UNITED NATURAL FOODS INC

Previous wording

A significant portion of our revenues are from our principal customers, and our success is heavily dependent on retaining this business and on our principal customers’ ability to maintain and grow their businesses.

Current wording

A significant portion of our revenues is from our principal customers, and our success is heavily dependent on retaining this business and on our principal customers’ ability to maintain and grow their businesses.

Previous wording

A significant portion of our revenues is from our principal customers, and our success is heavily dependent on retaining this business and on our principal customers’ ability to maintain and grow their businesses. The loss or cancellation of business from our principal customers, including due to the utilization of alternative sources of products, whether through other distributors or increased self-distribution, closures of stores, reductions in the amount of products that our customers sell to their customers, operational issues or our failure to comply with the terms of our distribution agreements, where applicable, could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. For example, our largest customer accounted for approximately 23% of our Net sales in fiscal 2024. We serve as the primary distributor of natural, organic and specialty non-perishable products, and also distribute certain specialty protein, cheese, culinary items, deli items and products from health, beauty and supplement categories to this customer under the terms of our distribution agreement, which expires on May 20, 2032. A loss or significant decrease in volume with our largest customer could impact our ability to efficiently serve other, smaller customers in these categories who utilize these distribution centers. Our ability to maintain a close, mutually beneficial relationship with our principal customers is an important element to our continued growth. Similarly, if our largest customer diverts some or all of its purchases from us, our business, financial condition or results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.

Current wording

A significant portion of our revenues is from our principal customers, and our success is heavily dependent on retaining this business and on our principal customers’ ability to maintain and grow their businesses. The loss or cancellation of business from our principal customers, including due to the utilization of alternative sources of products, whether through other distributors or increased self-distribution, closures of stores, reductions in the amount of products that our customers sell to their customers, operational issues or our failure to comply with the terms of our distribution agreements, where applicable, could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. For example, our largest customer accounted for approximately 25% of our Net sales in fiscal 2025. We serve as the primary distributor of natural, organic and specialty non-perishable products, and also distribute certain specialty protein, cheese, culinary items, deli items and products from health, beauty and supplement categories to this customer under the terms of our distribution agreement, which expires on May 20, 2032. A loss or significant decrease in volume with our largest customer could impact our ability to efficiently serve other, smaller customers in these categories who utilize these distribution centers. Our ability to maintain a close, mutually beneficial relationship with our principal customers is an important element to our continued growth. Similarly, if our largest customer diverts some or all of its purchases from us, our business, financial condition or results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.

Previous wording

Our ability to compete successfully is largely dependent on our ability to provide quality products and services at competitive prices. Our competition comes from a variety of sources, including other distributors, as well as specialty or independent grocery and mass market grocery distributors and cooperatives, and customers with their own distribution channels. Mass market grocery distributors, many with substantially greater financial and other resources than us and that may be better established in their markets, continue to increase their offerings of natural and organic products, resulting in more direct competition with our natural and organic product offerings. While natural and organic products typically generate higher margins, these margins could be affected by changes in the public’s perception of the benefits of natural and organic products compared to similar conventional products.

Current wording

Our ability to compete successfully is largely dependent on our ability to provide quality products and services at competitive prices. Our competition comes from a variety of sources, including other distributors, specialty or independent grocery distributors, mass market grocery distributors and cooperatives and customers with their own distribution channels. Mass market grocery distributors, many with substantially greater financial and other resources than us and that may be better established in their markets, continue to increase their offerings of natural and organic products, resulting in more direct competition with our natural and organic product offerings. While natural and organic products typically generate higher margins, these margins could be affected by changes in the public’s perception of the benefits of natural and organic products compared to similar conventional products.

Previous wording

The continuing consolidation of retailers, the growth of chains and closures of grocery locations may reduce our gross margins in the future should more customers qualify for greater volume discounts, and should we experience pricing pressure from suppliers and retailers. Sales to some of our largest customers generate a lower gross margin than do sales to our smaller customers due to agreements that include volume discounts with many of these customers, including our largest customer. Increased sales to these customers results in downward pressure on our gross margins, which may or may not be offset by increases in sales or a reduction in expenses incurred to service these customers.

Current wording

The continuing consolidation of retailers, the growth of chains and closures of grocery locations may reduce our gross margins in the future should more customers qualify for greater volume discounts or we experience increased pricing pressure from suppliers and retailers. Sales to some of our largest customers generate a lower gross margin than sales to our smaller customers due to agreements that include volume discounts with many of these customers, including our largest customer. Increased sales to these customers results in downward pressure on our gross margins, which may or may not be offset by increases in sales or a reduction in expenses incurred to service these customers.

Previous wording

Further, because many of our sales are at prices that are based on our product cost plus a percentage markup, volatile food costs have a direct impact upon our profitability. We have experienced volatile levels of inflation during the past few years, which has had varying impacts on our business. For example, we experienced negative impacts on our profitability as inflation slowed in recent years and decreased the positive impact of inflation-related buying activities. Prolonged periods of product cost inflation and periods of rapidly increasing inflation may have a negative impact on our profit margins and results of operations to the extent that we are unable to pass on all or a portion of such product cost increases to our customers, or to the extent our operating expenses increase. In addition, product cost inflation may negatively impact consumer discretionary spending trends and reduce the demand for higher-margin natural and organic products, which could adversely affect profitability. Conversely, our profit levels may be negatively impacted during periods of slowing inflation or product cost deflation even though our Gross profit as a percentage of Net sales may remain relatively constant. If we are unable to reduce our expenses as a percentage of Net sales, including our expenses related to servicing this lower gross margin business, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially and adversely impacted.

Current wording

Further, because many of our sales are at prices that are based on our product cost plus a percentage markup, volatile food costs have a direct impact upon our profitability. We have experienced volatile levels of inflation during the past several years, which has had varying impacts on our business. For example, we experienced negative impacts on our profitability as inflation slowed in recent years and decreased the positive impact of inflation-related buying activities. Prolonged periods of product cost inflation and periods of rapidly increasing inflation may have a negative impact on our profit margins and results of operations to the extent that we are unable to pass on all or a portion of such product cost increases to our customers, or to the extent our operating expenses increase. In addition, product cost inflation may negatively impact consumer discretionary spending trends and reduce the demand for higher-margin natural and organic products, which could adversely affect profitability. Conversely, our profit levels may be negatively impacted during periods of slowing inflation or product cost deflation even though our Gross profit as a percentage of Net sales may remain relatively constant. If we are unable to reduce our expenses as a percentage of Net sales, including our expenses related to servicing this lower gross margin business, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially and adversely impacted.

Previous wording

The majority of our suppliers are based in the United States and Canada, but we also source products from suppliers throughout the world. For the most part, we do not have long-term contracts with our suppliers committing them to provide products to us. Although our purchasing volume can provide benefits, suppliers may not provide the products needed by us in the quantities or at the prices requested. For example, we experienced higher than usual levels of out-of-stocks leading to reduced fill rates during the COVID-19 pandemic. These shortages caused us to incur higher operating expenses due to the cost of moving products between our distribution facilities to maintain expected service levels, and we cannot anticipate whether this trend will recur in the future. We are also subject to supply chain uncertainties and increases in product costs based on conditions outside of our control. These conditions include work slowdowns, work interruptions, strikes or other job actions by employees of suppliers, short-term weather conditions or more prolonged climate change, crop conditions, product recalls, water shortages, transportation interruptions, unavailability of fuel or increases in fuel costs, competitive demands, raw material shortages, geopolitical disruptions and natural disasters or other catastrophic events (including, but not limited to food-borne illnesses). As the consumer demand for natural and organic products has increased, certain retailers and other producers have entered the market and attempted to buy certain raw materials directly, limiting availability for use in certain of our suppliers’ products. In addition, increased costs of imported goods, including due to tariffs, import restrictions, global conflict or otherwise, may reduce customer demand for affected products if the parties experiencing those increased costs increase their prices.

Current wording

The majority of our suppliers are based in the United States and Canada, but we also source products from suppliers throughout the world. For the most part, we do not have long-term contracts with our suppliers committing them to provide products to us. Although our purchasing volume can provide benefits, suppliers may not provide the products needed by us in the quantities or at the prices requested. For example, we experienced higher than usual levels of out-of-stocks leading to reduced fill rates during the COVID-19 pandemic. These shortages caused us to incur higher operating expenses due to the cost of moving products between our distribution and warehouse facilities to maintain expected service levels, and we cannot anticipate whether this trend will recur in the future. We are also subject to supply chain uncertainties and increases in product costs based on conditions outside of our control, which may impact our ability to procure products efficiently. These conditions include work slowdowns, work interruptions, strikes or other job actions by employees of suppliers, challenges with workforce availability, short-term weather conditions or more prolonged climate change, crop conditions, animal diseases, product recalls, water shortages, transportation interruptions, unavailability of fuel or increases in fuel costs, competitive demands, raw material shortages, geopolitical disruptions and natural disasters or other catastrophic events (including, but not limited to food-borne illnesses). As consumer demand for natural and organic products continues to increase, certain retailers and other producers have entered the market and attempted to buy certain raw materials directly, limiting availability for use in certain of our suppliers’ products. In addition, increased costs of imported goods, including due to tariffs, import restrictions, global conflict or otherwise, may reduce customer demand for affected products if the parties experiencing those increased costs increase their prices.

Previous wording

As of August 3, 2024, approximately 10,704 of our 28,333 employees (approximately 38%) were covered by 48 collective bargaining agreements, including existing agreements under negotiation, which expire through June 1, 2029. In the event we are unable to negotiate reasonable contract renewals with our union associates or are required to make significant changes to terms that are unfavorable to us, our relationship with employees may become fractured, and we could be subject to work stoppages or additional expenses. In that event, it would be necessary for us to hire replacement workers or implement other business continuity contingency plans to continue to meet our obligations to our customers. The costs to hire replacement workers, employ effective security measures, and, if necessary, serve customers from alternative facilities, could negatively impact the profitability of any affected facility. Depending on the length of time of any work stoppage or if we are required to employ replacement workers and implement security measures these costs could be significant and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Current wording

As of August 2, 2025, approximately 10,768 of our 25,600 employees (approximately 42%) were covered by 57 collective bargaining agreements, including existing agreements under negotiation, which expire through March 22, 2030. In the event we are unable to negotiate reasonable contract renewals with our union associates or are required to make significant changes to terms that are unfavorable to us, our relationship with employees may become fractured, and we could be subject to work stoppages or additional expenses. In that event, it would be necessary for us to hire replacement workers or implement other business continuity contingency plans to continue to meet our obligations to our customers. The costs to hire replacement workers, employ effective security measures and, if necessary, serve customers from alternative facilities, could negatively impact the profitability of any affected facility. Depending on the length of time of any work stoppage or if we are required to employ replacement workers and implement security measures these costs could be significant and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Previous wording

Our future growth may be limited by our ability to optimize our network of distribution centers to serve our customers, retain existing customers, successfully integrate acquired entities or significant new customers, implement information systems and automation initiatives, or adequately manage our personnel. If we fail to optimize the volume of supply operations in our distribution center network, do not retain existing business or do not utilize added network capacity in line with our expectations, excess capacity may exist, which may lead to inefficiencies and adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations, including as a result of incurring operating costs for these facilities without sufficient corresponding sales revenue to cover these costs.

Current wording

Our future growth may be limited by our ability to optimize our distribution center network to serve our customers, retain existing customers, successfully integrate acquired entities or significant new customers, implement information systems and automation initiatives, or adequately manage our personnel. If we fail to optimize the volume of supply operations in our distribution center network, do not retain existing business or do not utilize added network capacity in line with our expectations, excess capacity may exist, which may lead to inefficiencies and adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations, including as a result of incurring operating costs for these facilities without sufficient corresponding sales revenue to cover these costs.

Previous wording

If we are unable to successfully optimize our distribution center network or open additional distribution centers in new or existing markets if needed to accommodate or facilitate growth or if our distribution centers have increased operational challenges it could have a material impact on our ability to grow. Our ability to compete effectively, maintain service levels and manage future growth, if any, will depend on our ability to maximize operational efficiencies across our distribution center network, to implement and improve on a timely basis operational, financial and management information systems, including our warehouse management systems, and to expand, train, motivate and manage our work force. Our existing personnel, systems, procedures and controls may not be adequate to support the future growth of our operations. In addition, we have recently appointed new executive leaders, and these transitions may be disruptive. Our inability to manage our growth effectively could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Current wording

If we are unable to successfully optimize our distribution center network or open additional distribution centers in new or existing markets if needed to accommodate or facilitate growth or if our distribution centers have increased operational challenges it could have a material impact on our ability to grow. Our ability to compete effectively, maintain service levels and manage future growth, if any, will depend on our ability to maximize operational efficiencies across our distribution center network, to implement and improve on a timely basis operational, financial and management information systems, including our warehouse management systems, and to expand, train, motivate and manage our work force. Our existing personnel, systems, procedures and controls may not be adequate to support the future growth of our operations. Our inability to manage our growth effectively could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Previous wording

Our wholesale distribution and services businesses could be adversely affected if we are not able to attract new customers, increase sales to or retain existing customers or if our customers are unable to grow their businesses.

Current wording

Our Conventional and Natural businesses could be adversely affected if we are not able to attract new customers, increase sales to or retain existing customers or if our customers are unable to grow their businesses.

Previous wording

The profitability of our wholesale segment is dependent upon sufficient volume to support our operating infrastructure. The inability to attract new customers or the loss of existing customers from a decision to use alternative sources of distribution, whether through a competing wholesaler or by converting to self-distribution, or due to retail closure or industry consolidation may negatively impact our sales and operating margins. If there were a rapid reduction in demand for the products we distribute or services we offer, our results and cash flows may be negatively impacted if we are unable to reduce working capital maintained to support current sales levels.

Current wording

The profitability of our Natural and Conventional businesses is dependent upon sufficient volume to support our operating infrastructure. The inability to attract new customers or the loss of existing customers from a decision to use alternative sources of distribution, whether through a competing wholesaler or by converting to self-distribution, or due to retail closure or industry consolidation may negatively impact our sales and operating margins. If there were a rapid reduction in demand for the products we distribute or services we offer, our results and cash flows may be negatively impacted if we are unable to reduce working capital maintained to support current sales levels.

Previous wording

Our success also depends in part on the financial success and cooperation of our wholesale customers. They may not experience an acceptable level of sales or profitability, and our revenues and gross margins could be negatively affected as a result. We may also need to extend credit to our wholesale customers. While we seek to obtain security interests and other credit support in connection with the financial accommodations we extend, such collateral may not be sufficient to cover our exposure. Additionally, in the past we have entered into wholesale customer support arrangements to guaranty or subsidize real estate obligations, which make us contingently liable in the event our wholesale customers default. If sales trends or profitability worsen for wholesale customers, their financial results may deteriorate, which could result in, among other things, lost business for us, delayed or reduced payments to us or defaults on payments or other liabilities owed by wholesale customers to us, any of which could adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations, as well as our ability to grow our wholesale business. In this regard, our wholesale customers are affected by the same economic conditions, including food inflation and deflation, and competition that our retail segment faces. The magnitude of these risks increases as the size of our wholesale customers increases.

Current wording

Our success also depends in part on the financial success and cooperation of our wholesale customers. They may not experience an acceptable level of sales or profitability, and our revenues and gross margins could be negatively affected as a result. We may also need to extend credit to our wholesale customers. While we seek to obtain security interests and other credit support in connection with the financial accommodations we extend, such collateral may not be sufficient to cover our exposure. Additionally, in the past we have entered into wholesale customer support arrangements to guaranty or subsidize real estate obligations, which make us contingently liable in the event our wholesale customers default. If sales trends or profitability worsen for wholesale customers, their financial results may deteriorate, which could result in, among other things, lost business for us, delayed or reduced payments to us or defaults on payments or other liabilities owed by wholesale customers to us, any of which could adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations, as well as our ability to grow our Natural and Conventional businesses. In this regard, our wholesale customers are affected by the same economic conditions, including food inflation and deflation, and competition that our Retail segment faces. The magnitude of these risks increases as the size of our wholesale customers increases.

Previous wording

Many of our wholesale customers buy from us under purchase orders, and we generally do not have written agreements with or long-term commitments from these customers for the purchase of products. We cannot assure you that these customers will maintain or increase their orders for the products supplied by us or that we will be able to maintain or add to our existing customer base. Decreases in volumes or orders for products supplied by us for these customers with whom we do not have a long-term contract may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Current wording

Many of our wholesale customers buy from us under purchase orders, and we generally do not have written agreements with or long-term commitments from these customers for the purchase of products. These customers may not maintain or increase their orders for the products supplied by us, and we may not be able to maintain or add to our existing customer base. Decreases in volumes or orders for products supplied by us for these customers with whom we do not have a long-term contract may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Previous wording

The efficient operation of our businesses is highly dependent on computer hardware and software systems, including customized information technology systems. Additionally, our businesses increasingly involve the receipt, storage and transmission of sensitive data, including personal information about our customers, employees, and vendors and our proprietary business information. We also share information with vendors. Information technology systems are vulnerable to not functioning as designed and to disruptions and security breaches by computer hackers and cyber terrorists, which risks may be more pronounced as associates continue to work remotely.

Current wording

The efficient operation of our businesses is highly dependent on computer hardware and software systems, including customized information technology systems. Additionally, our businesses increasingly involve the receipt, storage and transmission of sensitive data, including personal information about our customers, employees and vendors and our proprietary business information. Our information technology systems and those of our customers, business partners, suppliers, and third-party providers have been, and will continue to be, subject to cyberthreats such as computer viruses or other malicious codes, security breaches, ransomware, unauthorized access attempts, business email compromise, cyber extortion, denial of service attacks, phishing, deepfakes, social engineering, unintentional or malicious actions of employees or contractors, hacking and other cyberattacks attempting to exploit vulnerabilities by hackers, criminal groups, nation-states and nation-state-sponsored organizations and social-activist organizations, which risks may be more pronounced as associates continue to work remotely. We have seen and may continue to see an increase in the number of such attacks. For example, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025, we experienced the Cybersecurity Incident, which temporarily disrupted our business and impacted our results of operations. For further information regarding the Cybersecurity Incident, see “Cybersecurity” in Item 1C of Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” in Item 7 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Previous wording

Although we continue to take actions to strengthen the security of our information technology systems, these measures and technology may not adequately anticipate or prevent security breaches in the future or we may not be able to timely implement these measures and technology. Cyber-attacks are rapidly evolving and becoming increasingly frequent, sophisticated and difficult to detect. The failure to promptly detect, determine the extent of, appropriately respond to, and contain a significant data security attack or breach of our systems or any third-party system used by us could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition or results of operations. Any such failure also could result in the loss of credibility with our customers and damage to our reputation and future sales, including through negative publicity. In addition, the unavailability of information technology systems or failure of these systems or software to perform as anticipated for any reason, including a ransomware attack, and any inability to respond to, or recover from, such an event, could disrupt our business, impact our customers and result in decreased performance, increased overhead costs and increased risk for liability, causing our business and results of operations to suffer.

Current wording

The rapid evolution and increased adoption of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, may also increase the frequency and magnitude of cyberattacks on the Company and amplify our cybersecurity risks. Our security efforts and the security efforts of our third-party providers may not prevent or timely detect future attacks and resulting breaches or breakdowns of our databases or systems. The unavailability of information technology systems or failure of these systems or software to perform as anticipated for any reason, including a ransomware attack, and any inability to respond to, or recover from, such an event on a timely basis, could disrupt our ability to manage or conduct our business, impact our customers and result in decreased performance, reputational harm, governmental fines, penalties, regulatory proceedings, increased overhead costs and increased risk for liability, causing our business and results of operations to suffer.

Previous wording

Additionally, certain multiemployer pension plans in which we participate are underfunded with the projected benefit obligations exceeding the fair value of those plans’ assets, in certain cases, by a wide margin. If a withdrawal were to occur, the withdrawal liability from our multiemployer plans could be material, our efforts to mitigate these liabilities may not be successful, and potential exposure to withdrawal liabilities could cause us to forgo or negatively impact our ability to enter into other business opportunities. Some of these plans have required rehabilitation plans or funding improvement plans, and we can give no assurances of the extent to which a rehabilitation plan or a funding improvement plan will improve the funded status of the plan. It is possible that increases of unfunded liabilities of the multiemployer pension plans would result in increased future payments by us and the other participating employers over the next several years. Any changes to our pension plans that would impact associates covered by collective bargaining agreements will be subject to negotiation, which may limit our ability to manage our exposure to these plans. A significant increase to funding requirements could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows. The financial condition of these pension plans may also negatively impact our debt ratings, which may increase the cost of borrowing or adversely affect our ability to access financial markets.

Current wording

Additionally, certain multiemployer pension plans in which we participate are underfunded with the projected benefit obligations exceeding the fair value of those plans’ assets, in certain cases, by a wide margin. If a withdrawal were to occur for any reason, the withdrawal liability from our multiemployer plans could be material, our efforts to mitigate these liabilities may not be successful, and potential exposure to withdrawal liabilities could cause us to forgo or negatively impact our ability to enter into other business opportunities. Some of these plans have required rehabilitation plans or funding improvement plans, and we can give no assurances of the extent to which a rehabilitation plan or a funding improvement plan will improve the funded status of the plan. It is possible that increases of unfunded liabilities of the multiemployer pension plans would result in increased future payments by us and the other participating employers over the next several years. Any changes to our pension plans that would impact associates covered by collective bargaining agreements will be subject to negotiation, which may limit our ability to manage our exposure to these plans. A significant increase to funding requirements could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. The financial condition of these pension plans may also negatively impact our debt ratings, which may increase the cost of borrowing or adversely affect our ability to access financial markets.

Previous wording

Our insurance and self-insurance programs may not be adequate to cover future claims.

Current wording

Our insurance and self-insurance programs may not be adequate to cover our claims.

Previous wording

We estimate the liabilities and required reserves associated with the risks we retain. Any such estimates and actuarial projection of losses is subject to a considerable degree of variability. Among the causes of this variability are changes in benefit levels, medical fee schedules, medical utilization guidelines, severity of injuries and accidents, vocation rehabilitation and apportionment and unpredictable external factors affecting inflation rates, discount rates, rising healthcare costs, litigation trends, legal interpretations, and actual claim settlement patterns. If actual losses incurred are greater than those anticipated, our reserves may be insufficient and additional costs could be recorded in our consolidated financial statements. If we suffer a substantial loss that exceeds our self-insurance reserves and any excess insurance coverage, the loss and attendant expenses could harm our business, financial condition, or results of operations.

Current wording

We estimate the liabilities and required reserves associated with the risks we retain. Any such estimates and actuarial projection of losses is subject to a considerable degree of variability. Among the causes of this variability are changes in benefit levels, medical fee schedules, medical utilization guidelines, severity of injuries and accidents, vocation rehabilitation and apportionment and unpredictable external factors affecting inflation rates, discount rates, rising healthcare costs, litigation trends, legal interpretations, and actual claim settlement patterns. If actual losses incurred are greater than those anticipated, our reserves may be insufficient and additional costs could be recorded in our consolidated financial statements. If we suffer a substantial loss that exceeds our self-insurance reserves and any excess insurance coverage or is excluded under the terms of our insurance policies, the loss and attendant expenses could harm our business, financial condition, or results of operations.

Previous wording

Historically, acquisitions and capital expenditures have been a large component of our growth. We anticipate that capital expenditures will continue to be, and acquisitions may be, important to our growth in the future. As a result, increases in the cost of capital available to us, which could result from volatility in the credit markets, downgrades of our credit ratings, our not being in compliance with restrictive covenants under our debt agreements or our inability to access additional capital to finance acquisitions and capital expenditures through borrowed funds could restrict our ability to grow our business organically or through acquisitions, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Current wording

Historically, capital expenditures and acquisitions have been large components of our growth may be important to our growth in the future. As a result, increases in the cost of capital available to us, which could result from volatility in the credit markets, downgrades of our credit ratings, our not being in compliance with restrictive covenants under our debt agreements or our inability to access additional capital to finance acquisitions and capital expenditures through borrowed funds could restrict our ability to grow our business organically or through acquisitions, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Previous wording

Our debt agreements, including the loan agreement (the “ABL Loan Agreement”) related to our $2,730 million asset-based revolving credit facility (the “ABL Credit Facility”) entered into in June 2022, as amended, and the term loan agreement (the “Term Loan Agreement”) related to our $500 million term loan facility (the “Term Loan Facility”) entered into on October 22, 2018, as amended, and the indenture governing our unsecured 6.750% Senior Notes due October 15, 2028 (the “Senior Notes”) contain financial covenants and other restrictions that limit our operating flexibility and our flexibility in planning for or reacting to changes in our business. These restrictions may prevent us from taking actions that we believe would be in the best interest of our business if we were not subject to these limitations and may make it difficult for us to successfully execute our business strategy or effectively compete with companies that are not similarly restricted.

Current wording

Our debt agreements, including the loan agreement (the “ABL Loan Agreement”) related to our $2,730 million asset-based revolving credit facility (the “ABL Credit Facility”) entered into in June 2022, as amended, and the term loan agreement (the “Term Loan Agreement”) related to our $500 million term loan facility (the “Term Loan Facility”) entered into on October 22, 2018, as amended, and the indenture governing our $500 million unsecured 6.750% Senior Notes due October 15, 2028 (the “Senior Notes”) contain financial covenants and other restrictions that limit our operating flexibility and our flexibility in planning for or reacting to changes in our business. These restrictions may prevent us from taking actions that we believe would be in the best interest of our business if we were not subject to these limitations and may make it difficult for us to successfully execute our business strategy or effectively compete with companies that are not similarly restricted.

Previous wording

Responding to such actions by activist investors can be costly and time-consuming, disruptive to our operations and divert the attention of management, our Board of Directors and our employees, and our ability to execute our strategic plan could also be impaired as a result. For example, we have been required to retain the services of various professionals to advise us on activist stockholder matters, including legal, financial and other advisory fees. In the event of an activist campaign, we could be required to incur substantially increased legal, public relations and other advisory fees and proxy solicitation expenses. In addition, perceived uncertainties as to our future direction, strategy or leadership created as a consequence of activist investors may result in the loss of potential business opportunities, harm our ability to attract new or retain existing investors, customers, directors, employees, collaborators or other partners, disrupt relationships with the Company, and the market price of our common stock could also experience periods of increased volatility as a result.

Current wording

Responding to such actions by activist investors can be costly and time-consuming, disruptive to our operations and divert the attention of management, our Board of Directors and our employees, and our ability to execute our strategic plan could also be impaired as a result. For example, we have in the past retained the services of various professionals to advise us on activist stockholder matters, including legal, financial and other advisory fees. In the event of an activist campaign, we could be required to incur substantially increased legal, public relations and other advisory fees and proxy solicitation expenses. In addition, perceived uncertainties as to our future direction, strategy or leadership created as a consequence of activist investors may result in the loss of potential business opportunities, harm our ability to attract new or retain existing investors, customers, directors, employees, collaborators or other partners, disrupt relationships with the Company, and the market price of our common stock could also experience periods of increased volatility as a result.

Previous wording

Changes in consumer purchasing habits may reduce demand for certain of the products we distribute. Consumer habits could be affected by a number of factors, including an increase in food-away-from home options, changes in attitudes regarding benefits of natural and organic products when compared to similar lower margin conventional products, new information regarding the health effects of consuming certain foods, changes in disposable income levels, which may be impacted by a reduction in the level of government spending that supports grocery purchases, or other macro trends. For example, we experienced declines in certain of our sales channels as a result of changes in consumer purchasing habits related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including reductions in foodservice, bulk snacks, seeds and nuts and international categories, and we cannot be certain how consumer habits may continue to evolve. Further, in a sustained economic downturn, consumers may shift their purchases to lower-cost, lower-margin products. Although there is a growing consumer preference for sustainable, organic and locally grown products, which are higher margin products, there can be no assurance that such trend will continue. Changing consumer preferences also result from generational shifts, including younger generations seeking new and different foods, as well as more multi-cultural menu options and menu innovation. However, there can be no assurance that such trends will continue. If consumer eating habits change significantly, we may be required to modify or discontinue sales of certain items in our product portfolio, and we may experience higher costs associated with the implementation of those changes. Additionally, if we are not able to effectively respond to changes in consumer perceptions or adapt our product offerings to new or developing trends in eating habits, our business, financial condition, or results of operations could suffer.

Current wording

Changes in consumer purchasing habits may reduce demand for certain of the products we distribute. Consumer habits could be affected by a number of factors, including an increase in food-away-from home options, changes in attitudes regarding benefits of natural and organic products when compared to similar lower margin conventional products, new information regarding the health effects of consuming certain foods, changes in disposable income levels, which may be impacted by a reduction in the level of government spending that supports grocery purchases, changes in product prices or other macro trends. Further, in a sustained economic downturn, consumers may shift their purchases to lower-cost, lower-margin products. For example, recent price changes have shifted consumer purchasing habits toward value-oriented categories and private brands, while dampening demand for certain discretionary and higher-margin products, a dynamic that continues to shape both retailer mix and wholesale distribution. We cannot be certain how consumer habits may continue to evolve. Although there is a growing consumer preference for sustainable, organic and locally grown products, which are higher margin products, there can be no assurance that such trend will continue. Changing consumer preferences also result from generational shifts, including younger generations seeking new and different foods, as well as more multi-cultural menu options and menu innovation. However, there can be no assurance that such trends will continue. If consumer eating habits change significantly, we may be required to modify or discontinue sales of certain items in our product portfolio, and we may experience higher costs associated with the implementation of those changes. Additionally, if we are not able to effectively respond to changes in consumer perceptions or adapt our product offerings to new or developing trends in eating habits, our business, financial condition, or results of operations could suffer.

Previous wording

As of August 3, 2024, we had approximately $2.1 billion of long-term debt outstanding. Our leverage, and any increase therein, could have important potential consequences, including, but not limited to:

Current wording

As of August 2, 2025, we had approximately $1.9 billion of long-term debt outstanding. Our leverage, and any increase therein, could have important potential consequences, including, but not limited to:

Previous wording

Environmental, Health and Safety: Our operations are subject to extensive and increasingly stringent laws and regulations pertaining to the protection of the environment, including those relating to the discharge of materials into the environment, the disposal of food by-products, the handling, treatment, and disposal of wastes, maintenance of refrigeration systems, and remediation of soil and groundwater contamination. Compliance with existing or changing environmental and safety requirements, including more stringent limitations imposed or expected to be imposed in any recently renewed or soon-to-be renewed environmental permits, may require capital expenditures. Additionally, concern over climate change, including the impact of global warming, has led to significant United States and international legislative and regulatory efforts to limit greenhouse gas emissions. Increased regulation regarding greenhouse gas emissions, particularly with respect to diesel engine emissions, could result in substantial additional operating expenses. These expenses may include an increase in the cost of the fuel and other energy we purchase and capital costs associated with updating or replacing our vehicles sooner than planned. Until the timing, scope and extent of such regulation becomes known, we cannot predict its effect on our results of operations. It is reasonably possible, however, that it could result in material costs, which we may be unable to pass on to our customers.

Current wording

Environmental, Health and Safety: Our operations are subject to extensive and continually evolving laws and regulations pertaining to the protection of the environment, including those relating to the discharge of materials into the environment, the disposal of food by-products, recycling/end of life product management, the handling, treatment, and disposal of wastes, maintenance of refrigeration systems, and remediation of soil and groundwater contamination. Compliance with existing or changing environmental and safety requirements, including more stringent limitations imposed or expected to be imposed in any recently renewed or soon-to-be renewed environmental permits, may require capital expenditures. Additionally, concern over climate change, including the impact of global warming, has led to significant United States and international legislative and regulatory efforts to limit greenhouse gas emissions. Increased regulation regarding greenhouse gas emissions, particularly with respect to diesel engine emissions, could result in substantial additional operating expenses. These expenses may include an increase in the cost of the fuel and other energy we purchase and capital costs associated with updating or replacing our vehicles sooner than planned. Until the timing, scope and extent of such regulation becomes known, we cannot predict its effect on our results of operations. It is reasonably possible, however, that it could result in material costs, which we may be unable to pass on to our customers.

Previous wording

Wage Rates and Paid Leave: Changes in federal, state or local minimum wage and overtime laws or employee paid leave laws could cause us to incur additional wage costs, which could adversely affect our operating margins. Failure to comply with existing or new laws or regulations could result in significant damages, penalties and/or litigation costs.

Current wording

Wage Rates and Paid Leave: Changes in federal, state or local minimum wage and overtime laws, laws relating to work productivity or employee paid leave laws could cause us to incur additional wage costs or state/local employment tax costs, which could adversely affect our operating margins. Failure to comply with existing or new laws or regulations could result in significant damages, penalties and/or litigation costs.