J.M. Smucker reports 6% Q4 sales growth 

USA – The J.M. Smucker Co. has reported higher fourth-quarter sales and earnings, supported by strong performance in its coffee business, while issuing a cautious outlook for fiscal year 2027 amid a challenging external environment. 

The company, whose portfolio includes the Dunkin’ at-home brand, Folgers and Café Bustelo, recorded net sales of US$2.3 billion for the fourth quarter, representing an increase of US$124.3 million, or 6%, compared to the same period a year earlier. 

J.M. Smucker also reported improved cash generation during the quarter. Cash provided by operations rose to US$579.2 million from US$393.9 million in the prior year, while free cash flow increased to US$483.9 million from US$298.9 million. 

For the full 2026 fiscal year, the company posted net sales of US$9.1 billion, up 4% year-on-year. Free cash flow reached US$1.2 billion, compared with US$816.6 million in the previous year. 

Coffee emerged as the strongest-performing category during the quarter. The U.S. retail coffee segment, which includes Folgers, Dunkin’ and Café Bustelo, generated net sales of US$830.6 million, representing 12% growth from a year earlier. 

The increase was primarily driven by pricing, with a 21-percentage-point improvement in net price realization, partially offset by an 8-percentage-point decline in volume. While Dunkin’ and Folgers recorded lower volumes, Café Bustelo delivered growth. 

Across the business, pricing gains of 10 percentage points more than offset a 4 percentage point decline related to volume and mix. 

The Away From Home segment also delivered strong results, with net sales rising 15% to US$228.3 million. The growth was supported by higher coffee pricing and increased sales volumes of Uncrustables sandwiches and fruit spreads. 

J.M. Smucker Chief Executive Officer, President and Chair Mark Smucker said: “Our strong fourth quarter results demonstrate the continued strength of our focused strategy and portfolio enhancement efforts, which have transformed the company over time.” 

“We delivered positive net sales and earnings growth in the quarter, while navigating a dynamic external environment, and we are entering fiscal year 2027 with meaningful momentum,” he added. 

Looking ahead, the company expects net sales in fiscal 2027 to decline between 3% and 4%, citing geopolitical developments, macroeconomic conditions, policy changes and evolving consumer behaviour as factors that could affect performance. 

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.