Pilgrim's Pride (NASDAQ: PPC) reported Q4 EPS of $0.54, $0.03 better than the analyst estimate of $0.51. Revenue for the quarter came in at $2.74 billion versus the consensus estimate of $2.55 billion.

“We generated strong, well-balanced consolidated performance in 2017. Our U.S. and Mexico operations were solid despite logistical challenges in Q4 due to the after-effects from natural events in Puerto Rico, Mexico and the U.S., while our newly acquired U.K. and continental Europe operations were consistent. The performance once again demonstrated the strength and diversity of our portfolio of bird sizes, and is what fundamentally differentiates us from the competition, giving us the potential to reduce volatility and generate higher margins over time. While small-bird and tray-pack have remained strong during Q4, conditions in the commodity markets declined in-line with seasonality but are already recovering well in the new year, indicating the continuation of chicken demand as the protein of choice in domestic and international markets. Facing significant challenges, we are very proud of our team members who had worked tirelessly to continue the operations of our facilities while assisting with rebuilding the local communities,” stated Bill Lovette, Chief Executive Officer of Pilgrim's.

“We completed the announced strategic capital investment improvements, including Sanford, NC and Moorefield, WV, which will diversify our portfolio by improving mix, reduce the impact of commodity markets, and further raise our margin profile. The Sanford conversion from commodity to organic tray-pack and the acquisition of GNP bring us leadership in premium-branded and NAE chickens while fulfilling our strategy of creating a portfolio of differentiated products to key customers.”

“We are continuing to improve the performance of the GNP operations. Margins have substantially increased since the acquisition just over a year ago and have reached parity with our legacy business during Q4. The integration is going well and we have extracted significant operating and product synergies, and are also preparing to expand the distribution of our premium Just Bare Brand. Combined with the success in improving the profitability of our acquired Mexican operations, we believe we have the methodology and the experienced personnel required to grow the operating and financial performance of our U.K. and continental Europe business.”

For earnings history and earnings-related data on Pilgrim's Pride (PPC) click here.