Consumer International

+10% " "

Higher product volumes (supported by successful initiatives in stain removers and vitamins) and favorable pricing/product mix were key contributors. Gains from acquired product lines buoyed results, partially offset by foreign exchange fluctuations seen in prior periods.

Specialty Products

−7% " "

The decline reflects exited product lines (e.g., MEGALAC) and lingering competitive pressures from previous quarters. Lower volumes tied to those exits overshadowed price/mix improvements, leading to the overall decrease.

Operating Income (EBIT)

+19% " "

Improvement resulted from productivity programs, favorable price/mix, and gross margin expansion. Compared to prior periods, lower acquisition-related costs and reductions in SG&A also helped offset inflationary headwinds that were more pronounced in earlier quarters.

Net Income

+23% " "

Benefited from increased operating profit and reduced interest expense compared to the previous year. Earlier quarters saw higher tax rates and integration costs related to acquisitions, both of which moderated, contributing to stronger net income growth this period.

EPS (Basic)

+22% " "

The higher net income and improved cost structure drove the EPS increase. Previous periods had heavier acquisition and marketing expenses which have scaled down; combined with volume and price gains, this boosted per-share earnings despite ongoing competitive challenges.