Kimberly-Clark Delivers Solid Q3, Maintains 2025 Outlook

Mike Hsu, Chairman and CEO of Kimberly-Clark

Mike Hsu, Chairman and CEO of Kimberly-Clark

Financial News

Kimberly-Clark Corporation (KMB) announced third-quarter 2025 results showing resilient performance supported by innovation and disciplined cost management. 

The company reaffirmed its full-year outlook despite a “dynamic operating environment.”

The consumer products leader, known for brands such as Huggies and Kleenex, reported net sales of $4.2 billion, consistent with the prior year. Organic sales grew 2.5%, driven primarily by a 2.4% increase in volume, reflecting strong brand demand and successful product launches.

Discipline and Volume-Led Growth

Chairman and CEO Mike Hsu said, “We once again delivered broad-based volume-plus-mix-led growth, even while volume has been somewhat challenged in the broader industry.”

Adjusted diluted EPS was $1.82, broadly in line with last year. Adjusted gross margin stood at 36.8%, supported by productivity gains that offset pricing and tariff pressures. Adjusted operating profit reached $683 million, matching the prior year, helped by efficiency gains and lower incentive accruals.

Segment Performance

In North America, organic sales rose 2.7%, led by strong innovation and activation initiatives. However, total net sales declined 0.8% due to the exit of the U.S. private-label diaper business.

The International Personal Care segment delivered 2.1% organic sales growth, supported by volume gains and improved portfolio mix. Segment operating profit increased 6.5% for the quarter.

“We are transforming Kimberly-Clark into an industry-leading personal care company poised for long-term, durable growth,” Hsu said.

2025 Outlook

Kimberly-Clark reaffirmed its full-year 2025 outlook, now excluding its International Family Care and Professional business, which is classified as discontinued pending a joint venture with Suzano.

The company expects organic sales growth to align with category averages of about 2%, and adjusted operating profit to increase at a low single-digit rate on a constant-currency basis. Adjusted EPS is projected to grow at a low-to-mid single-digit rate, while free cash flow is forecast at approximately $2 billion.

Management reiterated confidence in the company’s transformation strategy and the strength of its global brands, positioning Kimberly-Clark for “durable, long-term growth.”

Kimberly-Clark is a global manufacturer of personal care and consumer tissue products sold in more than 175 countries. Its well-known brands include Huggies, Kleenex, Scott, and Kotex.