Fresh Del Monte reports higher sales and strong cash flow for 2025
Fruit and vegetable group posts higher margins and cuts debt during the year.
USA – Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. reported higher sales and stronger cash flow for the fourth quarter and full fiscal year 2025, as improved pricing and cost control lifted margins across key business lines.
The company said net sales for the fourth quarter reached US$1,019.5 million, up from US$1,013.2 million a year earlier. Gross profit rose to US$106.0 million, while gross margin improved to 10.4 percent from 6.8 percent last year. Net income for the quarter totaled US$31.9 million, with diluted earnings per share of US$0.67.
For the full year, net sales climbed to US$4,322.3 million, compared with US$4,280.2 million in 2024. Gross profit increased to US$399.1 million, and gross margin improved to 9.2 percent.
Net income reached US$90.7 million, with diluted earnings per share of US$1.88. On an adjusted basis, earnings per diluted share rose to US$3.68.
Pricing and product mix support results
Mohammad Abu-Ghazaleh, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said the company kept a close focus on pricing and cash flow throughout the year. “Fiscal 2025 reflected solid execution across the business, supported by pricing discipline, continued demand for our core categories, and a strong focus on cash flow,” he said.
He added that the company ended the year with lower debt and stronger financial flexibility. “We closed the year with improved financial flexibility, reduced debt, and continued investment in our operations to support long term performance,” Abu-Ghazaleh said.
Higher banana prices in North America and Europe helped lift fourth quarter sales in the banana segment to US$358.7 million. Gross profit in bananas rose to US$19.5 million, and margin improved to 5.4 percent.
The fresh and value added segment reported fourth quarter sales of US$605.6 million. Gross profit increased to US$77.0 million, with margin rising to 12.7 percent, helped by stronger pineapple pricing.
Divestiture and cash generation
During the fourth quarter, the company completed the sale of its Mann Packing business. Management said this move will help sharpen its focus on core operations.
Operating cash flow for the full year reached US$245.1 million, up from US$182.5 million in 2024. The company reduced long term debt to US$173.0 million at year end.
The board declared a quarterly dividend of US$0.30 per share, payable on March 27, 2026. During the fourth quarter, the company also repurchased shares worth US$15.0 million at an average price of US$36.56 per share.
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