Summary
Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (CHD) reported strong performance in its 2013 fiscal year, characterized by a 9.3% increase in net sales to $3.2 billion, driven by the acquisition of its gummy vitamin business and growth across key consumer segments. The company demonstrated improved profitability with gross and operating margins expanding due to productivity initiatives, outpacing commodity cost increases. Diluted earnings per share saw a significant 14% rise to $2.79. CHD also maintained a focus on returning capital to shareholders, repurchasing shares and increasing its dividend, signaling financial strength and confidence in its strategic direction. The company highlighted its core "power brands," particularly the "mega brands" of ARM & HAMMER, OXICLEAN, TROJAN, and the combined L’IL CRITTERS and VITAFUSION gummy vitamins, which are central to its growth strategy. Despite ongoing economic softness and intensified competition, especially in the laundry detergent category, CHD managed to grow market share in six of its nine power brands. The company is actively managing its cost structure, investing in new product development, and exploring strategic acquisitions to drive future growth and maintain competitive positioning.
Financial Highlights
56 data points| Revenue | $3.19B |
| Cost of Revenue | $1.76B |
| Gross Profit | $1.44B |
| R&D Expenses | $61.80M |
| SG&A Expenses | $416.00M |
| Operating Income | $622.20M |
| Interest Expense | $27.70M |
| Net Income | $394.40M |
| EPS (Basic) | $1.43 |
| EPS (Diluted) | $1.40 |
| Shares Outstanding (Basic) | 277.20M |
| Shares Outstanding (Diluted) | 282.40M |
Key Highlights
- 1Net sales increased by 9.3% to $3.2 billion in 2013, primarily due to the acquisition of the gummy vitamin business and growth in core consumer segments.
- 2Gross margin improved by 80 basis points to 45.0%, and operating margin increased by 80 basis points to 19.5%, driven by productivity programs and SG&A leverage.
- 3Diluted earnings per share rose by approximately 14% to $2.79, reflecting improved operational performance.
- 4The company returned $205 million to stockholders through dividends and share repurchases, demonstrating a commitment to shareholder value.
- 5Market share was gained in six of nine 'power brands,' including laundry detergent, despite a challenging competitive environment.
- 6Significant new product launches are planned for 2014 across core brands like ARM & HAMMER and OXICLEAN, targeting expansion into new categories.
- 7The company successfully managed its debt levels, with net debt decreasing by approximately $254 million from the prior year.