CHURCH DWIGHT CO INC DE

Previous wording

We sell our consumer products under a variety of brands through a broad distribution platform that includes supermarkets, mass merchandisers, wholesale clubs, drugstores, convenience stores, home stores, dollar, pet and other specialty stores and websites and other e-commerce channels, all of which sell the products to consumers. We sell our specialty products to industrial customers, livestock producers and through distributors.

Current wording

We sell our consumer products under a variety of brands through a broad distribution platform that includes supermarkets, mass merchandisers, wholesale clubs, drugstores, convenience stores, home stores, dollar, pet and other specialty stores and websites and other e-commerce channels, all of which sell the products to consumers. We sell our specialty products to industrial and commercial customers, livestock producers and through distributors.

Previous wording

We operate our business in three segments: Consumer Domestic, Consumer International and the Specialty Products Division (“SPD”). The segments are based on differences in the nature of products and organizational and ownership structures. In 2023, the Consumer Domestic, Consumer International and SPD segments represented approximately 78%, 17% and 5%, respectively, of our consolidated net sales.

Current wording

We operate our business in three segments: Consumer Domestic, Consumer International and the Specialty Products Division (“SPD”). The segments are based on differences in the nature of products sold and management organizational structures. In 2024, the Consumer Domestic, Consumer International and SPD segments represented approximately 77%, 18% and 5%, respectively, of our consolidated net sales.

Previous wording

On January 31, 2024, the Board declared a 4% increase in the regular quarterly dividend from $0.2725 to $0.28375 per share (equivalent to an annual dividend of $1.135 per share) payable to stockholders of record as of February 15, 2024. The increase raises the annualized dividend payout from $267.0 to approximately $276.0 on an annualized basis.

Current wording

On January 29, 2025, the Board declared a 4% increase in the regular quarterly dividend from $0.28375 to $ 0.295 per share (equivalent to an annual dividend of $1.18 per share) payable to stockholders of record as of February 14, 2025. The increase raises the annualized dividend payout from $277.0 to approximately $287.0 on an annualized basis.

Previous wording

2023 net sales grew 9.2% over 2022, with gains in Consumer Domestic and Consumer International, partially offset by lower sales in SPD. The gains are primarily due to favorable pricing/product mix, favorable volumes, and the benefit of recent acquisitions in Consumer Domestic and Consumer International, partially offset by unfavorable volumes and pricing/product mix in SPD.

Current wording

Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2024 grew 4.1% over 2023, with gains in Consumer Domestic and Consumer International, partially offset by lower sales in SPD. The gains are primarily due to favorable volumes, and pricing/product mix across all three segments, including the benefit of recent acquisitions in Consumer Domestic and Consumer International, partially offset by the exit of product lines in SPD and unfavorable foreign currency exchange rates in Consumer International.

Previous wording

Gross margin increased 220 basis points to 44.1% in 2023 from 41.9% in 2022, primarily due to favorable price/volume/mix, the impact of productivity programs, lower transportation costs, and business acquisition benefits, partially offset by higher manufacturing costs including labor and higher commodities.

Current wording

Gross margin increased 160 basis points to 45.7% in 2024 from 44.1% in 2023, which includes an approximate 50 basis point benefit from a favorable tariff ruling. Excluding the tariff ruling gross margin increased due to the positive impact of productivity programs, favorable price/volume/mix, and business acquisition benefits, offset by higher manufacturing costs including labor and higher commodities.

Previous wording

Operating margin increased 690 basis points to 18.0% in 2023 from 11.1% in 2022. The 2022 operating margin included a non-cash charge of $411.0 or 760 basis points related to the Flawless intangible asset impairment. Excluding the impairment charge, operating margin decreased 70 basis points as an increase in gross margins was offset by higher marketing expenses and selling general and administrative costs.

Current wording

Operating margin decreased 470 basis points to 13.3% in 2024 from 18.0% in 2023. The 2024 operating margin includes a non-cash charge of $357.1 or 580 basis points related to the impairment of the VITAFUSION and L'IL CRITTERS indefinite-lived trade name as well as a definite-lived customer relationship intangible asset and PP&E specific to the VMS business. Excluding the impairment charge, operating margin increased 110 basis points due to favorable gross margins, slightly offset by higher marketing expenses.

Previous wording

We reported diluted net earnings per share in 2023 of $3.05, an increase of approximately 81.5% from 2022 diluted net earnings per share of $1.68 which included the non-cash Flawless intangible asset impairment charge of $1.26 per share.

Current wording

We reported diluted net earnings per share in 2024 of $2.37, a decrease of approximately 22.3% from 2023 diluted net earnings per share of $3.05. Earnings per share in 2024 includes the non-cash VMS trade name and other asset impairment charges of $1.10 per share. Excluding the impairment charges, 2024 diluted net earnings per share was $3.47 compared to 2023 diluted earnings per share of $3.05.

Previous wording

Cash provided by operations was $1,030.6 in 2023, a $145.4 increase from the prior year due to an improvement in working capital and an increase in cash earnings (net income adjusted for non-cash items) including the impact of recent acquisitions.

Current wording

Cash provided by operations was $1,156.2 in 2024, a $125.6 increase from the prior year primarily due to an increase in cash earnings (net income adjusted for non-cash items).

Previous wording

We returned $566.6 in 2023 to our stockholders through cash dividends paid and share repurchases.

Current wording

We returned $277.0 in 2024 to our stockholders through cash dividends paid.

Previous wording

Our ability to generate sales depends on consumer demand for our products and retail customers’ decisions to carry our products, which are, in part, affected by general economic conditions in our markets. While a vast majority of our products are consumer staples and less vulnerable to decreases in discretionary spending than other products, certain of our products, are more likely to be affected by consumer decisions to control spending. Some retail customers have responded to economic conditions by increasing their private label offerings (primarily in the dietary supplements, diagnostic kits and oral analgesics categories), launching their own brands, and consolidating the product selections they offer to the top few leading brands in each category. In addition, an increasing portion of our product categories are being sold by club stores, dollar stores, mass merchandisers and internet-based retailers. These factors have placed downward pressure on our sales and gross margins.

Current wording

Our ability to generate sales depends on consumer demand for our products and retail customers’ decisions to carry our products, which are, in part, affected by general economic conditions in our markets. While a vast majority of our products are consumer staples and less vulnerable to decreases in discretionary spending than other products, certain of our products, are more likely to be affected by consumer decisions to control spending. Some retail customers have responded to economic conditions by increasing their private label offerings (primarily in the dietary supplements, stain fighters, diagnostic kits and oral analgesics categories), launching their own brands, and consolidating the product selections they offer to the top few leading brands in each category. In addition, an increasing portion of our product categories are being sold by club stores, dollar stores, mass merchandisers and internet-based retailers. These factors have placed downward pressure on our sales and gross margins.

Previous wording

We intend to continue to aggressively pursue several key strategic initiatives: maintain competitive marketing and trade spending, tightly control our cost structure, expand our online market share, continue to develop and launch new and differentiated products, and pursue strategic acquisitions. We also intend to continue to grow our product sales globally and maintain an offering of premium and value brand products to appeal to a wide range of consumers.

Current wording

We intend to continue to aggressively pursue several key strategic initiatives: maintain competitive marketing and trade spending, tightly control our cost structure, expand our online market share by continuing to invest in e-commerce (global on-line sales were 21.4% of consumer sales in 2024), expand our presence and product offerings to consumers outside of the United States, continue to develop and launch new and differentiated products, pursue strategic acquisitions, continue to grow our product sales globally and maintain an offering of premium and value brand products to appeal to a wide range of consumers. Our global product portfolio consists of both premium (64% of total worldwide consumer revenue in 2024) and value (36% of total worldwide consumer revenue in 2024) brands, which we believe enables us to succeed in a range of economic environments. We intend to continue to develop a portfolio of appealing new products to build loyalty among cost-conscious consumers. We derive a substantial percentage of our revenues from sales of liquid laundry detergent. We continue to evaluate and vigorously address pressures on this business through, among other things, new product introductions and increased marketing and trade spending.

Previous wording

Over the past two decades, we have diversified from an almost exclusively U.S. business to a global company with approximately 17% of sales derived from countries outside of the United States in 2023. We have subsidiary operations in seven countries (Canada, Mexico, U.K., France, Germany, China and Australia). We also export products to over 130 other countries through our Global Markets Group using a broad network of third-party distributors. In 2023, we benefited from our expanded global footprint and expect to continue to focus on selectively expanding our global business. If we are unable to expand our business internationally at the rate that we expect, we may not realize our anticipated growth targets.

Current wording

Over the past two decades, we have diversified from an almost exclusively U.S. business to a global company with approximately 18% of sales derived from countries outside of the United States in 2024, and we believe ongoing international expansion represents a significant opportunity to grow our business. We have subsidiary operations in eight countries (Canada, Mexico, U.K., France, Germany, China, Australia, and Japan). We also export products to over 130 other countries through our Global Markets Group using a broad network of third-party distributors. In 2024, we benefited from our expanded global footprint and expect to continue to focus on selectively expanding our global business.

Previous wording

We also continue to focus on controlling our costs. Historically, we have been able to mitigate the effects of cost increases primarily by implementing cost reduction programs and, to a lesser extent, by passing along cost increases to customers. We have also entered into set pricing and pre-buying arrangements with certain suppliers and hedge agreements for diesel fuel and other commodities. Additionally, our focus on tight cost controls has enabled us to effectively navigate challenging economic conditions.

Current wording

We also continue to focus on controlling our costs. Historically, we have been able to mitigate the effects of cost increases primarily by implementing cost reduction programs and, to a lesser extent, by passing along cost increases to customers. We have also entered into set pricing and pre-buying arrangements with certain suppliers and hedge agreements for diesel fuel and other commodities. Additionally, our focus on tight cost controls has enabled us to effectively navigate challenging economic conditions. However, the current domestic and international political environment, including existing and potential changes to U.S. policies related to global trade and tariffs, including tariffs imposed by other countries in response to or in anticipation of U.S. tariffs, have resulted in uncertainty regarding the global economy and with respect to our operations and costs.

Previous wording

The identification and integration of strategic acquisitions are an important component of our overall strategy and product category diversification. Acquisitions have added significantly to our sales, profits and product category diversification over the last decade. This is evidenced by our 2015 acquisition of certain assets of Varied Industries Corporation (the “Vi-cor Acquisition”), the 2016 acquisitions of Spencer Forrest, Inc., the maker of TOPPIK (the “Toppik Acquisition”), and the ANUSOL and RECTINOL businesses from Johnson & Johnson (the “Anusol Acquisition”), the 2017 acquisitions of the VIVISCAL brand from Lifes2Good Holdings Limited (the “Viviscal Acquisition”), and the WATERPIK brand from Pik Holdings, Inc. (the “Waterpik Acquisition”), the 2020 acquisition of the ZICAM brand from Consumer Health Holdco LLC, the 2021 acquisition of the THERABREATH brand from Dr. Harold Katz, LLC and HK-IP International, Inc, and the 2022 acquisition of the HERO brand which includes the MIGHTY PATCH acne treatment products. The failure to effectively identify or integrate any acquisition or achieve expected synergies may cause us to incur material asset write-downs. We actively seek acquisitions that fit our guidelines, and our strong financial position provides us with flexibility to take advantage of acquisition opportunities. In addition, our ability to quickly integrate acquisitions and leverage existing infrastructure has enabled us to establish a strong track record in making accretive acquisitions. Since 2001, we have acquired six of our seven “power brands.”

Current wording

The identification and integration of strategic acquisitions are an important component of our overall strategy and product category diversification. Acquisitions have added significantly to our sales, profits and product category diversification over the last decade. This is evidenced by our 2015 acquisition of certain assets of Varied Industries Corporation (the “Vi-cor Acquisition”), the 2016 acquisitions of Spencer Forrest, Inc., the maker of TOPPIK (the “Toppik Acquisition”), and the ANUSOL and RECTINOL businesses from Johnson & Johnson (the “Anusol Acquisition”), the 2017 acquisitions of the VIVISCAL brand from Lifes2Good Holdings Limited (the “Viviscal Acquisition”), and the WATERPIK brand from Pik Holdings, Inc. (the “Waterpik Acquisition”), the 2020 acquisition of the ZICAM brand from Consumer Health Holdco LLC, the 2021 acquisition of the THERABREATH brand from Dr. Harold Katz, LLC and HK-IP International, Inc, 2022 acquisition of the HERO brand which includes the MIGHTY PATCH acne treatment products and 2024 acquisition of Graphico, Inc. (the “Graphico Acquisition”), a Japan-based distributor. We actively seek acquisitions that fit our guidelines, and our strong financial position provides us with flexibility to take advantage of acquisition opportunities. In addition, our ability to quickly integrate acquisitions and leverage existing infrastructure has enabled us to establish a strong track record in making accretive acquisitions. Since 2001, we have acquired six of our seven “power brands.”

Previous wording

Our Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. (GAAP). The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. By their nature, these judgments are subject to uncertainty. They are based on our historical experience, our observation of trends in industry, information provided by our customers and information available from other outside sources, as appropriate. Our significant accounting policies and estimates are described below.

Current wording

Our Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. (US GAAP). The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. By their nature, these judgments are subject to uncertainty. They are based on our historical experience, our observation of trends in industry, information provided by our customers and information available from other outside sources, as appropriate. Our significant accounting policies and estimates are described below.

Previous wording

Virtually all of our revenue represents sales of finished goods inventory and is recognized when received or picked up by our customers. The reserves for consumer and trade promotion liabilities and sales returns are established based on our best estimate of the amounts necessary to settle future and existing claims on products sold as of the balance sheet date. Promotional reserves are provided for sales incentives, such as coupons to consumers, and sales incentives provided to customers (such as slotting, cooperative advertising, incentive discounts based on volume of sales and other arrangements made directly with customers). All such costs are netted against sales. Slotting costs are recorded when the product is delivered to the customer. Cooperative advertising costs are recorded when the customer places the advertisement for our products. Discounts relating to price reduction arrangements and coupons are recorded when the related sale takes place. Costs associated with end-aisle or other in-store displays are recorded when product that is subject to the promotion is sold. We rely on historical experience and forecasted data to determine the required reserves. For example, we use historical experience to project coupon redemption rates to determine reserve requirements. Based on the total face value of Consumer Domestic coupons redeemed over the past several years, if the actual rate of redemptions were to deviate by 0.1% from the rate for which reserves are accrued in the financial statements, a difference of approximately $0.7 in the reserve required for coupons would result. With regard to other promotional reserves and sales returns, we use experience-based estimates, customer and sales organization inputs and historical trend analysis in arriving at the reserves required. If our estimates for promotional activities and sales returns reserves were to change by 10% the impact to promotional spending and sales return accruals would be approximately $16.0. While management believes that its promotional and sales returns reserves are reasonable and that appropriate judgments have been made, estimated amounts could differ materially from actual future obligations.

Current wording

Virtually all of our revenue represents sales of finished goods inventory and is recognized when received or picked up by our customers. The reserves for consumer and trade promotion liabilities and sales returns are established based on our best estimate of the amounts necessary to settle future and existing claims on products sold as of the balance sheet date. Promotional reserves are provided for sales incentives, such as coupons to consumers, and sales incentives provided to customers (such as slotting, cooperative advertising, incentive discounts based on volume of sales and other arrangements made directly with customers). All such costs are netted against sales. Slotting costs are recorded when the product is delivered to the customer. Cooperative advertising costs are recorded when the customer places the advertisement for our products. Discounts relating to price reduction arrangements and coupons are recorded when the related sale takes place. Costs associated with end-aisle or other in-store displays are recorded when product that is subject to the promotion is sold. We rely on historical experience and forecasted data to determine the required reserves. For example, we use historical experience to project coupon redemption rates to determine reserve requirements. Based on the total face value of Consumer Domestic coupons redeemed over the past several years, if the actual rate of redemptions were to deviate by 0.1% from the rate for which reserves are accrued in the financial statements, a difference of approximately $0.1 in the reserve required for coupons would result. With regard to other promotional reserves and sales returns, we use experience-based estimates, customer and sales organization inputs and historical trend analysis in arriving at the reserves required. If our estimates for promotional activities and sales returns reserves were to change by 10%, the impact to promotional spending and sales return accruals would be approximately $14.7. While management believes that its promotional and sales returns reserves are reasonable and that appropriate judgments have been made, estimated amounts could differ materially from actual future obligations.

Previous wording

The result of our annual goodwill impairment test determined that the estimated fair value substantially exceeded the carrying values of all reporting units. We determined that the fair value of all indefinite-lived intangible assets for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2023 exceeded their respective carrying values based upon the forecasted cash flows and profitability.

Current wording

The result of our annual goodwill impairment test determined that the estimated fair value substantially exceeded the carrying values of all reporting units. We determined that the fair value of all indefinite-lived intangible assets for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2024, exceeded their respective carrying values based upon the forecasted cash flows and profitability, with the exception of our VMS business described below.

Previous wording

Our global WATERPIK business has continued to experience a significant decline in customer demand for many of its products, primarily due to lower consumer spending for discretionary products resulting in part from inflation and a growing number of water flosser consumers switching to more value-branded products. Waterpik's profitability has also been impacted by tariffs imposed on its products imported into the United States that were manufactured in China. As a result, the WATERPIK business has experienced declining sales and profits resulting in a reduction in expected future cash flows which have eroded a substantial portion of the excess between the fair and carrying value of the trade name. This indefinite-lived intangible asset may be susceptible to impairment and a continued decline in fair value could trigger a future impairment charge of the WATERPIK trade name. While management can and has implemented strategies to address the risk, significant changes in operating plans or adverse changes in the future could reduce the underlying cash flows used to estimate fair values and could result in a decline in fair value that could trigger future impairment charges of these assets. The carrying value of the WATERPIK trade name is $644.7 and fair value represented 109% of the carrying value as of October 1, 2023.

Current wording

Our global WATERPIK business has continued to experience a significant decline in customer demand for many of its products, primarily due to lower consumer spending for discretionary products resulting in part from inflation and a growing number of water flosser consumers switching to more value-branded products. As a result, the WATERPIK business has experienced declining sales and profits resulting in a reduction in expected future cash flows which have eroded a substantial portion of the excess between the fair and carrying value of the trade name. This indefinite-lived intangible asset may be susceptible to impairment and a continued decline in fair value could trigger a future impairment charge of the WATERPIK trade name. While management can and has implemented strategies to address the risk, significant changes in operating plans or adverse changes in the future could reduce the underlying cash flows used to estimate fair values and could result in a decline in fair value that could trigger future impairment charges of these assets. The carrying value of the WATERPIK trade name is $644.7 and fair value represented 135% of the carrying value as of October 1, 2024. The fair value represented 109% of the carrying value as of October 1, 2023. The increase in fair value is mainly attributable to a favorable tariff ruling on certain Waterpik products imported from China.

Previous wording

In the fourth quarter of 2022, we determined that a review of our ability to recover the carrying values of the global FINISHING TOUCH FLAWLESS intangible assets was necessary based on the discontinuance of certain products at a major retailer. The FINISHING TOUCH FLAWLESS assets consist of the definite-lived trade name, customer relationships and technology assets recorded at acquisition. We evaluated our ability to recover the carrying values of the intangible assets by comparing the carrying amount to the future undiscounted cash flows and determined that the cash flows would not be sufficient to recover the carrying value of the assets. After determining the estimated fair value of the assets, which included a reduction in cash flows due to the loss of distribution mentioned above along with an expected continued decline in discretionary consumption and higher interest rates, a non-cash impairment charge of $411.0 was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2022. The remaining net book value of the trade name as of December 31, 2023 is $30.9 and will be amortized over a remaining useful life of two years. We have implemented strategies to address the decline in profitability. However, if unsuccessful, a further decline could trigger a future impairment charge.

Current wording

In the fourth quarter of 2022, we determined that a review of our ability to recover the carrying values of the global FINISHING TOUCH FLAWLESS intangible assets was necessary based on the discontinuance of certain products at a major retailer. The FINISHING TOUCH FLAWLESS assets consist of the definite-lived trade name, customer relationships and technology assets recorded at acquisition. We evaluated our ability to recover the carrying values of the intangible assets by comparing the carrying amount to the future undiscounted cash flows and determined that the cash flows would not be sufficient to recover the carrying value of the assets. After determining the estimated fair value of the assets, which included a reduction in cash flows due to the loss of distribution mentioned above along with an expected continued decline in discretionary consumption and higher interest rates, a non-cash impairment charge of $411.0 was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2022. The remaining net book value of the trade name as of December 31, 2024 is $15.4 and will be amortized over a remaining useful life of one year.

Previous wording

It is possible that our conclusions regarding impairment or recoverability of goodwill or other intangible assets could change in future periods if, for example, (i) the businesses or brands do not perform as projected, (ii) overall economic conditions in future years vary from current assumptions (including changes in discount rates), (iii) business conditions or strategies change from current assumptions, (iv) investors require higher rates of return on equity investments in the marketplace or (v) enterprise values of comparable publicly traded companies, or actual sales transactions of comparable companies, were to decline, resulting in lower multiples of revenues and EBITDA. A future impairment charge for goodwill or intangible assets could have a material effect on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

Current wording

It is possible that our conclusions regarding impairment or recoverability of goodwill or other intangible assets could change in future periods if, for example, (i) the businesses or brands do not perform as projected, (ii) overall economic conditions in future years vary from current assumptions (including changes in discount rates and tariffs), (iii) business conditions or strategies change from current assumptions, (iv) investors require higher rates of return on equity investments in the marketplace or (v) enterprise values of comparable publicly traded companies, or actual sales transactions of comparable companies, were to decline, resulting in lower multiples of revenues and EBITDA. A future impairment charge for goodwill or intangible assets could have a material effect on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

Previous wording

The discussion of results of operations at the consolidated level presented below is followed by a more detailed discussion of results of operations by segment. This section of this Form 10-K generally discusses 2023 and 2022 results and year-to-year comparisons between 2023 and 2022. Discussions of 2021 items and year-to-year comparisons between 2022 and 2021 that are not included in this Form 10-K can be found in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in Part II, Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022. The segment discussion also addresses certain product line information. Our operating segments are consistent with our reportable segments.

Current wording

The discussion of consolidated results of operations presented below is followed by a more detailed discussion of results of operations by segment. This section of this Form 10-K generally discusses 2024 and 2023 results and year-to-year comparisons between 2024 and 2023. Discussions of 2022 items and year-to-year comparisons between 2023 and 2022 that are not included in this Form 10-K can be found in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in Part II, Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. The segment discussion also addresses certain product line information. Our operating segments are consistent with our reportable segments.

Previous wording

Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2023 were $5,867.9, an increase of $492.3, or 9.2% compared to 2022 net sales. The components of the net sales increase are as follows:

Current wording

Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2024 were $6,107.1, an increase of $239.2, or 4.1% compared to 2023 net sales. The components of the net sales increase are as follows:

Previous wording

The volume change reflects increased volumes in the Consumer Domestic and Consumer International Segments partially offset by volume declines in SPD. Price/mix was favorable in the Consumer Domestic and Consumer International Segments partially offset by slightly unfavorable price/mix in the SPD segment.

Current wording

Price/mix was favorable in all three segments.

Previous wording

Our gross profit for 2023 was $2,588.5, a $338.5 increase compared to 2022. Gross margin was 44.1% in 2023 compared to 41.9% in 2022, a 220 basis points (“bps”) increase. The increase is due to favorable price/volume/mix of 220 bps, the impact of productivity programs of 150 bps, lower transportation costs of 100 bps, and benefits from the Hero Acquisition of 90 bps, partially offset by higher manufacturing costs including labor and higher commodities of 340 bps.

Current wording

Our gross profit for 2024 was $2,790.1, a $201.6 increase compared to 2023. Gross margin was 45.7% in 2024 compared to 44.1% in 2023, a 160 basis points (“bps”) increase. The increase is due to the positive impact of productivity programs of 140 bps, favorable price/volume/mix of 100 bps, a favorable tariff ruling of 50 bps, and benefits from the Graphico Acquisition of 10 bps, offset by the impact of higher manufacturing costs including labor and commodities of 140 bps.

Previous wording

Marketing expenses for 2023 were $641.3, an increase of $106.1 compared to 2022. Marketing expenses as a percentage of net sales increased 90 bps to 10.9% in 2023 as compared to 2022 due to 180 bps on higher expense from increased marketing spend as our ability to meet customer demand improved, offset by 90 bps of leverage on higher net sales.

Current wording

Marketing expenses for 2024 were $698.1, an increase of $56.8 compared to 2023. Marketing expenses as a percentage of net sales increased 50 bps to 11.4% in 2024 as compared to 2023 due to 90 bps on higher expense primarily from increased marketing spend to support new product introductions, offset by 40 bps of leverage on higher net sales.

Previous wording

Interest expense in 2023 was $110.9, an increase of $21.3 primarily due to higher average interest rates on outstanding debt.

Current wording

Interest expense in 2024 was $95.0, a decrease of $15.9 primarily due to lower average outstanding debt.

Previous wording

Other income increased $9.4 in 2023 as compared to 2022 primarily due to higher investment income.

Current wording

Other income increased $9.6 in 2024 as compared to 2023 primarily due to the sale of our 50% interest in Armakleen to our joint venture partner.

Previous wording

The 2023 effective income tax rate was 21.9% compared to 20.9% in 2022. The increase in the rate is due to the tax rate benefit of the FLAWLESS impairment charge recorded in 2022.

Current wording

The 2024 effective income tax rate was 22.6% compared to 21.9% in 2023. The increase in the rate is due to lower stock option benefits related to executive compensation and other non-recurring tax items.

Previous wording

Segment net sales and income before income taxes for each of the three years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:

Current wording

Segment net sales and income from operations for each of the three years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 were as follows:

Previous wording

Consumer Domestic net sales in 2023 were $4,571.2, an increase of $440.2 or 10.7% compared to net sales of $4,131.0 in 2022. The components of the net sales change are the following:

Current wording

Consumer Domestic net sales in 2024 were $4,732.3, an increase of $161.1 or 3.5% compared to net sales of $4,571.2 in 2023. The components of the net sales change are the following:

Previous wording

The increase in net sales for 2023 reflects the impact of the Hero Acquisition, and the impact of higher sales of THERABREATH® mouth wash, ARM & HAMMER® cat litter, ARM & HAMMER® liquid detergent, and ARM & HAMMER® baking soda, partially offset by declines in FINISHING TOUCH FLAWLESS® hair removal products, VITAFUSION® and L’IL CRITTERS® gummy dietary supplements, and WATERPIK® water flossers.

Current wording

The increase in net sales for 2024 includes growth from THERABREATH® mouth wash, HERO® acne treatment products, ARM & HAMMER® liquid detergent, ARM & HAMMER® cat litter, and ARM & HAMMER® baking soda, partially offset by declines in VITAFUSION® and L’IL CRITTERS® gummy vitamins, FINISHING TOUCH FLAWLESS® hair removal products, and WATERPIK® Shower Heads.

Previous wording

Consumer International net sales in 2023 were $975.7, an increase of $79.6 or 8.9% as compared to 2022. The components of the net sales change are the following:

Current wording

Consumer International net sales in 2024 were $1,071.5, an increase of $95.8 or 9.8% as compared to 2023. The components of the net sales change are the following:

Previous wording

Includes the Hero Acquisition since October 13, 2022 (the date of the acquisition).

Current wording

The Graphico acquisition is included in our results since June 3, 2024, the date of acquisition.

Previous wording

SPD net sales were $321.0 for 2023, a decrease of $27.5, or 7.9% compared to 2022. The components of the net sales change are the following:

Current wording

SPD net sales were $303.3 for 2024, a decrease of $17.7, or 5.5% compared to 2023. The components of the net sales change are the following:

Previous wording

SPD income before income taxes was $21.2 in 2023, a decrease of $23.7 compared to 2022. The decrease in income before income taxes for 2023 is due to higher SG&A costs of $16.4 (including the Passport intangible asset impairment charge of $3.5 and higher incentive compensation costs), the gross margin impact of lower sales volumes of $7.2, unfavorable manufacturing costs of $3.4, and unfavorable price/mix of $2.5, partially offset by lower interest and other expenses of $5.4, and lower marketing expenses of $0.5.

Current wording

SPD income from operations was $39.1 in 2024, an increase of $15.6 compared to 2023. The increase in income from operations for 2024 is due to favorable price/mix of $9.1, higher sales volumes of $3.4, lower SG&A costs of $9.1 primarily from product line exits, and lower marketing expenses of $1.4, partially offset by the gross margin impact of product line exits of $7.1, and unfavorable manufacturing costs of $0.4.

Previous wording

Corporate includes administrative costs of the production, planning and logistics functions which are elements of Cost of Sales in our Consolidated Statements of Income but are allocated to the operating segments in SG&A expenses to determine operating segment income before income taxes. Such amounts were $60.4, $34.3 and $47.1 for 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. The increase in 2023 compared to 2022 is primarily due to higher incentive compensation costs.

Current wording

Corporate includes administrative costs of the production, planning and logistics functions which are reported as Cost of Sales in our Consolidated Statements of Income but are allocated to the operating segments in SG&A expenses to determine segment income from operations. Such amounts were $67.9, $60.4 and $34.3 for 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The increase in 2023 compared to 2022 is primarily due to higher incentive compensation costs.

Previous wording

Also included in corporate are the equity in earnings of affiliates from Armand and ArmaKleen, totaling $8.7, $12.3 and $9.4 for the three years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Current wording

Also included in corporate are the equity in earnings of affiliates from Armand and ArmaKleen, totaling $9.1, $8.7 and $12.3 for the three years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. In October 2024, the Company sold its 50% interest in ArmaKleen to our joint venture partner.

Previous wording

On June 16, 2022, we entered into a credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) that provides for our $1,500.0 unsecured revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) that matures on June 16, 2027, unless extended. The Credit Agreement replaced our prior $1,000.0 unsecured revolving credit facility that would have matured on March 29, 2024 that was entered into on March 29, 2018. We have the ability to increase our borrowing up to an additional $750.0, subject to lender commitments and certain conditions as described in the Credit Agreement. Borrowings under the Credit Agreement are available for general corporate purposes and are used to support our $1,500.0 commercial paper program.

Current wording

On June 16, 2022, we entered into a credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) that provides for our $1,500.0 unsecured revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) that matures on June 16, 2027, unless extended. We have the ability to increase our borrowing up to an additional $750.0, subject to lender commitments and certain conditions as described in the Credit Agreement. Borrowings under the Credit Agreement are available for general corporate purposes and are used to support our $1,500.0 commercial paper program.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, we had $344.5 in cash and cash equivalents, and approximately $1,495.0 available through the Revolving Credit Facility and our commercial paper program. To preserve our liquidity, we invest cash primarily in government money market funds, prime money market funds, short-term commercial paper and short-term bank deposits.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, we had $964.1 in cash and cash equivalents, and approximately $1,494.0 available through the Revolving Credit Facility and our commercial paper program. To preserve our liquidity, we invest cash primarily in government money market funds, prime money market funds, short-term commercial paper and short-term bank deposits.

Previous wording

On December 22, 2021, we entered into a $400.0 unsecured term loan facility (as amended on June 16, 2022, the “Term Loan Facility”) with various banks. The loan under the Term Loan Facility (the “Term Loan”) was fully drawn at closing. Unless repaid early, the Term Loan is due on December 22, 2024. The interest rate is the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus a spread and an applicable margin based on the Company’s credit rating, which can range from 60 basis points to 125 bps. The proceeds of the Term Loan were used to partially fund the TheraBreath Acquisition, with the remaining proceeds used for the repayment of commercial paper. In 2023, we repaid $200.0 of the Term Loan with cash on hand and commercial paper borrowings. In January 2024, we repaid an additional $100.0 of the Term Loan with cash on hand.

Current wording

On December 22, 2021, we entered into a $400.0 unsecured term loan facility (as amended on June 16, 2022, the “Term Loan Facility”) with various banks. The loan under the Term Loan Facility (the “Term Loan”) was fully drawn at closing. The Term Loan was due on December 22, 2024. The interest rate was the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus a spread and an applicable margin based on the Company’s credit rating, which can range from 60 basis points to 125 bps. The proceeds of the Term Loan were used to partially fund the TheraBreath Acquisition, with the remaining proceeds used for the repayment of commercial paper. In 2023, we repaid $200.0 of the Term Loan with cash on hand and commercial paper borrowings. In the first quarter of 2024, we repaid the remaining $200.0 of the Term Loan with cash on hand.