Dole Food Company, Inc. (DOLE) Earnings: An Early Look

The Itochu deal, though, could turn things around for Dole. With Itochu paying cash, Dole should be able to eliminate most of its heavy debt overhang while re-emphasizing its traditional focus on fruit in North American and Europe. Competition from Chiquita and Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc (NYSE:FDP) will continue to pressure Dole’s margins, but by refocusing its efforts, Dole will be in a better position to concentrate on its business rather than dealing with the strain of capital-financing issues.

In Dole Food Company, Inc. (NYSE:DOLE)’s quarterly report, expect to hear that the Itochu deal is still on schedule to close in April, along with details on the company’s strategy once the deal closes. With a whole new debt-free lease on life, Dole could look like a completely different company in the near future.

The article Dole Food Earnings: An Early Look originally appeared on Fool.com.

Fool contributor Dan Caplinger has no position in any stocks mentioned. You can follow him on Twitter: @DanCaplinger. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned.

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