Hormel Foods Corporation (HRL)

Over the past six months, Hormel Foods' stock price has declined, reaching $29.14 as of July 18, 2025, a 7.02% decrease from the previous year. Key events impacting the stock include first quarter fiscal 2025 earnings, which showed solid top-line results but were affected by gross profit margin issues. The detection of High Path Avian Influenza (HPAI) reduced turkey production volume. The Transform and Modernize initiative aimed for operating profit growth by fiscal 2026. Leadership changes occurred, including the elevation of John Ghingo to President. There were also product launches and recalls, such as the introduction of new Justin's brand chocolate treats and a recall of canned beef stew.

The provided information does not explicitly detail specific demand seasonality for Hormel Foods' products and services. Consumer preferences for food products are impacted by convenience, flavor variety, and developments in weight management options. The company invests in consumer insights and research and development to deliver innovative products that resonate with consumers and support sales growth. Hormel Foods aims to adapt to changing market demands with its diverse portfolio.

Hormel Foods Corporation is a global branded food company established in 1891, which develops, processes, and distributes a variety of meat, nuts, and other food products, operating in the Consumer Staples sector. Its extensive product portfolio includes fresh meats, frozen items, refrigerated meal solutions, bacon, sausages, hams, guacamole, canned luncheon meats, nut butters, snack nuts, chili, microwaveable meals, hash, stews, tortillas, salsas, tortilla chips, and nutritional food supplements, marketed under well-known brands. The company holds leading market positions in several categories and is a significant player in others.

Hormel Foods has a global presence, operating in over 80 countries, with major international markets including Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, England, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, and the United States. The majority of the company's revenue is U.S.-based, with 64% from U.S. retail and 28% from U.S. foodservice, while international operations account for 8%.

In fiscal year 2024, Hormel Foods received several recognitions that positively impacted its brand reputation, including being named one of America's most trusted companies by Newsweek and being listed as one of TIME magazine's "World's Best Companies". Hormel Foods was recognized on the Forbes list of "America's Best Employers for Women 2024" and ranked No. 14 on the Selling Power "50 Best Companies to Sell For List". The company emphasizes sustainability and innovation, adapting to changing consumer preferences by introducing new products and expanding plant-based and protein-centric offerings.

Hormel Foods Corporation's ownership is a mix of institutional, company-controlled foundation, insider, and retail investors. The Hormel Foundation is the largest shareholder, controlling 47% of the company's shares. Major institutional owners include Vanguard Group Inc., State Street Corp, and BlackRock, Inc. Institutional investors collectively hold approximately 43% of the company's shares. Insiders own about 0.48% of the stock, and retail investors hold approximately 71.16% (though another source indicates 10.04% retail ownership).