Q3 Sales Decline At Colgate-Palmolive

Colgate-Palmolive reported worldwide net sales fell 8.5% to $4 billion for the third quarter 2015. Global unit volume grew 1.0%, pricing increased 3.5% and foreign exchange was negative 13.0%.  Net income decreased 7% to $653 million for the quarter.

In North America—20% of company sales—net sales increased 0.5% in the third quarter of 2015. Unit volume increased 2.5% with 0.5% lower pricing, while foreign exchange was negative 1.5%. Organic sales increased 2.0% during the quarter. Operating profit in North America increased 8% in third quarter 2015 to $258 million.

In the US, product launches are contributing to volume growth, Colagte said. Market share gains year to date were recorded in toothpaste, manual toothbrushes, mouthwash, liquid hand soap, body wash and fabric conditioners.

Colgate’s share of the toothpaste market strengthened to 35.3% year to date driven by sales of Colgate Enamel Health, Colgate Optic White Platinum Express White, Colgate Total Daily Repair and Tom’s of Maine toothpastes.

In manual toothbrushes, Colgate strengthened its brand market leadership in the US with its market share in that category at 41.4% year to date. Strong sales of Colgate 360° Enamel Health and Colgate 360° Optic White Platinum manual toothbrushes contributed to volume growth in the quarter, according to the company.

Driving volume growth in the US in other categories were Colgate Enamel Health and Colgate Kids mouthwashes, Softsoap Fragrant Foaming Collection of liquid hand soaps, Softsoap Fresh & Glow body washes, Irish Spring Signature For Men body wash, Palmolive Soft Touch Almond Milk and Blueberry dish liquid and Suavitel fabric conditioner.