Core Insights - Stryve Foods, Inc. reported preliminary financial results for FY 2024, indicating net sales of $21.0 million, an increase of 18.5% year-over-year [1][2] - The company achieved an adjusted EBITDA loss of $8.0 million, reflecting a 32.4% improvement compared to the previous year [2] - Significant balance sheet transformations are underway, including a reduction of current liabilities by $8.7 million and the elimination of over $10.2 million in future lease payments [4] Financial Performance - For FY 2024, Stryve incurred an operating loss of approximately $10.6 million, an improvement of 31.2% from the prior year [2] - Cash used in operating activities was approximately $7.9 million, compared to $7.4 million in FY 2023 [2] - In Q4 2024, net sales reached $4.5 million, up 57.5% from the same period in 2023 [3] Balance Sheet and Capital Structure - As of December 31, 2024, the company had a working capital deficit of approximately $15.0 million, up from $7.4 million in the previous year [2] - The company had approximately $16.4 million in indebtedness as of the same date [2] - The company plans to finance operations through equity offerings, debt financings, or strategic transactions until it can generate positive cash flow [5] Operational Developments - The company filed Form 12b-25, indicating delays in filing its Annual Report on Form 10-K due to working capital constraints [6] - Stryve is focused on high-protein, healthier snacking options, with products marketed under various brand names [7][8]

Market Overview - The Jerky Snacks Market grew from USD 5.95 billion in 2024 to USD 6.34 billion in 2025, with a projected CAGR of 6.64%, reaching USD 8.76 billion by 2030 [1][17]. Industry Trends - Innovations in production techniques and preservation methods have led to enhanced flavors, extended shelf life, and improved nutritional profiles, catering to consumer demands for convenience and premium quality [2]. - Consumer behavior has shifted towards health-conscious and adventurous choices, prompting companies to innovate with new flavor profiles and sourcing techniques aligned with natural and organic food trends [4]. - Technological advancements have enabled efficient manufacturing processes and data-driven marketing strategies, enhancing product visibility and consumer engagement [5]. Regional Insights - In the Americas, a mature market dynamic with a strong demand for high-protein snacks supports product innovation and competitive pricing [6]. - The Europe, Middle East, and Africa region is experiencing growth driven by consumer awareness and evolving dietary habits, requiring companies to adapt to diverse tastes and regulatory landscapes [7]. - The Asia-Pacific region is characterized by rapid urbanization and a growing middle class, with a trend towards Western snacking habits and innovative local flavor blends [8]. Competitive Landscape - Key players like Archer Provisions and BARF India are leading through novel production methods and niche market targeting [9]. - Companies such as Chef's Cut Real Jerky and Conagra Brands are capitalizing on premiumization trends and advanced marketing techniques [10]. - Major competitors like Marfrig Group and Nature Gnaws are addressing health concerns with cleaner product lines, while others like General Mills and Jack Link's leverage broad portfolios to influence market dynamics [11]. Strategic Recommendations - Industry leaders should invest in advanced technologies to enhance production efficiency and product quality [13]. - A commitment to product diversification targeting niche segments can yield competitive advantages [14]. - Embracing digital transformation through enhanced online presence and partnerships with online retailers can unlock significant market opportunities [15]. - Collaborative alliances across the value chain can streamline operations and foster innovation [16].

Group 1 - The RITZ Brand has launched a new flavor, Hot Honey, which combines sweet and spicy elements, catering to the growing trend of "swicy" snacks [1][2] - RITZ Hot Honey crackers feature a flaky texture and a rich hot honey taste, designed to be a versatile base for various toppings [2] - The introduction of Hot Honey follows previous spicy offerings, including RITZ Bits Spicy Queso and RITZ Toasted Chips Sweet Habanero, indicating a strategic focus on expanding the spicy flavor segment [2] Group 2 - Mondelēz International, the parent company of RITZ, reported net revenues of approximately $36.4 billion for 2024, highlighting its strong position in the global snacking market [4] - The company operates in over 150 countries and includes a diverse portfolio of iconic brands such as OREO, LU, and Cadbury, reinforcing its market leadership [4]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a revenue increase of 4.1% to $362.6 million, driven by volume increases and pricing [5][19] - Gross margin declined to 25.9% from 27.2% year-over-year, reflecting input cost inflation not fully offset by price increases [6][19] - Operating income decreased to $6.2 million from $9.7 million, with adjusted operating income at $8.2 million compared to $13.5 million last year [22][24] - Net earnings fell to $5.1 million from $7.3 million, with earnings per diluted share decreasing to $0.26 from $0.37 [23][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Foodservice revenue increased by 4.5%, with soft pretzel sales up 4.8% due to convenience store recovery [11] - Frozen novelties saw a significant increase of 9.8%, driven by Zippin' Dots growth [11] - Bakery sales grew by 6.6%, primarily due to price increases [12] - Retail sales increased by 2.2%, with frozen novelty sales rising significantly, while soft pretzel sales declined by 7.4% due to an ordering system issue [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Frozen beverage sales increased by 4%, with a notable 10% volume increase attributed to a 45% growth in theater channels [13] - The North American box office is projected to grow over 10% year-over-year, indicating a strong recovery in the entertainment sector [13][14] - Consumer spending on leisure and entertainment is outpacing traditional retail channels, providing a favorable environment for the company [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on driving volume growth and mix improvement across its portfolio, with a disciplined approach to capital deployment [10][17] - A new $50 million stock repurchase authorization reflects confidence in long-term value and financial flexibility [10] - The rollout of Dippin' Dots to theaters is progressing well, with plans for further growth in retail channels [16][70] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged challenges in Q1 but expressed confidence in overcoming them, citing strong underlying business fundamentals [9][17] - The company is optimistic about the recovery trajectory in theater traffic and overall consumer spending trends [14][25] - Management expects gross margins to improve in the second half of the year, targeting a return to low 30% levels [66][67] Other Important Information - The company experienced significant inflation in chocolates, eggs, and proteins, which impacted profitability [7][20] - The effective tax rate for the quarter was 27.2%, up from 26.6% in the prior year [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide a gross margin bridge for the decline year over year? - Management indicated that about 80 basis points of the decline were due to pricing gaps relative to input costs, with the remainder attributed to mix changes in the bakery business [30][31] Question: How does the pricing lag occur? - The delay in implementing price increases was primarily due to the time taken to push these through to customers, not a lack of visibility [46][47] Question: What is the impact of the peso on profitability? - The peso's depreciation had a nearly $1 million impact on profitability for the frozen beverage segment [54] Question: What is the outlook for gross margins in the second half of the year? - Management expects gross margins to improve, aiming for low 30% levels, with seasonal factors contributing positively [66][67] Question: Can you elaborate on the Dippin' Dots rollout? - The Dippin' Dots product has been well received, launching with a major nationwide retailer, and is expected to see significant growth [70] Question: Will stock repurchases occur alongside potential acquisitions? - The company plans to be opportunistic with stock repurchases while also actively seeking attractive acquisition opportunities [75]