Impact of Commodity Cost Increases on Nut Prices and Inventory
The company experienced a 3.4% increase in the weighted average cost per pound of raw nuts and dried fruit, primarily due to higher commodity acquisition costs for all major tree nuts.
Inventory on hand increased by 29.5% to $58 million, as the company stockpiled raw materials in anticipation of seasonal demand and rising costs.
Despite higher costs, the company managed to offset some impact through manufacturing efficiencies and strategic sourcing, maintaining gross profit margins at 18.1%.
Management highlighted ongoing efforts to mitigate commodity price pressures through innovation, cost savings, and retail partner collaborations.
Adjusted EBITDA loss was $3.1 million compared to a positive $0.1 million in the prior year period.
Ended the quarter with $19.8 million in cash and increased revolver capacity to manage near-term uncertainty.
GAAP net loss widened to $12.7 million from $8.7 million, impacted by lower gross margin, higher marketing costs, one-time advisory fees, and restructuring costs.
Gross profit increased 3% to $49.8 million, with gross margin declining slightly to 32.8% from 33.5% due to product mix and tariff impacts.
Inventory increased to $94 million from $90 million, reflecting proactive stocking to improve supply chain continuity.
Reported revenue of $151.9 million, up 5% from $144.3 million in the prior year quarter, driven by growth in e-commerce and offline channels.
Adjusted EPS was $0.35 for the quarter, with adjusted SG&A up 6% due to employee expenses and advertising investments.
Cash flow from operations was $150 million, down year-over-year due to intentional inventory build; capital expenditures were $72 million, targeting capacity and technology.
Foodservice segment delivered 2% organic volume growth and 7% organic net sales growth, outperforming the industry.
Gross profit was flat year-over-year due to higher input costs offsetting top-line growth.
International business showed 8% volume growth and 6% net sales growth, led by China.
Organic net sales increased 6% year-over-year to $3 billion in Q3, with organic volume up 4%.
Raw material cost inflation was approximately 400 basis points in Q3, driven by pork, beef, and nut markets.
Retail segment volume and net sales grew 5%, supported by Turkey portfolio and other retail pillars.