Core Viewpoint - Lifeway Foods, Inc. has received a recommendation from Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. (ISS) advising shareholders to "DO NOT VOTE" in the ongoing dissident-led consent solicitation, indicating that the dissident group has not made a compelling case for change [1][2]. Company Overview - Lifeway Foods, Inc. is recognized as a leading supplier of kefir and fermented probiotic products in the U.S. and has been listed among Forbes' Best Small Companies [3]. - The company offers a variety of products including drinkable kefir, cheeses, and a ProBugs line for children, with distribution across the U.S., Mexico, Ireland, South Africa, the UAE, and France [3]. Financial Performance - Lifeway's financial performance has been directionally positive, with its share price rallying over the past year due to multiple positive earnings announcements [5]. - The total shareholder return has significantly outperformed peers in the Russell 3000 Food Producers Index [5]. Dissident Group Analysis - The critiques from the dissident group are viewed as lacking adequate context and do not clearly establish how their proposed changes would impact shareholder returns [5]. - The dissident nominees have a history of governance concerns during their previous tenures at the company [5]. Management's Position - The management team, led by CEO Julie Smolyansky, remains focused on maximizing shareholder value and encourages shareholders to follow ISS's guidance by taking no action on the consent solicitation [5].

Core Insights - Lifeway Foods, Inc. has announced the establishment of National Kefir Day, to be celebrated annually on June 18, recognizing the cultural and nutritional significance of kefir and the company's legacy in promoting gut health for nearly 40 years [1][3] Group 1: Event Details - The official proclamation will occur at a press event in Chicago, featuring remarks from key leaders in government, medicine, and nutrition, including Lifeway's President and CEO Julie Smolyansky [2] - The event will highlight the connection between gut health and chronic disease prevention, with Smolyansky discussing kefir's role in supporting immunity and overall wellness [2] Group 2: Company Initiatives - Lifeway Foods aims to promote gut health, sustainability, and mindful nutrition through National Kefir Day, reflecting a cultural shift towards fermented foods for better health [3] - The company will distribute free Lifeway Kefir samples in major cities including Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, and Miami on June 18, and will sponsor a drone show over Lake Michigan to celebrate Chicago as the "Kefir Capital of the World" [5] Group 3: Marketing and Engagement - Lifeway is launching a tattoo challenge as part of the National Kefir Day festivities, rewarding fans who showcase their love for the brand with a year of free kefir [6] - Participants are encouraged to share photos or videos of their Lifeway-inspired tattoos on social media platforms [7] Group 4: Company Background - Lifeway Foods is recognized as a leading supplier of probiotic kefir and has expanded its product line to include various cheeses and a ProBugs line for children, with products sold in multiple countries [8]

Company Overview - Lifeway Foods, Inc. is a leading U.S. supplier of kefir and fermented probiotic products, recognized as one of Forbes' Best Small Companies [4] - The company offers a variety of products including drinkable kefir, cheeses, and a ProBugs line for children, with sales across multiple countries [4] Financial Performance - Lifeway achieved gross sales exceeding $5 million for the week ending April 27, 2025, marking a 35% increase compared to the same week in the previous year [1] - The company is set to report its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, on May 13, 2025, before market hours [2] Communication and Investor Relations - A pre-recorded conference call and webcast featuring Julie Smolyanksy, Lifeway's President and CEO, will be available on the company's website following the release of the first quarter results [3]