Hershey Co
F:HSY
Hershey Co
In the heart of Pennsylvania, amid the rolling hills, Hershey Co. has crafted a legacy as enduring as its rich, cocoa-laden confections. Founded by Milton S. Hershey in 1894, the company began its journey with the ambitious vision of making chocolate accessible to everyone, not just the elite. Today, Hershey Co. stands as a titan in the global confectionery market, renowned for its iconic chocolate bars, Reese's peanut butter cups, and a diverse array of sweet treats. Operating within three primary segments—North America's Confectionery, International and Other, and North America's Salty Snacks—the company skillfully navigates the complexities of a billion-dollar industry. It combines innovation with its storied brand image to deliver products that resonate with consumers globally.
Central to its success, Hershey's business model hinges on producing and marketing its goods across a well-oiled distribution network that taps into retail giants, wholesale distributors, and direct-to-consumer channels. This extensive reach ensures its products find their way into countless homes and celebrations. Yet, Hershey does not rest on the laurels of its renowned brand; it continually evolves by expanding its portfolio, including acquisitions like Amplify Snack Brands, to diversify into the snacking industry. This strategic blend of tradition and innovation enables Hershey to not only sustain its celebrated status but also to sweeten its financial performance year after year.
In the heart of Pennsylvania, amid the rolling hills, Hershey Co. has crafted a legacy as enduring as its rich, cocoa-laden confections. Founded by Milton S. Hershey in 1894, the company began its journey with the ambitious vision of making chocolate accessible to everyone, not just the elite. Today, Hershey Co. stands as a titan in the global confectionery market, renowned for its iconic chocolate bars, Reese's peanut butter cups, and a diverse array of sweet treats. Operating within three primary segments—North America's Confectionery, International and Other, and North America's Salty Snacks—the company skillfully navigates the complexities of a billion-dollar industry. It combines innovation with its storied brand image to deliver products that resonate with consumers globally.
Central to its success, Hershey's business model hinges on producing and marketing its goods across a well-oiled distribution network that taps into retail giants, wholesale distributors, and direct-to-consumer channels. This extensive reach ensures its products find their way into countless homes and celebrations. Yet, Hershey does not rest on the laurels of its renowned brand; it continually evolves by expanding its portfolio, including acquisitions like Amplify Snack Brands, to diversify into the snacking industry. This strategic blend of tradition and innovation enables Hershey to not only sustain its celebrated status but also to sweeten its financial performance year after year.
2026 Outlook: Management reiterated a focus on returning to their long-term growth algorithm in 2026, with balanced revenue and EPS growth. There is potential for upside, but the approach remains long-term and investment focused.
Cocoa & Tariffs: While cocoa costs have moderated somewhat, they remain about 70% higher than in 2023 and are still expected to be inflationary in 2026, though with signs of improvement. Tariff costs are still modeled as a $200 million headwind, but optimism about relief is increasing.
Pricing & Elasticity: Most pricing actions have flowed through, with elasticity running better than expected this year. Management is planning for a minus 1 elasticity in 2026 and sees no current cause for concern.
Everyday Business Strength: Everyday candy, mint, and gum (CMG) business posted double-digit growth in the past 4 weeks, counterbalancing seasonal softness.
Halloween Weakness: Halloween sales have been soft, partly due to timing, but management is using this as a learning opportunity to refine future product and marketing plans.
Salty Snacks Outperformance: The salty snacks segment grew 14% year-over-year, gaining share through volume growth and innovation, bucking broader category trends.
International Profitability: International segment faced a loss-making quarter due to cocoa-driven cost pressure and higher elasticity, but management remains optimistic about future recovery.
Innovation Pipeline: Strong innovation, especially with REESE'S Oreo, has driven recent growth, and a robust pipeline is set for 2026 and beyond.
