US produce company Calavo Growers has appointed its former finance chief B. John Lindeman as its new CEO. Lindeman will succeed Lee Cole, who will retire as president and CEO on 8 December. Founded in 1924, the company processes and distributes avocados, tomatoes and papayas, along with guacamole under the Calavo brand. Kathleen Holmgren, chair of the board of directors at Calavo, said: “On behalf of the Board and the entire Calavo family, I want to express our deep gratitude to Lee for his decades of o ...

Core Points - Limoneira Company has completed the sale of its Chilean ranches, Pan de Azucar and San Pablo, for approximately $15 million, with an initial cash receipt of $6.8 million [1][3] - The transaction aligns with the company's strategy to monetize non-strategic land and water assets while maintaining a 47% interest in a citrus packing, selling, and marketing business in Chile [1][3] - The company has identified a pipeline of real estate development assets valued between $355 million and $405 million for long-term monetization [3] Agriculture Strategy - The company aims to streamline operations, expand avocado production, and optimize lemon packing through a partnership with Sunkist [6] - Plans include expanding an organic recycling facility and selling non-strategic land assets valued at approximately $40 million [6] Land and Water Assets - Limoneira is also looking to sell certain water rights valued between $50 million and $70 million as part of its asset monetization strategy [6]

Growth is a hallmark of all great companies, but the laws of gravity eventually take hold. Those who rode the COVID boom and ensuing tech selloff in 2022 will surely remember that the market’s punishment can be swift and severe when trajectories fall. The risks that can come from buying these assets is precisely why we started StockStory - to isolate the long-term winners from the losers so you can invest with confidence. On that note, here is one growth stock with significant upside potential and two tha ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales for Q3 2025 were $1.022 billion, reflecting an increase driven by higher net sales in the banana and other product services segments, primarily due to higher per unit selling prices in the banana segment [12][13] - Adjusted net sales were $960 million, with gross profit at $81 million, leading to a gross margin decrease to 7.9% [13][15] - The company reported an operating loss of $22 million, while adjusted operating income was $40 million [15] - Net loss attributable to the company was $29 million, with adjusted net income at $33 million, resulting in a diluted earnings per share loss of $0.61 and adjusted earnings per share income of $0.69 [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fresh and value-added product segment net sales were $611 million, with a gross profit of $68 million and a gross margin increase to 11.2% [16] - Banana segment net sales were $358 million, with a gross profit of $5 million and a gross margin decrease to 1.3% [17] - Other products and services segment net sales were $53 million, with a gross profit of $8 million and a gross margin decrease to 14.8% [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The banana industry faced a 22% year-over-year production decline, equating to approximately 18 million boxes lost, primarily due to Black Sigatoka disease [8][9] - In Costa Rica, production has significantly declined, impacting costs across the industry [8][9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is shifting towards higher margin value-added categories, divesting Mann Packing to enhance overall margin profile and capital efficiency [4][10] - The focus remains on margin discipline over volume in the banana segment, prioritizing product quality and reliability [22][57] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted the challenges posed by diseases affecting banana production, particularly Fusarium wilt TR4 and Black Sigatoka, which are increasing costs and impacting supply [5][50] - The company expects net sales growth of approximately 2% year-over-year and anticipates margin recovery supported by the Mann Packing divestiture [20][24] Other Important Information - The company declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.30 per share, with an annualized yield of 3.4% based on the current share price [19] - Capital expenditures for the first nine months of 2025 totaled $36 million, with investments focused on enhancing operations in Central America and North America [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Is the adjusted gross margin of 13.9% the new normal for the fresh and value-added segment? - Management expressed confidence that the segment could consistently approach the 13% margin, while remaining cautious with guidance of 11% to 13% [28] Question: Are costs for pineapples increasing similarly to bananas? - Management indicated that while there are inflation-adjusted cost increases, pineapples are not facing the same disease pressures as bananas, and margins are expected to remain strong [30] Question: What is the outlook for avocado pricing? - Management noted that avocado prices could firm up in the next few months but do not expect a long-term escalation in prices [36][37] Question: Why is banana consumption down in North America? - Management attributed the decline to seasonal factors, suggesting that consumption will stabilize despite rising costs [48] Question: Will the new banana producers' organization lead to more rational pricing? - Management clarified that the organization aims to improve understanding and practices rather than directly influence pricing [52]

Core Insights - The ongoing earnings season presents opportunities for investors, particularly in stocks with strong cash levels, as cash is essential for a company's resilience and financial health [1][3][4] Group 1: Importance of Cash Flow - Companies can be profitable yet face cash flow issues, leading to potential bankruptcy if profits are not managed properly [3] - Positive cash flow indicates an increase in liquid assets, enabling companies to meet obligations, reinvest, and return wealth to shareholders [5] - Increasing cash flow is crucial for future growth, reflecting management's efficiency and reducing reliance on external financing [6] Group 2: Screening Criteria for Stocks - Stocks were screened for those with cash flow in the latest quarter at least equal to the 5-year average, indicating a positive trend [7] - Additional criteria included Zacks Rank 1, average broker rating of 1, current price above $5, and a VGM Score of B or better [8] Group 3: Selected Stocks - Sumitomo Corporation (SSUMY) has a VGM Score of B, with a 4.1% increase in fiscal 2026 earnings estimate [9][10] - Mission Produce, Inc. (AVO) has a VGM Score of B, with a 13.6% upward revision in fiscal 2025 earnings estimate [10] - Flexsteel Industries, Inc. (FLXS) holds a VGM Score of A, with a 5.5% increase in fiscal 2026 earnings estimate [11] - FreightCar America, Inc. (RAIL) has a VGM Score of A, with a 14.9% increase in current-year earnings estimate [12]

Industry Overview - The Zacks Agriculture – Operations industry is facing persistent challenges such as volatile commodity prices, rising input costs, trade uncertainties, and increasing operational expenses, which are squeezing margins and disrupting productivity [2][12] - Despite these headwinds, the sector is expected to benefit from innovation and growing consumer demand for health-focused products, particularly in alternative proteins and organic farming practices [3][10][11] Market Projections - The U.S. Department of Agriculture projects agricultural exports to reach $173 billion for fiscal 2025, an increase of $2.5 billion from previous forecasts, driven by stronger grain and feed exports [7] - Grain and feed exports are expected to be $39.2 billion, up $1.3 billion, primarily due to a $1.2 billion increase in corn exports [8] Company Positioning - Companies like Corteva Inc., Archer Daniels Midland Company, Dole plc, and Mission Produce Inc. are well-positioned to capitalize on evolving trends in the agriculture sector [4] - Corteva is focusing on innovation and has a strong product pipeline, with a Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 earnings suggesting a growth of 23.7% from the previous year [27] - Mission Produce is leveraging its integrated sales and sourcing operations to optimize margins, with a Zacks Consensus Estimate for fiscal 2025 earnings showing a 13.6% increase [32] - Archer Daniels is benefiting from strong demand in its Nutrition segment, although its earnings estimates suggest declines of 15.2% from the previous year [37] - Dole is expected to gain from improved logistical efficiencies and a healthier supply-demand balance, despite a projected decline of 18.9% in earnings for 2025 [40] Industry Performance - The Zacks Agriculture – Operations industry has underperformed compared to the broader Zacks Consumer Staples sector and the S&P 500, with a collective decline of 8% over the past year [17] - The industry is currently ranked 158 within the Zacks Industry Rank, placing it in the bottom 36% of over 250 Zacks industries, indicating dull near-term prospects [14][15] Valuation Metrics - The agriculture – Operations industry is trading at a forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 13.21X, significantly lower than the S&P 500's 23.36X and the sector's 16.51X [19]

Group 1 - Limoneira has diversified its agricultural portfolio by planting avocados in addition to lemons, indicating a strategic shift in response to market conditions [1] - The company has re-engaged with Sunkist, suggesting a renewed partnership that may enhance its market position and operational efficiency [1] Group 2 - The article highlights the author's extensive experience in investment analysis, particularly in identifying undervalued companies, which may provide context for the analysis of Limoneira [1]

Core Insights - Limoneira has diversified its agricultural portfolio by planting avocados in addition to lemons, indicating a strategic shift to adapt to market conditions [1] - The company has re-engaged with Sunkist, suggesting a renewed partnership that may enhance its market presence and operational efficiency [1] Company Strategy - Limoneira's decision to plant avocados reflects a proactive approach to leverage opportunities in the agricultural sector, potentially increasing revenue streams [1] - The collaboration with Sunkist may provide Limoneira with better distribution channels and marketing support, which could lead to improved sales performance [1]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the third quarter of fiscal year 2025, total net revenue was $47.5 million, down from $63.3 million in the same quarter of the previous fiscal year [11] - Agribusiness revenue decreased to $45.9 million from $61.8 million year-over-year, primarily due to pricing pressure in the lemon market [11][12] - Operating loss for the third quarter was $600,000 compared to operating income of $9 million in the previous year [15] - Net loss applicable to common stock was $1 million, down from net income of $6.5 million in the same quarter of fiscal year 2024 [15] - Adjusted net loss for diluted EPS was $400,000 or $0.02 per diluted share, compared to adjusted net income of $7.8 million or $0.42 per diluted share in the same period of fiscal year 2024 [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fresh-packed lemon sales were $23.8 million, down from $25.8 million year-over-year, with 1.4 million cartons sold at an average price of $17.02 per carton compared to $18.43 in the previous year [12] - Avocado revenue was $8.5 million, down from $13.9 million, with approximately 5.7 million pounds sold at an average price of $1.50 per pound compared to $1.57 in the previous year [13] - Orange revenue increased to $1.7 million from $1.2 million, with 94,000 cartons sold at an average price of $18 per carton compared to $26.98 in the previous year [14] - Farm management revenues dropped to $100,000 from $3.2 million due to the termination of a farm management agreement [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced pricing pressures in the lemon market during the first two months of the quarter, but saw improvements in July [5] - The California avocado crop typically experiences alternating years of high and low production, impacting volume this year compared to last year [13] - The company expects fresh lemon volumes to be in the range of 4.5 million to 5 million cartons for fiscal year 2025, with avocado volume around 7 million pounds [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a two-part value creation strategy: agriculture production optimization and land and water value creation [5] - A strategic partnership with Sunkist is expected to drive $5 million in annual cost savings and EBITDA enhancements starting in fiscal year 2026 [6] - The company is exploring development options for the Linco del Mar property to address housing shortages in Ventura County [8][9] - The company anticipates significant increases in avocado production as newly planted acreage matures in fiscal year 2027 and beyond [7] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving volume goals for both lemons and avocados in fiscal year 2025, with expectations for improved pricing in fiscal 2026 due to anticipated shortages in international markets [5][18] - The company is optimistic about the profitability of lemons returning with more normalized pricing and fresh utilization levels in fiscal year 2026 [6][19] - Management highlighted the importance of community-based planning for the Linco del Mar property, aiming to stimulate economic growth and create jobs [9] Other Important Information - Total costs and expenses for the third quarter decreased to $48.1 million from $54.3 million in the previous year [15] - Long-term debt increased to $63.3 million from $40 million at the end of fiscal year 2024, resulting in a net debt position of $61.3 million [17] - The company expects to receive approximately $155 million from real estate projects over the next five fiscal years [8][18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations of costs associated with Linco del Mar development - Management indicated that costs would be similar to previous developments, estimating $3 million to $5 million over three to five years, with most costs capitalized [24][25] Question: Vision for Linco del Mar development - Management stated that Limoneira is currently leading the project and is open to partnerships, similar to the successful relationship with the Lewis Group in past developments [25][27] Question: Normalized pricing for lemons and supply constraints - Management noted that lemon prices rebounded in August, with expectations for a higher starting price entering the next year due to supply constraints from Spain and Turkey [30][31] Question: Expectations for avocado volumes in 2026 - Management indicated it is too early to predict avocado volumes for 2026 but expects a breakout year for volume improvement in 2027 [33]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total net revenue for Q3 FY2025 was $47.5 million, down from $63.3 million in Q3 FY2024 [11] - Agribusiness revenue decreased to $45.9 million from $61.8 million year-over-year [11] - Operating loss for Q3 FY2025 was $600,000 compared to operating income of $9 million in Q3 FY2024 [15] - Net loss applicable to common stock for Q3 FY2025 was $1 million, down from net income of $6.5 million in Q3 FY2024 [15] - Adjusted net loss for diluted EPS was $400,000 or $0.02 per diluted share, compared to adjusted net income of $7.8 million or $0.42 per diluted share in Q3 FY2024 [16] - Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA for Q3 FY2025 was $3 million, down from $13.8 million in Q3 FY2024 [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fresh-packed lemon sales were $23.8 million in Q3 FY2025, down from $25.8 million in Q3 FY2024, with 1.4 million cartons sold at an average price of $17.02 per carton compared to $18.43 in the prior year [12] - Avocado revenue was $8.5 million in Q3 FY2025, down from $13.9 million in Q3 FY2024, with 5.7 million pounds sold at an average price of $1.50 per pound compared to $1.57 in the previous year [13] - Orange revenue increased to $1.7 million in Q3 FY2025 from $1.2 million in Q3 FY2024, with 94,000 cartons sold at an average price of $18 per carton [14] - Farm management revenues dropped to $100,000 in Q3 FY2025 from $3.2 million in Q3 FY2024 due to the termination of a farm management agreement [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced pricing pressures in the lemon market during the first two months of Q3 FY2025, but saw improvements in July [5] - The California avocado crop typically experiences alternating years of high and low production, impacting volumes [13] - The company expects fresh lemon volumes for FY2025 to be in the range of 4.5 million to 5 million cartons, while avocado volume is anticipated to be approximately 7 million pounds [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a two-part value creation strategy: agriculture production optimization and land and water value creation [5] - A strategic partnership with Sunkist is expected to drive $5 million in annual cost savings and EBITDA enhancements starting in FY2026 [6] - The company is exploring development options for the Linco del Mar property to address housing shortages in Ventura County [8] - The company anticipates significant increases in avocado production as newly planted acreage matures in FY2027 and beyond [7] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving volume goals for both lemons and avocados in FY2025 despite current challenges [5] - The company expects pricing to improve in FY2026 due to anticipated shortages in several international areas [5] - Management highlighted the importance of the Sunkist partnership in enhancing resilience to market volatility [12] - The company is optimistic about long-term growth opportunities through real estate development and agricultural production [19] Other Important Information - Long-term debt as of July 31, 2025, was $63.3 million, up from $40 million at the end of FY2024 [17] - The company expects future distributions from real estate projects to total approximately $155 million over the next five fiscal years [8] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations of costs associated with Linco del Mar development - Management indicated that costs would be similar to previous developments, estimating $3 million to $5 million over three to five years, with most costs capitalized [24][25] Question: Vision for Linco del Mar development - Management stated that Limoneira is currently leading the project and is open to partnerships similar to the Lewis Group for future development [25][27] Question: Normalized pricing for lemons and supply constraints - Management noted that lemon prices rebounded in August and expect supply constraints from Spain and Turkey to support pricing in the upcoming year [30][31] Question: Expectations for avocado volumes in 2026 - Management indicated it is too early to predict avocado volumes for 2026 but expects a significant breakout year in 2027 [33]