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Sales Up at K-C

Fourth quarter sales increase 1%

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By: Tara Olivo

Associate Editor at Nonwovens Industry, Rodman Media

Kimberly-Clark’s sales of $4.6 billion in the fourth quarter of 2017 were up 1% compared to the year-ago period. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates benefited sales by more than 1%. Organic sales fell about 1%, as lower net selling prices of 2% were partially offset by improved product mix of 1% and slightly higher volumes. In North America, organic sales were down 3% in consumer products and up 1% in K-C Professional. Outside North America, organic sales increased 4% in developing and emerging markets but fell 3% in developed markets.

In the Personal Care Segment, fourth quarter sales of $2.3 billion were up 1%. Volumes increased 2% and product mix improved 1%, while net selling prices fell 3%. In addition, changes in currency rates and the acquisition of the company’s joint venture in India each benefited sales by less than 1%. Fourth quarter operating profit of $483 million decreased 2%. The comparison was impacted by lower net selling prices and input cost inflation. Results benefited from volume growth, improved product mix, cost savings and reduced marketing, research and general spending.

Sales in North America decreased 2%. Net selling prices declined 4%, including higher promotion spending in most categories, while volumes increased 2%. Adult care volumes rose mid-single digits, led by gains on the Poise brand. Total volumes in infant and child care were up low-single digits, driven by growth in Pull-Ups training pants.

Sales in developing and emerging markets increased 7%. Volumes increased 4% and product mix improved 3%, while net selling prices were down 3%. In addition, the acquisition of the company’s joint venture in India benefited sales by 2% and currency rates were favorable by 1%. The volume increase was driven by gains in Latin America, primarily Argentina and Brazil, and in Eastern Europe.

Sales in developed markets outside North America (Australia, South Korea and Western/Central Europe) decreased 5%, despite a 2 point benefit from favorable currency rates. Volumes were down 7%, driven by South Korea. Net selling prices fell 2%, offset by improved product mix.

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