Hershey’s ONE Hershey Plan and Recipe Reversal Might Change The Case For Investing In HSY
Hershey has reaffirmed its 2026 guidance, including mid-single-digit sales growth and significant EPS growth, while introducing its "ONE Hershey" commercial model aimed at productivity and inventory improvements. The company is also reverting to classic Reese’s recipes and using natural colors for major brands from 2027, responding to consumer feedback. These changes, particularly the "ONE Hershey" plan's US$150 million in productivity and inventory gains, are intended to support near-term earnings amid cocoa cost pressures and influence the investment outlook for HSY.
Hershey's quietly changes recipes after facing backlash
The Hershey Company is reverting its classic brands to earlier milk and dark chocolate recipes following consumer backlash over recipe changes and the use of chocolate alternatives. This decision comes amidst rising cocoa prices, which have led many major chocolate brands to use less cocoa in their products. The article also encourages reflection on brand image, trust, and media literacy regarding climate change's impact on the cocoa industry.
Medifast (NYSE: MED) outlines metabolic shift, board changes in 2026 proxy
Medifast (NYSE: MED) has detailed its strategic shift towards holistic metabolic health, highlighted by its Metabolic Synchronization platform, and announced board changes in its 2026 proxy statement. The company is asking stockholders to vote on director elections, auditor ratification, executive pay, and an amended share incentive plan at its May 19, 2026 meeting. Daniel Chard will transition from Chairman and CEO to non-executive Chairman on June 1, 2026, separating the roles.
Hershey Trust trims Hershey Co (NYSE: HSY) stake by 10,000 shares
Hershey Trust Company, acting as trustee for Milton Hershey School, reported the sale of 10,000 shares of The Hershey Company common stock. These open-market transactions took place on April 2, 2026, across seven trades with weighted-average prices ranging from approximately $200.97 to $206.22 per share. Following these sales, the trust directly holds 1,926,119 shares of common stock, along with significant holdings in Class B common stock and additional indirect common shares.
Runnymede Capital Advisors Inc. Purchases Shares of 5,819 Hershey Company (The) $HSY
Runnymede Capital Advisors Inc. has acquired a new position of 5,819 shares in The Hershey Company (HSY) during Q4, valued at approximately $1.06 million, contributing to the 57.96% institutional ownership of the stock. While Wall Street has a consensus "Hold" rating with an average price target of $222.21, some analysts have adjusted their targets. Insiders have sold around 10,000 shares worth $2.2 million in the last three months, and Hershey recently increased its quarterly dividend to $1.452.
KRISPY KREME® Releases Its Sweetest Spring Doughnut Drop Yet
Krispy Kreme has launched its new Spring Seasonal Collection, featuring four distinct doughnut flavors available for a limited time beginning April 7. The collection includes two new indulgent flavors, HERSHEY’S Double Chocolate Doughnut and Strawberries and Kreme™ Doughnut, alongside two returning fan favorites: Banana Pudding Doughnut and Original Glazed® Blueberry Cake Doughnut. To complement the doughnuts, Krispy Kreme is also introducing the new Cookie Blast Latte.
Hershey’s Will Switch Back to Real Chocolate by 2027 After Viral TikTok Backlash
The Hershey Company has announced it will revert to using "classic milk and dark chocolate recipes" in its Reese's and Hershey's products by 2027. This decision follows significant public pressure, including a viral social media campaign initiated by H.B. Reese's grandson and widespread TikTok videos critiquing current formulas. Although CEO Kirk Tanner stated the shift was already planned, it coincides with high cocoa prices and increased consumer scrutiny over ingredient transparency.
Hershey's Is Changing Kit Kat and Select Reese's Products Amid Fan Backlash and Accusations
The Hershey Company is announcing recipe changes to some Kit Kat and Reese's products following fan backlash and accusations of declining taste quality. Brad Reese, grandson of the Reese's founder, publicly criticized Hershey's for allegedly replacing milk chocolate with compound coatings and real peanut butter with "peanut-butter-style crèmes." While Hershey's denies changes to core products like classic Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, they confirmed "enhancements" to Kit Kat for improved taste and texture and bringing a small percentage of other Reese's and Hershey's products in line with classic recipes by 2027, partly to align with new FDA guidelines and natural color sourcing.
Campbell Soup Co. stock: High yield amid sales struggles—what's next?
Campbell Soup Co. stock is offering a high 7% dividend yield despite recent struggles including a Q2 earnings miss and trimmed full-year guidance. Trading near 52-week lows, the stock presents a potential undervaluation for income-focused investors, balancing steady payouts from its consumer staples business against challenges like softening demand and competitive pricing. Analysts show cautious optimism, highlighting the dividend and undervaluation but also noting growth concerns, making it a defensive play for North American investors monitoring efficiency execution and consumer spending.
Hershey Is Reviving Reese’s Original Recipe After Viral Backlash
The Hershey Company announced it will revert to the classic recipe for all Reese's products starting in 2027, following widespread consumer backlash and criticism from the Reese's founder's grandson, Brad Reese. Consumers had accused Hershey of using inferior ingredients to maximize profits. The company also plans to increase R&D funding by 25 percent next year to enhance other products like KitKat and switch to natural colors.
How Kraft Heinz’s NFL deal could help the marketer get back on track
Kraft Heinz has entered a five-year partnership with the NFL, making it the league's first global condiment partner. This deal comes as Kraft Heinz pauses plans to split its business and plans to invest $600 million into marketing and R&D to boost profitability, following a decrease in organic net sales in 2025. The collaboration aims to drive retail opportunities, expand its food service business, and connect with a broad consumer base at cultural touchpoints like game day events.
Hershey’s Promises to Use Only Real Chocolate After Backlash
The Hershey Company has announced it will revert to using "classic milk and dark chocolate recipes" in all its products by 2027, in response to consumer preferences. This decision follows weeks of complaints, notably from Brad Reese, a grandson of the Reese's Peanut Butter Cup inventor, who accused the company of using chocolate-flavored substitutes. The move marks a reversal for Hershey's, which had previously reformulated some products due to rising cocoa prices, though Brad Reese remains unsatisfied with the timeline.
Hershey Will Return To Real Chocolate Following Backlash Over Recipe Changes
The Hershey Company will revert some of its select Reese's and Hershey's products, including some Reese's items and the Fast Break candy bar, back to classic milk and dark chocolate recipes after using chocolate compound coatings. This decision follows criticism from H.B. Reese's grandson, Brad Reese, regarding recipe changes, though Hershey's CEO stated changes were planned prior to the public complaints. The changes, affecting a small portion of products, will take effect in 2027 and also include enhancing Kit Kat's recipe and phasing out artificial coloring.
Lamb Weston's Q3 Earnings Beat Estimates, Sales Rise 3% Y/Y
Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. reported solid third-quarter fiscal 2026 results, with both net sales and earnings beating Zacks Consensus Estimates. While net sales increased 3% year-over-year to $1,564.8 million, adjusted earnings declined 37% to 72 cents due to reduced gross profit and elevated SG&A expenses. The company also updated its full-year fiscal 2026 outlook, narrowing its adjusted EBITDA projection and lowering capital expenditure estimates.
Hershey to resume using chocolate in most products, Reese’s grandson may taste sweet victory
The Hershey Company has announced it will return to using "classic milk and dark chocolate recipes" in most of its Reese's and Hershey's products by 2027. This decision follows public criticism from Brad Reese, grandson of the Reese's Peanut Butter Cups inventor, who went viral for calling out the company for using chocolate compound coatings instead of real chocolate in some new products. While Hershey's CEO stated the change was planned, Reese believes it's a response to consumer backlash.
Hershey announces changes to Reese’s, other chocolate products: What to expect
The Hershey Company is implementing recipe changes for a "small portion" of its Hershey's and Reese's products, aiming to align them with their classic milk and dark chocolate recipes starting next year. The company also announced that Kit Kat bars will be "enhanced" for a creamier taste. These changes come amid past backlash regarding alleged recipe alterations, particularly for Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, which Hershey maintains have not changed their core recipe.
Hershey says it will shift back to classic recipe for all Reese's products after criticism
Hershey announced it will revert to classic recipes for all Reese's products starting in 2027, following criticism from the grandson of Reese's founder regarding the use of "cheaper ingredients." The company plans to increase its R&D funding by 25% next year and will also make other changes, such as transitioning to natural colors and enhancing the Kit-Kat recipe. This decision comes after high cocoa prices led manufacturers to experiment with using less chocolate.
Lamb Weston's Q3 Earnings Beat Estimates, Sales Rise 3% Y/Y
Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. (LW) reported solid third-quarter fiscal 2026 results, with both top and bottom lines surpassing Zacks Consensus Estimates. While net sales increased 3% year-over-year to $1,564.8 million, adjusted earnings per share decreased 37% to 72 cents due to reduced gross profit and elevated SG&A. The company updated its full-year fiscal 2026 outlook, expecting net sales between $6.45 billion and $6.55 billion and adjusted EBITDA between $1.08 billion and $1.14 billion.
What Is the Hershey’s Chocolate Formula Controversy? Everything You Need to Know
A controversy has emerged regarding Hershey's chocolate bars bending rather than snapping, leading to speculation about changes in its formula. This debate gained traction on TikTok and was fueled by claims from Brad Reese, grandson of the Reese's Peanut Butter Cup inventor, alleging ingredient substitutions. Hershey acknowledges some "product recipe adjustments" in seasonal items and newer shapes, while maintaining that the classic Reese's Peanut Butter Cup recipe remains unchanged, with rising cocoa prices cited as a factor influencing the broader candy industry.
Lamb Weston's Q3 Earnings Beat Estimates, Sales Rise 3% Y/Y
Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. (LW) reported solid third-quarter fiscal 2026 results, with both net sales and earnings beating Zacks Consensus Estimates. While net sales increased by 3% year over year to $1,564.8 million, adjusted earnings declined 37% to 72 cents per share due to reduced adjusted gross profit and higher SG&A expenses. The company also provided an updated outlook for fiscal year 2026, slightly raising its net sales guidance and narrowing its adjusted EBITDA projections.
Hershey u‑turns as real chocolate makes a comeback
The Hershey Company has announced it is reintroducing "real chocolate" into a small percentage of its Reese's and Hershey's products, affecting less than three percent of Reese's items. This shift comes amid mounting backlash over ingredient changes, though CEO Kirk Tanner states the decision was made before recent public criticism. The move signals a broader industry trend towards quality ingredients and transparency.
The Hershey Company Stock: Reaffirming 2026 Growth Targets Amid Strategic Shift to Next-Gen Snacking
The Hershey Company reaffirmed its 2026 net sales growth outlook of 4% to 5% and organic sales growth of 2.5% to 3.5% at its recent Investor Day, signaling a strategic shift towards next-generation snacking beyond traditional chocolate. Despite an initial 3% dip in stock price post-event, the company aims for margin recovery by 2027 and double-digit EPS growth long-term, driven by acquisitions like SkinnyPop and Dot's Pretzels. While facing challenges from commodity costs and increased competition, Hershey maintains a strong financial position and defensive market appeal for investors.
Hershey's brings back original Reese's recipe after not-so-sweet shortcut triggers backlash (HSY:NYSE)
Hershey's is reverting to the original Reese's recipe after backlash surfaced concerning the use of cheaper ingredients to boost profits. This move addresses concerns from the Reese's founder's family and aims to restore brand reputation. Industry analysts suggest that current lower cocoa prices might alleviate pressure on Hershey's to alter recipes or pricing decisions in the near future.
Hershey applies AI across its supply chain operations
The Hershey Company is integrating AI across its entire supply chain and operations, moving beyond traditional software applications to actively support day-to-day decision-making. This strategy focuses on areas like sourcing analytics, plant automation, and fulfilment to create a faster, smarter, and more resilient supply chain. By applying AI, Hershey aims to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance responsiveness to dynamic market conditions and consumer demand.
PBJ ETF Holdings List — AMEX:PBJ
This article provides a detailed list of the holdings for the Invesco Food & Beverage ETF (PBJ) as of March 18, 2026. It includes key information such as the symbol, weight percentage, shares, and market value for each company in the ETF. Top holdings include Kroger Co., Archer-Daniels-Midland Company, and Corteva Inc.
SG Americas Securities LLC Buys 30,664 Shares of Hershey Company (The) $HSY
SG Americas Securities LLC significantly increased its stake in Hershey Company by 973.2% in Q4 2025, now holding 33,815 shares valued at approximately $6.15 million. Other institutional investors also made large additions, bringing institutional ownership to nearly 58%. Hershey recently unveiled a new growth strategy focusing on salty and "better-for-you" snacks, raised its quarterly dividend, and reported strong Q4 results, though analyst ratings remain mixed with a consensus "Hold."
The Hershey Company rings the Opening Bell on Wall Street
The Hershey Company celebrated its "Investor Day" in New York City with company leadership ringing the opening bell for trading on the Dow. President and CEO Kirk Tanner, along with Hershey's chocolate mascots, were in attendance. This event marked a "sweet time on Wall Street" for the Dauphin County-based company.
Hershey Unveils One Hershey Strategy at 2026 Investor Day
The Hershey Company presented its "Lead Next Generation Snacking" strategy at its 2026 Investor Day, focusing on an integrated commercial model, innovation in premium and better-for-you products, and an automated supply chain. Hershey reaffirmed its 2026 guidance, projecting 4% to 5% net sales growth and a significant increase in reported EPS, supported by the LesserEvil acquisition. TipRanks' AI Analyst, Spark, rates HSY as Neutral due to strong technical momentum and cash generation, balanced against a high P/E and potential risks from cocoa costs.
Chocolate Makers Could Alter Your Favorite Easter Candy Recipe, As The Cocoa Industry Enters Uncharted Territory
Cocoa prices have reached record highs due to extreme weather in West Africa, where 70% of the world's cocoa is grown, impacting chocolate pricing and recipes. Chocolate manufacturers, including Hershey's, are exploring alternative ingredients to manage costs, potentially leading to differences in taste and texture in Easter candies this year. Consumers are advised to check labels for terms like "milk chocolate" versus "chocolatey" to understand ingredient compositions as climate change continues to affect cocoa production globally.
Hershey banks on better-for-you options, functional snacking for next phase of growth (HSY:NYSE)
Hershey is focusing on "Next Generation Snacking" to achieve its financial goals over the next three years. The company plans to grow by expanding into "better-for-you" options, leveraging its strong brand portfolio, and accelerating growth in the salty and "functional snacking" categories.
[8-K] HERSHEY CO Reports Material Event
The Hershey Company reaffirmed its full-year 2026 financial outlook, projecting net sales growth of 4% to 5% and adjusted earnings per share growth of 30% to 35%. This announcement was made during its Investor Day where the company also outlined its strategy to "Lead Next Generation Snacking," focusing on portfolio expansion, an integrated commercial model, and supply chain modernization. The reiterated guidance signals confidence in its long-term strategy for balanced growth and shareholder returns.
Hershey presents snacking growth roadmap at investor day, confirms 2026 outlook
The Hershey Company presented its snacking growth roadmap at its investor day, reaffirming its previously announced 2026 outlook. The company detailed strategies for continued growth in the snacking sector. Further specifics on the strategic initiatives and financial projections were likely discussed during the event.
NYSE Content Update: A Sweet Time at the NYSE as Hershey Hosts its Investor Day
The NYSE daily pre-market update on March 31, 2026, highlights Hershey's Investor Day with Chief Growth and Marketing Officer Stacy Taffet joining NYSE Live. The update also covers rising markets, AI's role in cybersecurity, and Dimensional Fund Advisors' new ETF launch.
NYSE Content Update: A Sweet Time at the NYSE as Hershey Hosts its Investor Day
The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) released its daily pre-market update, highlighting market activities and upcoming events. This update includes information on rising markets, current gas prices, and discussions on AI in cybersecurity. Hershey (NYSE: HSY) is set to host its Investor Day, with Chief Growth and Marketing Officer Stacy Taffet joining NYSE Live to discuss company plans, while Dimensional Fund Advisors will celebrate the launch of new ETFs.
Hershey’s Growth Strategy Leans Into Salty, Better-for-You Snacks
Hershey is expanding its growth strategy beyond traditional chocolate to focus on high-growth snacking categories. The company plans to invest in premium, better-for-you, salty, and functional snacks while also modernizing its supply chain. This move includes combining sweet, salty, and protein brand portfolios to streamline marketing and distribution efforts.
Hershey Unveils Strategy to Lead Next Generation Snacking at 2026 Investor Day – Company Announcement
The Hershey Company is holding its 2026 Investor Day to detail its strategy for "Leading Next Generation Snacking." This involves building on core brands, expanding into premium and functional snacking, adopting an integrated commercial model, and implementing a modern, AI-powered supply chain. Hershey also reaffirmed its full-year 2026 financial outlook, projecting continued growth in net sales and earnings per share.
Hershey Unveils Strategy to Lead Next Generation Snacking at 2026 Investor Day
The Hershey Company hosted its 2026 Investor Day to outline its strategy for "Leading Next Generation Snacking," focusing on expanding into premium, better-for-you, salty, and functional snacking categories while reaffirming its 2026 financial outlook. The strategy, dubbed "One Hershey," emphasizes an integrated commercial model, a modern supply chain, and aims for sustained top- and bottom-line growth, supported by strong shareholder returns. The company reaffirmed its 2026 guidance for net sales growth, organic net sales growth, and significant increases in reported and adjusted earnings per share.
Mn Services Vermogensbeheer B.V. Has $130.16 Million Stake in Procter & Gamble Company (The) $PG
Mn Services Vermogensbeheer B.V. significantly increased its stake in Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG) during the fourth quarter, now holding 908,209 shares valued at $130.16 million, making it their 19th largest holding. This comes amidst other institutional investor activity, insider selling including by Chairman Jon Moeller, and a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating from analysts with an average price target of $167.83. Procter & Gamble also recently announced a quarterly dividend, maintaining a strong yield for investors.
Seeking Shields from Volatility? 2 Stocks Worth a Look
Amidst recent stock market volatility, particularly affecting tech stocks, Zacks Investment Research suggests focusing on stable, less flashy businesses like Hershey (HSY) and PepsiCo (PEP). Both companies have outperformed the S&P 500 in 2026, boast strong earnings outlooks and consistent dividend payouts, making them attractive options for investors seeking stability. These "boring" stocks provide a shield against market fluctuations through their established business models and shareholder returns.
Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft Issues Pessimistic Forecast for Hershey (NYSE:HSY) Stock Price
Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft has lowered its price target for Hershey (NYSE:HSY) from $212 to $200 while maintaining a "hold" rating, suggesting a potential 6.62% downside. This forecast comes despite Hershey beating its recent quarterly earnings estimates and setting optimistic FY2026 guidance. Mixed investor sentiment is noted, with insiders selling shares but institutional investors increasing their positions.
IFP Advisors Inc Cuts Stock Position in Hershey Company (The) $HSY
IFP Advisors Inc significantly reduced its stake in Hershey Company by 86.6% in the third quarter, selling 6,050 shares and holding 938 shares valued at $175,000. This comes as other institutional investors have bought and sold Hershey shares, with hedge funds and institutional investors collectively owning 57.96% of the stock. Additionally, Hershey insiders, including the CFO and SVP, have sold shares totaling over $2.1 million in recent months.
Bell Bank Buys New Position in Hershey Company (The) $HSY
Bell Bank has acquired a new stake in The Hershey Company, purchasing over 10,000 shares valued at approximately $1.87 million in Q4, bringing institutional ownership to nearly 58%. Hershey exceeded Q4 earnings and revenue expectations, reporting $1.71 EPS against an anticipated $1.40 and $3.09 billion in revenue, while also raising its quarterly dividend. Despite insider selling activity, analysts have given the stock a "Hold" rating with an average target price of $222.68.
Did Index Inclusion Amid Expected EPS Decline Just Shift Lamb Weston’s (LW) Investment Narrative?
Lamb Weston Holdings (NYSE: LW) was recently added to the Russell Small Cap Comp Value Index, but analysts anticipate a significant decline in its fiscal third-quarter 2026 earnings per share. This situation creates a complex investment narrative, as the increased visibility from index inclusion contrasts with impending earnings contraction and ongoing margin pressures. Investors are evaluating the company's cost savings and automation program as a potential offset to these challenges, while also considering diverse analyst perspectives on fair value.
Assessing General Mills (GIS) Valuation After Earnings Weakness And Cautious Guidance
General Mills (GIS) is facing pressure after recent earnings showed reduced sales and profits, alongside cautious management guidance. Despite this, a popular narrative suggests the company is significantly undervalued, with a fair value much higher than its current share price, due to stable demand for packaged foods. However, challenges like North American Retail volume and GLP-1 related demand could impact this optimistic valuation.
Is Flowers Foods (FLO) A Potential Opportunity After A 51.7% Share Price Slide?
Flowers Foods (FLO) has seen a significant 51.7% share price decline over the past year. Two valuation methods provide conflicting views: a Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) analysis suggests the stock is undervalued by 45.4% at $8.40 per share with an intrinsic value of $15.37, while a P/E ratio comparison indicates it's overvalued compared to industry and peer averages. Simply Wall St encourages investors to use their "Narratives" feature to connect business assumptions with concrete forecasts to better understand the company's fair value.
Dakota Wealth Management Sells 4,790 Shares of Hershey Company (The) $HSY
Dakota Wealth Management reduced its stake in Hershey Company by 16.8% in the fourth quarter, selling 4,790 shares and ending with 23,730 shares valued at $4.318 million. Despite recent insider selling, Hershey exceeded quarterly earnings expectations and raised its quarterly dividend. Analysts hold a consensus "Hold" rating on the stock, with an average price target of $222.68.
Hershey Company (The) (NYSE:HSY) Receives Average Rating of "Hold" from Analysts
Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY) has received an average "Hold" rating from analysts, with the consensus price target being $222.68. The stock recently opened at $213.43 and has a market capitalization of $43.26 billion. Hershey also announced an increased quarterly dividend of $1.452 per share, and recent insider transactions show sales by executives.
Shelf-Stable Food Stocks Q4 Results: Benchmarking J. M. Smucker (NYSE:SJM)
This article benchmarks J. M. Smucker's (NYSE:SJM) Q4 results against its peers in the shelf-stable food industry. While J. M. Smucker showed strong performance, it notes a mixed quarter for the sector overall with revenues slightly beating analysts' expectations but share prices declining. The report also highlights the best and weakest performers, Hershey (NYSE:HSY) and Campbell's (NASDAQ:CPB) respectively, and discusses market trends.
Hershey Trust (NYSE: HSY) logs 30,000-share open-market sale but keeps large stake
The Hershey Trust Company, trustee for the Milton Hershey School Trust, recently sold 30,000 shares of Hershey Co. common stock in open-market transactions between March 25-27, at prices ranging from $210 to $217 per share. Despite these sales, the trust maintains a significant stake, directly holding 1,966,119 common shares and 54,612,012 convertible Class B common shares, along with 39,630 indirectly held common shares. This indicates the transactions represent a small fraction of its total ownership in Hershey Co.
The Simply Good Foods Stock: Undervalued Opportunity in Protein Snacks After Earnings Beat and Analyst Upgrade
The Simply Good Foods Company (SMPL) is highlighted as an undervalued opportunity in the protein snack market, trading at a significant discount despite beating earnings forecasts with $340.2 million in revenue driven by its Quest and OWYN brands. Jefferies upgraded the stock to Buy, seeing potential in the oversold conditions and growing healthy snack segment. The company's strategic focus on protein-rich, low-sugar options positions it well for North American investors seeking growth in the health-focused consumer packaged goods space.
