Kraft Heinz Company (KHC)

Over the past six months, The Kraft Heinz Co. stock has experienced a decline. The stock price decreased by 14.25% over the last six months and 24.66% over the last 12 months. In April 2025, Kraft Heinz lowered its full-year organic sales and profit forecasts, citing muted demand for packaged meals and snacks, and the impact of higher prices and an uncertain economic backdrop. In February 2025, a reported sales drop in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2024 and for the full year also led to a tumble in the company's stock. In July 2025, Kraft Heinz announced plans to split into two independent businesses by the second half of 2026: a "Global Taste Elevation Co." and a "North American Grocery Co."

Demand for The Kraft Heinz Co.'s products is influenced by evolving consumer preferences and economic factors. There is a general trend of slowing demand for packaged meals and condiments as budget-strained consumers seek more affordable alternatives. Consumers are also increasingly prioritizing healthier and more sustainable food options, requiring companies like Kraft Heinz to adapt their product offerings and ingredient quality. The company's strategic decision to split into two entities indicates an awareness of varying demand trends across its product portfolio.

The Kraft Heinz Co. is a prominent American multinational food company, co-headquartered in Chicago and Pittsburgh. It is the third-largest food and beverage company in North America and the fifth-largest globally, operating in the Consumer Non-Durables sector, specifically in the Food: Major Diversified industry. The company manufactures and markets a wide array of food and beverage products, with over 200 brands across various categories, including condiments and sauces, cheese and dairy, meals, meats, refreshment beverages, coffee, snack foods, and infant and nutrition products. Key brands include Kraft, Oscar Mayer, Heinz, Philadelphia, Lunchables, Velveeta, Ore-Ida, Maxwell House, Kool-Aid, Jell-O, Grey Poupon, Primal Kitchen, Classico, Planters, and Capri Sun.

Kraft Heinz has a significant global presence, with products marketed and produced in over 40 countries, including Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Russia, Spain, the UK, the US, and Venezuela. The United States segment is the largest contributor to its revenue, accounting for approximately 70.18% of its total revenue in fiscal year 2024.

In the past year, Kraft Heinz's brand reputation has faced scrutiny due to several events. Concerns arose regarding Lunchables after consumer reports highlighted lead and sodium levels in some products, leading to the company's decision to remove Lunchables from the national school lunch program. Additionally, a class-action claim was made concerning Capri Sun being falsely advertised as containing all-natural ingredients. The company has also faced challenges in adapting to shifting consumer preferences towards healthier and more sustainable food options, and competition from private-label and niche brands.

The ownership structure of The Kraft Heinz Co. is predominantly institutional, with 82.82% held by institutional shareholders. Insiders own 26.13% of the company, while retail investors hold 0.00% according to one source, though another indicates retail investors hold a 14% stake. Major institutional owners include Berkshire Hathaway Inc., Vanguard Group Inc., Blackrock Inc., and State Street Corp. 3g Global Food Holdings LP is the largest individual shareholder.