Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a decline in organic sales growth in North America of nearly 2% in Q2, contrasting with growth in EMEA, LatAm, and APAC, which were within the medium-term guidance of 4% to 6% [3][5][14] - Gross margin improved by 160 basis points, contributing to strong cash flow and organic profit growth [5][15] - A&P (Advertising and Promotion) spending increased by 6.8% to 20.8% in the first half of the year, reflecting a focus on growth drivers [16][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In North America, consumption grew slightly ahead of the market, with a 0.5% increase compared to a market decline of 0.5% [9][10] - Oral health and digestive health brands showed strong growth, with market share gains in brands like Tons and Benefiber [9][10] - Centrum experienced mid-single-digit growth outside the US but saw declines in the US, while Emergency brand continued to perform well [11][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The US market is facing challenges with low consumer confidence and inventory pressures, impacting overall performance [6][8][14] - EMEA and APAC regions showed positive trends, with volume growth accelerating in Q2 [47][51] - Central Europe reported high single-digit growth, while Western Europe experienced mid-single-digit growth, driven by strong performance in oral health [53][54] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains committed to its medium-term guidance of 4% to 6% organic sales growth despite current challenges in the US market [49][56] - Focus on innovation and premiumization, particularly in key markets like India and Brazil, is part of the strategic plan [39][40] - The company aims to close the incidence treatment gap and expand reach to lower-income consumers while maintaining investment in A&P and R&D [16][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenging consumer environment in the US, with expectations of continued inventory pressure and no significant improvement anticipated in the near term [14][22] - Confidence in the medium-term outlook remains strong, with expectations for improved performance in 2026 [49][56] - The company is actively managing its portfolio and focusing on driving market growth despite external challenges [36][41] Other Important Information - The nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) business is a significant part of the portfolio, with a complex ownership structure affecting innovation and growth [73][75] - The company expects a high single-digit growth in operating profit, supported by gross margin improvements and effective cost control [77][78] Q&A Session Summary Question: North America's performance and future growth expectations - Management noted that North America faced challenges due to a difficult consumer environment and inventory pressures, with expectations for a gradual return to growth [3][22][25] Question: A&P spending and areas of reinvestment - A&P spending increased significantly, with a focus on driving growth in key markets and improving ROI [16][19] Question: Share performance and competitive pressures - The decline in the percentage of business gaining or maintaining share was attributed to challenges with brands like Advil and Centrum, with plans in place to stabilize performance [28][30] Question: Impact of nicotine replacement therapy on growth - The NRT business had a significant impact on overall growth, with expectations for less decline in the second half of the year [76][80] Question: Channel shifts and inventory management - Management discussed the impact of channel shifts, particularly towards e-commerce, and the need for effective inventory management across channels [86][90]