Kraft Heinz Co

Previous wording

See below for discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations for 2023 compared to 2022. See Item 7, Management’s Discussions and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 for a detailed discussion of our financial condition and results of operations for 2022 compared to 2021.

Current wording

See below for discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations for 2024 compared to 2023 and for 2023 compared to 2022.

Previous wording

During the fourth quarter of 2023, certain organizational changes were announced that are expected to impact our future internal reporting and reportable segments. We expect to divide our International segment into three operating segments — Europe and Pacific Developed Markets (“EPDM” or “International Developed Markets”), West and East Emerging Markets (“WEEM”), and Asia Emerging Markets (“AEM”) — in order to enable enhanced focus on the different strategies required for each of these regions as part of our long-term strategic plan.

Current wording

In the first quarter of 2024, we divided our International segment into three operating segments — Europe and Pacific Developed Markets (“EPDM” or “International Developed Markets”), West and East Emerging Markets (“WEEM”), and Asia Emerging Markets (“AEM”) — to enable enhanced focus on the different strategies required for each of these regions as part of our long-term strategic plan. Subsequently, we manage our operating results through four operating segments. We have two reportable segments defined by geographic region: North America and International Developed Markets. Our remaining operating segments, consisting of WEEM and AEM, are combined and disclosed as Emerging Markets.

Previous wording

Our results of operations reflect goodwill impairment losses of $510 million and intangible asset impairment losses of $152 million in 2023 compared to goodwill impairment losses of $444 million, intangible asset impairment losses of $469 million, and net property, plant, and equipment asset impairment losses of $86 million in 2022. See Note 4, Acquisitions and Divestitures, and Note 8, Goodwill and Intangible Assets, in Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, for additional information on these impairment losses.

Current wording

Our results of operations reflect goodwill impairment losses of $1.6 billion and intangible asset impairment losses of $2.0 billion in 2024. We recognized goodwill impairment losses of $510 million and intangible asset impairment losses of $152 million in 2023. We recognized goodwill impairment losses of $444 million, intangible asset impairment losses of $469 million, and net property, and plant, and equipment asset impairment losses of $86 million in 2022. See Note 8, Goodwill and Intangible Assets, in Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, for additional information on our goodwill and intangible asset impairment losses.

Previous wording

We operate on a 52- or 53-week fiscal year ending on the last Saturday in December in each calendar year. Our 2023 fiscal year was a 52-week period that ended on December 30, 2023. Our 2022 fiscal year was a 53-week period that ended on December 31, 2022.

Current wording

We operate on a 52- or 53-week fiscal year ending on the last Saturday in December in each calendar year. Our 2024 fiscal year was a 52-week period that ended on December 28, 2024, our 2023 fiscal year was a 52-week period that ended on December 30, 2023, and our 2022 fiscal year was a 53-week period that ended on December 31, 2022.

Previous wording

During the year ended December 30, 2023, we experienced increased supply chain costs, including procurement, and manufacturing costs, largely due to inflationary pressures concentrated in the first half of the year, as compared to the prior year period. While these costs have a negative impact on our results of operations, we have taken measures to mitigate the impact of this inflation through pricing actions, efficiency gains, and hedging strategies. However, there has been, and we expect that there could continue to be, a difference between the timing of when these beneficial actions impact our results of operations and when the cost inflation is incurred. Additionally, the pricing actions we have taken have, in some instances, negatively impacted, and could continue to negatively impact, our market share.

Current wording

During the year ended December 28, 2024, we experienced moderate inflation in our supply chain costs compared to the prior year period, which we expect to continue through 2025. While inflationary pressures within procurement, manufacturing, and logistics costs had a negative impact on our results of operations, we experienced increased stability of these costs as compared to the prior year period. Further, we continue to take measures to mitigate the impact of this inflation through efficiency initiatives, pricing actions, and hedging strategies. However, there has been, and we expect that there could continue to be, a difference between the timing of when these beneficial actions impact our results of operations and when the cost inflation is incurred. Additionally, the pricing actions we have taken have, in some instances, negatively impacted, and could continue to negatively impact, our market share.

Previous wording

Net sales increased 0.6% to $26.6 billion in 2023 compared to $26.5 billion in 2022, including the unfavorable impacts of lapping a 53rd week of shipments in the prior period (1.8 pp), foreign currency (0.9 pp), and acquisitions and divestitures (0.1 pp). Organic Net Sales increased 3.4% to $26.8 billion in 2023 compared to $25.9 billion in 2022, primarily driven by higher pricing (8.9 pp), which more than offset unfavorable volume/mix (5.5 pp). Pricing was higher in both segments, while volume/mix was unfavorable in both segments.

Current wording

Net sales increased 0.6% to $26.6 billion in 2023 compared to $26.5 billion in 2022, including the unfavorable impacts of lapping a 53rd week of shipments in the prior period (1.8 pp), foreign currency (0.9 pp), and acquisitions and divestitures (0.1 pp). Organic Net Sales increased 3.4% to $26.8 billion in 2023 compared to $25.9 billion in 2022, primarily driven by higher pricing (8.9 pp), which more than offset unfavorable volume/mix (5.5 pp). Pricing was higher in all segments. Volume/mix in North America and International Developed Markets was unfavorable, while volume/mix in Emerging Markets was favorable.

Previous wording

Operating income/(loss) increased 25.8% to $4.6 billion in 2023 compared to $3.6 billion in 2022, primarily driven by higher pricing, efficiency gains, lower non-cash impairment losses in the current year period, and the impact of the securities class action lawsuit in the prior year period. These impacts more than offset higher commodity costs, including the impact of realized and unrealized gains and losses on commodity hedges; higher supply chain costs, reflecting inflationary pressure in manufacturing and procurement costs; unfavorable volume/mix; increased selling, general and administrative expenses (“SG&A”), particularly advertising expenses; and the decrease from lapping a 53rd week of shipments in the prior period.

Current wording

Operating income/(loss) increased 25.8% to $4.6 billion in 2023 compared to $3.6 billion in 2022, primarily driven by higher pricing, the beneficial impact from our efficiency initiatives, lower non-cash impairment losses in the current year period ($251 million), and the impact of the securities class action lawsuit in the prior year period. These favorable impacts to operating income/(loss) were partially offset by higher commodity costs, including the impact of realized and unrealized gains and losses on commodity hedges, higher supply chain costs, reflecting inflationary pressure in manufacturing and procurement costs, unfavorable volume/mix, increased SG&A primarily for advertising expenses, and the decrease from lapping a 53rd week of shipments in the prior period.

Previous wording

•Our effective tax rate was 21.7% in 2023 compared to 20.2% in 2022. Our 2023 effective tax rate was favorably impacted by the geographic mix of pre-tax income in various non-U.S. jurisdictions. These impacts were partially offset by the impact of certain unfavorable rate reconciling items, primarily non-deductible goodwill impairments and the impact of the federal tax on global intangible low-taxed income (“GILTI”). Our 2022 effective tax rate was impacted by the favorable geographic mix of pre-tax income in various non-U.S. jurisdictions and certain favorable items, primarily the decrease in deferred tax liabilities due to the merger of certain foreign entities, the revaluation of deferred tax balances due to changes in state tax laws, and changes in estimates of certain 2021 U.S. income and deductions. This impact was partially offset by the impact of certain unfavorable items, primarily non-deductible goodwill impairments, the impact of the federal tax on GILTI, and the establishment of uncertain tax positions and valuation allowance reserves. The year-over-year increase in the effective tax rate was due primarily to the decrease in deferred tax liabilities due to the merger of certain foreign entities and the revaluation of deferred tax balances due to changes in state tax laws in the prior year versus the current year.

Current wording

•Our effective tax rate was 21.7% in 2023 compared to 20.2% in 2022. The year-over-year increase in the effective tax rate was due primarily to the decrease in deferred tax liabilities due to the merger of certain foreign entities and the revaluation of deferred tax balances due to changes in state tax laws in the prior year versus the current year.

Previous wording

•Other expense/(income) was $27 million of expense in 2023 compared to $253 million of income in 2022. This change was primarily driven by a $67 million net pension and postretirement non-service costs in 2023 compared to a $135 million net pension and postretirement non-service benefit in 2022 due in part to the settlement of one of our U.K. defined benefit pension plans, which resulted in pre-tax losses of $162 million. Further, additional changes in other expense/(income) were driven by a $73 million net foreign exchange loss in 2023 compared to a $106 million net foreign exchange gain in 2022, and a $21 million decrease in gain on sale of businesses. These impacts were partially offset by a $59 million net gain on derivative activities in 2023 compared to an $50 million net loss on derivative activities in 2022, and a $13 million increase in interest income as compared to the prior year period.

Current wording

•Other expense/(income) was $27 million of expense in 2023 compared to $253 million of income in 2022. This change was primarily driven by $202 million of unfavorable changes in net pension and postretirement non-service cost/(benefit) due, in part, to the settlement of one of our U.K. defined benefit pension plans, which resulted in pre-tax losses of $162 million in 2023. Further, additional changes in other expense/(income) were driven by $179 million of unfavorable changes in foreign exchange losses/(gains). These unfavorable impacts to other expense/(income) were partially offset by $109 million of favorable changes in derivative losses/(gains).

Previous wording

Adjusted EBITDA increased 5.1% to $6.3 billion in 2023 compared to $6.0 billion in 2022, primarily due to higher pricing and efficiency gains, which more than offset higher commodity costs, including the impact of realized gains and losses on commodity hedges; higher supply chain costs, reflecting inflationary pressure in manufacturing, procurement, and logistics; unfavorable volume/mix; increased SG&A, particularly in advertising expenses; the decrease from lapping a 53rd week of shipments in the prior period (2.1 pp); and the unfavorable impact of foreign currency (0.9 pp).

Current wording

Adjusted Operating Income increased 6.2% to $5.3 billion in 2023 compared to $5.0 billion in 2022, primarily due to higher pricing and the beneficial impact from our efficiency initiatives, which more than offset higher commodity costs, including the impact of realized gains and losses on commodity hedges; higher supply chain costs, reflecting inflationary pressure in manufacturing, procurement, and logistics; unfavorable volume/mix; increased SG&A, primarily advertising expenses; the decrease from lapping a 53rd week of shipments in the prior period (2.2 pp); and the unfavorable impact of foreign currency (1.2 pp).

Previous wording

Adjusted EPS increased 7.2% to $2.98 in 2023 compared to $2.78 in 2022 primarily driven by higher Adjusted EBITDA and lower interest expense, which more than offset the decrease from lapping a 53rd week of shipments in the prior period, unfavorable changes in other expense/(income), and higher taxes on adjusted earnings.

Current wording

Adjusted EPS increased 7.2% to $2.98 in 2023 compared to $2.78 in 2022, primarily driven by higher Adjusted Operating Income and lower interest expense, which more than offset the decrease from lapping a 53rd week of shipments in the prior period, unfavorable changes in other expense/(income), and higher taxes on adjusted earnings.

Previous wording

We manage and report our operating results through two reportable segments defined by geographic region: North America and International.

Current wording

We manage our operating results through four operating segments. We have two reportable segments defined by geographic region: North America and International Developed Markets. Our remaining operating segments, consisting of WEEM and AEM, are combined and disclosed as Emerging Markets.

Previous wording

Management evaluates segment performance based on several factors, including net sales, Organic Net Sales, and Segment Adjusted EBITDA. Segment Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income/(loss) from continuing operations before interest expense, other expense/(income), provision for/(benefit from) income taxes, and depreciation and amortization (excluding restructuring activities); in addition to these adjustments, we exclude, when they occur, the impacts of divestiture-related license income, restructuring activities, deal costs, unrealized gains/(losses) on commodity hedges (the unrealized gains and losses are recorded in general corporate expenses until realized; once realized, the gains and losses are recorded in the applicable segment’s operating results), impairment losses, certain non-ordinary course legal and regulatory matters, and equity award compensation expense (excluding restructuring activities). Segment Adjusted EBITDA is a tool that can assist management and investors in comparing our performance on a consistent basis by removing the impact of certain items that management believes do not directly reflect our underlying operations. Management also uses Segment Adjusted EBITDA to allocate resources.

Current wording

Management evaluates segment performance based on several factors, including net sales, Organic Net Sales, and Segment Adjusted Operating Income. In the first quarter of 2024, certain measures utilized by management to evaluate segment performance changed, including a change from Segment Adjusted EBITDA to Segment Adjusted Operating Income in order to drive a stronger connection to our long-term strategic plan. Segment Adjusted Operating Income is defined as operating income/(loss) excluding, when they occur, the impacts of restructuring activities, deal costs, unrealized gains/(losses) on commodity hedges (the unrealized gains and losses are recorded in general corporate expenses until realized; once realized, the gains and losses are recorded in the applicable segment’s operating results), impairment losses, and certain non-ordinary course legal and regulatory matters. Segment Adjusted Operating Income for Emerging Markets, which represents the aggregation of our WEEM and AEM operating segments, is defined and presented consistently with the Segment Adjusted Operating Income of our reportable segments — North America and International Developed Markets. Segment Adjusted Operating Income is a financial measure that can assist management and investors in comparing our performance on a consistent basis by removing the impact of certain items that management believes do not directly reflect our underlying operations. Management also uses Segment Adjusted Operating Income to allocate resources. We have reflected this change from Segment Adjusted EBITDA to Segment Adjusted Operating Income in all historical periods presented.

Previous wording

Under highly inflationary accounting, the financial statements of a subsidiary are remeasured into our reporting currency (U.S. dollars) based on the legally available exchange rate at which we expect to settle the underlying transactions. Exchange gains and losses from the remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities are reflected in other expense/(income) on our consolidated statement of income, as nonmonetary currency devaluation, rather than accumulated other comprehensive income/(losses) on our consolidated balance sheet, until such time as the economy is no longer considered highly inflationary. See Note 2, Significant Accounting Policies, in Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, for additional information. We apply highly inflationary accounting to the results of our subsidiaries in Venezuela, Argentina, and Turkey, which are all in our International segment.

Current wording

Under highly inflationary accounting, the financial statements of a subsidiary are remeasured into our reporting currency (U.S. dollars) based on the legally available exchange rate at which we expect to settle the underlying transactions. Exchange gains and losses from the remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities are reflected in other expense/(income) on our consolidated statement of income, as nonmonetary currency devaluation, rather than accumulated other comprehensive income/(losses) on our consolidated balance sheet, until such time as the economy is no longer considered highly inflationary. See Note 2, Significant Accounting Policies, in Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, for additional information. We apply highly inflationary accounting to the results of our subsidiaries in Venezuela, Argentina, Turkey, Egypt, and Nigeria, which are all in Emerging Markets.

Previous wording

Segment Adjusted EBITDA increased 6.0% to $5.6 billion in 2023 compared to $5.3 billion in 2022, primarily due to higher pricing and efficiency gains, which more than offset higher commodity costs, including the impact of realized gains and losses on commodity hedges; unfavorable volume/mix; higher supply chain costs, reflecting inflationary pressure in manufacturing costs; increased SG&A, particularly advertising expenses; the decrease from lapping a 53rd week of shipments in the prior period (2.2 pp); and the unfavorable impact of foreign currency (0.3 pp).

Current wording

Segment Adjusted Operating Income increased 6.7% to $5.1 billion in 2023 compared to $4.7 billion in 2022, primarily due to higher pricing and the beneficial impact from our efficiency initiatives, which more than offset higher commodity costs, including the impact of realized gains and losses on commodity hedges; unfavorable volume/mix; increased manufacturing expenses; increased SG&A, primarily due to advertising expense; the decrease from lapping a 53rd week of shipments in the prior period (2.3 pp); and the unfavorable impact of foreign currency (0.3 pp).

Previous wording

Net sales increased 6.0% to $6.5 billion in 2023 compared to $6.1 billion in 2022, including the unfavorable impacts of foreign currency (3.2 pp), lapping a 53rd week of shipments in the prior period (1.8 pp), and acquisitions and divestitures (0.5 pp). Organic Net Sales increased 11.5% to $6.6 billion in 2023 compared to $5.9 billion in 2022, driven by higher pricing (13.6 pp), which more than offset unfavorable volume/mix (2.1 pp). Higher pricing included increases across markets primarily to mitigate higher input costs. Unfavorable volume/mix was primarily due to the elasticity impacts from pricing actions, particularly in our Northern Europe region, which more than offset favorable volume/mix growth in emerging markets within our Eastern Europe and LATAM regions.

Current wording

Net sales increased 6.5% to $3.6 billion in 2023 compared to $3.4 billion in 2022, including the unfavorable impacts of lapping a 53rd week of shipments in the prior period (1.8 pp), acquisitions and divestitures (0.7 pp), and foreign currency (0.5 pp). Organic Net Sales increased 9.5% to $3.6 billion in 2023 compared to $3.3 billion in 2022 driven by higher pricing (15.6 pp), which more than offset unfavorable volume/mix (6.1 pp). Higher pricing included increases across markets primarily to mitigate higher input costs. Unfavorable volume/mix was primarily due to the elasticity impacts from pricing actions, particularly in our Northern Europe region.

Previous wording

In the first quarter of 2022, we acquired 85% of the shares of Just Spices GmbH (“Just Spices”), a German-based company focused on direct-to-consumer sales of premium spice blends, from certain third-party shareholders (the “Just Spices Acquisition”) for cash consideration of approximately $243 million. In the third quarter of 2023, we completed the redemption of an additional 5% of the outstanding shares and own 90% of the controlling interest in Just Spices as of December 30, 2023.

Current wording

In the first quarter of 2022, we acquired 85% of the shares of Just Spices GmbH (“Just Spices”), a German-based company focused on direct-to-consumer sales of premium spice blends, from certain third-party shareholders (the “Just Spices Acquisition”) for cash consideration of approximately $243 million. In the third quarter of 2023, we completed the redemption of an additional 5% of the outstanding shares and in the second quarter of 2024, we completed the redemption of the remaining outstanding shares and wholly own Just Spices as of December 28, 2024.

Previous wording

Net cash provided by operating activities was $4.0 billion for the year ended December 30, 2023 compared to $2.5 billion for the year ended December 31, 2022. This increase was primarily driven by lower cash outflows in the current year for inventories, primarily related to stock rebuilding in the prior year, lower cash outflows in the current year for cash tax payments driven by cash taxes paid in 2022 related to the Cheese Transaction, higher Adjusted EBITDA in 2023, and lower interest payments in the current period due to the reduction of long-term debt throughout 2022. These impacts were partially offset by cash payments associated with the settlement of the consolidated securities class action lawsuit. See Note 15, Commitments and Contingencies, in Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, for additional information on our legal proceedings.

Current wording

Net cash provided by operating activities was $4.0 billion for the year ended December 30, 2023 compared to $2.5 billion for the year ended December 31, 2022. This increase was primarily driven by lower cash outflows in the current year for inventories, primarily related to stock rebuilding in the prior year, lower cash outflows in the current year for cash tax payments driven by cash taxes paid in 2022 related to the Cheese Transaction, higher Adjusted Operating Income in 2023, and lower interest payments in the current period due to the reduction of long-term debt throughout 2022. These impacts were partially offset by cash payments associated with the settlement of the consolidated securities class action lawsuit. See Note 15, Commitments and Contingencies, in Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, for additional information on our legal proceedings.

Previous wording

Net cash used for investing activities was $916 million for the year ended December 30, 2023 compared to net cash used for investing activities of $1.1 billion for the year ended December 31, 2022. This change was primarily driven by payments for the Just Spices Acquisition and Hemmer Acquisition in 2022, partially offset by higher proceeds from the settlement of net investment hedges in the prior year period, proceeds from the Powdered Cheese Transaction in 2022, and higher capital expenditures in the current year period. We had 2023 capital expenditures of $1.0 billion compared to 2022 capital expenditures of $916 million. We expect 2024 capital expenditures to be approximately $1.1 billion, primarily driven by capital investments focused on generating growth, including capacity expansion, cost improvement, digital, and automation projects, as well as capital investments in maintenance and technology.

Current wording

Net cash used for investing activities was $916 million for the year ended December 30, 2023 compared to net cash used for investing activities of $1.1 billion for the year ended December 31, 2022. This change was primarily driven by payments for the Just Spices Acquisition and Hemmer Acquisition in 2022, partially offset by higher proceeds from the settlement of net investment hedges in the prior year period, proceeds from the Powdered Cheese Transaction in 2022, and higher capital expenditures in the current year period. We had 2023 capital expenditures of $1.0 billion compared to 2022 capital expenditures of $916 million.

Previous wording

Net cash used for financing activities was $2.7 billion for the year ended December 30, 2023 compared to $3.7 billion for the year ended December 31, 2022. This change was primarily due to proceeds from the issuance of 600 million euro aggregate principal amount floating rate senior notes in 2023 and lower repayments of long-term debt in the current year period, partially offset by increased common stock repurchases primarily driven by our share repurchase program. See Note 16, Debt, in Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, for additional information on our debt transactions and Note 18, Capital Stock, in Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, for additional information on our share repurchase program.

Current wording

Net cash used for financing activities was $2.7 billion for the year ended December 30, 2023 compared to $3.7 billion for the year ended December 31, 2022. This change was primarily due to proceeds from the issuance of 600 million euro aggregate principal amount floating rate senior notes in 2023 and lower repayments of long-term debt in the current year period, partially offset by increased common stock repurchases primarily driven by our share repurchase program.

Previous wording

Of the $1.4 billion cash and cash equivalents on our consolidated balance sheet at December 30, 2023, $980 million was held by international subsidiaries.

Current wording

Of the $1.3 billion cash and cash equivalents on our consolidated balance sheet at December 28, 2024, $781 million was held by international subsidiaries.

Previous wording

Subsequent to January 1, 2018, we consider the unremitted earnings of certain international subsidiaries that impose local country taxes on dividends to be indefinitely reinvested. For those undistributed earnings considered to be indefinitely reinvested, our intent is to reinvest these funds in our international operations, and our current plans do not demonstrate a need to repatriate the accumulated earnings to fund our U.S. cash requirements. The amount of unrecognized deferred tax liabilities for local country withholding taxes that would be owed, if repatriated, related to our 2018 through 2023 accumulated earnings of certain international subsidiaries is approximately $60 million. Our undistributed historical earnings in foreign subsidiaries through December 31, 2017 are currently not considered to be indefinitely reinvested. Our deferred tax liability associated with these undistributed historical earnings was insignificant at December 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, and relates to local withholding taxes that will be owed when this cash is distributed.

Current wording

Subsequent to January 1, 2018, we consider the unremitted earnings of certain international subsidiaries that impose local country taxes on dividends to be indefinitely reinvested. For those undistributed earnings considered to be indefinitely reinvested, our intent is to reinvest these funds in our international operations, and our current plans do not demonstrate a need to repatriate the accumulated earnings to fund our U.S. cash requirements. The amount of unrecognized deferred tax liabilities for local country withholding taxes that would be owed, if repatriated, related to our 2018 through 2024 accumulated earnings of certain international subsidiaries is approximately $80 million. Our undistributed historical earnings in foreign subsidiaries through December 31, 2017 are currently not considered to be indefinitely reinvested. Our deferred tax liability associated with these undistributed historical earnings was insignificant at December 28, 2024, December 30, 2023, and December 31, 2022, and relates to local withholding taxes that will be owed when this cash is distributed.

Previous wording

In order to manage our cash flow and related liquidity, we work with our suppliers to optimize our terms and conditions, which include the extension of payment terms. Our current payment terms with our suppliers, which we deem to be commercially reasonable, generally range from zero to 220 days. We also maintain agreements with third-party administrators that allow participating suppliers to track payment obligations from us, and, at the sole discretion of the supplier, sell one or more of those payment obligations to participating financial institutions. We have no economic interest in a supplier’s decision to enter into these agreements and no direct financial relationship with the financial institutions related to these programs. We did not pledge any assets in connection with our trade payable programs. Our obligations to our suppliers, including amounts due and scheduled payment terms, are not impacted. All amounts due to participating suppliers are paid to the third-party on the original invoice due dates, regardless of whether a particular invoice was sold. Supplier participation in these agreements is voluntary. We estimate that the amounts outstanding under these programs were $0.8 billion at December 30, 2023 and $1.1 billion at December 31, 2022. The amounts were included in trade payables on our consolidated balance sheets.

Current wording

In order to manage our cash flow and related liquidity, we work with our suppliers to optimize our terms and conditions, which include the extension of payment terms. We maintain agreements with third-party administrators that allow participating suppliers to track payment obligations from us, and, at the sole discretion of the supplier, sell one or more of those payment obligations to participating financial institutions. Our obligations to our suppliers, including amounts due and scheduled payment terms, are not impacted. Our current payment terms with our suppliers, which we deem to be commercially reasonable, generally range from 0 to 250 days. All amounts due to participating suppliers are paid to the third party on the original invoice due dates, regardless of whether a particular invoice was sold. The amounts outstanding under these programs were $745 million at December 28, 2024 and $819 million at December 30, 2023. The amounts were included in trade payables on our consolidated balance sheets. See Note 14, Financing Arrangements, in Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, for additional information on our trade payables programs.

Previous wording

From time to time, we obtain funding through our commercial paper programs. We had no commercial paper outstanding at December 30, 2023 or at December 31, 2022. Under our U.S. commercial paper program, the maximum amount of commercial paper outstanding was $150 million and $198 million during the years ended December 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022.

Current wording

From time to time, we obtain funding through our commercial paper programs. We had no commercial paper outstanding at December 28, 2024, December 30, 2023, and December 31, 2022. We had no commercial paper outstanding during the year ended December 28, 2024, and the maximum amount of commercial paper outstanding was $150 million during the year ended December 30, 2023 and $198 million during the year ended December 31, 2022.

Previous wording

In July 2022, together with KHFC, our 100% owned operating subsidiary, we entered into a new credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), which provides for a five-year senior unsecured revolving credit facility in an aggregate amount of $4.0 billion (the “Senior Credit Facility”) and replaced our then-existing credit facility (the “Previous Senior Credit Facility”). On July 21, 2023, we entered into an agreement to extend the maturity date of our Senior Credit Facility from July 8, 2027 to July 8, 2028.

Current wording

In July 2022, together with KHFC, our 100% owned operating subsidiary, we entered into a new credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), which provides for a five-year senior unsecured revolving credit facility in an aggregate amount of $4.0 billion (the “Senior Credit Facility”) and replaced our then-existing credit facility (the “Previous Senior Credit Facility”). On September 27, 2024, we entered into an agreement to extend the maturity date of our Senior Credit Facility from July 8, 2028 to July 8, 2029. Subject to certain conditions, we may increase the amount of revolving commitments and/or add tranches of term loans in a combined aggregate amount of up to $1.0 billion.

Previous wording

Our long-term debt, including the current portion, was $20.0 billion at December 30, 2023 and $20.1 billion at December 31, 2022. This decrease was primarily due to the repayment of 750 million euro aggregate principal amount of senior notes due in June 2023, which more than offset the issuance of 600 million euro aggregate principal amount of floating rate senior notes issued in May 2023.

Current wording

Our long-term debt, including the current portion, was $19.9 billion at December 28, 2024, $20.0 billion at December 30, 2023, and $20.1 billion at December 31, 2022. The decrease of debt in 2024 was primarily due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates on our foreign-denominated debt, as well as the 550 million euro aggregate principle amount of senior notes that were repaid at maturity in May 2024, partially offset by the issuance of the 2024 Notes. The decrease of debt in 2023 was primarily due to the repayment of 750 million euro aggregate principal amount of senior notes due in June 2023, which more than offset the issuance of 600 million euro aggregate principal amount of floating rate senior notes issued in May 2023.

Previous wording

We paid dividends on our common stock of $2.0 billion in 2023, 2022, and 2021. Additionally, in the first quarter of 2024, our Board declared a cash dividend of $0.40 per share of common stock, which is payable on March 29, 2024 to stockholders of record on March 8, 2024.

Current wording

We paid dividends on our common stock of $1.9 billion in 2024, and $2.0 billion in 2023 and 2022. Additionally, in the first quarter of 2025, our Board declared a cash dividend of $0.40 per share of common stock, which is payable on March 28, 2025 to stockholders of record on March 7, 2025.

Previous wording

On November 27, 2023, we announced that the Board approved a share repurchase program authorizing the Company to purchase up to $3.0 billion, exclusive of fees, of the Company’s common stock through December 26, 2026. We are not obligated to repurchase any specific number of shares and the program may be modified, suspended, or discontinued at any time. Under the program, shares may be repurchased in open market transactions, including under plans complying with Rule 10b5-1 under the Exchange Act, privately negotiated transactions, transactions structured through investment banking institutions, or other means. As of December 30, 2023, we had remaining authorization under the share repurchase program of approximately $2.7 billion. The share repurchase program is in addition to our share repurchases to offset the dilutive effect of equity-based compensation.

Current wording

On November 27, 2023, we announced that the Board approved a share repurchase program authorizing the Company to purchase up to $3.0 billion, exclusive of fees, of the Company’s common stock through December 26, 2026. We are not obligated to repurchase any specific number of shares and the program may be modified, suspended, or discontinued at any time. Under the program, shares may be repurchased in open market transactions, including under plans complying with Rule 10b5-1 under the Exchange Act, privately negotiated transactions, transactions structured through investment banking institutions, or other means. As of December 28, 2024, we had remaining authorization under the share repurchase program of approximately $1.9 billion. The share repurchase program is in addition to our share repurchases to offset the dilutive effect of equity-based compensation.

Previous wording

Pension plan contributions were $11 million in 2023. We estimate that 2024 pension plan contributions will be approximately $10 million. Postretirement benefit plan contributions were $11 million in 2023. We estimate that 2024 postretirement benefit plan contributions will be approximately $12 million. Estimated future contributions take into consideration current economic conditions, which at this time are expected to have minimal impact on expected contributions for 2024. Beyond 2024, we are unable to reliably estimate the timing of contributions to our pension or postretirement plans. Our actual contributions and plans may change due to many factors, including changes in tax, employee benefit, or other laws and regulations, tax deductibility, significant differences between expected and actual pension or postretirement asset performance or interest rates, or other factors. As such, estimated pension and postretirement plan contributions for 2024 have been excluded from the above table.

Current wording

Estimated future contributions take into consideration current economic conditions, which at this time are expected to have minimal impact on expected contributions for 2025. Beyond 2025, we are unable to reliably estimate the timing of contributions to our pension or postretirement plans. Our actual contributions and plans may change due to many factors, including changes in tax, employee benefit, or other laws and regulations, tax deductibility, significant differences between expected and actual pension or postretirement asset performance or interest rates, or other factors. As such, estimated pension and postretirement plan contributions for 2025 have been excluded from the above table.

Previous wording

At December 30, 2023, the amount of net unrecognized tax benefits for uncertain tax positions, including an accrual of related interest and penalties along with positions only impacting the timing of tax benefits, was approximately $543 million. The timing of payments will depend on the progress of examinations with tax authorities. We are unable to make a reasonably reliable estimate as to if or when any significant cash settlements with taxing authorities may occur; therefore, we have excluded the amount of net unrecognized tax benefits from the above table.

Current wording

At December 28, 2024, the amount of net unrecognized tax benefits for uncertain tax positions, including an accrual of related interest and penalties along with positions only impacting the timing of tax benefits, was approximately $481 million. The timing of payments will depend on the progress of examinations with tax authorities. We are unable to make a reasonably reliable estimate as to if or when any significant cash settlements with taxing authorities may occur; therefore, we have excluded the amount of net unrecognized tax benefits from the above table.

Previous wording

(a) In 2023, the Obligor Group recorded $449 million of net sales to the non-guarantor subsidiaries and $45 million of purchases from the non-guarantor subsidiaries.

Current wording

(a) In 2024, the Obligor Group recorded $455 million of net sales to the non-guarantor subsidiaries and $63 million of purchases from the non-guarantor subsidiaries.

Previous wording

We purchase and use large quantities of commodities, including dairy products, meat products, tomato products, soybean and vegetable oils, sugar and other sweeteners, coffee beans, wheat and processed grains, eggs, and other fruits and vegetables to manufacture our products. In addition, we purchase and use significant quantities of resins, fiberboard, metals, and cardboard to package our products, and we use electricity, diesel fuel, and natural gas in the manufacturing and distribution of our products. We continuously monitor worldwide supply and cost trends of these commodities.

Current wording

We purchase and use large quantities of commodities, including dairy products, meat products, tomato products, sugar and other sweeteners, soybean and vegetable oils, coffee beans, wheat and processed grains, eggs, and other fruits and vegetables to manufacture our products. In addition, we purchase and use significant quantities of plastics, cardboard, resin, glass, and metal to package our products, and we use electricity, diesel fuel, and natural gas in the manufacturing and distribution of our products. We continuously monitor worldwide supply and cost trends of these commodities.

Previous wording

During the year ended December 30, 2023, we experienced higher commodity costs for tomato products, sugar and other sweeteners, vegetables, and fruits, while costs for dairy products, meat products, vegetable oils, and coffee decreased. We manage commodity cost volatility primarily through pricing and risk management strategies including utilizing a range of commodity hedging techniques in an effort to limit the impact of price fluctuations on many of our principal raw materials. However, we do not fully hedge against changes in commodity prices, and our hedging strategies may not protect us from increases in specific raw material costs. As a result of these risk management strategies, our commodity costs may not immediately correlate with market price trends.

Current wording

During the year ended December 28, 2024, we experienced increases in certain commodity costs, particularly for tomato products, and soybean and vegetable oils, while costs for dairy products and coffee decreased. We manage commodity cost volatility primarily through pricing and risk management strategies including utilizing a range of commodity hedging techniques in an effort to limit the impact of price fluctuations on many of our principal raw materials. However, we do not fully hedge against changes in commodity prices, and our hedging strategies may not protect us from increases in specific raw material costs. As a result of these risk management strategies, our commodity costs may not immediately correlate with market price trends.

Previous wording

Advertising expenses are recorded in SG&A. For interim reporting purposes, we charge advertising to operations as a percentage of estimated full year sales activity and marketing costs. We then review and adjust these estimates each quarter based on actual experience and other information. Our definition of advertising expenses includes advertising production costs, in-store advertising costs, agency fees, brand promotions and events, and sponsorships, in addition to costs to obtain advertising in television, radio, print, digital, and social channels. We recorded advertising expenses of $1,071 million in 2023, $945 million in 2022, and $1,039 million in 2021. We also incur market research costs, which are recorded in SG&A but are excluded from advertising expenses.

Current wording

Advertising expenses are recorded in SG&A. For interim reporting purposes, we charge advertising to operations as a percentage of estimated full year sales activity and marketing costs. We then review and adjust these estimates each quarter based on actual experience and other information. Our definition of advertising expenses includes advertising production costs, in-store advertising costs, agency fees, brand promotions and events, and sponsorships, in addition to costs to obtain advertising in television, radio, print, digital, and social channels. We recorded advertising expenses of $1,031 million in 2024, $1,071 million in 2023, and $945 million in 2022. We also incur market research costs, which are recorded in SG&A but are excluded from advertising expenses.

Previous wording

As of December 30, 2023, we maintain 11 reporting units, seven of which comprise our goodwill balance. These seven reporting units had an aggregate goodwill carrying amount of $30.5 billion at December 30, 2023. Our indefinite-lived intangible asset balance primarily consists of a number of individual brands, which had an aggregate carrying amount of $38.5 billion as of December 30, 2023.

Current wording

As of December 28, 2024, we maintain 12 reporting units, eight of which comprise our goodwill balance. These eight reporting units had an aggregate goodwill carrying amount of $28.7 billion at December 28, 2024. Our indefinite-lived intangible asset balance primarily consists of a number of individual brands, which had an aggregate carrying amount of $36.5 billion as of December 28, 2024.

Previous wording

Fair value determinations require considerable judgment and are sensitive to changes in underlying assumptions, estimates, and market factors. Estimating the fair value of individual reporting units and brands requires us to make assumptions and estimates regarding our future plans, as well as industry, economic, and regulatory conditions. These assumptions and estimates include estimated future annual net cash flows, income tax considerations, discount rates, growth rates, royalty rates, contributory asset charges, and other market factors. Our current expectations also include certain assumptions that could be negatively impacted if we are unable to meet our pricing expectations in relation to inflation. If current expectations of future growth rates and margins are not met, if market factors outside of our control, such as discount rates, market capitalization, income tax rates, foreign currency exchange rates, or inflation, change, or if management’s expectations or plans otherwise change, including updates to our long-term operating plans, then one or more of our reporting units or brands might become impaired in the future. Additionally, any decisions to divest certain non-strategic assets has led, and could in the future lead, to goodwill or intangible asset impairments.

Current wording

Fair value determinations require considerable judgment and are sensitive to changes in underlying assumptions, estimates, and market factors. Estimating the fair value of individual reporting units and brands requires us to make assumptions and estimates regarding our future plans, as well as industry, economic, and regulatory conditions. These assumptions and estimates include estimated future annual net cash flows (including net sales, cost of products sold, SG&A, depreciation and amortization, working capital, and capital expenditures), income tax considerations, discount rates, long-term growth rates, royalty rates, contributory asset charges, and other market factors. If current expectations of future growth rates and margins are not met, if market factors outside of our control, such as discount rates, market capitalization, income tax rates, foreign currency exchange rates, or inflation, change, or if management’s expectations or plans otherwise change, including updates to our long-term operating plans, then one or more of our reporting units or brands might become impaired in the future. Additionally, any decisions to divest certain non-strategic assets has led, and could in the future lead, to goodwill or intangible asset impairments.

Previous wording

As detailed in Note 8, Goodwill and Intangible Assets, in Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, we recorded impairment losses related to goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets. Our reporting units and brands that were impaired in 2023, 2022, and 2021 were written down to their respective fair values resulting in zero excess fair value over carrying amount as of the applicable impairment test dates. Accordingly, these and other reporting units and brands that have 20% or less excess fair value over carrying amount as of the 2023 annual impairment test have a heightened risk of future impairments if any assumptions, estimates, or market factors change in the future.

Current wording

As detailed in Note 8, Goodwill and Intangible Assets, in Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data, we recorded impairment losses related to goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets. Our reporting units and brands that were impaired in 2024, 2023, and 2022 were written down to their respective fair values resulting in zero excess fair value over carrying amount as of the applicable impairment test dates. Accordingly, these and other reporting units and brands that had 20% or less excess fair value over carrying amount as of the 2024 annual impairment test have a heightened risk of future impairments if any assumptions, estimates, or market factors change in the future.

Previous wording

Reporting units with 10% or less fair value over carrying amount had an aggregate goodwill carrying amount after impairment of $17.6 billion as of the 2023 annual impairment test and included Taste, Meals, and Away from Home, Northern Europe, Continental Europe, and Canada and North America Coffee. Reporting units with 10-20% fair value over carrying amount had an aggregate goodwill carrying amount of $12.5 billion as of the 2023 annual impairment test and included Fresh, Beverages, and Desserts and LATAM. Our Asia reporting unit had between 20-50% fair value over carrying amount with an aggregate goodwill carrying amount of $309 million as of the 2023 annual impairment test. Our reporting units that have less than 5% excess fair value over carrying amount as of the 2023 annual impairment test are considered at a heightened risk of future impairments and include our TMA, Continental Europe, and CNAC reporting units, which had an aggregate goodwill carrying amount of $15.9 billion. Our four remaining reporting units had no goodwill carrying amount at the time of the 2023 annual impairment test.

Current wording

Reporting units with 10% or less fair value over carrying amount, including reporting units that were impaired as part of the 2024 annual impairment test, resulting in zero excess fair value over carrying value, had an aggregate goodwill carrying amount after impairment of $22.4 billion as of the 2024 annual impairment test and included Taste Elevation, Ready Meals and Snacking (“TMS”), Away from Home & Kraft Heinz Ingredients (“AFH”), Meat & Cheese (“MC”), Canada and North America Coffee (“CNAC”), and Continental Europe. Our Northern Europe reporting unit had 10-20% fair value over carrying amount with an aggregate goodwill carrying amount of $1.7 billion as of the 2024 annual impairment test. Our Hydration & Desserts (“HD”) and Asia reporting units had between 20-50% fair value over carrying amount with an aggregate goodwill carrying amount of $4.6 billion as of the 2024 annual impairment test. Our reporting units that have less than 5% excess fair value over carrying amount as of the 2024 annual impairment test are considered at a heightened risk of future impairments and include our TMS, Continental Europe, and AFH reporting units, which had an aggregate goodwill carrying amount of $19.0 billion. Our four remaining reporting units had no goodwill carrying amount at the time of the 2024 annual impairment test.

Previous wording

After the 2023 annual impairment test and after reclassifying two indefinite-lived intangible asset brands to definite-lived trademarks, our indefinite-lived brands with 10% or less fair value over carrying amount had an aggregate carrying amount of $16.2 billion as of the 2023 annual impairment test and included Kraft, Oscar Mayer, Velveeta, Maxwell House, Cool Whip, and Jet Puffed. Brands with 10-20% fair value over carrying amount had an aggregate carrying amount of $2.4 billion as of the 2023 annual impairment test and included Miracle Whip and Ore-Ida. The aggregate carrying amount of brands with fair value over carrying amount between 20-50% was $4.2 billion as of the 2023 annual impairment test. Although the remaining brands, with a carrying amount of $15.7 billion, have more than 50% excess fair value over carrying amount as of the 2023 annual impairment test, these amounts are also susceptible to impairments if any assumptions, estimates, or market factors significantly change in the future. Our brands that have less than 5% excess fair value over carrying amount as of the 2023 annual impairment test are considered at a heightened risk of future impairments and include our Kraft, Velveeta, Maxwell House, Cool Whip, and Jet Puffed brands, which had an aggregate carrying amount of $13.5 billion.

Current wording

Our indefinite-lived brands with 10% or less fair value over carrying amount, comprised entirely of brands that were impaired within 2024, resulting in zero excess fair value over carrying amount, had an aggregate carrying amount of $2.6 billion as of the latest test for each brand and included Oscar Mayer, Lunchables, Claussen, and Wattie’s. Brands with 10-20% fair value over carrying amount had an aggregate carrying amount of $14.2 billion as of the latest test for each brand and included Kraft, Velveeta, A1, and Bagel Bites. The aggregate carrying amount of brands with fair value over carrying amount between 20-50% was $2.8 billion as of the latest test for each brand. Although the remaining brands, with a carrying amount of $16.9 billion, have more than 50% excess fair value over carrying amount as of the latest test for each brand, these amounts are also susceptible to impairments if any assumptions, estimates, or market factors significantly change in the future. Our brands that have less than 5% excess fair value over carrying amount as of the latest test for each brand are considered at a heightened risk of future impairments and include our Oscar Mayer, Lunchables, Claussen, and Wattie’s brands, which had an aggregate carrying amount of $2.6 billion.

Previous wording

We generally utilize the discounted cash flow method under the income approach to estimate the fair value of our reporting units. Some of the more significant assumptions inherent in estimating the fair values include the estimated future annual net cash flows for each reporting unit (including net sales, cost of products sold, SG&A, depreciation and amortization, working capital, and capital expenditures), income tax rates, long-term growth rates, a discount rate that appropriately reflects the risks inherent in each future cash flow stream, and other market factors. We selected the assumptions used in the financial forecasts using historical data, supplemented by current and anticipated market conditions, estimated product category growth rates, management’s plans, and guideline companies.

Current wording

We generally utilize the discounted cash flow method under the income approach to estimate the fair value of our reporting units. Some of the more significant assumptions inherent in estimating the fair values include the estimated future annual net cash flows for each reporting unit (including net sales, cost of products sold, SG&A, depreciation and amortization, working capital, and capital expenditures), income tax rates, long-term growth rates, royalty rates, a discount rate that appropriately reflects the risks inherent in each future cash flow stream, and other market factors. We selected the assumptions used in the financial forecasts using historical data, supplemented by current and anticipated market conditions, estimated product category growth rates, management’s plans, and guideline companies.