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K-C Reports Lower Diaper Volumes

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By: Tara Olivo

Associate Editor at Nonwovens Industry, Rodman Media

Kimberly-Clark released its year-end 2014 results and 2015 outlook. For the full year, sales of $19.7 billion increased 1% compared to the year-ago period. Organic sales rose 4%, with volumes and net selling prices each up 2%.

Within K-C’s personal care segment, fourth quarter sales of $2.3 billion fell 1%. Fourth quarter operating profit of $410 million increased 3%. The comparison benefited from organic sales growth and cost savings, partially offset by unfavorable effects from changes in currency rates, input cost inflation and higher manufacturing-related costs. North American sales decreased 2%. Volumes were down 2% and currency was unfavorable 1%, while net selling prices were up slightly.

Huggies baby wipes volumes rose double-digits, including benefits from marketshare gains. Adult care volumes were similar to year-ago levels and feminine care volumes were down low-single digits. Childcare volumes were off high-single digits, driven by lower Pull-Ups training pants volumes. Huggies diaper volumes were off 10% compared to mid-single digit growth in the year-ago period and were impacted by marketshare declines and competitive promotional activity.

During the company’s fourth quarter earnings call in January, chairman and CEO Thomas Falk announced that the company will focus on marketing and innovation to boost diaper volumes. North American plans include improvements in Huggies diapers and baby wipes and adult care products, with new product launches and a few mainline improvements being announced this year. Abroad, K-C will introduce new products or make upgrades to existing items across many categories.

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