Dole (DOLE) Goldman Sachs Global Staples Forum 2026 summary

Demand trends and market dynamics

• Demand for fresh produce remains consistent, with growing interest in organics and exotics, especially in Europe and the U.S.

• New berry varieties and kiwis are gaining popularity, supported by expanded growing regions and partnerships.

• Health initiatives and trends, including GLP-1 drug usage, are expected to provide positive long-term tailwinds.

• Structural tailwinds for the industry are viewed as positive, with steady demand across categories.

Pricing, cost pressures, and competitive landscape

• Inflationary pressures, especially in fuel and fertilizers, are being managed through dynamic pricing models.

• Bananas, a core product, remain competitively priced and resilient to small price increases.

• The banana and pineapple sectors are consolidated, dominated by a few major players, while other fruit categories remain fragmented.

• Recent consolidation in berries and avocados is noted, but most categories are still localized and fragmented.

Segment performance and supply chain updates

• Fresh Fruit segment faced sourcing cost pressures due to weather events and supply disruptions, but production in Honduras is recovering and expected to be fully restored by year-end.

• EMEA region maintains steady growth and strong market positions, with some short-term challenges in the U.K. due to economic and weather factors.

• Americas and Rest of World segment has benefited from integration and strong performance in cherries, grapes, kiwis, and apples, with further expansion opportunities in Peru.