Strong RAO’S Performance
RAO’S in-market consumption grew 14.5% in Q2; management expects high-single-digit growth for RAO’S for the full year, and the brand is a key growth driver in Meals & Beverages.
Broth and Condensed Cooking Strength
Broth portfolio showing growth (Pacific grew double digits); over half of condensed soups sales in Q2 came from the growing cooking/ingredient-focused portion of the portfolio; new Campbell’s condensed sauces launching in June expected to be incremental.
Product Innovation and Cookie Momentum
Cookies have grown for four consecutive quarters driven by Milano innovation and recent Chessmen introductions, enabling distribution gains in that subcategory.
Goldfish Brand Momentum and Margin Leverage
Goldfish exhibited momentum in the first half and is highlighted as the highest-margin product in Snacks; management expects Goldfish activity to help Snacks margin recovery in Q4.
Financial Discipline and Cash Preservation Actions
Company reduced planned capex by $50 million, instituted a $100 million overhead cost-reduction plan over the next couple of years, prioritized debt reduction over share buybacks (no further buybacks planned), and retains the dividend while pausing increases.
Commodity Hedging and Tariff Lapse Benefits
Approximately 85% of commodities (including diesel, resins, aluminum) are hedged; management expects to lap tariff-related costs in Q4 which should modestly support margins year over year.