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 reported net sales growth of 8.7% in Q4 2024, with organic constant currency net sales growing 9%, slightly ahead of expectations [22] - Adjusted earnings per share for Q4 were $2.69, supported by strong productivity and cost management despite low double-digit input cost inflation [27] - Adjusted gross margin increased by 60 basis points in Q4, reflecting stronger pricing and productivity gains [25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America Confectionery segment reported an organic constant currency net sales increase of 5.9%, driven by approximately four points of price realization [22] - North America Salty Snacks segment saw a significant increase of 35.9% in net sales, reflecting a tailwind from inventory adjustments and strong performance in brands like Skinny Pop and Dots pretzels [24] - Retail sales in North American salty snacks accelerated to 7.1% in Q4, with Skinny Pop retail sales increasing by 4.7% [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The International segment experienced organic constant currency net sales growth of 15%, driven by strong holiday and innovation contributions [23] - In Mexico and EMEA, the company reported double-digit constant currency organic sales growth, while India saw high single-digit growth [14] - Cocoa market remains volatile, with high prices expected to pressure earnings in 2025, although supply fundamentals are improving [16][30] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on driving top-line growth and share momentum while executing transformation and efficiency programs [6] - Plans for 2025 include a strong year of innovation and media investment across the confection business, with fewer but larger innovations [11] - The company aims to improve its cost structure by nearly $900 million between 2023 and 2026 while investing in capabilities and technology [19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the pressure from rising cocoa prices but emphasized a focus on long-term growth and efficiency [18] - The company expects net sales growth of at least 2% for the full year 2025, driven primarily by price realization [15] - Management expressed confidence in navigating short-term market challenges while maintaining a focus on long-term growth strategies [35] Other Important Information - The company welcomed new leadership for its U.S. Confectionery and Salty Snacks divisions, aiming to leverage fresh perspectives and internal knowledge [20] - The company plans to maintain its dividend and elevate share buybacks as a priority, projecting a decline in shares outstanding by approximately 50 basis points for the year [34] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the expectations for cocoa prices in 2025? - Management indicated that cocoa prices are expected to remain high, impacting earnings, but they have good visibility into costs and supply [16][30] Question: How does the company plan to address input cost inflation? - The company is focused on productivity and cost management, with a target to improve its cost structure significantly over the next few years [19] Question: What are the growth expectations for the International segment? - The International segment is expected to see continued expansion driven by household penetration, distribution, and innovation momentum, despite some competitive pressures [14]