The Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY) is included among the 13 Best Consumer Staples Dividend Stocks to Invest in Now.
On January 7, Piper Sandler upgraded The Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY) to Overweight from Neutral and raised its price target to $213 from $193. The call reflects the reduction in cocoa costs and the elimination of cocoa tariffs, which the firm said gives Hershey “significant flexibility” to reinvest in the business and increase profits ahead of its long-term algorithm. Analysts believe Hershey is positioned to generate sales and earnings growth above that algorithm in 2026.
In October, Hershey raised its full-year sales and profit outlook after reporting better-than-expected quarterly results. Demand for higher-priced chocolates and snacks held up well, giving management more confidence in the outlook. The company now expects 2025 net sales growth of around 3%, up from its previous target of at least 2%. It also raised the lower end of its adjusted earnings forecast to $5.90 per share from $5.81. Sales benefited from an expanded range of healthier, sugar-free products, along with a strong boost in chocolate, sweets and mints. In North America, Salty Snacks volumes increased 11% year over year, driven by brands such as SkinnyPop and Dot’s Pretzels. Prices in that category fell 1% during the quarter, helping support volume growth.
The picture was different in the North American Confectionery core. Volumes fell 1%, while prices rose 7%, reflecting a more price-based approach in that part of the business.
The Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY) operates as a snack food company with three primary segments: North American Confectionery, North American Salty Snacks, and International.
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