Universal (UVV) Proxy Filing summary

Executive summary

• Fiscal year 2025 saw a 7% increase in revenue and a 5% rise in operating income over FY24, driven by strong tobacco demand and growth in the Universal Ingredients business.

• The company declared its 55th consecutive annual dividend increase, with a quarterly dividend of $0.82 per share, reflecting a commitment to shareholder value.

• Strategic priorities include maximizing the tobacco business, expanding Universal Ingredients, and strengthening organizational efficiency and human capital management.

• Sustainability remains a core focus, with the release of the 2024 Sustainability Report highlighting progress in supply chain resiliency, labor standards, and energy efficiency.

Voting matters and shareholder proposals

• Shareholders are to vote on: (1) election of three directors for three-year terms, (2) a non-binding advisory resolution on executive compensation, and (3) ratification of Ernst & Young LLP as independent auditor for FY26.

• The Board recommends voting FOR all director nominees, FOR the executive compensation resolution, and FOR auditor ratification.

Board of directors and corporate governance

• The Board is divided into three classes, with three nominees up for election: Lennart R. Freeman, Fotini E. Manolios, and Preston D. Wigner.

• Board members bring diverse skills in audit, sustainability, executive leadership, finance, and risk oversight.

• The Board includes a Lead Independent Director and five standing committees, all with independent directors.

• Corporate governance guidelines, a code of conduct, and prohibitions on hedging and pledging company securities are in place.