Hershey targets cutting $300 mln in costs as annual forecasts disappoint

In an effort to boost profitability, Hershey, the iconic maker of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, has unveiled a two-year restructuring plan projected to yield $300 million in pre-tax savings. This announcement came after the company’s quarterly sales and profit projections fell short of Wall Street’s expectations, causing a stir among investors. However, the news of the restructuring program sparked a positive reaction, with shares surging approximately 6% in early trading.

Despite the optimism surrounding the restructuring, Hershey reported fourth-quarter net sales of $2.66 billion, slightly below the estimated $2.71 billion. The decline in organic sales volumes, attributed to cautious consumer spending amidst inflation concerns, particularly affected sales of the company’s higher-priced chocolates and candies.

This trend isn’t isolated to Hershey alone. Mondelez International, the maker of Cadbury chocolate, also experienced a drop in volumes during the same quarter due to price hikes dissuading consumers from purchasing its products.

Looking ahead, Hershey forecasts a modest increase in net sales for 2024, projected between 2% and 3%, falling short of analysts’ expectations of 3.4% growth. Additionally, the company anticipates flat adjusted profit per share compared to the previous year, contrary to analysts’ predictions of a 3.3% growth to $9.82 per share.

CEO Michele Buck highlighted that higher cocoa prices may constrain earnings growth in the coming year. Despite this, Hershey remains committed to its shareholders, evident in its recent decision to raise its quarterly dividend by 15%. As of the end of 2022, the company employed approximately 18,075 full-time and 1,790 part-time workers globally……….[read more]

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How do fluctuations in consumer spending habits during non-seasonal periods impact the strategies and financial performance of companies like Hershey and Mondelez International in the confectionery industry?

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Jason M

5 months ago

Fluctuations in consumer spending habits during non-seasonal periods can significantly impact companies like Hershey and Mondelez International in the confectionery industry. During times of decreased consumer spending, these companies may experience lower sales volumes and revenue. To counteract this, they might adjust their marketing strategies, product offerings, and pricing to stimulate demand and maintain profitability. Additionally, they may focus on cost-cutting measures to improve financial performance during lean periods. Overall, adapting to changing consumer behaviors is crucial for these companies to navigate through economic fluctuations and sustain their competitiveness in the market.