Ecolab Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Ecolab Inc. (NYSE:ECL) announced price increases across its Industrial segment divisions, effective December 1, 2021, due to rising raw material costs and logistical challenges. Most programs will see an average price hike of 15%. Ecolab emphasizes these adjustments are crucial for maintaining product quality and operational efficiency for customers. The company remains committed to delivering advanced technologies while facing significant inflationary pressures in packaging, labor, and utilities.

Ecolab has announced the resignation of Chief Financial Officer Dan Schmechel, effective December 31, 2021, after 27 years with the company. Scott Kirkland, currently Senior Vice President and Corporate Controller, will take over as CFO starting January 1, 2022. Schmechel will assist in the transition before retiring mid-2022. CEO Christophe Beck praised Schmechel's contributions, highlighting his role in strengthening Ecolab's financial functions. Kirkland, with over 15 years at Ecolab, is seen as well-prepared to lead the finance team and support the company's growth objectives.

Ecolab announced a live webcast on October 29, 2021, at 8:30 AM ET to discuss its recent acquisition of Purolite, a key strategic move for the company. The event will be webcasted publicly on Ecolab’s investor website. This acquisition is positioned to enhance Ecolab's capabilities in water, hygiene, and infection prevention solutions, potentially expanding their market reach and operational efficiency. Ecolab, a global leader in its field, has annual sales of $12 billion and serves nearly three million customers worldwide.

Ecolab Inc. has announced the acquisition of Purolite for approximately $3.7 billion in cash, enhancing its position in the life sciences and industrial markets. This strategic acquisition focuses on high-end ion exchange resins critical for drug production and purification, aiming to double Ecolab's existing high-margin business. Expected to close in Q4 2021, the transaction is anticipated to be neutral to adjusted earnings in 2022 and nearly $0.10 accretive in 2023. With Purolite generating around $0.4 billion in sales, the deal offers significant growth potential.

Ecolab reported a strong third quarter, achieving a 10% increase in sales year-over-year, reaching $3.32 billion. Adjusted diluted earnings per share rose 20% to $1.38, reflecting effective pricing and volume growth despite higher costs. Key segments like Institutional & Specialty saw double-digit growth, while Healthcare experienced a 13% decline in sales. Operating margins improved, with cash flow from operations at $623 million. Ecolab anticipates continued growth in Q4, albeit with an increase in operational costs.

Ecolab will hold a webcast on Oct. 26, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. ET to discuss its third quarter earnings for 2021. A news release with the financial results is anticipated before market open on the same day. The duration of the call will be one hour, and it can be accessed at www.ecolab.com/investor. Ecolab, symbol ECL, operates in over 170 countries, delivering solutions in water, hygiene, and infection prevention with annual sales of $12 billion.