Pilgrim's(PPC) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q1 2025, the company reported net revenues of $4.5 billion, a 2.3% increase year-over-year [5][29] - Adjusted EBITDA was $533 million, up 62% compared to Q1 2024, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 12% compared to 8.5% last year [5][29] - U.S. net revenues increased by 6.2% to $2.74 billion, with adjusted EBITDA of $392.5 million, significantly up from $242.9 million in Q1 2024 [29][31] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Big Bird segment benefited from improved commodity values and production efficiencies, leading to strong profitability growth [6][19] - The case ready and prepared foods segments saw increased distribution and profitability improvements, with prepared foods growing over 20% year-over-year [21][31] - In Europe, adjusted EBITDA was $99.5 million, up from $81.5 million in Q1 2024, driven by structural reorganization and customer partnerships [32][22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. chicken production grew by 1.1% year-over-year, with USDA projecting a 1.7% growth for 2025 [8][9] - Retail demand for chicken, particularly boneless skinless breast and dark meat, showed strong growth, while food service traffic declined [10][45] - In Mexico, sales to key customers increased by 11%, with branded portfolio sales growing by 15% year-over-year [25][26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on diversifying its portfolio and expanding capacity in fresh and prepared foods, with ongoing investments in Mexico [7][27] - Sustainability efforts are being emphasized, with operational efficiencies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions [28] - The company plans to continue investing in growth projects while maintaining financial discipline [35][36] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that consumer concerns about inflation are shifting spending from food service to retail, impacting demand dynamics [44][45] - The company anticipates continued growth in the U.S. market, particularly in retail, despite challenges in production due to respiratory diseases [66][81] - In Mexico, the company is optimistic about growth prospects, driven by increasing consumer spending and expansion of operations [58][59] Other Important Information - The company incurred $16.6 million in restructuring charges during the quarter as part of its integration program [32] - The effective tax rate for the quarter was 24.1%, with expectations for a full-year rate of approximately 25% [33] - The company maintains a strong liquidity position with over $1.6 billion in cash and available credit, allowing for flexibility in growth opportunities [34][35] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the lower level of CapEx in Q1? - Management indicated that the lower CapEx was timing-related, with expectations for a ramp-up in capital spending in the coming quarters [41][42] Question: Have you seen any consumer softness affecting pricing? - Management noted a shift from food service to retail due to consumer concerns about high prices, leading to strong demand in retail [44][45] Question: What is the outlook for the EU and UK business margins? - Management expects continued margin expansion due to integration benefits and improving consumer confidence in Europe [51][54] Question: How do you view the market dynamics in Mexico? - Management expressed optimism about growth in Mexico, despite FX impacts, and highlighted ongoing expansion efforts [56][59] Question: What are the expectations for U.S. volume growth? - Management anticipates meaningful volume growth in the U.S., supported by improved live operations and retail demand [66][68] Question: Can you discuss the challenges related to mortality and diseases? - Management explained that higher mortality rates are linked to both diseases and genetics, with ongoing efforts to improve management practices [94][96]