Colgate-Palmolive delivered solid growth in the third quarter of 2026, with Hill’s Pet Nutrition continuing to play a key role in the company’s long-term strategy and portfolio performance.
In results released on 30 October, the company reported a 4.6% increase in net sales, while organic sales grew by 3.6%. Reported earnings per share rose 3% to US$0.94, and adjusted earnings per share increased 7% to US$0.97.
The company also noted a modest impact from a reduction in selected private-label pet food manufacturing activities. However, this accounted for just 0.2 percentage points of organic sales growth and does not affect the strength of its branded pet nutrition business, led by Hill’s Pet Nutrition.
The move reflects a strategic focus on higher-value branded offerings, with Colgate-Palmolive continuing to invest in categories where it can further strengthen brand equity and profitability. For industry stakeholders, the change should be viewed as a portfolio management decision rather than an indication of weakening consumer demand for pet food.
Alongside sales growth, the company reported improved profitability. Gross margin increased by 80 basis points to 60.2%, prompting Colgate-Palmolive to raise its full-year guidance for both gross margin and adjusted earnings.
Looking ahead, Hill’s Pet Nutrition is expected to remain a key growth driver as the company continues to balance revenue expansion, profitability and brand development in the increasingly competitive global pet nutrition market.
