Core Viewpoint - Kraft Heinz is planning to split into two publicly traded companies by the second half of 2026, a move aimed at unlocking shareholder value and enhancing strategic focus, although investor sentiment remains negative due to concerns over operational disruptions and the original merger's failure to deliver promised growth [1][2][4]. Company Overview - Kraft Heinz, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, is one of the largest food and beverage companies globally, formed from the merger of Kraft and Heinz in 2015, with a diverse portfolio that includes iconic brands such as ketchup, cream cheese, and various ready-to-eat meals [3]. Financial Performance - Kraft Heinz reported net sales of $6.4 billion for Q2 fiscal 2025, a 1.9% decline year-over-year, with organic net sales down 2% due to weaker performance in cold cuts, coffee, and frozen snacks, although the topline exceeded analysts' expectations [9]. - The company's gross profit fell 4.8% year-over-year to $2.2 billion, and GAAP results showed a significant loss of $6.60 per share, primarily due to $9.3 billion in non-cash impairment charges, leading to an operating loss of $8 billion [10]. - On an adjusted basis, EPS decreased 11.5% year-over-year to $0.69, but this still surpassed analyst estimates of $0.64, while free cash flow increased 28.5% year-over-year to $1.5 billion, indicating strong cash-generating capabilities [11]. Shareholder Returns - Kraft Heinz has returned significant capital to shareholders, paying $951 million in cash dividends and repurchasing $435 million of its own shares year-to-date, with $1.5 billion remaining under its buyback program [12]. Analyst Sentiment - The consensus among analysts is to "Hold" Kraft Heinz stock, with only two out of 22 analysts issuing a "Strong Buy" rating, reflecting a cautious approach amid ongoing challenges [14]. - The average analyst price target of $28.52 suggests a potential upside of 12% from current levels, while the highest target of $30 indicates a possible rally of 18% [15].