Record Highs for Key Financial Metrics
Lancaster Colony reported record highs for net sales, gross profit, and operating income for the fiscal second quarter. Consolidated net sales increased 4.8% to $509 million, gross profit improved 9.3% to $133 million, and operating income grew 15.1% to $76 million.
Strong Retail Segment Performance
Retail segment net sales increased by 6.3%, driven by volume growth from both the licensing program and the company's own brands. Licensing saw strong consumer demand for Texas Roadhouse dinner rolls, Buffalo Wild Wings sauces, Subway sauces, and Olive Garden dressings.
Successful Licensing Program
The licensing program's success is evident with the growth of brands like Olive Garden, Chick-fil-A, and the recently introduced Texas Roadhouse rolls. Olive Garden dressings reached over $160 million in scanner sales.
Foodservice Segment Growth
Foodservice segment net sales grew 3%, led by higher demand from several core national chain restaurant accounts and increased sales for branded foodservice products.
Planned Acquisition for Strategic Expansion
Lancaster Colony announced the acquisition of an Atlanta-based manufacturing facility to enhance their sauce and dressing operations, supporting long-term business needs with improved operational efficiency and capacity.
Strong Financial Position
The company maintains a debt-free balance sheet with $203.1 million in cash, and returned funds to shareholders with a 6% increase in quarterly cash dividend to $0.95 per share.