McCormick’s Prudent Cost Management Feeds Brand Investment, Averting Volume and Market Share Erosion

As the leading player in the $19 billion global spices and herbs market—with nearly 20% share, 4 times the next-largest operator, according to Euromonitor—McCormick is a valuable partner for retailers. However, competitive and macro headwinds abound. For one, McCormick continues to face cost pressure (related to select commodities, transportation, and labor) that have ensnarled firms of all stripes. Further, we think consumers (particularly those with lower incomes and/or on a fixed budget) are beginning to tighten spending, given stepped up prices at the grocery store as well as rising interest rates, which could serve to constrain its results if consumers trade down or out of the category.