Hormel Stock Dividend Analysis: 17 Point Guide

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Hormel Dividend Metrics, Stock Valuation, and Business Review

Let’s take a close look at the Hormel stock dividend today.

By working through a Hormel Foods dividend stock analysis. To see if it is a good investment for earning dividend income.

So, without delay, I would like to kick it off with a few key takeaways.

Disclosure: At no cost to you, I may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

Hormel Stock Dividend Review: Key Takeaways

1. Packaged food sector stocks have traditionally been a good place to hunt for dividends. But, the industry has met with its fair share of challenges in recent years.

2. Hormel has avoided many of those challenges. Primarily because of its strong brands. In addition to having niche products in popular categories.

3. Hormel stock has a relatively low dividend yield, strong historical dividend growth, and the stock is a Dividend King sporting very safe and secure recurring dividends.

4. Finally, HRL is a good buy-and-hold dividend growth stock. And a strong candidate for purchases on any dips in the price, for long-term investors.

With those highlights taken care of, let’s touch on where Hormel sits in my portfolio for monthly dividend earnings. Since that may give you some insight on how it can fit into yours.

Then, I have a few thoughts about dividends from the packaged food industry. Before we deep dive into the Hormel dividend, business fundamentals, and stock valuation.

Or, perhaps you are looking for other articles to level up your dividend investing game?

Then be sure to check out our library of dividend investing content. It’s nicely organized so you can quickly find what interests you.

Otherwise, stay right here. Because it’s time for Hormel…

Hormel Foods Stock And The Hormel Dividend

A few years ago, I went on a search for better investment ideas in the food sector. And I landed on Hormel Foods stock because the Hormel dividend metrics looked solid to me.

I have held many of my other dividend growth stocks for more than 20 years. On the other hand, Hormel is one of my newest additions.

Due to its recency, the company holds one of the smallest positions in my dividend stock investment portfolio. But, I would love to add to the position when the price and dividend metrics look right.

I’m able to draw these conclusions because I manage my total financial picture with Personal Capital.

It’s easy to use, and best of all it’s free. So, if you are looking for a good online, all-around personal finance tool. Then, Personal Capital may be right for you too.

Now, a few thoughts on food sector stocks that pay dividends…

Food Sector Stocks For Dividends

Investing in food sector stocks has been challenging in recent years. Especially for me. As I look to create a growing monthly dividend income stream. That I can rely on.

First of all, in 2018, General Mills bought pet food maker Blue Buffalo. And they promptly froze their dividend to help fund the acquisition.

Furthermore, in 2019, Kraft Heinz cut its dividend by a whopping 36%. The CEO said profit shortfalls and the need to improve the company’s financial position were to blame.

On the other hand, due to the more recent global health crisis, these companies got a boost. Why? Because of increased at-home meal preparation. And a return to older and trusted food brands.

No one knows for sure what the trends will be going forward. But, I do know that frozen and reduced dividends do not equate to steady dividend income or dividend growth.

On the other hand, the packaged food sector has historically been known for paying consistent dividends. And having substantial dividend yields. Plus, solid dividend growth. But those characteristics are no longer universally true.

Since the sector has been pressured for growth due to a variety of reasons. For example:

Changing consumer preferences
Omnichannel retail shopping experiences
The need for continual innovation
And competition from private label products

Trends may come and go. But, I would guess these will persist over the long run.

That’s enough about the industry in which Hormel operates. Next up, is a brief review of Hormel and its products…

Hormel Foods Company Background

Hormel Foods is a Fortune 500 company that manufactures and markets high-quality, brand-name food and meat products. Their brands number more than 50.

Chances are you have consumed one or more of their products as part of a meal or snack. Here are just a few of those brand names you might recognize.

Applegate
Chi-Chi’s
Dinty Moore
Jennie-O
Justin’s
Lloyd’s Barbeque
Skippy
Spam
Staff Chili
Wholly Guacamole

Hormel Food’s brands hold the number 1 or number 2 market share in more than 35 categories. Furthermore, Hormel pepperoni is a leading brand of pepperoni in retail grocery stores.

Finally, another fun fact. More than 90 million jars of Skippy peanut butter are produced annually.

Source: Hormel Foods Website – Brands

Hormel Foods Profit Growth Strategy

We will get to Hormel dividend growth in a moment. I know it will come from growing profits.

So, we should understand the primary elements of Hormel’s growth strategy. They are to:

Invest in brand spending to support organic sales growth
Realize sales growth and cost synergies from targeted brand acquisitions
Reduce costs across the supply chain

In addition, Hormel has a significant opportunity to expand its business investments outside of the U.S. As a relatively small percentage of the total revenues are from outside the United States.

Hormel Stock Symbol

Finally, Hormel’s stock trades on the New York Stock exchange. It trades using the stock symbol HRL (NYSE: HRL).

When I trade stocks, I use the Webull app. It’s fast, easy to use, and best of all, free.

So, we have covered some background in food sector stocks. And have a grasp on Hormel’s business and products.

That means it’s time for the Hormel dividend review. Specifically, the metrics, measures, and everything there is to know as a dividend investor.

Does Hormel Pay Dividends?

Yes. Of course Hormel Foods stock pays dividends. I wouldn’t own the stock if it did not.

Hormel Dividend Rate Per Share

Hormel has an annual forward dividend. Just like every other high-quality dividend stock.

What does the annual forward dividend mean?

It is simply the last dividend approved by the company’s board of directors. Multiplied by the number of times Hormel pays dividends each year.

Take the forward dividend and divide it by the stock price to get dividend yield…

Hormel Dividend Yield

From my perspective, the stock’s yield is a little low. As regular readers know, I prefer higher dividend yields from stocks. Defined as between 3% and 5%.

Thus, the Hormel stock dividend has historically fallen below my target range. That is the primary reason why it has not been a long-term holding in my dividend growth stock portfolio.

So why did I invest in Hormel stock? Let’s discuss…

Hormel Dividend Yield Vs. Safety Vs. Growth Rate

Sometimes rules are made to be broken. As I assess the pros and cons of this dividend.

Since I would rather have a lower dividend that is very safe. Rather than a higher dividend yield that is at risk of being reduced or frozen.

I mentioned earlier that Kraft Heinz reduced its dividend. Dividend reductions are no fun for us dividend stock investors.

However, when the dividend yield is this low, I want to see the dividend increase rapidly each year. 7-9% is my minimum expectation.

We will get to the Hormel dividend growth rate in a moment. Let’s cover a few more facts about the Hormel dividend first.

How Often Does Hormel Pay Dividends?

Hormel stock pays its dividend every 3 months or 4 times per year. Each quarterly dividend payment is one-fourth of the annual rate.

When Does Hormel Stock Pay Dividends?

Upcoming dividends from Hormel are paid in these months: February, May, August, and November.

During the months indicated, the dividend is paid on or around the 15th day.

When Is Hormel’s Ex-Dividend Date?

Are you a potential new shareholder? Or just wanting to add to your dividend income stream?

Then you may want to receive the next Hormel dividend payment. To do so, you must complete your investment BEFORE the ex-dividend date.

Hormel’s ex-dividend date falls on or around the 10th day of the month PRIOR to when its dividend is paid.

For all companies, dividends are subject to the approval of their board of directors. As a result, the timing of both the ex-date and the payable date changes slightly each time a dividend is paid.

So, check the company’s investor relations website if the exact dates are important to you. But this discussion should give you a general feel for the timing.

On the other hand, you can be a long-term buy-and-hold dividend stock investor, like me.

In that case, you will be sure to receive every dividend that Hormel pays during February, May, August, and November. Then there is little need to think about these dates.

Next up, let’s look at Hormel’s dividend history. Because it is really impressive.

Hormel Dividend History

Dividends are important to this company. And they are proud of their dividend history. And should be.

Because Hormel has paid a dividend every quarter since it became a public company in 1928. Furthermore, the annual dividend rate has been increased every year since 1966.

Hormel Is A Dividend King!

This impressive record of consecutive annual dividend increases put Hormel firmly into the category of Dividend King. Dividend Kings are those rare companies that have increased their dividends annually for at least 50 years in a row.

Looking for more good Dividend Kings? Then how about considering Coke (KO) for your investment portfolio? Certainly, a refreshing Coca-Cola would go well with a bowl of Hormel chili!

Hormel Dividend Policy

As far as I can tell, Hormel Food’s management does not communicate targets or guidance about its dividend.

Being a Dividend King, I expect the dividend to continue growing each year in the future. And I have little concern about the lack of a publicly communicated dividend policy.

However, it’s important to note that a company is not required to pay dividends. Thus, they can change their dividend policy at any time.

Next, let’s talk about how fast the Hormel dividend has grown in recent years. Because we need good dividend growth. To compensate for the lower dividend yield.

Hormel Stock Dividend Growth Rate

Based on my review, Hormel is an investment where dividend appreciation has been impressive.

With a low dividend yield, I like to see annual dividend growth of at least 6-7%.

Especially if, like me, you need your dividends for living expenses. Then solid dividend growth like Hormel’s helps counter inflation.

On the other hand, I have noticed some recent dividend increases from Hormel. That have come in below the long-term trend.

Let’s look at the business fundamentals next to see what we can learn. Maybe they will indicate why Hormel’s dividend growth might be slowing. We will start with revenues…

Hormel Foods Revenue Trend

Revenue growth has been modest. With contributions from both organic growth. And growth from acquisitions.

Within the numbers, there has been some shiftin between the retail grocery business. And away from the restaurant and institutional volumes. This type of business is referred to as “food service”.

Most importantly, Hormel has done an excellent job of reducing revenue exposure to the lower growth areas in packaged foods and beverages.

Let’s peel back the revenue numbers a little more…

First of all, most of the categories in which Hormel operates are “on-trend”. They are in areas where consumers are increasing their consumption of proteins, fresh foods, and on-the-go snacks and meals.

Furthermore, a limited amount of revenue comes from shelf-stable foods. You know those foods in the middle of the grocery store that more and more people are avoiding.

Finally, an even lower amount of business is in commodity meat. This consists primarily of pork and turkey.

To sum up, Hormel has done a good job providing value-added, differentiated brands, and products for consumers. These areas have demonstrated pricing power over the long term.

Now on to earnings, cash flows, and dividends…

Hormel Dividend Payout Ratio Based On Earnings

Of course, the company’s earnings benefit from revenue growth. It is also clear that Hormel has done a good job increasing sales prices and reducing operating costs to expand their profit margins.

But when profit growth stalls. As it does from time to time.

While dividend growth has surpassed earnings growth. This results in a rising dividend payout ratio.

In the end, based on accounting earnings, the Hormel dividend payout ratio checks in at a still very safe level. On the other hand, a decade ago the HRL stock dividend payout ratio was significantly lower.

I suspect a rising dividend payout ratio. Has a lot to do with lower dividend increases. Not only at Hormel. But any good company that has a dividend stock.

Hormel Stock Dividend Payout Ratio Based On Cash Flow

Dividends are paid from cash, not accounting earnings. So, I like to cross-check dividends paid against free cash flow.

Over the past 3 years, Hormel has paid out a reasonable fraction of its available cash to shareholders in the form of dividends.

Okay, we have looked at the dividend information. And the business fundamentals. So, I have enough to go on to make a dividend growth forecast…

Hormel Dividend Growth Rate Forecast

I do not see the Hormel dividend growing as fast as it has in the past. Here are my thoughts…

First of all, Hormel should be able to generate 2-3% annual revenue growth.

Furthermore, price increases, cost savings, and share repurchases will add an additional 4%-5% to earnings.

Putting the prior 2 pieces together, I expect earnings per share to grow 6-8% annually. While company management holds the line on any further increases to the dividend payout ratio.

This brings me to a 6%-8% annual dividend growth rate for future years. Right in line with my projection for earnings growth.

This appears to be safe and sustainable. And also maintains the dividend payout ratios at or below current levels.

Let’s look at the company’s financial position next. Then I can draw a conclusion about dividend safety.

Hormel Financial Position

Hormel has an outstanding credit rating and a very solid balance sheet. Let’s look at each individually.

Hormel’s Credit Rating

Moody’s and S&P both rate Hormel an investment grade-low credit risk.

This is exactly what I would expect from a Dividend King. And in case you didn’t know. You can check YOUR personal credit score for free. Using Credit Karma.

Table 2: Credit Rating Evaluation Grid

Credit rating evaluation grid for each major rating agency

Hormel Balance Sheet: Debt To Equity

I judge the balance sheet based on capital structure. Specifically, debt to equity. Secure dividends from good dividend stocks should not be loaded with debt.

And the good news is Hormel’s debt to equity checks in at a conservative level.

So, based on Hormel’s credit ratings, debt levels, and cash holdings. They have a solid financial position. Leading us to dividend safety…

Hormel Dividend Safety

Putting together several of the facts we have discussed thus far, I can make a pretty good judgment about Hormel dividend safety. To do so, I consider the following:

Business fundamentals and prospects
Dividend yield
Payout ratios
Dividend history
Financial position

Based on the combination of these factors, I judge the Hormel dividend to be very safe from a reduction for the foreseeable future.

But, our Hormel stock analysis would not be complete without a look at valuation. So, let’s do that next. Then wrap up.

Hormel Stock Valuation

We will look at HRL stock valuation in a couple of ways:

Dividend Discount Model
Simply Investing Report

Hormel Dividend Discount Model

First, let’s use a dividend model know as the Gordon Growth Model (GGM).

This single-stage dividend discount model popularized by Myron Gordon considers several factors I have discussed thus far.

The current annual dividend payment
Projected annual dividend growth

Plus, my desired return on investment for Hormel stock.

Using these assumptions, the dividend discount model suggests HRL stock is trading near its fair value.

Simply Investing Report

The Simply Investing report makes a value call based on some tough criteria. Specifically:

Price to earnings ratio
Current dividend yield versus its historical average
Price to book ratio

Based on these measures, Simply Investing considers Hormel stock to be undervalued.

Thoughts On Hormel Stock Valuation

Note that the valuation measures discussed above are at the time of this article update. Because of changes in stock prices and business fundamentals, valuation can change quickly.

That’s another reason I like the Simply Investing Report & Analysis Platform.

It provides all the latest dividend metrics and a current call on stock valuation. Plus the best dividend stocks to buy. When their price is right.

But, back to Hormel…

For my purposes, I’d only be a buyer on dips in the stock price. But, I’m more than happy to hold the shares I own.

Furthermore, with a nice dividend, Hormel is a great stock to buy and hold in an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). For the tax advantages those types of accounts provide.

Hormel Foods Stock Analysis Conclusions And Wrap Up

Hormel Foods is a very well-run company. They have an excellent stable of brands. And have successfully navigated the challenges facing many large food companies.

The Hormel stock dividend is very safe, but the stock’s dividend yield is on the low side. However, dividend growth should compensate and be consistent for years to come.

To add to my holdings, I would like to buy more shares on any price dips. And make this quality dividend growth stock a bigger part of my investment portfolio.

My Favorite Dividend Investing & Finance Resources

Author Bio: Tom Scott founded the consulting and coaching firm Dividends Diversify, LLC. He leverages his expertise and decades of experience in goal setting, relocation assistance, and investing for long-term wealth to help clients reach their full potential.

I own Hormel stock. Hormel dividend growth and dividend safety are strong!