Kimberly-Clark Gears Up for Q1 Earnings: Key Factors to Note

Core Viewpoint - Kimberly-Clark Corporation (KMB) is expected to report declines in both revenue and earnings for the first quarter of 2025, with revenue estimates at $4.9 billion, reflecting a 5.5$1.89 per share, indicating a 6% decline from the previous year's figure [2]. - The company has experienced a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 12.5% on average [2]. Segment Performance - Sales are projected to decline across various segments: North America by 0.9%, International Personal Care by 12.5%, and International Family Care & Professional by 8.8% in the upcoming quarter [2]. Strategic Challenges - Kimberly-Clark's exit from private label products is anticipated to create a near-term revenue headwind, compounded by ongoing retailer destocking affecting shipment volumes [3]. - Elevated cost pressures, particularly from higher pulp prices and limited pricing flexibility, are expected to compress margins, with adjusted gross profit estimated at $1,801.3 million, down from$1,911 million in the prior year [4]. Strategic Initiatives - The company is advancing its Powering Care Strategy, which emphasizes growth, operational efficiency, and organizational alignment, potentially providing some relief through a volume-and-mix-led growth model supported by innovation and premium product adoption [5]. Earnings Prediction Model - The current model does not predict an earnings beat for Kimberly-Clark, as it holds a Zacks Rank of 2 and an Earnings ESP of -0.73% [6].