Ecolab Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Ecolab will conduct a live webcast on April 27, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. ET to discuss its first-quarter earnings results for 2021. A prior news release detailing the results will be issued before the market opens on the same day. Ecolab, known for its leadership in water, hygiene, and infection prevention solutions, reported annual sales of $12 billion and operates in over 170 countries. The webcast will be available at www.ecolab.com/investor, with an archive replay following the event.

Ecolab launched an enhanced Smart Water Navigator tool to address the growing water scarcity issue on World Water Day. With a projected 56% freshwater shortfall by 2030, Ecolab aims to help companies manage their water use effectively. A survey revealed only 38% of companies treat water management as a strategic initiative. The upgraded tool offers functionalities for measuring water use and benchmarking performance across facilities. Ecolab's efforts align with its commitment to sustainability and water stewardship, emphasizing the need for urgent corporate action.

Ecolab has announced that Texas Roadhouse has received the Ecolab Science Certified™ seal for over 600 restaurants across 49 states. This certification reflects Texas Roadhouse's commitment to high cleaning standards and enhanced safety protocols amid ongoing pandemic concerns. The initiative aims to boost customer and employee confidence, supported by Ecolab's science-based cleaning strategies. Research indicates that 66% of restaurant customers feel safer with hospital-grade cleaning practices. Texas Roadhouse is leveraging this certification to enhance its reputation in the competitive casual dining market.

Ecolab addressed the short-term disruptions caused by the winter freeze in Texas and the Gulf Coast, reaffirming its earnings outlook for 2021 to surpass 2019 levels. CEO Christophe Beck emphasized expected strong growth driven by the recovery in the Institutional division and new business innovations. While the freeze impacted supply chains and specific customer operations, the adverse effect is projected to be a one-time challenge of approximately $0.15 per share, mainly affecting Q1. Ecolab believes these issues will be resolved soon, allowing for continued sales and margin improvements.

Ecolab, a leader in water, hygiene, and infection prevention, contributed over $23 million in 2020 to communities, aiding pandemic relief and supporting various nonprofit causes. This included more than $11 million in cleaning products for COVID-19 response. The Ecolab Foundation provided cash grants exceeding $9 million, with significant funding directed toward organizations focused on basic needs and education. The company also engaged in volunteerism, with employees contributing over 74,000 hours and donations amounting to $3 million.

The board of directors of Ecolab declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.48 per common share, payable on April 15, 2021. Shareholders of record will be noted as of March 16, 2021. Ecolab has a strong track record, having paid dividends for 84 consecutive years. The company's annual sales reach $12 billion and it operates in more than 170 countries with over 44,000 associates, emphasizing its leadership in water, hygiene, and infection prevention solutions.