Universal Corporation reports Q2 adjusted EPS $1.36, one estimate $1.34

Reports Q2 revenue $754.2M vs. $710.8M last year. Preston Wigner, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Universal, stated, “We are proud of the strong operational performance of both of our business segments in the first half of fiscal year 2026. Our Tobacco Operations segment achieved solid results. Customer demand has remained firm following several years of undersupply, despite significantly larger tobacco crops this fiscal year. Tobacco buying has been completed in most key growing regions, and green tobacco prices have softened in certain regions compared to the previous fiscal year. Shipments are progressing smoothly, and current crop tobacco is being shipped earlier than in the prior fiscal year. Overall, the segment has once again demonstrated effective management in navigating market dynamics. Our Ingredients Operations segment maintained positive momentum, achieving higher sales and volume in both the quarter and six months ended September 30, 2025. Continued interest in new value-added products has translated into an active pipeline, supported by Universal Ingredients’ enhanced production and operational capabilities. Demand for our new products remains solid, while fixed costs, product mix, and market challenges, including weakness in the consumer-packaged goods industry and tariff uncertainty, had a negative impact on earnings. The segment’s proactive approach to meeting customers’ strategic needs, focusing on organic growth, and converting customer interest into sales will continue to build scale and generate returns on our investments. We believe the segment continues to be well-positioned to capitalize on its investments and drive future growth.”