Dividend Contenders List: Top 15

9. The J. M. Smucker Company (NYSE:SJM)

Dividend Yield as of March 12: 3.89%

The J. M. Smucker Company (NYSE:SJM) is an Ohio-based food company that manufactures a wide range of food and beverage products. The company has expanded its business through strategic acquisitions, including Big Heart Pet Brands in 2015 and Hostess in 2024, allowing it to focus on high-growth areas such as snacking, coffee, and pet food. Its acquisition of Uncrustables in 1998 for just $1 million has since turned into a brand generating close to $1 billion in annual sales. This track record highlights the company’s ability to turn small investments into substantial revenue opportunities.

In fiscal Q3 2025, The J. M. Smucker Company (NYSE:SJM) reported revenue of $2.2 billion, which fell by 2% from the same period last year. The company reported a net loss of $6.22 per diluted share, primarily due to noncash impairment charges related to the Sweet Baked Snacks reporting unit. Adjusted earnings per share rose 5% to $2.61. Gross profit saw a $55 million increase, or 7%, driven by higher net pricing, reduced costs, and the added benefit of Hostess Brands. However, these gains were partially offset by lower sales volume and the impact of recent divestitures.

The J. M. Smucker Company (NYSE:SJM)’s cash position came in strong in the most recent quarter. The company generated an operating cash flow of nearly $240 million and its free cash flow came in at $151.3 million. During the quarter, it returned $114.4 million to shareholders through dividends. The company’s quarterly dividend comes in at $1.08 per share for a dividend yield of 3.89%, as of March 12. With a 23-year streak of dividend growth under its belt, SJM is one of the best dividend stocks on our dividend contenders list.