US meat processor Smithfield Foods has warned that low prices of fresh pork will impact its fiscal fourth-quarter earnings, causing them to fall short of analysts’ expectations.

Both Smithfield and rival Tyson Foods have been hit recently by a glut of meat on the market, which has led to low prices.

Smithfield has forecast earnings of between 3 cents and 5 cents per diluted share for the quarter to 27 April, compared to analysts’ average estimates of 10 cents a share, reported Reuters.

“Fresh pork prices have been under severe pressure due to the excess supply of all proteins in the marketplace, resulting in reduced profitability in the company’s Meat Processing Group,” Smithfield said in a statement.

The company said its hog production operations should return to profitability in the first quarter of fiscal 2004.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.