Hershey Co.

Hershey Co. (HSY - Analyst Report) is seeing higher Zacks Consensus Estimates ahead of reporting later this month. The full-year earnings forecast of $2.07 per share was increased from $1.99 over the past 90 days.

Company Description

Hershey Co. is the largest producer of quality chocolate in North America and a global leader in chocolate and sugar confectionery. Headquartered in Hershey, Pa., The Hershey Company has operations throughout the world and more than 12,000 employees. With revenues of more than $5 billion.

Bullish Forecasts

The company is seeing higher Zacks Consensus Estimates ahead of reporting later this month. The full-year earnings forecast of $2.07 per share was increased from $1.99 over the past 90 days.

For 2010, analysts polled by Zacks are calling for earnings of $2.23 per share, versus the 3 months-ago level of $2.11.

Third-quarter projections of 67 cents per share are up a penny over the past 3 months.

Results for the third quarter are scheduled for release on Oct 22.

A Solid Quarter

The second-quarter saw earnings of 43 cents per share, exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 26.5% and topping the year-prior 29 cents.

“Hershey’s second quarter results reflect continued momentum in the marketplace,” said David J. West, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Investments in our core brands and retail selling capabilities have resulted in strong gains in net sales, profit and U.S. market share. Net sales increased by 5.9 percent driven by the U.S. pricing action announced in August 2008, partially offset by volume declines associated with pricing elasticity and the impact of unfavorable foreign currency exchange rates.”

Strong Fundamentals

The company has an industry-leading net profit margin of 7%. The Growth and Income pick also rewards shareholders with a dividend yield of 3% percent, well above the industry average of 0.7%.