General Mills (NYSE:GIS) delivered stronger-than-expected second-quarter results, with adjusted earnings per share of $1.40 surpassing analyst estimates of $1.22. Revenue rose 2% year-over-year to $5.2 billion, beating the forecasted $5.14 billion. However, despite the solid quarterly performance, shares dipped more than 4% as the company reduced its full-year profit outlook.
The company now anticipates adjusted operating profit to decline 2–4% in constant currency, a revision from its prior guidance of flat to down 2%. The adjustment reflected rising promotional investments and additional challenges expected in the second half of the fiscal year.
While the company achieved progress in key areas, such as accelerating volume growth and returning its North America Pet business to positive growth, the outlook for organic net sales growth in fiscal 2025 narrowed to the lower end of the 0–1% range. Adjusted earnings per share are now projected to decline 1–3% in constant currency, down from the earlier guidance of -1% to +1%.
Second-quarter results were bolstered by temporary factors, including increased retailer inventories, which are expected to reverse in the latter half of the year. Performance varied across segments, with flat sales in North America Retail and a 5% sales increase in the North America Pet business.
Despite progress in several areas, General Mills faces headwinds in maintaining momentum, with the updated guidance reflecting the challenges ahead.