Utz Brands Inc. (UTZ) experienced a sharp pre-market decline of 5.21% on Thursday, following the release of its fourth-quarter 2025 financial results.

The snack maker reported a net loss of $2.5 million for the quarter, swinging from a profit a year ago. The loss was attributed to increased costs from geographic expansion and sales being hurt by retailers reducing inventory in response to last year's government shutdown. While adjusted earnings per share met analyst expectations, net sales of $342.2 million slightly missed estimates.

Furthermore, the company provided guidance for fiscal year 2026, forecasting a decline in adjusted earnings per share of 3% to 6%, citing higher depreciation, interest expenses, and a higher tax rate. This outlook, coupled with the quarterly loss, appears to have driven investor sentiment negatively during the pre-market session, despite the company's announcement of a new $50 million share repurchase program.