Kimberly-Clark net income rises by 22.3% in Q2 2012

Consumer products company Kimberly Clark has reported a 22.3% rise in net income to $498m for the second quarter ended 30 June 2012, compared to $408m for the same quarter in 2011.

The firm posted net sales of $5.27bn for the present quarter as against $5.26bn in the corresponding period for the previous year.

Kimberly Clark’s operating profit for the second quarter increased by 21% to $$754m, compared to $625m in second quarter of 2011.

Its organic sales grew 5%, with higher net selling prices of more than 2%, increased sales volumes of 2% and slightly favourable product mix.

Kimberly Clark’s chairman and chief executive officer Thomas Falk said the firm achieved 5% organic sales growth, led by its performance in K-C International. It also strengthened its brands by launching innovations and increasing strategic marketing spending by $35m.

"Lastly, we achieved $85 million of cost savings through our ongoing program and restructuring actions. Half way through the year, we are tracking ahead of our 2012 plan on most key financial metrics, and I’m encouraged by our execution in a continued volatile environment," said Falk.

US-based Kimberly Clark is a paper-based consumer products company, whose portfolio includes Kleenex facial tissue, Kotex feminine hygiene products, Cottonelle, Scott and Andrex toilet paper, Wypall utility wipes, KimWipes scientific cleaning wipes, and Huggies disposable diapers.