June 2008 -- For 2007, Colgate-Palmolive reported "excellent sales and profit across all divisions."
The highlights:
Worldwide sales rose 12.5% to an all-time high
Every operating division reported sales and profit increases for the year
Gross profit margin increased 140 basis points. Excluding restructuring charges, gross
profit margin increased 90 basis points to a new record high
Global advertising grew 17% to an all-time record level of $1.5 billion on top of double-
digit growth in the prior year
Operating cash flow grew to an all-time record level of $2.2 billion
The quarterly dividend rate increased by 13% in 2007
Profits reported for 2007 include $183.7 million of after-tax charges associated with Colgate-
Palmolive's 2004 restructuring program and net after-tax impact of certain other items that
increased net income by $85.4 million. Excluding these items, net income, operating profit and
diluted earnings per share were at record-high levels for the year.
