Post Holdings (POST) Q3 2026 earnings summary

Executive summary

• Third quarter net sales were $1.95 billion, down 1.8% year-over-year, with operating profit of $189.3 million and net earnings of $63.4 million, both declining from the prior year period.

• Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $377.3 million, down 5.0% year-over-year; nine-month Adjusted EBITDA rose 6.9% to $1.19 billion.

• Fiscal 2026 Adjusted EBITDA guidance was narrowed to $1,560–$1,570 million, with preliminary 2027 outlook expected to be flat at around $1.48 billion after adjusting for non-recurring items.

• Major acquisitions included the full purchase of 8th Avenue and Potato Products of Idaho; divestitures included the sale of the Pasta and Crystal Farms businesses.

• Third quarter results slightly exceeded expectations, mainly due to stronger food service performance.

Financial highlights

• Gross profit for the quarter was $566.3 million (29.1% margin), down from $596.2 million year-over-year.

• Net earnings for the quarter fell 41.7% to $63.4 million; diluted EPS was $1.29, down from $1.79.

• Repurchased 4% of outstanding shares in the quarter, totaling a 17% reduction year-to-date.

• Interest expense increased 22% year-over-year for both the quarter and nine months, reflecting higher debt levels and rates.

• Cash flow from operations for the nine months was $691.3 million; cash used in financing activities was $766.5 million, mainly due to debt repayments and share repurchases.

Outlook and guidance

• Fiscal 2027 adjusted EBITDA expected to be flat versus the comparable 2026 base of $1.48 billion, after adjusting for non-recurring and comparability items.

• Targeted pricing actions, cost savings, and food service margin growth are expected to offset inflation and volume pressures.

• CapEx for fiscal 2026 projected at $370–$390 million, with potential for additional investment in network optimization.

• Management expects continued inflationary and input cost pressures, with some easing in certain areas.

• The company believes it has sufficient liquidity and cash on hand to meet foreseeable capital needs.