Key facts
- Hershey's second-quarter net sales increased by 6.6% to $2.79 billion.
- This sales figure surpassed analyst expectations of $2.63 billion.
- Higher pricing and consistent demand for brands like Reese's and Dot's Pretzels contributed to the results.
- The company reaffirmed its full-year 2026 sales and earnings outlook.
The Hershey Company surpassed Wall Street's sales expectations for the second quarter, reporting net sales of $2.79 billion, a 6.6% increase. This figure exceeded analysts' consensus estimate of $2.63 billion. The company attributed its performance to higher pricing and sustained demand for its popular confectionery products, including Reese's chocolates and Dot's Pretzels, despite a cautious consumer spending environment.
In its first quarter of 2026, Hershey reported consolidated net sales of $3,104.2 million, an increase of 10.6%, with organic, constant currency net sales rising 7.9%. Reported net income for the first quarter was $435.1 million, or $2.13 per diluted share, a significant 93.6% increase. Adjusted earnings per diluted share rose 12.4% to $2.35.
For the full year 2026, Hershey reaffirmed its financial outlook, projecting net sales growth between 4% to 5% and organic net sales growth of 2.5% to 3.5%. The company also anticipates reported earnings per share growth of 79% to 89% and adjusted earnings per share growth of 30% to 35%. Kirk Tanner, President and CEO, stated that the company is focused on fueling core growth and investing in brand, innovation, R&D, technology, and talent.