Group 1 - Kimberly-Clark Corporation will have key executives, including Chairman and CEO Mike Hsu, President and COO Russ Torres, and CFO Nelson Urdaneta, speaking at the Barclays 18th Annual Global Consumer Staples Conference on September 3, 2025 [1] - The conference will be broadcasted through the Investors section of Kimberly-Clark's website [1] Group 2 - Kimberly-Clark operates in over 175 countries and territories, with a portfolio of trusted brands such as Huggies, Kleenex, and Scott [2] - The company holds No. 1 or No. 2 market share positions in approximately 70 countries [2] - Kimberly-Clark is committed to sustainable practices aimed at supporting a healthy planet and building strong communities [2]

Group 1 - The core viewpoint is that Kimberly-Clark Company (NASDAQ: KMB) is facing ongoing pricing pressure and tariff impacts, which are expected to negatively affect gross margins and earnings [1] - The investment approach emphasizes a fundamentals-based strategy, focusing on companies with long-term durability, steady growth, and strong balance sheets [1] - There is a belief that low multiple stocks are not necessarily cheap, and valuation is crucial in determining investment opportunities [1] Group 2 - The article does not disclose any stock or derivative positions in Kimberly-Clark or related companies, nor does it plan to initiate any positions in the near future [2] - The opinions expressed in the article are solely those of the author and do not reflect the views of Seeking Alpha as a whole [3]

Group 1 - The current conditions are favorable for entering into Kimberly-Clark promotions as the company is emerging from a challenging period [1] - Revenue is showing signs of returning to growth, indicating a positive trend for the company [1] - Margins have begun to rise, suggesting improved operational efficiency and profitability [1]

Core Viewpoint - Kimberly-Clark Corporation has appointed John Carmichael as President of North America, effective September 15th, succeeding interim President Kurt Laufer [1][2]. Company Leadership - John Carmichael will oversee Kimberly-Clark's personal care, family care, and professional businesses in the U.S. and Canada, reporting to Russ Torres, President and COO [2]. - Carmichael is recognized as a proven leader with extensive experience across various categories and geographies, known for accelerating growth and transforming businesses [2][3]. Previous Experience - Prior to joining Kimberly-Clark, Carmichael spent three decades at Nestlé, most recently as President and CEO of Nestlé Canada, where he managed a diverse portfolio and achieved consistent growth [2][3]. - He has held several senior leadership roles at Nestlé USA, including President of the Foods and Beverage Divisions, and has been instrumental in brand repositioning and business turnarounds [3]. Educational Background - Carmichael holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from UCLA and an MBA in Marketing and Entrepreneurship from the UCLA Anderson School of Management [4]. Strategic Vision - Carmichael expressed his honor in joining Kimberly-Clark at a pivotal moment, emphasizing the company's commitment to performance and purpose, and his excitement to build on its legacy and grow its brands [5]. Company Overview - Kimberly-Clark operates in over 175 countries, with brands like Huggies, Kleenex, and Scott holding leading market positions in approximately 70 countries [6]. - The company's mission is to deliver Better Care for a Better World, focusing on sustainable practices and community support [6].

Group 1 - Kimberly-Clark is recognized as a stable provider of essential consumer goods, producing well-known brands such as Kleenex and Huggies diapers, which contributes to its appeal as a "boring" yet reliable investment [1] - The company is positioned favorably for long-term stock market investment, particularly for those focused on strategic buying opportunities in dividend and value stocks [1] Group 2 - The investment strategy associated with Kimberly-Clark has garnered a near 5-star rating on Tipranks.com and has attracted over 9,000 followers on Seeking Alpha, indicating strong investor interest and confidence [1]

Core Insights - The second quarter of 2025 was highlighted as one of the strongest and most active periods in Kimberly-Clark's recent history, indicating significant progress in executing their strategic initiatives [5]. Financial Performance - The company reported solid organic growth, reflecting an acceleration in top-line momentum [5]. - Non-GAAP financial measures were discussed, emphasizing the importance of reading these in conjunction with GAAP results [4]. Management Commentary - Michael D. Hsu, Chairman & CEO, provided opening comments that underscored the positive trajectory of the company's performance [5]. - Christopher M. Jakubik, Head of Investor Relations, set the stage for the earnings call by mentioning the potential for forward-looking statements and the associated risks [3].

Core Insights - Kimberly-Clark Corporation (KMB) reported second-quarter 2025 results that exceeded Zacks Consensus Estimates for both revenue and earnings, although both metrics declined compared to the previous year [1][2] Financial Performance - Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) were $1.92, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.68, but reflecting a 2% year-over-year decline due to reduced adjusted operating profit and net income from equity companies [3] - Total sales amounted to $4,163 million, a 1.6% decrease from $4,231 million in the prior-year quarter, yet beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $4,057 million [4] - Organic sales grew by 3.9%, driven by a 5% increase in volume, partially offset by a 1.2% impact from strategic pricing investments [5] Margin and Profitability - Adjusted gross margin was 36.9%, down 180 basis points year-over-year, primarily due to unfavorable pricing net of cost inflation and planned investments [6] - Adjusted operating profit fell 2.2% to $713 million, attributed to lower gross profit, although partially offset by reductions in marketing and general expenses [7] Segment Performance - North America segment net sales were $2,730 million, down 1.9% year-over-year, with organic sales increasing by 4.3% driven by a 5.2% volume increase [9] - International Personal Care segment net sales reached $1,433 million, up 0.4%, with organic sales growth of 3.3% supported by strong volume growth of 4.8% [11][12] Financial Health - The company ended the quarter with cash and cash equivalents of $634 million, long-term debt of $6,470 million, and total stockholders' equity of $1,403 million [13] - For the first half of the year, cash provided by operations was $1,097 million, with capital spending of $401 million and $944 million returned to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks [13] Future Outlook - Kimberly-Clark raised its guidance for 2025, expecting organic sales growth to outpace market averages, despite anticipated negative impacts from currency translation and divestitures [15][16] - Adjusted EPS is projected to grow at a low-to-mid single-digit rate on a constant-currency basis, reflecting various headwinds including divestitures and currency translation [17][18]

[PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION](index=4&type=section&id=PART%20I%20%E2%80%93%20FINANCIAL%20INFORMATION) [Item 1. Financial Statements](index=4&type=section&id=Item%201.%20Financial%20Statements) Kimberly-Clark Corporation's financial statements for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, reflect a decline in net sales and net income attributable to the corporation, despite an increase in comprehensive income driven by positive currency translation adjustments. The company reclassified its International Family Care and Professional (IFP) Business as discontinued operations due to a planned joint venture, impacting segment reporting and financial presentation. The ongoing 2024 Transformation Initiative incurred significant charges. The balance sheet shows increased total assets and stockholders' equity, while cash provided by operations decreased, and cash used for financing increased due to debt repayments and share repurchases. The notes detail accounting policies, fair value measurements, EPS calculations, and derivative strategies Consolidated Income Statement Highlights (Unaudited) | Metric (In millions, except per share) | Three Months Ended June 30, 2025 | Three Months Ended June 30, 2024 | Six Months Ended June 30, 2025 | Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 | | :----------------------------------- | :------------------------------- | :------------------------------- | :------------------------------- | :------------------------------- | | Net Sales | $4,163 | $4,231 | $8,217 | $8,557 | | Gross Profit | $1,456 | $1,594 | $2,965 | $3,280 | | Operating Profit | $592 | $539 | $1,223 | $1,254 | | Net Income Attributable to K-C Corp | $509 | $544 | $1,076 | $1,191 | | Diluted Earnings per Share | $1.53 | $1.61 | $3.23 | $3.52 | Consolidated Comprehensive Income Highlights (Unaudited) | Metric (In millions) | Three Months Ended June 30, 2025 | Three Months Ended June 30, 2024 | Six Months Ended June 30, 2025 | Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 | | :------------------- | :------------------------------- | :------------------------------- | :------------------------------- | :------------------------------- | | Net Income | $512 | $553 | $1,085 | $1,211 | | Unrealized currency translation adjustments | $224 | $(48) | $372 | $(197) | | Comprehensive Income Attributable to K-C Corp | $636 | $566 | $1,334 | $1,141 | Consolidated Balance Sheet Highlights (Unaudited) | Metric (In millions) | June 30, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | | :------------------- | :------------ | :---------------- | | Total Assets | $16,771 | $16,546 | | Total Stockholders' Equity | $1,403 | $975 | Consolidated Cash Flow Highlights (Unaudited) | Metric (In millions) | Six Months Ended June 30, 2025 | Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 | | :------------------- | :----------------------------- | :----------------------------- | | Cash Provided by Operations | $1,097 | $1,459 | | Cash Used for Investing | $(312) | $(376) | | Cash Used for Financing | $(1,183) | $(998) | | Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents | $(364) | $70 | - The IFP Business is reclassified as discontinued operations effective Q2 2025 due to a planned joint venture with Suzano S.A., where Kimberly-Clark will sell a **51%** interest for approximately **$1.7 billion** and retain **49%**. The transaction is expected to close in mid-2026[17](index=17&type=chunk)[18](index=18&type=chunk)[30](index=30&type=chunk) - Cumulative pre-tax charges for the 2024 Transformation Initiative were **$656 million** (**$511 million** after-tax) through June 30, 2025. Total costs are anticipated to be approximately **$1.5 billion** pre-tax by the end of 2026[25](index=25&type=chunk) - Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes, was **$68 million** for the three months ended June 30, 2025, and **$171 million** for the six months ended June 30, 2025, including **$33 million** in separation costs for the three-month period[31](index=31&type=chunk) - The company settled a qui tam legal matter related to its former health care business in Q2 2025, with the payment not expected to materially affect its financial position, results of operations, or cash flows[77](index=77&type=chunk) [Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income](index=4&type=section&id=Condensed%20Consolidated%20Statements%20of%20Income) [Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income](index=5&type=section&id=Condensed%20Consolidated%20Statements%20of%20Comprehensive%20Income) [Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets](index=6&type=section&id=Condensed%20Consolidated%20Balance%20Sheets) [Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity](index=7&type=section&id=Condensed%20Consolidated%20Statements%20of%20Stockholders'%20Equity) [Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows](index=10&type=section&id=Condensed%20Consolidated%20Statements%20of%20Cash%20Flows) [Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements](index=11&type=section&id=Notes%20to%20the%20Interim%20Condensed%20Consolidated%20Financial%20Statements) [Note 1. Accounting Policies](index=11&type=section&id=Note%201.%20Accounting%20Policies) [Note 2. 2024 Transformation Initiative](index=12&type=section&id=Note%202.%202024%20Transformation%20Initiative) [Note 3. Discontinued Operations](index=14&type=section&id=Note%203.%20Discontinued%20Operations) [Note 4. Fair Value Information](index=15&type=section&id=Note%204.%20Fair%20Value%20Information) [Note 5. Earnings Per Share](index=17&type=section&id=Note%205.%20Earnings%20Per%20Share) [Note 6. Stockholders' Equity](index=17&type=section&id=Note%206.%20Stockholders'%20Equity) [Note 7. Objectives and Strategies for Using Derivatives](index=18&type=section&id=Note%207.%20Objectives%20and%20Strategies%20for%20Using%20Derivatives) [Note 8. Segment Reporting](index=20&type=section&id=Note%208.%20Segment%20Reporting) [Note 9. Supplemental Balance Sheet Data](index=23&type=section&id=Note%209.%20Supplemental%20Balance%20Sheet%20Data) [Note 10. Legal Matters](index=23&type=section&id=Note%2010.%20Legal%20Matters) [Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations](index=24&type=section&id=Item%202.%20Management's%20Discussion%20and%20Analysis%20of%20Financial%20Condition%20and%20Results%20of%20Operations) Kimberly-Clark's MD&A highlights a decline in consolidated net sales and net income for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, primarily due to divestitures, business exits, and unfavorable currency, partially offset by organic sales growth. The company is undergoing a 2024 Transformation Initiative with significant costs and is reclassifying its IFP Business as discontinued operations. Segment results show mixed performance, with North America experiencing organic growth but declining operating profit, and International Personal Care facing significant operating profit declines. Liquidity remains adequate, with cash from operations decreasing but capital spending increasing, and the company anticipates favorable tax impacts from recent legislation - Kimberly-Clark operates globally with manufacturing in 30 countries and products sold in over 175, under brands such as Kleenex, Scott, Huggies, Pull-Ups, Kotex, and Depend. The company estimates incremental costs of new tariffs to be approximately **$170 million** in 2025, mostly impacting the North America segment. Operations in Russia continue with essential items, but face high input costs, supply chain complexities, and reduced demand due to the war in Ukraine[79](index=79&type=chunk)[80](index=80&type=chunk)[86](index=86&type=chunk) - The IFP Business has been reclassified as discontinued operations due to a joint venture with Suzano S.A., where Kimberly-Clark will sell a **51%** interest for approximately **$1.7 billion** and retain **49%**[82](index=82&type=chunk) - The 2024 Transformation Initiative aims to accelerate innovation, optimize margin structure through supply chain improvements, and enhance organizational agility. It is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, with workforce reductions of **4% to 5%** and total pre-tax costs of approximately **$1.5 billion**. Cumulative pre-tax charges were **$656 million** through June 30, 2025[84](index=84&type=chunk)[85](index=85&type=chunk) Consolidated Financial Performance (Continuing Operations) | Metric | Three Months Ended June 30, 2025 | Three Months Ended June 30, 2024 | % Change (3M) | Six Months Ended June 30, 2025 | Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 | % Change (6M) | | :----------------------------------- | :------------------------------- | :------------------------------- | :------------ | :------------------------------- | :------------------------------- | :------------ | | Net Sales | $4,163 | $4,231 | (1.6)% | $8,217 | $8,557 | (4.0)% | | Organic Sales Growth | 3.9% | N/A | N/A | 1.2% | N/A | N/A | | Gross Profit | $1,456 | $1,594 | (8.7)% | $2,965 | $3,280 | (9.6)% | | Adjusted Gross Margin | 36.9% | 38.8% | (180bps) | 37.7% | 38.9% | (120bps) | | Operating Profit | $592 | $539 | 9.8% | $1,223 | $1,254 | (2.5)% | | Adjusted Operating Profit | $713 | $729 | (2.2)% | $1,419 | $1,489 | (4.7)% | | Diluted EPS (Continuing Operations) | $1.33 | $1.35 | (1.5)% | $2.72 | $2.96 | (8.1)% | | Adjusted Diluted EPS | $1.63 | $1.70 | (4.1)% | $3.25 | $3.41 | (4.7)% | | Effective Tax Rate | 22.6% | 13.0% | 9.6% | 23.1% | 18.8% | 4.3% | Segment Net Sales Growth (Percent Change) | Segment | Period | Volume | Mix/Other | Net Price | Divestitures and Business Exits | Currency Translation | Total | Organic | | :------------------- | :----- | :----- | :-------- | :-------- | :------------------------------ | :------------------- | :---- | :------ | | NA | 3M | 5.2 | (0.7) | (0.4) | (5.7) | (0.2) | (1.9) | 4.3 | | NA | 6M | 2.6 | (0.3) | (0.5) | (4.3) | (0.3) | (2.9) | 1.8 | | IPC | 3M | 4.8 | 1.2 | (2.7) | (0.3) | (2.6) | 0.4 | 3.3 | | IPC | 6M | 2.0 | 0.7 | (2.6) | (0.3) | (4.3) | (4.5) | 0.1 | Segment Operating Profit Change (Percent Change) | Segment | Period | Volume | Net Price | Input Costs | Other Manufacturing Costs | Currency Translation | Other | Total | | :------------------- | :----- | :----- | :-------- | :---------- | :------------------------ | :------------------- | :---- | :---- | | NA | 3M | 3.3 | (1.8) | (4.9) | (1.8) | (0.1) | 1.3 | (4.0) | | NA | 6M | 0.2 | (2.1) | (3.6) | 0.0 | (0.3) | 4.5 | (1.3) | | IPC | 3M | 15.2 | (18.4) | (20.8) | 7.6 | (1.1) | 4.6 | (12.9)| | IPC | 6M | 5.4 | (16.5) | (14.4) | 9.7 | (3.1) | 2.2 | (16.7)| - Cash provided by operations was **$1.1 billion** for the six months ended June 30, 2025, down from **$1.5 billion** in the prior year. Capital spending was **$401 million**, with full-year capital spending anticipated to be **$1.0 to $1.2 billion**. Cash used for financing increased to **$1.2 billion**, primarily due to debt repayments. The company repurchased 915 thousand shares of common stock for **$120 million**[111](index=111&type=chunk)[112](index=112&type=chunk)[113](index=113&type=chunk) - Total debt from continuing operations was **$7.2 billion** as of June 30, 2025. The company maintains **$2.75 billion** in unused revolving credit facilities. The recently enacted One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is expected to have favorable cash tax impacts, and the impact of Pillar 2 global minimum tax rules is deemed immaterial[115](index=115&type=chunk)[116](index=116&type=chunk)[117](index=117&type=chunk) [Introduction](index=24&type=section&id=Introduction) [Overview of Business and Recent Developments](index=24&type=section&id=Overview%20of%20Business%20and%20Recent%20Developments) [Consolidated Results](index=26&type=section&id=Consolidated%20Results) [Segment Results](index=28&type=section&id=Segment%20Results) [Liquidity and Capital Resources](index=29&type=section&id=Liquidity%20and%20Capital%20Resources) [Information Concerning Forward-Looking Statements](index=30&type=section&id=Information%20Concerning%20Forward-Looking%20Statements) [Summary of Non-GAAP Financial Measures](index=32&type=section&id=Summary%20of%20Non-GAAP%20Financial%20Measures) [Item 4. Controls and Procedures](index=35&type=section&id=Item%204.%20Controls%20and%20Procedures) Management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the company's disclosure controls and procedures as of June 30, 2025, and concluded they were effective. No material changes in internal control over financial reporting occurred during the quarter covered by this report - Disclosure controls and procedures were evaluated and deemed effective as of June 30, 2025[133](index=133&type=chunk) - No material changes in internal control over financial reporting occurred during the quarter[133](index=133&type=chunk) [PART II – OTHER INFORMATION](index=36&type=section&id=PART%20II%20%E2%80%93%20OTHER%20INFORMATION) [Item 1. Legal Proceedings](index=36&type=section&id=Item%201.%20Legal%20Proceedings) This section incorporates by reference the legal proceedings discussed in Note 10 to the financial statements, which primarily relate to the former health care business, Avanos Medical, Inc., including a recently settled qui tam matter and an ongoing Department of Justice investigation - Legal proceedings are detailed in Note 10 of the financial statements, concerning the former health care business, Avanos Medical, Inc[134](index=134&type=chunk) [Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds](index=36&type=section&id=Item%202.%20Unregistered%20Sales%20of%20Equity%20Securities%20and%20Use%20of%20Proceeds) Kimberly-Clark repurchased 457,891 shares of common stock during the three months ended June 30, 2025, at an average price of **$130.14** per share, under its publicly announced 2021 share repurchase program. As of June 30, 2025, 30,954,753 shares remain available for repurchase under this program Share Repurchases During Three Months Ended June 30, 2025 | Period | Total Number of Shares Purchased | Average Price Paid Per Share | Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs | Maximum Number of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs | | :------------------- | :------------------------------- | :--------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | :----------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | April 1 to April 30 | 135,211 | $138.42 | 8,722,567 | 31,277,433 | | May 1 to May 31 | — | — | 8,722,567 | 31,277,433 | | June 1 to June 30 | 322,680 | $130.14 | 9,045,247 | 30,954,753 | | Total | 457,891 | | | | - Share repurchases were made pursuant to the 2021 Program, which allows for the repurchase of **40 million** shares in an amount not to exceed **$5 billion**. As of June 30, 2025, 30,954,753 shares remain available for repurchase[137](index=137&type=chunk) [Item 5. Other Information](index=36&type=section&id=Item%205.%20Other%20Information) No new Rule 10b5-1(c) trading arrangements or other plans for the purchase or sale of shares by directors and officers were adopted or terminated during the three months ended June 30, 2025 - No new or terminated Rule 10b5-1(c) trading arrangements or other plans for share purchases/sales by directors and officers occurred during the three months ended June 30, 2025[138](index=138&type=chunk) [Item 6. Exhibits](index=37&type=section&id=Item%206.%20Exhibits) This section lists the exhibits filed with the Form 10-Q, including various award agreements under the 2021 Equity Participation Plan, the Equity and Asset Purchase Agreement for the IFP Transaction, and certifications from the CEO and CFO as required by SEC rules - Exhibits include award agreements for restricted stock units under the 2021 Equity Participation Plan, the Equity and Asset Purchase Agreement for the IFP Transaction, and CEO/CFO certifications (Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) and Section 1350)[139](index=139&type=chunk)[140](index=140&type=chunk)[141](index=141&type=chunk)[142](index=142&type=chunk) [Signatures](index=38&type=section&id=Signatures) The report is duly signed on behalf of Kimberly-Clark Corporation by Andrew Scribner, Vice President and Controller (Principal Accounting Officer), on August 1, 2025, affirming compliance with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requirements - The report was signed by Andrew Scribner, Vice President and Controller (Principal Accounting Officer) on August 1, 2025[144](index=144&type=chunk)

All right, let's uh let's get to a quick stop trading. What do you got. Mike Shu has done a really good job turning around Kimberly Clark and we see the work today up 7%.Now, of course, that's also accentuated by the fact that no one wants anything economically sensitive when we have those weak employment numbers, but uh I'm not uh that's tissue. You're not what. Well, I was going to make a joke about I decided enough jokes.Sell Figma, don't panic about Amazon. And have an amazing week. I will try and do al ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The second quarter was one of the strongest in recent history, with solid organic sales growth driven by the strongest volume quarter in the last five years [4] - The company gained weighted share and made significant share gains in several key categories in its largest markets [5] - Organic sales growth was primarily driven by innovation, with 85% of organic sales attributed to new product introductions [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America exhibited durable growth, with branded consumption up 4.5% in the second quarter [33] - The Professional Business was expected to be a drag on performance but instead contributed positively, driven by strong innovation and marketing execution [22][32] - International markets showed some frequency declines, particularly in informal economies like Latin America, but demand remained stable in larger developed markets [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The weighted average category growth in North America and International Personal Care was around 2%, slightly higher than previous estimates [53] - The company experienced a tailwind from retailer inventory shifts, contributing to a positive impact on shipments [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on delivering exceptional brand propositions across the value spectrum, which is paying off as consumers seek better value [5] - A joint venture with Suzano is expected to unlock the full potential of international Family Care and Professional, allowing the company to focus on higher growth, higher margin businesses [7] - The company aims to enhance its capability to provide better care for a better world and create value for shareholders [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that consumer purchasing power is under pressure, but demand for essential products remains resilient [13][14] - The company expects to continue strong performance in the second half of the year, driven by a robust pipeline of innovations [18] - Management is confident in maintaining a solid volume mix-driven organic growth for the full year [30] Other Important Information - The company is targeting a gross productivity of 5% to 6% and has made significant progress on SG&A overhead savings [55] - Adjusted earnings per share are expected to benefit from favorable currency impacts and paused depreciation on discontinued operations [57] Q&A Session Summary Question: What drove the strong quarter and outlook for the second half? - Management attributed the strong performance to meeting consumer needs, innovation, and effective marketing strategies, while acknowledging pressure on consumer purchasing power [12][13][15] Question: Can you elaborate on North America's strong performance? - Management highlighted that North America saw a 4.5% increase in consumption, driven by strong innovation and effective customer plans [22][32][33] Question: What is the pricing outlook given competitive pressures? - Management stated that they are focused on driving volume and mix while maintaining pricing net of commodities, emphasizing discipline in pricing strategies [40][41] Question: How does the joint venture with Suzano impact growth and margins? - Management indicated that the joint venture is expected to improve growth profiles and margins, with a focus on higher margin personal care categories [70][74][76]