The Kraft Heinz Company (KHC) Consumer Analyst Group of New York Conference (CAGNY) 2026 summary

Strategic vision and growth priorities

• Leadership emphasized contemporizing iconic brands, shifting from nostalgia to relevance and innovation, and driving volume-led, sustainable, and profitable growth.

• Simplified operating models and focused investments in Canada led to 4% CAGR and market share gains, with similar strategies driving turnarounds in Europe and Pacific markets.

• International and emerging markets achieved double-digit organic net sales growth and expanded distribution, notably with Heinz Beanz and Heinz Mayo.

• U.S. business, representing 67% of sales, is targeted for turnaround with increased investments, improved execution, and focus on iconic brands with high household penetration.

• Proven blueprints and innovations are being replicated and scaled across brands and geographies.

Investment, innovation, and operational efficiency

• Announced a $600 million step-up in investments across marketing, sales, R&D, and product innovation, with marketing spend rising to 5.5% of net sales.

• R&D investment to increase by 20%, prioritizing core and big bet innovations, and consumer-led innovation drives growth with new product formats and better-for-you offerings.

• Focus on optimizing price pack architecture and targeting value and affordability trends in the U.S.

• Operational efficiencies and productivity programs have generated over 4% of COGS savings, $62 million via Global Business Services, and $2.5B gross efficiencies targeted by end of 2026.

• Infrastructure investments in marketing and sales organizations enhance execution and support product launches.

Market performance and innovation examples

• Canada and Europe demonstrated successful brand turnarounds through innovation and focused execution, with Heinz Beanz reversing a decade of share loss.

• In China, targeted campaigns for Heinz Ketchup drove record market share and household penetration.

• U.S. Taste Elevation categories, including ketchup and cream cheese, gained share in Q4 2025.

• Capri Sun’s new single-serve bottle format expanded reach and profitability in convenience channels.

• Europe and Pacific markets expanded Heinz into new occasions and categories, returning to share growth after a decade of decline.