Colgate sees organic sales growth in all operating divisions in Q3

NEW YORK — Colgate reported on Friday worldwide net sales of $4.38 billion in the third quarter, a decrease of 0.5% versus third quarter 2013, as organic sales grew 3.5%.



Including charges, net income and diluted earnings per share in third quarter 2014 were $542 million and 59 cents, respectively. Net income and diluted earnings per share in third quarter 2013 were $656 million and 70 cents, respectively, including charges.



Excluding the above-noted items in both periods, net income in third quarter 2014 was $701 million, an increase of 3% versus third quarter 2013, and diluted earnings per share in third quarter 2014 was 76 cents, an increase of 4% versus third quarter 2013.



In North America, which accounts for 18% of company sales, sales increased 2% during the quarter. Organic sales increased 2.5%.



In the United States, new product launches are contributing to volume growth. Market share gains year to date were seen in manual toothbrushes, mouthwash, liquid cleaners and fabric conditioners, the company stated. In toothpaste, Colgate Enamel Health, Colgate Optic White, Colgate Optic White Platinum Whiten & Protect, Colgate MaxFresh Cool Scrub, Colgate Sensitive SmartFoam and Tom’s of Maine toothpastes had strong sales during the quarter.



In manual toothbrushes, Colgate’s market share in that category reached a record 40.8% year to date, up 2.4 share points versus the year ago period, the company stated. The increase was driven by strong sales of Colgate Optic White Toothbrush + Built-In Whitening Pen, Colgate 360° Enamel Health, Colgate 360° Optic White, Colgate 360° Total Advanced Floss-Tip bristles and Colgate Slim Soft manual toothbrushes, according to Colgate.



Successful products driving volume growth in the United States in other categories include Colgate Total Lasting White, Colgate Total Advanced Pro-Shield, Colgate Optic White and Colgate Kids mouthwashes, Fabuloso Fiesta Orange liquid cleaner and Suavitel Fast Dry fabric conditioner, the company noted.