4% in Q1, marking the eighth consecutive quarter of declines [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on becoming a leading snacking powerhouse, with strategic acquisitions like Lesser Evil and Fulfill to enhance its portfolio [6][7] - Plans to build momentum in everyday business through innovation and programming, including new product launches and partnerships [12][13] - Continued investment in brands is expected to drive long-term growth, with a full-year advertising spend increase projected in the mid-single digits [16] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted heightened cost pressures but emphasized a strong balance sheet that allows for continued investment [6] - The company anticipates total net sales to increase by more than 20% in Q2, reversing the impacts seen in Q1 [22] - Cocoa prices are expected to build cost pressure each quarter, with robust planning underway to mitigate inflation and protect margins [19][20] Other Important Information - The company is pursuing an exemption request for cocoa tariffs, which cannot be mitigated through sourcing strategies [20][31] - Capital expenditures in Q1 were $146 million, lower than the prior year, with full-year expectations of $425 million to $450 million [30] - The company did not repurchase any shares in Q1, prioritizing capital for announced acquisitions [31] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the expectations for net sales growth in the upcoming quarters? - The company expects total net sales to increase by more than 20% in Q2, reversing the impacts from Q1 [22] Question: How is the company addressing cocoa price pressures? - The company is implementing robust planning to mitigate inflation and protect margins, with a focus on pricing and sourcing strategies [19][20] Question: What is the outlook for advertising spend this year? - The company anticipates a mid-single digit increase in full-year advertising spend, reflecting a commitment to brand investment [16]