10-QPeriod: Q2 FY2002

COLGATE PALMOLIVE CO Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended Jun 30, 2002

Filed August 2, 2002For Securities:CL

Summary

Colgate-Palmolive Company's second quarter and first half of 2002 financial results show robust top-line growth and improved profitability. Net sales for the second quarter increased by 3.0% to $2.3 billion, driven by a 4.0% rise in unit volume across its Oral, Personal, and Household Care segments, as well as its Pet Nutrition business. This sales growth was achieved despite some negative impacts from foreign currency fluctuations, particularly in Latin America, though the strengthening Euro provided a partial offset. Profitability saw a significant uplift, with operating profit increasing by 10% in the second quarter to $517.8 million and by 7% for the first half to $978.5 million. This improvement was attributed to higher gross profit margins, benefiting from cost reduction initiatives and global sourcing, and a decrease in selling, general, and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales. Diluted earnings per share also demonstrated strong growth, rising to $0.55 for the second quarter and $1.04 for the first half, up from $0.47 and $0.91 in the prior year periods, respectively. The company also reported an increase in cash flow from operations, enhanced by improved profitability and working capital management.

Key Highlights

  • 1Net sales increased by 3.0% to $2.3 billion for the second quarter of 2002, driven by a 4.0% increase in unit volume.
  • 2Operating profit rose by 10% to $517.8 million for the second quarter, reflecting improved gross margins and expense management.
  • 3Diluted earnings per share (EPS) increased to $0.55 for the second quarter and $1.04 for the first half of 2002, compared to $0.47 and $0.91 respectively in the prior year.
  • 4Gross profit margin improved to 54.2% in the second quarter of 2002 from 53.1% in the prior year period.
  • 5Selling, general, and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales decreased to 31.6% in the second quarter of 2002 from 32.1% in the prior year.
  • 6Net cash provided by operating activities increased by 12% to $699.1 million for the first half of 2002.
  • 7The company adopted SFAS 142, removing goodwill amortization, which had a positive impact on reported net income and EPS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sales growth was primarily driven by a 4.0% increase in unit volume across all business segments, including Oral, Personal, and Household Care, and Pet Nutrition. This volume growth offset declines in foreign currencies, although the strengthening Euro positively impacted some regions.

The adoption of SFAS 142 effective January 1, 2002, eliminated the amortization of goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets. This change resulted in a favorable adjustment to previously reported net income and earnings per share for the comparable 2001 periods, making the 2002 results appear stronger by comparison.

The company reported an increase in net cash provided by operations, attributed to improved profitability and working capital management. Net proceeds from debt issuance were used primarily for common stock repurchases, and the company stated it is in compliance with its financial covenants.

Yes, Colgate-Palmolive adopted SFAS 142 regarding Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. Additionally, on January 1, 2002, the company adopted EITF Issue No. 00-14 and 00-25 related to the accounting for certain sales incentives and promotional expenses, which resulted in reclassifications from SG&A to a reduction of net sales and cost of sales, but did not impact net income or EPS.