Kimberly-Clark Corp Stock Price, News & Analysis

Kimberly-Clark Corporation (KMB) announced significant executive leadership changes effective November 1, 2020. Jeff Melucci has been promoted to Chief Transformation, Business Development, and Legal Officer, taking over from Achal Agarwal, who will retire after 12 years with the company. Additionally, Gonzalo Uribe has been appointed President of Kimberly-Clark's Latin American consumer business. These changes aim to enhance organizational capabilities and accelerate the execution of the company's global strategy, with a focus on strengthening its digital business foundation.

Kimberly-Clark Corporation (NYSE: KMB) reported third-quarter 2020 net sales of $4.7 billion, a 1% increase year-over-year, with organic sales growth of 3%. Diluted net income per share was $1.38, down from $1.94 in Q3 2019. The company adjusted its full-year outlook, now expecting adjusted EPS of $7.50 to $7.65, reflecting growth of 9-11%. Operating profit decreased to $666 million, impacted by increased costs and unfavorable currency effects. Despite challenges in K-C Professional, strong demand in consumer products has driven overall sales growth amid the ongoing pandemic.

Kimberly-Clark Corporation (NYSE: KMB) will host a live webcast to discuss its third-quarter 2020 results on October 22 at 9 a.m. CDT. Participants will include Chairman and CEO Mike Hsu and Senior Vice President and CFO Maria Henry. A news release with detailed results will be distributed earlier that day via PR Newswire and First Call. Investors can access the webcast and related presentation via the Investors section on Kimberly-Clark's website.

On October 7, 2020, Kimberly-Clark Corporation (NYSE: KMB) announced the appointment of Sandi Karrmann as Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, effective October 26, 2020. Karrmann will oversee global HR functions such as talent recruitment, labor relations, and employee benefits, reporting to CEO Mike Hsu. With extensive experience in HR leadership roles at major companies, Karrmann is expected to enhance Kimberly-Clark's leadership capabilities and foster a strong organizational culture.

On October 1, 2020, Kimberly-Clark Corporation (NYSE: KMB) announced the successful acquisition of Softex Indonesia, a prominent player in the growing personal care market in Indonesia. This acquisition is aimed at enhancing Kimberly-Clark's market share in Southeast Asia's largest economy. CEO Mike Hsu emphasized the strategic growth potential through combined innovation and brand strength, while maintaining Softex's local market expertise. The transaction's impact on adjusted earnings per share for 2020 and 2021 is expected to be minimal.

Depend brand has launched the Stand Strong for Men's Health campaign, partnering with MLB All-Star Mark Teixeira and the Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF). This initiative aims to raise awareness about the connection between prostate cancer and incontinence. For every Depend Guards or Depend Shields purchased in November, $1 will be donated to PCF, with a goal of raising up to $200,000. The campaign highlights the importance of men's health and encourages discussions about incontinence.

Kimberly-Clark Corporation (NYSE: KMB) has appointed John W. Culver to its board of directors, effective immediately. Culver, who is currently the group president at Starbucks, will also join the company's Audit Committee. His extensive experience in global markets, particularly in China and other regions, is expected to enhance board discussions on growth strategies. CEO Mike Hsu expressed that Culver's insights will be valuable as the company aims to accelerate growth in developing markets.

Kimberly-Clark's Huggies brand is partnering with the National Diaper Bank Network to raise awareness for diaper need during National Diaper Need Awareness Week from September 21-27, 2020. One in three U.S. families experience diaper need, impacting their children’s health and well-being. To combat this, Huggies will donate a case of diapers for every specially marked package purchased at Walmart throughout September, aiming to donate up to five million diapers. Awareness efforts are crucial, especially due to the increased need stemming from the COVID-19 crisis.

On September 3, 2020, Kimberly-Clark Corporation (NYSE: KMB) announced its definitive agreement to acquire Softex Indonesia for approximately $1.2 billion. This strategic acquisition aims to enhance Kimberly-Clark's market share in the growing Indonesian personal care market, particularly in the diaper sector, which is valued at $1.6 billion. Softex Indonesia ranks second in the diaper market and has consistently delivered double-digit growth, with 2019 net sales of $420 million. The acquisition is expected to close in Q4 2020, financed through debt and cash.