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Cresco Labs

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FY2021 Annual Report · Cresco Labs
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Building A Brighter Future

2021 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2021 At A Glance

#1

Market Share  
in Toothpaste  
Worldwide

$17.4B

Worldwide  
Net Sales

59

Consecutive  
Years of Dividend  
Increases

$3.3B

Operating  
Cash Flow

$3.0B

Cash Returned to 
Shareholders Through 
Dividends and Share  
Repurchases

5th

Consecutive Year 
Named to the Dow 
Jones Sustainability 
Indices

Net Sales By Geographic Region

Net Sales By Market Maturity

21% North America
21% Latin America 
16% Europe 
17%  Asia Pacific 
  6%  Africa/Eurasia 
19% Hill’s Pet Nutrition 

55% Developed Markets
45% Emerging Markets 

Dear Colgate Shareholders

NNoel oel 
Wallace
Wallace

As I reflect back on 2021, I am pleased 
with the progress we are making on our 
strategic and operational journey. I am also 
truly inspired by the power and resilience 
of Colgate people as we all continue to face 
the many challenges brought on by the 
COVID-19 pandemic. Their extraordinary 
ability to execute our strategies 
consistently while adapting to new ways 
of working enabled us to deliver another year of strong 
top-line growth. Net sales increased 6.0% and organic sales 
(excludes foreign exchange, acquisitions and divestments) 
grew 4.5%* in 2021 on top of 7.0%* organic sales growth in 
2020 and despite a very difficult operating environment. 
The strong organic sales growth was led by our oral care 
and pet nutrition businesses.
  We maintained our strong balance sheet and operating 
cash flow, which led the Board of Directors to authorize 
an increase in the quarterly cash dividend, which was 
effective in the second quarter of 2021. This was our 
59th consecutive year of dividend increases and our 127th 
consecutive year paying a dividend.
  Consistent with our purpose, and as reflected in the title 
of this year’s annual report, we remain deeply committed 
to Building a Brighter Future for all people, their pets and 
our planet. As we enter 2022, we have strong plans in place 
to continue our organic sales growth momentum, further 

strengthen our capabilities across the 
organization and make progress on our 
sustainability and social impact goals.

Driving Organic Sales Growth
Our strategy is focused on delivering 
broad-based sustainable, profitable 
growth. We are seeking growth in every 
division and every category, driven by 

1 

both volume and higher pricing. To do this, we are focused 
on three key initiatives: driving premium innovation in 
our core businesses, pursuing adjacent categories and 
high-growth segments and expanding in faster-growing 
channels and markets.
  Across the organization we are changing the way 
we think about innovation and are strengthening our 
culture and capabilities to support a growth mindset. 
We are accelerating the launch of more premium, 
transformational innovation, especially in our larger core 
businesses. In oral care, we brought package design to a 
whole new level with Colgate Elixir toothpaste. This highly 
differentiated toothpaste has a unique clear recyclable 
bottle, is enriched with beauty-inspired ingredients and 
contains technology that allows users to squeeze out 
every last drop. In personal care, we launched Softsoap 
foaming hand soap tablets with a refillable aluminum 
bottle, offering consumers an easier, more eco-friendly 

Elevating Our 
Innovation 
We are embracing a 
design-obsessed mindset 
to bring our brands to life 
through premium-priced, 
breakthrough innovations 
like Colgate Elixir toothpaste 
in Europe.

*For a reconciliation of organic sales growth to net sales growth, see page 46 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K.

and data and analytics will enable us to deliver sustainable, 
profitable growth and be more responsive to the 
challenges we face in a rapidly changing world.
  Our digital transformation is of paramount importance 
to our success going forward. We are actively accelerating 
our digital penetration and capabilities around the Colgate 
world. This reflects the changing behaviors of consumers, 
the desire for convenient and frictionless shopping 
experiences and the opportunity to create relevant 
engagement with our brands. This is an exciting time of 
transformation and new techniques to drive our growth 
and be future-ready. We are investing in the upskilling of 
our people, optimizing our media and creative, adding 
talent and expertise and developing omnichannel go-
to-market experiences across our brands and in all 
geographies.
  Any transformation requires collaboration and 
excellence in execution across all functional areas of the 
business. Our IT team is contributing to growth more than 
ever with advanced cloud platforms for marketing and 
advertising technology and analytics, developing robust 
collaboration tools and using enterprise-wide solutions, 
like SAP S/4HANA, that drive efficiency throughout our 
business processes and functions. Likewise, our advanced 
analytics team is developing powerful, predictive tools 
across revenue growth management and marketing and 
media effectiveness, that enable data-driven decisions 
and allow us to pinpoint opportunities across pricing, 
promotions and media that maximize not only revenue 
and market share but longer-term profitability.

2 

way to refill their soap. In home care, we introduced fabric 
refresher sprays with antibacterial/antiviral protection 
in certain geographies, expanding our footprint beyond 
fabric conditioners. We are also deeply excited about the 
breakthrough, science-based innovation that is driving 
significant growth at Hill’s including Prescription Diet 
Derm Complete, nutrition for both food and environmental 
sensitivities in dogs.
  The increase in premium, transformational innovation 
extends to how we are going after adjacent categories and 
high-growth segments, like whitening. We are targeting 
the whitening opportunity much more broadly with new 
technologies, formulations and delivery systems to expand 
our growth potential. The success of Colgate Enzyme 
Whitening toothpaste in China and the Colgate Optic 
White Overnight Pen in the U.S. are both perfect examples.
Our emphasis on faster-growing channels and markets also 
continues to pay off. During 2021, we saw significant sales 
growth in eCommerce, direct-to-consumer and pharmacy. 
We are taking formerly regional brands like Tom’s of Maine, 
hello, elmex and meridol and expanding them to select 
channels and markets to take advantage of consumer 
trends and their strong brand equities. In the pharmacy 
channel, for example, where consumers shop for high-end, 
therapeutic brands, we are gaining incremental market 
share in Africa/Eurasia where we recently launched our 
European-based meridol oral care products.
  Our robust innovation activity was supported by a 4% 
increase in advertising in 2021, following a 15% increase 
in 2020. Importantly, we are increasing the effectiveness 
and efficiency of our brand-building support by using 
data and analytics to focus spending on higher-return 
investments, such as targeted digital media and more 
emotional equity messaging versus traditional product 
advertising. Optimism in Action is our latest equity 
campaign for the Colgate brand. This uplifting campaign 
celebrates optimists who overcome adversity to make a 
positive impact on others. It aims to inspire and encourage 
everyone to take action for good, to help create a future 
worth smiling about.

In addition to innovation and higher advertising, 
capital spending is a critical component of our growth 
strategy. Capital expenditures increased in 2021 as we 
expanded capacity to meet heightened long-term growth 
opportunities across our business and progressed on our 
sustainability goals.

Building Capabilities Across The Organization
We understand that we need to perform in the short term 
while transforming for the long term. Strengthening our 
capabilities in areas like innovation, digital, eCommerce 

Strengthening Our Digital Capabilities 
Strong digital execution and science-based innovation drove 
double-digit organic sales growth for Hill’s in 2021.

 
Focusing On Fast-Growing Channels 
In 2021, we continued to strengthen our presence in the 
fast-growing pharmacy channel with the rollout of our 
meridol therapeutic oral care products to select markets 
in Africa/Eurasia. 

leadership. Of our many advancements this year, we are
particularly proud that, as of December 31, 2021, half
of our manufacturing facilities worldwide are now TRUE
Zero Waste certified. We have 26 TRUE Zero Waste
certifications in 16 countries on five continents, more than
any other company. You can read more about our 2025
Sustainability & Social Impact Strategy and our progress
against our sustainability targets on page 5 of this report
and on our website at www.colgatepalmolive.com.
  Likewise, making the world a better place includes our
commitment to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive
culture where every Colgate person feels a real sense 
of belonging and value. We are making progress in our 
diversity representation among our senior leadership, 
particularly for women globally and Hispanics and Asians in 
the U.S. We are working toward our ambition of full labor 
force representation in the U.S. among all major ethnic 
groups so that our people can see themselves across all 
organizational levels. Representation, however, is not 
sustainable if we do not have an inclusive culture. We are 
driving a culture of inclusion through education, dialogue 
and encouraging personal accountability. You can learn 
more about our Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) 
Strategy and our progress in this area in our DE&I Report 
available on our website at www.colgatepalmolive.com. 

3 

Outlook
As we begin 2022, our number one priority remains
keeping Colgate people safe and healthy. There is
still much uncertainty stemming from the COVID-19
pandemic, supply chain disruptions and an elevated cost
environment. Despite these challenges, we are excited
that the changes we have made are having an impact. We
have good growth momentum and feel confident that
we are well positioned to continue to deliver sustainable,
profitable growth in 2022 and beyond.
  As we move ahead together, I would like to thank
all Colgate people for their extraordinary commitment
to achieving our goals, and express appreciation for
the support of our consumers, customers, suppliers,
shareholders and Board of Directors.

Noel Wallace
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer

  Driving growth in eCommerce continues to be a priority. 
In 2021, sales from eCommerce grew 26% worldwide, with 
every operating division growing at a double-digit rate. 
We saw terrific performance in China where we are using 
eCommerce to incubate our premium-priced innovations  
a lot faster before scaling them more broadly into brick  
and mortar outlets. As a leader in the digital space, Hill’s is  
connecting with shoppers in new ways to drive awareness 
for the brand and provide an easier path to purchase.  
Hill’s was an early adopter of the Amazon Live streaming 
platform in the pet food space, using it to promote the 
Hill’s Science Diet portfolio of weight management pet 
foods during the brand’s national weight campaign.

Reimagining A Healthier, More Sustainable 
Future For All
As a caring, innovative growth company, our purpose is to
reimagine a healthier future for all people, their pets and
our planet. With the Colgate brand found in more homes
than any other, we feel an extraordinary responsibility
to make the world a better place. This year was a period
of key sustainability initiatives and accomplishments for
Colgate, including the issuance of our first sustainability
bond pursuant to our Sustainable Financing Framework.
We committed to investing an amount equal to the net
proceeds from the offering in certain environmental and
social projects as described in the Framework. We were
also named to the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for
the fifth consecutive year, in recognition of our ongoing
commitment to sustainable business practices and

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Our Leading Brands

Oral Care 

44%  

of Net Sales

4 

Personal Care 

20%  

of Net Sales

Home Care 

17%  

of Net Sales

Pet Nutrition 

19%  

of Net Sales

2025 Sustainability  
& Social Impact Strategy

We are pleased to report excellent progress in 2021 on our 2025 Sustainability & Social Impact Strategy. Our continued 
commitment to building environmental and social consciousness into every decision earned us recognition in 2021 on 
the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for the fifth consecutive year and Gold Class distinction in the Household Products 
industry in the 2022 Sustainability Yearbook published by S&P Global. We were also named a U.S. EPA ENERGY STAR® 
Partner of the Year for the 11th consecutive year and received the Sustained Excellence Award for our continued leadership 
and superior contributions to ENERGY STAR. In addition to the highlights below, more about our 2025 Sustainability & 
Social Impact Strategy progress is available in the Sustainability section of our website at www.colgatepalmolive.com.

Driving 
Social Impact
We are committed to helping to 
ensure the wellbeing of all people 
and their pets, building a culture of 
inclusivity and creating meaningful 
opportunities for all people to 
succeed inside and outside Colgate.

Helping  
Millions Of Homes
We are empowering people to 
develop healthier habits by choosing 
sustainable products that improve 
their lives and homes from oral and 
personal care to home care and pet 
nutrition.

Preserving Our  
Environment
We are accelerating action on 
climate change and reducing our 
environmental footprint, including 
by working with our partners and 
operations to eliminate waste,  
decrease plastic usage, save water  
and conserve natural resources.

5 

Colgate Bright Smiles,  
Bright Futures is our flagship 
oral health education and 
wellbeing initiative. Since the 
program was established in 
1991, we have reached over 
1.4B  
children and their families in 
places that are convenient for 
them in more than 80 countries.

Launched Colgate Keep, 
our first-of-its-kind manual 
toothbrush with a replaceable 
head and a reusable  
aluminum handle for
80%
less plastic waste compared 
to similarly sized Colgate 
toothbrushes.

As of  
December 31, 2021,  
we have 
26
TRUE Zero Waste  
certifications in 16 
countries  
on five continents,  
more than any  
other company.

We instituted mandatory 
allyship and unconscious  
bias training for all salaried and 
clerical employees at Colgate, 
with 100% compliance, to 
help our employees better 
understand diversity, equity and 
inclusion concepts and embed 
allyship as a daily practice.

Thanks to our Save Water 
campaign, we estimate that 
consumers have contributed to 
an avoidance of approximately  
206B 
gallons of water and  
10.8 million metric tons  
of CO2 emissions, since its  
launch in 2016.

In North America, our 
relaunched Palmolive Ultra 
dish soap is now in
100%
 post-consumer recycled 
plastic bottles and formulated 
with 100% biodegradable 
cleaning ingredients.* 

*†OECD 301 B,C,D / OCDE 301 B,C,D 

Our Leadership

Board Of Directors

Executive Team 

John P. Bilbrey

Kimberly A. Nelson

Noel Wallace

Independent Director
Former Chairman, President 
and Chief Executive Officer 
of The Hershey Company
Elected director in 2015.
Age 65

Independent Director
Former Senior Vice 
President, External Relations 
of General Mills, Inc.
Elected director in 2021. 
Age 59

Chairman, President and 
Chief Executive Officer

Lorrie M. Norrington 

Jennifer M. Daniels

6 

John T. Cahill

Independent Director
Vice Chairman of The  
Kraft Heinz Company 
Elected director in 2005. 
Age 64

Lisa M. Edwards

Independent Director
President & Chief  
Operating Officer of 
Diligent Corporation
Elected director in 2019.  
Age 54

C. Martin Harris 

Independent Director
Associate Vice President of 
the Health Enterprise and 
Chief Business Officer of the 
Dell Medical School at The 
University of Texas at Austin 
Elected director in 2016. 
Age 65

Independent Director
Operating Partner of  
Lead Edge Capital LLC
Elected director in 2015. 
Age 62

Michael B. Polk 

Independent Director
Advisory Director to 
Berkshire Partners  
LLC, Chief Executive  
Officer of Implus LLC
Elected director in 2014.
Age 61

Stephen I. Sadove

Independent Director
Founding Partner,  
JW Levin Management 
Partners LLC
Elected director in 2007. 
Age 70

Martina Hund-Mejean

Noel Wallace

Independent Director 
Former Chief Financial  
Officer of Mastercard Inc.
Elected director in 2020.  
Age 61

Chairman, President  
and Chief Executive  
Officer of Colgate- 
Palmolive Company
Elected director in 2019  
and Chairman in 2020.
Age 57

Biographical information for the above directors and executives is available on our website at www.colgatepalmolive.com.

Chief Legal Officer  
and Secretary 

Stanley J. Sutula III

Chief Financial Officer

Prabha Parameswaran

Group President,  
Growth and Strategy

Panagiotis Tsourapas

Group President, Europe  
and Developing Markets

Management Team

Jules Andrew
VP & Chief Business  
Services Officer

Thierry Antona-Traversi
VP & GM, Filorga

Lia Arvanitidou
VP, Global R&D

Issam Bachaalani
VP & GM, Colgate-Eurasia

Daniel Bagley
VP, Global R&D

Sophie Bailly-Maitre
VP & GM, Colgate-Canada

Dave Baloga
VP, Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Gillian Barclay
VP, Global Public Health  
& Scientific Affairs

Claudia Barrera
VP, Global Information 
Technology

Nicki Baty
VP & GM, Hill’s Pet 
Nutrition-U.S.

Don Beatty
VP, Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Angel Dario Belalcazar
VP, Global R&D

Wendy Boise
VP, Global Human 
Resources

Jose Borrell
VP, Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Yves Briantais
VP, Colgate-Asia Pacific

Scott Cain
VP, Global Finance

Scott Campbell
VP, Global Marketing

Burc Cankat
VP & GM, Colgate-North 
Africa, Middle East & Turkey

Gonzalo Canteros Paz
VP, Global Supply Chain

*Maria Paula Capuzzo
President, Colgate- 
Africa/Eurasia

Maria Elisa Carvajal
VP & GM, Global Oral Care

Martin J. Collins
VP, Global Human 
Resources

*Michael A. Corbo
Chief Supply Chain Officer

*Mike Crowe
Chief Information Officer

Shirley Dai
VP, Colgate-Asia Pacific

Paula Davis
Chief Communications 
Officer

Pierre Denis
VP, Global R&D

*Mukul Deoras
President, Colgate- 
Asia Pacific

Craig Dubitsky 
Chief Innovation Strategist, 
Colgate and Friendly 
Founder & Chief Creative 
Officer, hello Products

Philip Durocher
VP, Colgate-North America

Gavin du Toit
VP, Colgate-Latin America

*John Faucher
Chief Investor Relations 
Officer and SVP, M&A

Kimberly Faulkner
VP, Global Supply Chain

*Jean-Luc Fischer
President, Colgate-Europe

Betsy Fishbone
VP, Global Legal

Nadine Flynn
VP, Global Legal

David Foster
VP, Global Information 
Technology

Anne-Sophie Gaget
VP & GM, Colgate- 
Western Europe 

Diana Geofroy
VP, Colgate-Mexico

Corrado Giaquinto
VP & GM, Colgate- 
Greater Indochina

Derek Gordon
VP & Chief Diversity,  
Equity & Inclusion Officer

Taylor Gordy
VP & GM, Colgate- 
Northern Europe

Peter Graylin
VP, Global Legal

Valerie Haliburton
VP, Global Ethics & 
Compliance

Diana Haussling
VP & GM, Colgate- 
North America

*John Hazlin
President, Hill’s Pet 
Nutrition

Yvonne Hsu
VP, Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Henry Hu
VP, Colgate-Asia Pacific

Kristine Hutchinson
VP, Global Legal

Eugene Kelly
VP, Diversity,  
Equity & Inclusion

Iain Kielty
VP, Global Finance

Brigitte H. King 
Chief Digital Officer 

Charalabos Klados
VP, Global Legal

Raj Kohli
VP, Global R&D

*John Kooyman
Chief of Staff

Wojciech Krol
VP & GM, Colgate- 
Central Europe East

*Al Lee
Chief Internal  
Governance Officer

Adriana Leite
VP, Colgate-Africa/Eurasia

Sergio Leite
VP, Global R&D

*Stephane Lionnet
VP & Corporate Treasurer

Javier Llinas
VP, Global Information 
Technology

Amalia Londono
VP, Colgate-Latin America

Gregory Malcolm
VP & Assistant Controller

Cesar Martinez
VP & GM, Colgate- 
Southern Cone

Pablo Mascolo
VP, Colgate-Latin America

*Sally Massey
Chief Human  
Resources Officer

Gerald Mastio
VP & GM, Colgate- 
Central Europe West

Paul McGarry
VP, Global Information 
Technology

Dana Medema
VP & GM, Oral Care  
Colgate-North America

Catalina Monroy
VP, Global R&D

Anne-Marie Motte
VP & GM, Global 
Toothbrush

Francisco Muñoz
VP & GM, Colgate- 
Central America

Josue M. Muñoz
VP, Global Supply Chain

Eddie Niem
VP & GM, Hawley & Hazel

*Jesper Nordengaard
President, Colgate- 
North America

Godfrey Nthunzi
VP, Colgate-Africa/Eurasia

Gregg Parsons
VP & GM, Colgate- 
North America

Sara Scrittore
VP & GM, Colgate- 
Southern Europe

Alain Semeneri
VP & GM, Hill’s Pet 
Nutrition-Europe,  
Middle East & Africa

Esi Seng
VP & GM, Tom’s of Maine

Jose Fernando Serrano
VP, Colgate-Latin America

Andrew Shepard
VP & GM, CP Skin Health 
Group-Global

*Philip Shotts
VP & Controller

Luciano Sieber
VP, Colgate-North America

Hector Pedraza
VP & GM, Colgate-Andina

Linda Topping
VP, Global Supply Chain

Simon Petersen 
VP & GM, Colgate- 
South Pacific

Brent Peterson
VP, Global Human 
Resources

Massimo Poli
VP & GM, Colgate-Mexico

Warren Pruitt
VP, Global Supply Chain

Ram Raghavan
VP & GM, Colgate- 
India & South Asia

Rekha Rao 
VP & GM, hello Products

Riccardo Ricci
VP & GM, Colgate-Brazil

Lauren Richardson
VP & Chief  
Procurement Officer

Chad D. Riley
VP, Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Nancy Rolph
VP & Chief Security Officer

Paolo Rossetto
VP, Colgate-Europe

Maria Ryan
VP & Chief Clinical Officer

Bernal Saborio
VP & GM, Colgate- 
Greater Caribbean

Arvind Sachdev
VP & GM, Colgate- 
Philippines

Ivan Sandoval
VP, Global Legal

Diana Schildhouse
VP & Chief Analytics  
& Insights Officer

7 

Ann Tracy
VP & Chief  
Sustainability Officer

Bill Van de Graaf
VP, Colgate-North America

*Patricia Verduin
Chief Technology Officer

Juan Vernaza
VP, Colgate-North America

Jean-Bernard Vidaillet
VP, Colgate-Europe

James Wang
VP & GM, Colgate- 
Asia Pacific

Mauro Watanabe
VP, Colgate-Europe  
& Africa/Eurasia

Cliff Wilkins
VP, Global Legal

Courtney Williams
VP, Global Legal

Andrew Wilson
VP, Colgate-Asia Pacific

Dan Wish
VP, Global Oral  
Care Insights

Winnie Wong
VP & GM, Colgate- 
Greater China

*Juan Pablo Zamorano
President, Colgate- 
Latin America

Jenny A. Zirinsky
VP, Global Marketing 

Joanna Zucker
VP & GM, CP Skin  
Health Group-U.S.

*Corporate Officer

Reconciliation Of Non-GAAP  
Financial Measures

The following is provided to supplement certain financial 
measures discussed in this report both as reported (GAAP) 
and excluding the impact of certain items (non-GAAP) 
as shown below. Investors and analysts use these 
financial measures in assessing the Company’s business 
performance, and management believes that presenting 
these financial measures on a non-GAAP basis provides 
them with useful supplemental information to enhance 
their understanding of the Company’s underlying business 
performance and trends. These non-GAAP financial 
measures also enhance the ability to compare period-to-
period financial results. The Company uses these financial 
measures internally in its budgeting process, to evaluate 
segment and overall operating performance and as factors 

in determining compensation. While the Company believes 
that these financial measures are useful in evaluating the 
Company’s underlying business performance and trends, 
this information should be considered as supplemental in 
nature and is not meant to be considered in isolation or as 
a substitute for the related financial information prepared 
in accordance with GAAP. In addition, these non-GAAP 
financial measures may not be the same as similar 
measures presented by other companies. This report also 
discusses organic sales growth, which is net sales growth 
excluding the impact of foreign exchange, acquisitions and 
divestments. For a reconciliation of organic sales growth 
to net sales growth for 2021, see page 46 of the Company’s 
Annual Report on Form 10-K.

8 

(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts) 

Gross Profit 
Margin 

Operating 
Profit  

Net 
Income 

Diluted 
EPS 

2021
As Reported (GAAP) 
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Impairment Charges 
Loss on Early Extinguishment of Debt 
Value-Added Tax Matter in Brazil 
Excluding Items (Non-GAAP) 

2020
As Reported (GAAP) 
Global Growth and Efficiency Program  
Subsidiary and Operating Structure Initiatives 
Acquisition-Related Costs  
Loss on Early Extinguishment of Debt 
Excluding Items (Non-GAAP) 

2019
As Reported (GAAP) 
Global Growth and Efficiency Program  
Acquisition-Related Costs  
Value-Added Tax Matter in Brazil 
Swiss Income Tax Reform  
Excluding Items (Non-GAAP) 

59.6% 
 –   
 –   
–   
59.6% 

60.8% 
 –   
 –   
 –   
 –   
60.8% 

59.4% 
0.1% 
 –   
 –   
 –   
59.5% 

 $3,332  
 571  
 –   
 (26) 
 $3,877  

 $3,885  
 (16) 
 –   
 6  
 –   
 $3,875  

 $3,554  
 125  
 24  
 (30) 
 –   
 $3,673  

 $2,166  
 518  
 55  
 (20) 
 $2,719  

 $2,695  
 (13) 
 (71) 
 4  
 18  
 $2,633  

 $2,367  
 102  
 20  
 (20) 
 (29) 
 $2,440  

 $2.55  
 0.61 
 0.07 
 (0.02)
 $3.21

 $3.14 
 (0.02)
 (0.08)
 –)  
 0.02  
 $3.06 

 $2.75 
 0.12 
 0.02 
 (0.02)
 (0.04)
 $2.83 

 
 
 
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K 

(Mark One)

☒

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 
1934

  For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021 

or

☐

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE 
ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                                  to                          .

Commission File Number 1-644 

300 Park Avenue  New York, NY 10022-7499
300 Park Avenue  New York, NY 10022-7499

COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or 
organization)
300 Park Avenue
New York,  New York
(Address of principal executive offices)

13-1815595
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

10022
(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code 212-310-2000 
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class
Common Stock, $1.00 par value
0.500% Notes due 2026
0.300% Notes due 2029
1.375% Notes due 2034
0.875% Notes due 2039

Trading Symbol(s)
CL
CL26
CL29
CL34
CL39

Name of each exchange on which registered
New York Stock Exchange
New York Stock Exchange
New York Stock Exchange
New York Stock Exchange
New York Stock Exchange

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes ☒	No ☐
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.  Yes ☐  No ☒
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange 

Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been 
subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes ☒ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant 
to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit 
and post such files).  Yes ☒ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting 

company, or an emerging growth company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer”, “smaller reporting company” and 
“emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer 

Non-accelerated filer 

☒

☐

Accelerated filer 

Smaller reporting company 

Emerging growth company

☐

☐

☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for 

complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its 

internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting 
firm that prepared or issued its audit report.  Yes ☒ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes ☐ No ☒
The aggregate market value of Colgate-Palmolive Company Common Stock held by non-affiliates as of June 30, 2021 (the last 

business day of its most recently completed second quarter) was approximately $68.6 billion.

There were 840,487,222 shares of Colgate-Palmolive Company Common Stock outstanding as of January 31, 2022.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:

Documents
Portions of Proxy Statement for the 2022 Annual Meeting of Stockholders

Form 10-K Reference
Part III, Items 10 through 14

Part I

Page

Colgate-Palmolive Company
Table of Contents

Business

Item 1.
Item 1A.   Risk Factors
Item 1B.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.

Unresolved Staff Comments
Properties
Legal Proceedings
Mine Safety Disclosures

Part II

Item 5.

Item 6.
Item 7.
Item 7A.
Item 8.
Item 9.
Item 9A.
Item 9B.
Item 9C.

Part III

Item 10.
Item 11.
Item 12.

Item 13.
Item 14.

Part IV

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of 
Equity Securities
[Reserved]
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
Controls and Procedures
Other Information
Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
Executive Compensation
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder 
Matters
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence
Principal Accountant Fees and Services

Item 15.
Item 16.

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
Form 10-K Summary

Signatures

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8
20
21
22
22

23
23
24
56
57
57
57
57
57

58
58

59
59
59

60
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ITEM 1. 

BUSINESS

(a) General Development of the Business

PART I

Colgate-Palmolive Company (together with its subsidiaries, “we,” “us,” “our,” the “Company” or “Colgate”) is a 
caring, innovative growth company reimagining a healthier future for all people, their pets and our planet. We seek to 
deliver sustainable, profitable growth and superior shareholder returns, as well as provide Colgate people with an 
innovative and inclusive work environment. We do this by developing and selling products globally that make people’s and 
their pets’ lives healthier and more enjoyable and by embracing our sustainability and social impact and diversity, equity 
and inclusion (“DE&I”) strategies across our organization. Our products are marketed in over 200 countries and territories 
throughout the world. Colgate was founded in 1806 and incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware in 1923.

For recent business developments and other information, refer to the information set forth under the captions 
“Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations–Executive Overview,” “– 
Outlook,” “–Results of Operations” and “– Liquidity and Capital Resources” in Part II, Item 7 of this report.

(c) Narrative Description of the Business

We operate in two product segments: Oral, Personal and Home Care; and Pet Nutrition. We are a leader in Oral Care 

with global leadership in the toothpaste and manual toothbrush categories according to market share data. We sell our 
toothpastes under brands such as Colgate, Darlie, elmex, hello, meridol, Sorriso and Tom’s of Maine, our toothbrushes 
under brands such as Colgate, Darlie, elmex and meridol and our mouthwashes under brands such as Colgate, elmex and 
meridol. Our Oral Care business also includes pharmaceutical products for dentists and other oral health professionals.

We are a leader in many product categories of the Personal Care market with global leadership in liquid hand soap, 
according to market share data, which we sell under brands such as Palmolive, Protex and Softsoap. Our Personal Care 
products also include Irish Spring, Palmolive and Protex bar soaps, Irish Spring, Palmolive, Sanex and Softsoap shower 
gels, Lady Speed Stick, Sanex, Speed Stick and Tom’s of Maine deodorants and antiperspirants, EltaMD, Filorga and PCA 
SKIN skin health products and Palmolive shampoos and conditioners. 

We manufacture and market a wide array of products for the Home Care market, including Ajax, Axion and Palmolive 

dishwashing liquids and Ajax, Fabuloso and Murphy household cleaners. We are a market leader in fabric conditioners 
with leading brands, including Suavitel in Latin America, Soupline in Europe, and Cuddly in the South Pacific, according 
to market share data.

Sales of Oral, Personal and Home Care products accounted for 44%, 20% and 17%, respectively, of our total 
worldwide Net sales in 2021. Geographically, Oral Care is a significant part of our business in Asia Pacific, comprising 
approximately 81% of Net sales in that region for 2021.

Through our Hill’s Pet Nutrition segment (“Hill’s” or “Pet Nutrition”), we are a world leader in specialty pet nutrition 
products for dogs and cats with products marketed in over 80 countries and territories worldwide. Hill’s markets pet foods 
primarily under two brands. Hill’s Science Diet, which is called Hill’s Science Plan in Europe, is a range of products for 
everyday nutritional needs. Hill’s Prescription Diet is a range of therapeutic products to help nutritionally manage disease 
conditions in dogs and cats. Sales of Pet Nutrition products accounted for 19% of our total worldwide Net sales in 2021.

For more information regarding our worldwide Net sales by product category, refer to Note 1, Nature of Operations 

and Note 14, Segment Information to the Consolidated Financial Statements. 

For additional information regarding market share data, see “Market Share Information” in Part II, Item 7 of this 

report.

1

Distribution; Raw Materials; Competition; Trademarks and Patents

Our Oral, Personal and Home Care products are sold to a variety of traditional and eCommerce retailers, wholesalers 

and distributors worldwide. Pet Nutrition products are sold by authorized pet supply retailers, veterinarians and 
eCommerce retailers. Certain of our products are also sold direct-to-consumer. Our sales to Walmart, Inc. and its affiliates 
represent approximately 12% of our Net sales in 2021. No other customer represents more than 10% of our Net sales. We 
support our products with advertising, promotion and other marketing (with increasing emphasis on digital) to build 
awareness and trial of our products. Our products are marketed by a direct sales force at individual operating subsidiaries or 
business units and by distributors or brokers.

The majority of raw and packaging materials used in our products are purchased from other companies and is available 
from several sources. No single raw or packaging material represents, and no single supplier provides, a significant portion 
of our total material requirements. We do, however, purchase certain key raw and packaging materials from single-source 
suppliers or a limited number of suppliers. For certain materials, however, new suppliers may have to be qualified under 
industry, governmental and/or Colgate standards, which can require additional investment and take a significant period of 
time. Raw and packaging material commodities, such as essential oils, resins, tropical oils, pulp, tallow, corn, poultry and 
soybeans, are subject to market price variations. For further information regarding the impact of changes in commodity 
prices, see Item 1A, “Risk Factors - Volatility in material and other costs could adversely impact our profitability” and Item 
7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” 

Our products are sold in a highly competitive global marketplace which has experienced increased retail trade 

concentration, the rapid growth of eCommerce, the integration of traditional and digital operations at key retailers and the 
growing presence of large-format retailers, discounters and eCommerce retailers. Products similar to those that we produce 
and sell are available from multinational and local competitors in the U.S. and overseas. Certain of our competitors are 
larger and have greater resources than we do. In addition, the substantial growth in eCommerce has encouraged the entry of 
new competitors and business models. In certain geographies, we also face strong local competitors, who may be more 
agile and have better local consumer insights than we do. Private label brands sold by retailers are also a source of 
competition for certain of our products. 

The retail landscape in many of our markets continues to evolve as a result of the rapid growth of eCommerce retailers, 

changing consumer preferences (as consumers increasingly shop online and via mobile and social applications) and the 
increased presence of alternative retail channels, such as subscription services and direct-to-consumer businesses. These 
trends have accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, during the COVID-19 pandemic, we have 
experienced disruptions in certain channels, including travel retail. We also continue to see changes in the purchasing 
patterns of our consumers, including the nature and/or frequency of visits by consumers to retailers and dental, veterinary 
and skin health professionals as well as a shift, in many markets, to purchasing our products online. We face competition in 
several aspects of our business, including pricing, promotional activities, new product and brand introductions and 
expansion into new geographies and channels. Product quality, innovation, brand recognition, marketing capability and 
acceptance of new products and brands largely determine success in Colgate’s operating segments.

We consider trademarks to be of material importance to our business. We follow a practice of seeking trademark 
protection in the U.S. and throughout the world where our products are sold. Principal global and regional trademarks 
include Colgate, Palmolive, elmex, hello, meridol, Sorriso, Tom’s of Maine, EltaMD, Filorga, Irish Spring, Lady Speed 
Stick, PCA SKIN, Protex, Sanex, Softsoap, Speed Stick, Ajax, Axion, Fabuloso, Murphy, Soupline and Suavitel, as well as 
Hill’s Science Diet and Hill’s Prescription Diet. Our rights in these trademarks endure for as long as they are used and/or 
registered. Although we actively develop and maintain a portfolio of patents, no single patent is considered significant to 
the business as a whole.

2

COVID-19

COVID-19 and government steps to reduce the spread and address the impact of COVID-19 have had and continue to 
have a profound impact on the way people live, work, interact and shop and have significantly impacted and may continue 
to impact economic activity around the world.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of the communities in which we manufacture, market and sell our products 
experienced and in some cases continue to experience “stay at home” orders, travel or movement restrictions and other 
government actions to reduce the spread and address the impact of COVID-19, and have implemented varying policies to 
address the pandemic, resume economic activity and vaccinate their populations. Because the vast majority of our products 
(such as oral care products, soaps and other personal hygiene products, home cleaners and pet food) have been deemed 
essential for the health and well-being of people and their pets, we have, in most instances, been able to continue operating 
our business, although not always at full capacity. In doing so, the health, safety and well-being of our employees and their 
families has been and remains our first priority. In addition, some of our suppliers, customers, distributors, logistics 
providers and service providers have experienced disruptions to their businesses.

We saw a significant increase in demand across many of our categories, such as liquid hand soap, dish liquid, bar soap 

and cleaners, during 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, driven by consumer pantry-loading and increased 
consumption of our products. While consumer demand for most of these categories declined year-over-year in 2021, most 
remained above historical levels, and we believe that some of this increase in consumption is sustainable in light of changes 
in consumer behavior related to COVID-19. Across our business, changes in consumer demand for our products vary by 
product category and geography depending on, among other things, the severity of the COVID-19 outbreak, the availability 
of our products at retailers and supply chain disruptions.

The COVID-19 pandemic and government steps to reduce the spread and address the impact of COVID-19 have 
impacted and may continue to impact our consumers’ ability to purchase and our ability to manufacture and distribute our 
products. While we believe that, in the long-term, consumer demand for the products in our categories will continue to be 
strong, uncertainties continue surrounding the timing and duration of the pandemic and the recovery from it. COVID-19 
has also disrupted our retail customers, contract manufacturers, logistics providers and other third parties; their ability to 
address COVID-19 and maintain their operations at full capacity has impacted and may continue to impact sales of and 
consumer access to our products. In particular, COVID-19 has disrupted, and may continue to disrupt, the travel retail 
channel. We expect the ongoing economic impact, health concerns associated with COVID-19 and supply chain 
disruptions to continue to impact consumer behavior, shopping patterns and consumption preferences during 2022. 

For additional information regarding COVID-19’s impact on our business, see Part I, Item 1A “Risk Factors” and Part 

II, Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Executive 
Overview.”

Government Regulations

As a global company, we are subject to extensive governmental regulations, including environmental rules and 
regulations, in the U.S. and abroad. The most significant government regulations that impact our business are discussed 
below. It is our policy and practice to comply with all government regulations applicable to our business. In 2021, 
compliance with these regulations did not have, and we do not expect such compliance in the future to have, a material 
adverse effect on our capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position. For further discussion of how global legal and 
regulatory requirements may impact our business, see Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors.” 

Product Development: Legal and regulatory requirements apply to most aspects of our products, including their 

development, ingredients, formulation, manufacture, packaging content, labeling, storage, transportation, distribution, 
export, import, advertising, sale and environmental impact. U.S. federal authorities, including the U.S. Food and Drug 
Administration, the Federal Trade Commission, the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Occupational, Health and 
Safety Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, regulate different aspects of our business, along with 
parallel authorities at the state and local levels and comparable authorities overseas.

3

 
Anti-Corruption, Anti-Bribery, Commercial Bribery and Competition: We are subject to anti-corruption laws and 
regulations, including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and other laws that generally prohibit the making or offering 
of improper payments to foreign government officials and political figures for the purpose of obtaining or retaining 
business or to gain an unfair business advantage, and laws that prohibit commercial bribery. In addition, our selling 
practices are regulated by competition law authorities in the U.S. and abroad.

Privacy and Data Protection: Our collection, storage, transfer and/or processing of customer, consumer, employee, 

vendor and other stakeholder information and personal data is subject to privacy, data use and data security regulations in 
the U.S. and abroad, including the General Data Protection Regulation and the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018.

Trade Compliance: We are subject to laws and sanctions imposed by the U.S., including, without limitation, those 
imposed by the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Asset Control (“OFAC”), and/or by other jurisdictions that 
may prohibit us or certain of our affiliates from doing business in certain countries or restrict the kind of business that may 
be conducted.

Human Capital Management

Human capital matters at Colgate are managed by our Global Human Resources function, led by our Chief Human 

Resources Officer, with oversight from the Personnel and Organization Committee of our Board of Directors (the 
“Board”). As of December 31, 2021, we had approximately 33,800 employees based in over 100 countries. Approximately 
70% of our revenues are generated from markets outside the U.S. and 86% of our employees are located outside the U.S. 
Approximately 36% of our employees are based in Asia Pacific, 30% are based in Latin America, 15% are based in 
Europe, 14% are based in North America and 5% are based in Africa/Eurasia. Our global workforce covers a broad range 
of functions, from manufacturing employees to management personnel and certain of our employees are represented by 
unions or works councils.

Colgate’s Culture and Core Values

As we work to achieve Colgate’s purpose to reimagine a healthier future for all people, their pets and our planet, 

Colgate people, working around the world, share a commitment to our three core corporate values: Caring, Global 
Teamwork and Continuous Improvement. These values are reflected not only in the quality of our products and reputation, 
but also in our dedication to serving the communities where we live and work, as reflected in our sustainability and social 
impact and DE&I strategies. With these values, we work to maintain a strong culture based on integrity, ethical behavior 
and a commitment to doing the right thing. Underlying these values and our strong culture is the commitment of all Colgate 
people to maintain the highest ethical standards and demonstrate ethical leadership, including compliance with Colgate 
policies and our Code of Ethics.

CARING: We care about people — Colgate people, consumers, customers, stockholders, business partners and people 

in the communities where we live and work. We are committed to acting with compassion, integrity, honesty and high 
ethics in all situations and to providing our employees with an innovative and inclusive work environment. As a reflection 
of Colgate’s caring value, during the COVID-19 pandemic, protecting the health, safety and well-being of Colgate people 
and their families has been and remains our first priority. While we have reopened most of our offices, in some instances 
on a limited and voluntary basis, many of our office-based employees globally continue to work from home. We have 
implemented additional health and safety measures consistent with government recommendations and/or requirements to 
help ensure employee safety in our offices, production facilities, warehouses and technology centers. These measures may 
include: health and temperature screening, social distancing and personal protective equipment protocols, hand washing, 
contact tracing, enhanced cleaning procedures, respiratory hygiene, education and, in some instances, testing and/or 
vaccination requirements. We also leveraged our available technologies to maximize our connectivity and productivity and 
drew upon new capabilities gained through our focus on digital transformation to help to keep our people connected during 
the COVID-19 pandemic. We have also offered Colgate people and their families enhanced mental health and wellness 
benefit offerings, including counseling, paid leave to care for family members and flexible schedules to adapt to changing 
circumstances, and have provided ongoing health and safety education, including bringing in experts on infectious diseases 
and COVID-19 vaccines. Combined with the fact that the vast majority of our products have been deemed essential for the 
health and well-being of people and their pets, these efforts have, in most instances, enabled us to continue to operate 
during the pandemic providing consumers with the health and hygiene products they need and want.

4

GLOBAL TEAMWORK: All Colgate people are part of a global team, committed to working and collaborating 

together across functions and countries. Only by sharing ideas, technologies and talents can we achieve and sustain 
profitable growth.

CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT: We are committed to getting better every day in all that we do, as individuals and 

as teams. We continue to drive a continuous learning culture and transform our learning strategy to better meet the evolving 
expectations of our people. We provide our employees with learning experiences focused on building leadership skills and 
offer training programs that are closely aligned with our business strategy. Specifically, we are implementing new ways of 
working and instilling a growth mindset to drive innovation with focus, empowerment, experimentation and digitization. 
For example, in 2021, we implemented required training for all salaried and clerical employees to support our focus on 
digital with courses that demonstrate the importance of digital and what it means to have a digital culture. We are also 
committed to listening to our employees and seeing how the company is evolving and growing through regular employee 
engagement surveys.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion 

We believe our people are crucial to our ongoing business success and aim to recruit, develop and retain strong and 
diverse talent. We celebrate differences, promote an equitable and inclusive environment and value the contributions of all 
Colgate people. At Colgate, we are proud of our collaborative spirit – what we call The Power of WE. As a truly global 
company, we are working to ensure that our workforce reflects the diversity of the communities in which we live and work. 
As of December 31, 2021, our global workforce was approximately 60% male and 40% female. Women represented 
approximately 53% of our salaried and clerical employees, 40% of Colgate’s executives and 33% of senior leadership. 
Measuring the race/ethnicity of our workforce is challenging to do on a global basis. In the U.S., on an employee self-
reported basis, the racial/ethnic composition of our workforce was approximately 67% White, 9% Asian, 9% Black, 9% 
Hispanic, 4% unidentified and 2% Other. The racial/ethnic composition of our executives was approximately 60% White, 
17% Hispanic, 14% Asian, 7% Black, 1% unidentified and 1% Other and the composition of senior leadership was 
approximately 63% White, 18% Hispanic, 10% Black and 9% Asian. “Other” refers to American Indian/Alaska Native, 
two or more races or Native Hawaiian/other Pacific Islander. In this section, “executives” refers to those employees who 
are eligible to participate in Colgate’s equity incentive compensation plans and “senior leadership” refers to employees 
who are Vice Presidents and above.

We are committed to providing all of our employees with an equitable and inclusive work environment, learning 
opportunities and promotion and growth opportunities. A vital piece of our DE&I strategy has been ensuring that our 
succession planning process incorporates the advancement of women and people of all cultures, including underrepresented 
communities. To help further foster inclusiveness, we support employee resource groups for team members of many 
different underrepresented communities. Each of these resource groups contributes to our inclusive work environment by 
developing and implementing programs to promote business and community involvement as well as cultural awareness. 
We also partner with external organizations to develop an inclusive and supportive work environment.

Our global DE&I strategy aims to further advance our commitment to become an even more diverse, equitable and 
inclusive organization. The four pillars of our strategy are People, Community, Supplier Diversity and Communication. 
Consistent with this strategy, we are working to implement policies, learning experiences and processes that promote 
awareness, empathy, advocacy and opportunity; become an ally for positive change for the underserved in communities in 
which we live and work; support minority and women-owned suppliers to enable success of diversity-owned businesses; 
and promote dialogue around DE&I to increase awareness and advance the culture change to achieve our vision. In 2021, 
we released our first DE&I Report, which is available on the Colgate website. In addition, we instituted mandatory allyship 
and unconscious bias training for all salaried and clerical employees at Colgate to help our employees better understand 
DE&I concepts and embed allyship as a daily practice. Our Board, through its Personnel and Organization Committee, 
receives regular updates from management on our DE&I efforts.

Succession Planning

We have a rigorous succession planning process, led by our Global Human Resources function. Our Board is also 
extensively involved in succession planning and people development with special focus on CEO succession. As part of the 
succession planning process, we review and discuss potential successors to key positions and examine backgrounds, 
capabilities and appropriate developmental assignments. 

5

Compensation Philosophy

Given the importance of Colgate people to our business success, motivating and retaining critical talent is a key focus. 
We view compensation as an important tool to motivate leaders at all levels of the organization. For information regarding 
our compensation philosophy and executive compensation programs, please see our Proxy Statement to be filed with the 
United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) in connection with the 2022 Annual Meeting of 
Stockholders.

Sustainability

We view sustainability as being critically important to our overall business and growth strategy. In November 2020, 

we announced our 2025 Sustainability & Social Impact Strategy, focusing on three key ambitions — preserving our 
environment by accelerating action on climate change and reducing our environmental footprint; helping millions of homes 
by empowering people to develop healthier habits; and driving social impact with a commitment to helping to ensure the 
well-being of all people and their pets. These ambitions are supported by actionable targets consistent with our continued 
commitment to building environmental and social consciousness into our decision-making.  

In 2021, we made progress on the targets set forth in our 2025 Sustainability & Social Impact Strategy.

Reduce Plastic Waste: As a positive step toward achieving our targets to reduce the use of new plastic by a third and 

make our packaging 100% recyclable, reusable or compostable by 2025, we are working to implement our first-of-its-kind 
recyclable toothpaste tube across our toothpaste portfolio. We also launched Colgate Keep, our first-of-its-kind manual 
toothbrush with a replaceable head and a reusable aluminum handle for 80% less plastic waste compared to similarly sized 
Colgate toothbrushes.

Accelerate Action on Climate Change and Conserve Water: To support our goal to become net zero carbon in our 
operations by 2040, we have built renewable energy roadmaps at each of our operational sites across the world and have 
engaged all of our Tier 1 Suppliers in support of our goal to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by 30% (versus 2018). 
With our Save Water campaign, we estimate that our consumers have contributed to an avoidance of approximately 206 
billion gallons of water and 10.8 million metric tons of CO2 emissions, since its launch in 2016.

Ingredient Transparency: We continue to promote ingredient transparency and seek to follow the highest safety and 

efficacy standards as we formulate our products. We have rolled out a new “Fragrance & Flavors Share for Good” 
ingredient transparency program, which provides additional ingredient information.

Social Impact: Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures is our flagship oral health education and well-being initiative. 
Since the program was established in 1991, we have reached over 1.4 billion children and their families in more than 80 
countries.

During the fourth quarter of 2021, to help support and further our 2025 Sustainability & Social Impact Strategy, the 
Company issued €500 of eight-year notes at a fixed coupon rate of 0.300% (the “Sustainability Bond”). An amount equal 
to the net proceeds of the Sustainability Bond will be used to finance or refinance, in part or in full, new and existing 
projects and programs with distinct environmental or social benefits pursuant to our Sustainable Financing Framework.

Additional information about our sustainability strategy and achievements can be found on the Sustainability section of 

our website.

6

Information about our Executive Officers

The following is a list of our executive officers as of February 17, 2022:

Name

Age

Date First Elected 
Officer

Noel R. Wallace
Stanley J. Sutula III

Patricia Verduin

Jennifer M. Daniels

Philip G. Shotts

John W. Kooyman

Prabha Parameswaran

Panagiotis Tsourapas
Sally Massey

57
56

62

58

67

57

63

57
48

2009
2020

2011

2014

2018

2019

2019

2019
2020

Present Title

Chairman of the Board, President and
Chief Executive Officer
Chief Financial Officer

Chief Technology Officer

Chief Legal Officer and Secretary

Vice President and Controller

Chief of Staff

Group President, Growth and Strategy

Group President, Europe and Developing Markets

Chief Human Resources Officer

Each of our executive officers listed above has served the Company or our subsidiaries in various executive capacities 

for the past five years with the exception of Stanley J. Sutula III, who joined the Company in 2020 as Chief Financial 
Officer. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Sutula was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Pitney 
Bowes Inc. (“Pitney Bowes”), which he joined in 2017. Prior to Pitney Bowes, Mr. Sutula served in various executive 
finance positions at International Business Machines Corporation.

Under our By-Laws, our officers hold office until their respective successors are chosen and qualified or until they 
have resigned, retired or been removed by the affirmative vote of a majority of our Board. There are no family relationships 
between any of our executive officers, and there is no arrangement or understanding between any executive officer and any 
other person pursuant to which the executive officer was elected.

(e) Available Information

Our website address is www.colgatepalmolive.com. The information contained on our website is not included as a part 
of, or incorporated by reference into, this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We make available, free of charge, on our website 
our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, interactive data files posted pursuant to Rule 405 of 
Regulation S-T, Current Reports on Form 8-K and amendments to such reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) 
or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) as soon as reasonably practicable after we 
electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the SEC. Also available on our website are the Company’s Code of 
Conduct and Board Guidelines on Significant Corporate Governance Issues, the charters of the Committees of the Board, 
Specialized Disclosure Reports on Form SD, reports under Section 16 of the Exchange Act of transactions in Company 
stock by directors and executive officers and our Proxy Statements.

7

ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS

In addition to the risks described elsewhere in this report, set forth below is a summary of the material risks to an 
investment in our securities. These risks, some of which have occurred and/or are occurring and any of which could occur 
in the future, are not the only ones we face. Additional risks not presently known to us or that we currently deem 
immaterial may also have an adverse effect on us. If any of these risks actually occur, our business, results of operations, 
cash flows and financial condition could be materially and adversely impacted, which might cause the value of our 
securities to decline.

Business and Industry Risks

We face risks associated with significant international operations, including exposure to foreign currency 
fluctuations.

We operate on a global basis serving consumers in more than 200 countries and territories with approximately 70% of 

our Net sales originating in markets outside the U.S. While geographic diversity helps to reduce our exposure to risks in 
any one country or part of the world, it also means that we face risks associated with significant international operations, 
including, but not limited to:

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

changing macroeconomic conditions in our markets, including as a result of inflation, volatile commodity prices 
and increases in the cost of raw and packaging materials, labor, energy and logistics;

political or economic instability, geopolitical events, environmental events, widespread health emergencies, such 
as COVID-19 or other pandemics or epidemics, natural disasters or social or labor unrest;

changes in exchange rates for foreign currencies, which may reduce the U.S. dollar value of revenues, profits and 
cash flows from non-U.S. markets or increase our supply costs, as measured in U.S. dollars, in those markets;

exchange controls and other limits on our ability to import or export raw materials or finished product, including 
as a result of COVID-19, or to repatriate earnings from overseas;

lack of well-established, reliable and/or impartial legal systems in certain countries where we operate and 
difficulties in enforcing contractual, intellectual property or other legal rights;

foreign ownership and investment restrictions and the potential for nationalization or expropriation of property or 
other resources; and

changes to trade policies and agreements and other foreign or domestic legal and regulatory requirements, 
including those resulting in potentially adverse tax consequences or the imposition of and/or the increase in 
onerous trade restrictions and/or tariffs, sanctions, price controls, labor laws, travel or immigration restrictions, 
including as a result of COVID-19 or other pandemics or epidemics, profit controls or other government controls.

Any or all of the foregoing risks could have a significant impact on our ability to sell our products on a competitive 

basis in international markets and may adversely affect our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial 
condition. In addition, a number of these risks may adversely impact consumer confidence and consumption, which could 
reduce sales volumes of our products or result in a shift in our product mix from higher margin to lower margin product 
offerings.

In addition, there continue to be uncertainties related to the United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union (“EU”) 
(commonly referred to as Brexit), including the long-term impact of the bilateral trade and cooperation deal governing the 
future relationship between the United Kingdom and the EU (the “EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement”). These 
uncertainties include the impact of the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement on businesses in the EU and the United 
Kingdom and how the new relationship between the EU and the United Kingdom will develop over time, including 
disruptions to trade and the free movement of goods, services and people to and from the United Kingdom, increased 
foreign exchange volatility with respect to the British pound and/or the euro and disruptions to our workforce and that of 

8

our suppliers and business partners. We do not, however, believe Brexit has had or will have a material impact on our 
business, results of operations, cash flows or financial condition.

Furthermore, the imposition of tariffs and/or increase in tariffs on various products by the United States and other 
countries have introduced greater uncertainty with respect to trade policies and government regulations affecting trade 
between the United States and other countries and new and/or increased tariffs have subjected, and may continue in the 
future to subject, us to additional costs and expenditure of resources. Major developments in trade relations, including the 
imposition of new or increased tariffs by the United States and/or other countries, and any emerging nationalist trends in 
specific countries could alter the trade environment and consumer purchasing behavior which, in turn, could have a 
material effect on our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

In an effort to minimize the impact on earnings of foreign currency rate movements, we engage in a combination of 
selling price increases, where permitted, sourcing strategies, cost-containment measures and selective hedging of foreign 
currency transactions. However, the impact of these measures may not fully offset any negative impact of foreign currency 
rate movements on our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Significant competition in our industry could adversely affect our business.

We face vigorous competition worldwide, including from strong local competitors and from other large, multinational 

companies, some of which have greater resources than we do. In addition, the substantial growth in eCommerce has 
encouraged the entry of new competitors and business models.

We face competition in several aspects of our business, including pricing, promotional activities, new product 

introductions and expansion into new geographies and channels. Some of our competitors may spend more aggressively on 
or have more effective advertising and promotional activities than we do, introduce competing products more quickly and/
or respond more effectively to business and economic conditions and changing consumer preferences, including by 
launching innovative new products. Such competition also extends to administrative and legal challenges of product claims 
and advertising. Our success is increasingly dependent on our ability to effectively leverage digital technology and data 
analytics to gain new commercial insights and develop relevant marketing and advertising to reach customers and 
consumers. In addition, during the COVID-19 pandemic, we have experienced and may continue to experience elevated 
demand for some of our products as compared to pre-pandemic levels. Our ability to compete also depends on the strength 
of our brands and on our ability to enforce and defend our intellectual property, including patent, trademark, copyright, 
trade secret and trade dress rights, against infringement and legal challenges by competitors.

We may be unable to anticipate the timing and scale of such initiatives or challenges by competitors or to successfully 

respond to them, which could harm our business. In addition, the cost of responding to such initiatives and challenges, 
including management time, out-of-pocket expenses and price reductions, may affect our performance. A failure to 
compete effectively could adversely affect our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Increasing dependence on key retailers in developed markets, changes in the policies of our retail trade customers, 
the emergence of alternative retail channels and the rapidly changing retail landscape and changing consumer 
preferences may adversely affect our business.

Our products are sold in a highly competitive global marketplace which has experienced increased trade concentration 

and the growing presence of large-format retailers, discounters and eCommerce retailers. With the growing trend toward 
retail trade consolidation, the rapid growth of eCommerce and the integration of traditional and digital operations at key 
retailers, we are increasingly dependent on certain retailers, and some of these retailers have and may continue to have 
greater bargaining strength than we do. They have used and may continue to use this leverage to demand higher trade 
discounts, allowances, slotting fees or increased investment, including through display media, paid search, preparation fees 
and co-op programs, which have led to and could continue to lead to reduced sales or profitability in certain markets. The 
loss of a key customer or a significant reduction in sales to a key customer could adversely affect our business, results of 
operations, cash flows and financial condition. For additional information regarding our customers, see “Distribution; Raw 
Materials; Competition; Trademarks and Patents” in Item 1 “Business.”

We also have been and may continue to be negatively affected by changes in the policies or practices of our retail trade 

customers, such as inventory de-stocking, fulfillment requirements, limitations on access to shelf space, delisting of our 
products, or environmental, sustainability, supply chain or packaging standards or initiatives. For example, a determination 

9

by a key retailer that any of our ingredients should not be used in certain consumer products or that our packaging does not 
comply with certain environmental, supply chain or packaging standards or initiatives could adversely impact our business, 
results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. In addition, “private label” products sold by our retail customers, 
which are typically sold at lower prices than branded products, are a source of competition for certain of our products. 

Further, the retail landscape in many of our markets continues to evolve as a result of the rapid growth of eCommerce 

retailers, changing consumer preferences (as consumers increasingly shop online and via mobile and social applications) 
and the increased presence of alternative retail channels, such as subscription services and direct-to-customer (DTC) 
businesses. These trends accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. The rapid growth in eCommerce and the emergence 
of alternative retail channels have created and may continue to create pricing pressures and/or adversely affect our 
relationships with our key retailers. If we are not successful in continuing to adapt or to effectively react to changes in 
consumer preferences, purchasing patterns and market dynamics and/or expanding sales through eCommerce retailers and 
other alternative retail channels, including the profitable expansion of our own DTC capabilities, our business, results of 
operations, cash flows and financial condition could be adversely affected.

The growth of our business depends on the successful identification, development and launch of innovative new 
products.

Our growth depends on the continued success of existing products, the successful identification, development and 
launch of innovative new and differentiated products and the expansion into adjacent categories, channels of distribution or 
geographies. Our ability to launch new products, to sustain existing products and to expand into adjacent categories, 
channels of distribution or geographies is affected by whether we can successfully:

•

•

•

•

identify, develop and fund technological innovations;

obtain and maintain necessary intellectual property protection and avoid infringing intellectual property rights of 
others;

obtain approvals and registrations of regulated products, including from the FDA and other regulatory bodies in 
the U.S. and abroad; and

anticipate and quickly respond to the needs and preferences of consumers and customers.

The identification, development and introduction of innovative new products that drive incremental sales involves 
considerable costs and effort, and any new product may not generate sufficient customer and consumer interest and sales to 
become a profitable product or to cover the costs of its development and promotion. Our ability to achieve a successful 
launch of a new product could also be adversely affected by preemptive actions taken by competitors in response to the 
launch, such as increased promotional activities and advertising. In addition, new products may not be accepted quickly or 
significantly in the marketplace.

Our ability to quickly innovate to adapt and market our products and to adapt our packaging to meet evolving 

consumer preferences is an essential part of our business strategy. The failure to develop and launch successful new 
products or to adapt our packaging and supply chain to meet such preferences could hinder the growth of our business and 
any delay in the development or launch of a new product could result in us not being the first to market, which could 
compromise our competitive position and adversely affect our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial 
condition.

If, in the course of identifying or developing new products, we are found to have infringed the trademark, trade secret, 
copyright, patent or other intellectual property rights of others, directly or indirectly, through the use of third-party ideas or 
technologies, such a finding could adversely affect our ability to develop innovative new products and adversely affect our 
business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. Even if we are not found to infringe a third party’s 
intellectual property rights, claims of infringement could adversely affect us, including by increasing costs and by delaying 
the launch of new products.

10

We face various risks related to pandemics, epidemics or similar widespread public health concerns, which may 
have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

We face various risks related to pandemics, epidemics or similar widespread public health concerns, including the 
COVID-19 pandemic. A pandemic, epidemic or similar widespread health concern could have, and COVID-19 has had and 
will continue to have, a variety of impacts on our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition, 
including:

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•

•

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•

•

•

our ability to continue to maintain and support the health, safety and well-being of our employees, including key 
employees;

disruptions to our global supply chain, including the closure of manufacturing and distribution facilities, due to, 
among other things, the lack of availability of raw and packaging materials or manufacturing components; a 
decrease in our workforce or in the efficiency of such workforce, including as a result of illness, travel restrictions, 
absenteeism or governmental regulations; transportation and logistics challenges, including as a result of port and 
border closures and other governmental restrictions or volume and capacity restraints; or the impact of COVID-19 
on our retailers, third party suppliers, contract manufacturers, logistics providers or distributors;

volatility in the demand for and availability of our products, which may be caused by the temporary inability of 
our consumers to purchase our products due to illness, financial hardship, quarantine, government actions 
mandating the closure of our facilities (which impacted some of our production facilities in Asia in 2021), 
distributors or retailers and/or imposing travel or movement restrictions, shifts in demand and consumption away 
from more discretionary or higher priced products to lower-priced products or pantry-loading activity;

changes in purchasing patterns of our consumers, including the nature and/or frequency of in-store visits by 
consumers to retailers and dental, veterinary and skin health professionals and a shift to purchasing our products 
online and disruptions in certain channels, including travel retail;

significant volatility in demand for certain of our products, which may require us to increase our production 
capacity or acquire additional capacity at an additional cost and expense;

failure of third parties on which we rely, including our retailers, suppliers, contract manufacturers, logistics 
providers, customers, commercial banks, joint venture partners and external business partners, to meet their 
obligations to us, or significant disruptions in their ability to do so, which may be caused by their own financial or 
operational difficulties;

significant changes in the economic and political conditions of the markets in which we operate, which could 
restrict and have restricted our employees’ ability to work and travel, could mandate and have mandated or caused 
the closure of certain distributors or retailers, our offices, shared business service centers and/or operating and 
manufacturing facilities or otherwise could prevent and have prevented us as well as our third-party partners, 
suppliers or customers from sufficiently staffing operations, including operations necessary for the manufacture, 
distribution, sale and support of our products;

disruptions and volatility in the global capital markets, which may increase the cost of capital and adversely 
impact our access to capital; and/or

volatility in foreign exchange rates and increases in the cost of raw and packaging materials and transportation and 
logistics costs.

Despite our efforts to manage these impacts, their ultimate impact also depends on factors beyond our knowledge or 
control, including the duration, severity and geographic scope of an outbreak, such as COVID-19, including the emergence 
and spread of COVID-19 variants, the availability, distribution, acceptance and effectiveness of vaccines and the actions 
taken by governmental authorities and other third parties to contain its spread and mitigate its public health and economic 
effects, each of which is uncertain, rapidly changing and difficult to predict. Furthermore, these and other impacts of 
COVID-19 could also have the effect of heightening many of the other risk factors included in this Item 1A, “Risk 
Factors.” For additional information regarding how COVID-19 has affected or is expected to affect our business, refer to 

11

Part II, Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Executive 
Overview.”

Damage to our reputation could have an adverse effect on our business.

Maintaining our strong reputation with consumers and our trade partners globally is critical to selling our branded 

products. Accordingly, we devote significant time and resources to programs designed to protect and preserve our 
reputation, such as our ethics and compliance, DE&I, sustainability and social impact, brand protection and product safety, 
regulatory and quality initiatives. Negative publicity about us, our brands, our products, our supply chain, our ingredients, 
our packaging, our environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) practices, including as they relate to sustainability, 
DE&I, or our employees, whether or not deserved, could jeopardize our reputation. Such negative publicity could relate to, 
among other things, health concerns, threatened or pending litigation or regulatory proceedings, environmental impact 
(including deforestation, packaging, plastic, energy and water use and waste management), our ESG practices or our 
sustainability targets. In addition, the proliferation of digital and social media has greatly increased the accessibility of 
information and the speed of its dissemination and the potential for negative publicity. Negative publicity, posts or 
comments on digital and social media about us, our brands, our products, our sustainability efforts, our environmental and 
social impact (including our packaging) or our employees, whether true or untrue, could damage our brands and our 
reputation. The success of our brands could also suffer if our marketing initiatives do not have the desired impact on a 
brand’s image or its ability to attract consumers.

Additionally, due to the scale and scope of our business, we must rely on relationships with third parties, including our 

suppliers, distributors, contractors, joint venture partners and other external business partners, for certain functions. While 
we have policies and procedures for managing these relationships, they inherently involve a lesser degree of control over 
business operations, compliance and ESG practices, thereby potentially increasing our reputational and legal risk.

In addition, third parties sell counterfeit versions of our products, which are inferior or may pose safety risks. As a 
result, consumers of our brands could confuse our products with these counterfeit products, which could cause them to 
refrain from purchasing our brands in the future and in turn could impair our brand equity and adversely affect our 
business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Damage to our reputation or loss of consumer confidence in our products for these or any other reasons could 
adversely affect our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition, as well as require resources to 
rebuild our reputation.

Our success depends upon our ability to recruit, attract and retain key employees, including through the 
implementation of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, and the succession of senior management.

Our success largely depends on the performance of our management team and other key employees. If we are unable 

to recruit, attract and retain talented, highly qualified senior management and other key people, our business, results of 
operations, cash flows and financial condition could be adversely affected. Successfully executing organizational change, 
including management transitions at leadership levels of the Company and succession plans for senior management, is 
critical to our business success. While we follow a disciplined, ongoing succession planning process and have succession 
plans in place for senior management and other key executives, these do not guarantee that the services of qualified senior 
executives will continue to be available to us at particular moments in time. Further, changes in immigration laws and 
government policies, including related to the COVID-19 pandemic, have made, in certain circumstances, and may continue 
to make it more difficult for us to recruit or relocate highly skilled technical, professional and management personnel to 
meet our business needs. Our ability to attract and retain talent has been and may continue to be impacted by challenges in 
the labor market, particularly in the United States, which is experiencing wage inflation, labor shortages, a shift toward 
remote work and the effects of COVID-19. In addition, we also continue to work to advance culture change through the 
implementation of DE&I initiatives throughout our organization. We are also implementing new ways of working to, 
among other things, instill a growth mindset to drive innovation with focus, empowerment, experimentation and 
digitization. If we do not (or are perceived not to) successfully implement these initiatives, our ability to recruit, attract and 
retain talent may be adversely impacted.

12

We have pursued and may continue to pursue acquisitions and divestitures, which could adversely impact our 
business.

We have pursued and may continue to pursue acquisitions of brands, businesses, assets or technologies from third 

parties. Acquisitions and their pursuit have involved, and can involve, numerous potential risks, including, among other 
things:

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•

•

realizing the full extent of the expected benefits or synergies as a result of a transaction, within the anticipated 
time frame, or at all;

successfully integrating the operations, technologies, services, products and systems of the acquired brands, assets 
or businesses in an effective, timely and cost-efficient manner;

receiving necessary consents, clearances and approvals in connection with a transaction;

diverting management’s attention from other business priorities;

successfully operating in new lines of business, channels of distribution or markets;

achieving distribution expansion related to products, categories and markets;

retaining key employees, partners, suppliers and customers of the acquired business;

conforming standards, controls, procedures and policies of the acquired business with our own;

developing or launching products with acquired technologies; and

other unanticipated problems or liabilities.

Moreover, acquisitions have resulted in and could in the future result in substantial additional debt, the assumption of 

contingent liabilities, such as litigation or earn-out obligations, or transaction costs. In addition, to the extent that the 
economic benefits associated with an acquisition or investment diminish in the future or the performance of an acquired 
company or business is less robust than expected, we may be required to record additional impairments of intangible assets, 
including trademarks and goodwill. In the fourth quarter of 2021, we took a non-cash, aftertax impairment charge of $518 
million to adjust the carrying values of goodwill and a trade name intangible asset related to the Filorga skin health 
business. Any of these risks could adversely impact our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

We have divested and may in the future periodically divest brands or businesses. These divestitures may adversely 
impact our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition if we are unable to offset the dilutive impacts 
from the loss of revenue associated with the divested brands or businesses, or otherwise achieve the anticipated benefits or 
cost savings from the divestitures. In addition, businesses under consideration for, or otherwise subject to, divestiture may 
be adversely impacted prior to the divestiture, which could negatively impact our business, results of operations, cash flows 
and financial condition.

Operational Risks

Our business results are impacted by our ability to manage disruptions in our global supply chain and/or key office 
facilities.

We are engaged in the manufacture and sourcing of products and materials on a global scale. Our operations and those 
of our suppliers, contract manufacturers or logistics providers have been and may continue to be disrupted by a number of 
factors, including, but not limited to:

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•

environmental events;

widespread health emergencies, such as COVID-19 or other pandemics or epidemics;

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•

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•

strikes and other labor disputes;

disruptions in logistics;

loss or impairment of key manufacturing sites;

loss of key suppliers or contract manufacturers;

supplier capacity constraints;

raw material and product quality or safety issues;

industrial accidents or other occupational health and safety issues;

the impact on our suppliers of tighter credit or capital markets;

the lack of availability of qualified personnel, such as truck drivers and production labor;

governmental incentives and controls (including import and export restrictions, such as new or increased tariffs, 
sanctions, quotas or trade barriers); and

natural disasters, including climatic events (including any potential effects of climate change) and earthquakes, 
acts of war or terrorism, political unrest or uncertainty, fires or explosions, cyber-security incidents and other 
external factors over which we have no control.

In addition, we purchase certain key raw and packaging materials from single-source suppliers or a limited number of 

suppliers and new suppliers may have to be qualified under industry, governmental and/or Colgate standards, which can 
require additional investment and take a significant period of time. If our existing or new suppliers fail to meet such 
standards or if we are unable to contract with suppliers on favorable terms, our business, results of operations, cash flows 
and financial condition could be adversely affected.

We believe that the supplies of raw and packaging materials needed to manufacture our products are adequate. In 

addition, we have business continuity and contingency plans in place for key manufacturing sites and contract 
manufacturers and the supply of raw and packaging materials. Nonetheless, a significant disruption to the manufacturing or 
sourcing of products or materials for any reason, including those mentioned above, have at times interrupted and could, in 
the future, interrupt product supply and, if not remedied, could have an adverse impact on our business, results of 
operations, cash flows and financial condition.

In addition, as a result of our global shared service organizational model, certain of our functions, such as finance and 
accounting, customer service and logistics, human resources, global information technology and data analytics are 
concentrated in key office facilities. A significant disruption to any of our key office facilities for any reason, including 
those mentioned above, could adversely affect our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Volatility in material and other costs could adversely impact our profitability.

Raw and packaging material commodities, such as essential oils, resins, tropical oils, pulp, tallow, corn, poultry and 

soybeans, are subject to market price variations. Increases in the costs of and/or a reduction in the availability of 
commodities, energy and logistics (including trucks and containers) and other necessary services, including during the 
COVID-19 pandemic, have affected and are likely to continue to adversely affect our profit margins. Inflationary pressures 
have also increased and may continue to increase the cost of such commodities and services. If commodity and other cost 
increases continue in the future and we are unable to pass along such higher costs in the form of price increases, achieve 
cost efficiencies, such as in manufacturing and distribution, or otherwise manage the exposure through sourcing strategies, 
ongoing productivity initiatives and the limited use of commodity hedging contracts, our business, results of operations, 
cash flows and financial condition could be adversely impacted. In addition, even if we are able to increase the prices of 
our products in response to commodity and other cost increases, we may not be able to sustain the price increases. Also, 
sustained price increases may lead to declines in volume as competitors may not adjust their prices or consumers may 

14

decide not to pay higher prices, which could lead to sales declines and loss of market share and could adversely affect our 
business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. See “Our business results depend on our ability to 
manage disruptions in our global supply chain and/or key office facilities” above for additional information.

There is no guarantee that our ongoing efforts to reduce costs will be successful.

One way that we generate funds needed to support the growth of our business is through our continuous, Company-

wide initiatives to lower costs and increase effective asset utilization, which we refer to as our funding-the-growth 
initiatives. These initiatives are designed to reduce costs associated with direct materials, indirect expenses, distribution and 
logistics, and advertising and promotional materials, among other things. The achievement of our funding-the-growth goals 
depends on our ability to successfully identify and realize additional savings opportunities. Events and circumstances, such 
as financial or strategic difficulties, delays and unexpected costs may occur that could result in our not realizing any or all 
of the anticipated benefits or our not realizing the anticipated benefits on our expected timetable. If we are unable to realize 
the anticipated savings of our funding-the-growth initiatives, our ability to fund other initiatives and achieve our 
profitability goals may be adversely affected. Any failure to implement our funding-the-growth initiatives in accordance 
with our expectations could adversely affect our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. For 
additional information regarding our funding-the-growth initiatives, refer to Part II, Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and 
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Executive Overview.”

We may not realize the benefits that we expect from our 2022 Global Productivity Initiative.

On January 27, 2022, the Board approved a targeted productivity program (the “2022 Global Productivity Initiative”). 

The program is intended to reallocate resources toward our strategic priorities and faster growth businesses, drive 
efficiencies in our operations and streamline our supply chain to reduce structural costs. The successful implementation of 
the program may present organizational challenges and, in some cases, may require successful negotiations with third 
parties. As a result, we may not be able to realize all of the anticipated benefits from the 2022 Global Productivity 
Initiative. Events and circumstances, such as financial or strategic difficulties, delays and unexpected costs may occur that 
could result in our not realizing all of the anticipated benefits or our not realizing such benefits on our expected timetable. 
In addition, changes in foreign exchange rates or in tax, labor or immigration laws may result in our not achieving the 
anticipated cost savings as measured in U.S. dollars. If we are unable to realize the anticipated savings from the 2022 
Global Productivity Initiative, our ability to fund other initiatives and enhance profitability may be adversely affected. Any 
failure to implement the 2022 Global Productivity Initiative in accordance with our expectations could adversely affect our 
business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. For additional information regarding the 2022 Global 
Productivity Initiative, refer to Part II, Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results 
of Operations – Restructuring and Related Implementation Charges.”

A cyber-security incident, data breach or a failure of a key information technology system could adversely impact 
our business.

We rely extensively on information technology systems (“IT Systems”), including some which are managed, hosted, 
provided and/or used by third parties, including cloud-based service providers, and their vendors, in order to conduct our 
business. Our uses of these systems include, but are not limited to:

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communicating within our company and with other parties, including our customers and consumers;

ordering and managing materials from suppliers;

converting materials to finished products;

receiving and processing orders from, shipping products to and invoicing our customers and consumers;

• marketing products to consumers;

•

collecting, storing, transferring and/or processing customer, consumer, employee, vendor, investor and other 
stakeholder information and personal data, including, but not limited to, such data from residents of the European 
Union who are covered by the General Data Protection Regulation, which went into effect on May 25, 2018, and 

15

residents of the State of California who are covered by the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018, which went 
into effect on January 1, 2020;

processing transactions, including but not limited to employee payroll, employee and retiree benefits and 
payments to customers and vendors;

hosting, processing and sharing confidential and proprietary research, intellectual property, business plans and 
financial information;

summarizing and reporting results of operations, including financial reporting;

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• managing our banking and other cash liquidity systems and platforms;

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complying with legal, regulatory and tax requirements;

providing data security; and

handling other processes involved in managing our business.

Although we have a broad array of information security measures in place, our IT Systems, including those of third-

party service providers with whom we have contracted, have been, and will likely continue to be, subject to computer 
viruses or other malicious codes, unauthorized access attempts, phishing and other cyber-attacks. Cyber-attacks and other 
cyber incidents are occurring more frequently, are constantly evolving in nature, are becoming more sophisticated and are 
being made by groups, individuals and nation states with a wide range of expertise and motives. Such cyber-attacks and 
cyber incidents can take many forms, including cyber extortion, social engineering, password theft or introduction of 
viruses or malware, such as ransomware through phishing emails. We cannot guarantee that our security efforts will 
prevent breaches or breakdowns of our, or our third-party service providers’, IT Systems since the techniques used in these 
attacks change frequently and may be difficult to detect for periods of time. In addition, although we have policies and 
procedures in place to ensure that all personal information collected by us or our third-party service providers is securely 
maintained, data leakages due to human error or intentional or unintentional conduct have occurred and likely will continue 
to occur. Furthermore, we periodically upgrade our IT Systems or adopt new technologies. If such an upgrade or new 
technology does not function as designed, does not go as planned or increases our exposure to a cyber-attack or cyber 
incident, it may adversely impact our business, including our ability to ship products to customers, issue invoices and 
process payments or order raw and packaging materials. Although we have seen no material impact on our business 
operations from the cyber-security incidents we have experienced to date, if we suffer a significant loss or disclosure of 
confidential business or stakeholder information as a result of a breach of our IT Systems, including those of third-party 
service providers with whom we have contracted, or otherwise, we may suffer reputational, competitive and/or business 
harm, incur significant costs and be subject to government investigations, litigation, fines and/or damages, which may 
adversely impact our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. In addition, while we currently 
maintain insurance coverage that, subject to its terms and conditions, is intended to address costs associated with certain 
aspects of cyber-security incidents and IT System failures, this insurance coverage may not, depending on the specific facts 
and circumstances surrounding an incident, cover all losses or all types of claims that arise from an incident, or the damage 
to our business, reputation or brands that may result from an incident.

Furthermore, while we have disaster recovery and business continuity plans in place, if our IT Systems are damaged, 

breached or cease to function properly for any reason, including the poor performance of, failure of or cyber-attack on 
third-party service providers, catastrophic events, power outages, cyber-security breaches, network outages, failed upgrades 
or other similar events and, if the disaster recovery and business continuity plans do not effectively resolve such issues on a 
timely basis, we may suffer interruptions in our ability to manage or conduct business as well as reputational harm, and 
may be subject to governmental investigations and litigation, any of which may adversely impact our business, results of 
operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Climate change and other sustainability matters could have an adverse impact on our business and results of 
operations.

Climate change resulting from increased concentrations of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the 

atmosphere and its impact on global temperatures, weather patterns and the frequency and severity of extreme weather and 
natural disasters may adversely impact our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. Specifically, 

16

the predicted effects of climate change may exacerbate challenges regarding the availability and quality of water and other 
ingredients. In addition, the increased concern over climate change is likely to result in new or additional legal and 
regulatory requirements intended to reduce or mitigate the effects of climate change on the environment and may relate to, 
among other things, greenhouse gas emissions (e.g., carbon pricing), alternative energy policy and additional disclosure 
obligations. Such additional regulation may adversely affect our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial 
condition by increasing our compliance and manufacturing costs and/or negatively impacting our reputation if we are 
unable to, or are perceived (whether or not valid) not to, satisfy such requirements. Despite our sustainability efforts, any 
failure to achieve our sustainability targets, including those aimed to reduce our impact on, improve or preserve the 
environment, or the perception (whether or not valid) that we have failed to act responsibly with respect to such matters or 
to effectively respond to new or additional legal or regulatory requirements regarding climate change, could result in 
adverse publicity and adversely affect our business and reputation. There is also increased focus, including by 
governmental and non-governmental organizations, investors, customers, consumers, our employees and other stakeholders 
on these and other sustainability matters, including responsible sourcing and deforestation, the use of plastic, energy and 
water, the recyclability or recoverability of packaging, including single-use and other plastic packaging, and a growing 
demand for natural or organic products and ingredients and ingredient transparency. Our reputation could be damaged if 
we do not (or are perceived not to) act responsibly with respect to sustainability matters, which could adversely affect our 
business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Legal and Regulatory Risks

Our business is subject to legal and regulatory risks in the U.S. and abroad.

Our business is subject to extensive legal and regulatory requirements in the U.S. and abroad. Such legal and 
regulatory requirements apply to most aspects of our products, including their development, ingredients, formulation, 
manufacture, packaging content, labeling, storage, transportation, distribution, export, import, advertising, sale and 
environmental impact. U.S. federal authorities, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (the “FDA”), the Federal 
Trade Commission, the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the 
Environmental Protection Agency, regulate different aspects of our business, along with parallel authorities at the state and 
local levels and comparable authorities overseas. In addition, our selling practices are regulated by competition law 
authorities in the U.S. and abroad.

New or more stringent legal or regulatory requirements, or more restrictive interpretations of existing requirements, 
could adversely impact our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. For example, from time to 
time, various regulatory authorities around the world review the use of various ingredients and packaging content in 
consumer products. While we monitor and seek to mitigate the impact of any emerging information, a decision by a 
regulatory or governmental authority that any ingredient or packaging content in our products should be restricted or 
should otherwise be newly regulated could adversely impact our business and reputation, as could negative reactions by 
our consumers, trade customers or non-governmental organizations to our current or prior use of such ingredients or 
packaging. Additionally, an inability to develop new or reformulated products containing alternative ingredients, to obtain 
regulatory approval of such products or ingredients on a timely basis or to effectively market and sell such products could 
likewise adversely affect our business.

Because of our extensive international operations, we could be adversely affected by violations of worldwide anti-

bribery laws, including those that prohibit companies and their intermediaries from making improper payments to 
government officials or other third parties for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business, such as the U.S. Foreign 
Corrupt Practices Act, and laws that prohibit commercial bribery. We are also subject to laws and sanctions imposed by the 
U.S. (including, without limitation, those imposed by OFAC) and/or by other jurisdictions that may prohibit us or certain 
of our affiliates from doing business in certain countries, or restrict the kind of business that may be conducted. While our 
policies mandate compliance with these laws, we cannot provide assurance that our internal control policies and procedures 
will always protect us from reckless or criminal acts committed by our employees, joint venture partners or agents. 
Violations of these laws, or allegations of such violations, could disrupt our business and adversely affect our reputation 
and our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

While it is our policy and practice to comply with all legal and regulatory requirements applicable to our business, 
findings that we are in violation of, or out of compliance with, applicable laws or regulations have subjected us to, and 
could subject us to, civil remedies, including fines, damages, injunctions or product recalls, or criminal sanctions, any of 
which could adversely affect our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. Even if a claim is 

17

unsuccessful, is without merit or is not fully pursued, the cost of responding to such a claim, including management time 
and out-of-pocket expenses, and the negative publicity surrounding such assertions regarding our products, processes or 
business practices could adversely affect our reputation, brand image and our business, results of operations, cash flows 
and financial condition. For information regarding our legal and regulatory matters, see Item 3 “Legal Proceedings” and 
Note 13, Commitments and Contingencies to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Legal claims and proceedings could adversely impact our business.

As a global company serving consumers in more than 200 countries and territories, we are and may continue to be 
subject to a wide variety of legal claims and proceedings, including disputes relating to intellectual property, contracts, 
product liability, marketing, advertising, foreign exchange controls, antitrust and trade regulation, as well as labor and 
employment, pension, data privacy and security, environmental and tax matters and consumer class actions. Regardless of 
their merit, these claims can require significant time and expense to investigate and defend. Since litigation is inherently 
uncertain, there is no guarantee that we will be successful in defending ourselves against such claims or proceedings, or 
that our assessment of the materiality of these matters, including any reserves taken in connection therewith, will be 
consistent with the ultimate outcome of such matters. In addition, if one of our products, or an ingredient contained in our 
products, is perceived or found to be defective, or unsafe or have a quality issue, we have had to and may in the future need 
to withdraw, recall or reformulate some of our products. Whether or not a legal claim or proceeding is successful, or a 
withdrawal, recall or reformulation is required or advisable, such assertions could have an adverse effect on our business, 
results of operations, cash flows and financial condition, and the negative publicity surrounding them could harm our 
reputation and brand image. The resolution of, or increase in the reserves taken in connection with, one or more of these 
matters in any reporting period could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flows and 
financial condition for that period. See Item 3 “Legal Proceedings” and Note 13, Commitments and Contingencies to the 
Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on certain of our legal claims and proceedings.

Financial and Economic Risks

Uncertain or unfavorable global economic conditions, including as a result of COVID-19, may adversely affect our 
business.

Uncertain or unfavorable global economic conditions could adversely affect our business. Unfavorable global 
economic conditions, such as a recession, an economic slowdown, inflation and/or reduced category growth rates, 
including as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, could negatively impact our business and result in declining revenues, 
profitability and cash flows. Although we continue to devote significant resources to support our brands and market our 
products at multiple price points, during periods of economic uncertainty or unfavorable economic conditions, consumers 
may reduce consumption or discretionary spending and/or change their purchasing patterns by foregoing purchasing certain 
of our products or by switching to “private label” or lower-priced brands. These changes could reduce demand for and 
sales volumes of our products or result in a shift in our product mix from higher margin to lower margin product offerings. 
Additionally, our retailers may be impacted and they may increase pressure on our selling prices or increase promotional 
activity for lower-priced or value offerings as they seek to maintain sales volumes and margins. Furthermore, economic 
conditions can cause our suppliers, distributors, contract manufacturers, logistics providers or other third-party partners to 
suffer financial or operational difficulties, which may impact their inability to provide us with or distribute finished 
product, raw and packaging materials and/or services in a timely manner or at all. In addition, we could face difficulty 
collecting or recovering accounts receivables from third parties facing financial or operational difficulties. 

Disruptions in the credit markets or changes to our credit ratings may adversely affect our business.

While we currently generate significant cash flows from ongoing operations and have access to global credit markets 
through our various financing activities, a disruption in the credit markets, interest rate increases, changes that may result 
from the implementation of new benchmark rates that are expected to replace the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) 
or changes to our credit ratings could negatively impact the availability or cost of funding. Reduced access to credit or 
increased costs could adversely affect our liquidity and capital resources or significantly increase our cost of capital. In 
addition, if any financial institutions that hold our cash or other investments or that are parties to our undrawn revolving 
credit facility supporting our commercial paper programs or other financing arrangements, such as interest rate, foreign 
exchange or commodity hedging instruments, were to declare bankruptcy or become insolvent, they may be unable to 
perform under their agreements with us. This could leave us with reduced borrowing capacity or unhedged against certain 

18

interest rate, foreign currency or commodity price exposures. In addition, tighter credit markets may lead to business 
disruptions for certain of our suppliers, contract manufacturers or trade customers which could, in turn, adversely impact 
our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Tax matters, including changes in tax rates, disagreements with taxing authorities and imposition of new taxes 
could negatively impact our business.

We are subject to taxes in the U.S. and in the foreign jurisdictions where we do business. Due to economic and 
political conditions, tax rates in the U.S. and various foreign jurisdictions have been and may be subject to significant 
change. Changes in the mix of our earnings between countries with differing statutory tax rates, changes in the valuation of 
deferred tax assets and liabilities related to changes in tax rates, changes in tax laws, including how existing tax laws are 
interpreted or enforced, or contemplated changes in long-standing tax principles, if finalized and adopted, could adversely 
impact our future effective tax rate and business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. For example, 
long-standing international tax norms that determine each country’s jurisdiction to tax cross-border international trade are 
evolving as a result of a multilateral project, the Base Erosion and Profit Shifting Project (the “BEPS Project”), that has 
established new principles and reporting requirements recommended by countries that then made up the G8 and the G20 
and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (the “OECD”). In connection with the BEPS Project, 
companies are required to disclose more information to tax authorities on operations around the world, which may lead to 
greater audit scrutiny of profits earned in countries outside of the U.S. The OECD, through the BEPS Project, is also 
addressing the challenges of the digitization of the global economy with plans to redefine jurisdictional taxation rights in 
market countries and establish a global minimum tax. As these and other tax laws and related regulations change, our 
business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition could be materially impacted. For more information 
regarding U.S. tax reform, see Note 11, Income Taxes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Furthermore, we are subject to regular reviews, examinations and audits by the Internal Revenue Service and other 
taxing authorities with respect to taxes inside and outside of the U.S. Although we believe our tax positions are reasonable, 
when a taxing authority disagrees with the positions we have taken, we have faced and in the future may face additional tax 
liabilities, including interest and penalties, in excess of reserves. The payment of such additional amounts upon final 
adjudication of any disputes could adversely impact our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

19

ITEM 1B.  UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

20

ITEM 2. 

PROPERTIES

We own or lease approximately 330 properties, which include manufacturing, distribution, research and office 
facilities worldwide. Our corporate headquarters is located in leased property at 300 Park Avenue, New York, New York.

In the U.S., we operate in approximately 80 properties, of which 13 are owned. Major U.S. manufacturing and 

warehousing facilities used by the Oral, Personal and Home Care product segment of our business are located in 
Cambridge, Ohio; Greenwood, South Carolina; and Morristown, Tennessee. The Pet Nutrition segment has major 
manufacturing and warehousing facilities in Bowling Green, Kentucky; Emporia, Kansas; Richmond, Indiana; and Topeka, 
Kansas. 

Overseas, we operate in approximately 250 properties, of which 57 are owned, in over 80 countries. Major overseas 
manufacturing and warehousing facilities used by the Oral, Personal and Home Care product segment of our business are 
located in Australia, Brazil, China, Colombia, France, Greece, Guatemala, India, Italy, Mexico, Poland, South Africa, 
Thailand, Turkey, Venezuela and Vietnam. The Pet Nutrition segment has major manufacturing and warehousing facilities 
in the Czech Republic and the Netherlands.

The primary research center for Oral Care and Personal Care products is located in Piscataway, New Jersey, the 
primary research center for Home Care products is located in Mexico and the primary research center for Pet Nutrition 
products is located in Topeka, Kansas. Our global data center is also located in Piscataway, New Jersey.

We have shared business service centers in India, Mexico and Poland, which are located in leased properties.

All of the facilities we operate are well maintained and adequate for the purpose for which they are intended.

21

ITEM 3. 

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

For information regarding legal proceedings, refer to Note 13, Commitments and Contingencies to the Consolidated 

Financial Statements included in Part IV, Item 15 of this report.

ITEM 4.   MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.

22

PART II

ITEM 5.  MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS 

AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

For information regarding the market for the Company’s common stock, including stock price performance graphs, 

refer to “Market Information” included in Part IV, Item 15 of this report. For information regarding the securities 
authorized for issuance under our equity compensation plans, refer to “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners 
and Management and Related Stockholder Matters” included in Part III, Item 12 of this report.

As of December 31, 2021, the number of common shareholders of record was 18,388.

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

On June 18, 2018, the Board authorized the repurchase of shares of the Company’s common stock having an aggregate 

purchase price of up to $5 billion under a new share repurchase program (the “2018 Program”), which replaced a 
previously authorized share repurchase program. The Board also has authorized share repurchases on an ongoing basis to 
fulfill certain requirements of the Company’s compensation and benefit programs. The shares are repurchased from time to 
time in open market or privately negotiated transactions at the Company’s discretion, subject to market conditions, 
customary blackout periods and other factors.

The following table shows the share repurchase activity for the three months in the quarter ended December 31, 2021:

Total Number of 
Shares 
Purchased(1)

Average Price 
Paid per Share

Total Number of 
Shares Purchased 
as Part of Publicly 
Announced Plans 
or Programs(2)

Approximate 
Dollar Value of 
Shares That May 
Yet Be Purchased 
Under the Plans or 
Programs(3) 
 (in millions)

1,141,404  $ 

1,054,644  $ 

2,441,785  $ 

4,637,833  $ 

75.74 

77.44 

81.77 

79.30 

1,140,853 

1,050,501 

2,433,320 

4,624,674 

806 

725 

526 

Month

October 1 through 31, 2021

November 1 through 30, 2021

December 1 through 31, 2021

Total

_______
(1)

Includes share repurchases under the 2018 Program and those associated with certain employee elections under the Company’s compensation and 
benefit programs.

(2)

(3)

The difference between the total number of shares purchased and the total number of shares purchased as part of publicly announced plans or 
programs is 13,159 shares, which represents shares deemed surrendered to the Company to satisfy certain employee elections under the 
Company’s compensation and benefit programs.

Includes approximate dollar value of shares that were available to be purchased under the publicly announced plans or programs that were in 
effect as of December 31, 2021.

ITEM 6. 

[Reserved]

23

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

ITEM 7.  MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS 

OF OPERATIONS

Executive Overview

Business Organization

Colgate-Palmolive Company (together with its subsidiaries, “we,” “us” “our” the “Company” or “Colgate”) is a 

caring, innovative growth company reimagining a healthier future for all people, their pets and our planet. We seek to 
deliver sustainable, profitable growth and superior shareholder returns, as well as to provide Colgate people with an 
innovative and inclusive work environment. We do this by developing and selling products globally that make people’s and 
their pets’ lives healthier and more enjoyable and by embracing our sustainability and social impact and DE&I strategies 
across our organization.

We are tightly focused on two product segments: Oral, Personal and Home Care; and Pet Nutrition. Within these 
segments, we follow a closely defined business strategy to grow our key product categories and increase our overall market 
share. Within the categories in which we compete, we prioritize our efforts based on their capacity to maximize the use of 
the organization’s core competencies and strong global equities and to deliver sustainable, profitable long-term growth.

Operationally, we are organized along geographic lines with management teams having responsibility for the business 

and financial results in each region. We compete in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide with established 
businesses in all regions contributing to our sales and profitability. Approximately 70% of our Net sales are generated from 
markets outside the U.S., with approximately 45% of our Net sales coming from emerging markets (which consist of Latin 
America, Asia (excluding Japan), Africa/Eurasia and Central Europe). This geographic diversity and balance help to reduce 
our exposure to business and other risks in any one country or part of the world.

The Oral, Personal and Home Care product segment is managed geographically in five reportable operating segments: 

North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Africa/Eurasia, all of which sell primarily to a variety of 
traditional and eCommerce retailers, wholesalers and distributors. Through Hill’s Pet Nutrition, we also compete on a 
worldwide basis in the pet nutrition market, selling products principally through authorized pet supply retailers, 
veterinarians and eCommerce retailers. We also sell certain of our products direct-to-consumer. We are engaged in 
manufacturing and sourcing of products and materials on a global scale and have major manufacturing facilities, 
warehousing facilities and distribution centers in every region around the world.

On an ongoing basis, management focuses on a variety of key indicators to monitor business health and performance. 
These indicators include net sales (including volume, pricing and foreign exchange components), organic sales growth (net 
sales growth excluding the impact of foreign exchange, acquisitions and divestments), a non-GAAP financial measure, and 
gross profit margin, operating profit, net income and earnings per share, in each case, on a GAAP and non-GAAP basis, as 
well as measures used to optimize the management of working capital, capital expenditures, cash flow and return on 
capital. In addition, we review market share and other data to assess how our brands are performing within their categories 
on a global and regional basis. The monitoring of these indicators and our Code of Conduct and corporate governance 
practices help to maintain business health and strong internal controls. For additional information regarding non-GAAP 
financial measures and the Company’s use of market share data and the limitations of such data, see “Non-GAAP Financial 
Measures” and “Market Share Information” below.

24

(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic and government steps to reduce the spread and address the impact of COVID-19 have had 
and continue to have a profound impact on the way people live, work, interact and shop and have significantly impacted 
and continue to impact economic activity around the world. We have a well-established Crisis Management Team 
(“CMT”) process, and the CMT, together with our senior management team and Colgate people around the world, continue 
to respond to and manage the challenges presented by COVID-19.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of the communities in which we manufacture, market and sell our products 
experienced and in some cases continue to experience “stay at home” orders, travel or movement restrictions and other 
government actions to reduce the spread and address the impact of COVID-19, and have implemented varying policies to 
address the pandemic, resume economic activity and vaccinate their populations. The situation continues to be uncertain 
and varies by geography, as the impact of COVID-19 remains significant in many countries throughout the world, 
including Brazil, China, India, Mexico, Thailand, the U.S. and Vietnam, where we have substantial manufacturing 
facilities. Because the vast majority of our products (such as oral care products, soaps and other personal hygiene products, 
home cleaners and pet food) have been deemed essential for the health and well-being of people and their pets, we have, in 
most instances, been able to continue operating our business, although not always at full capacity.

The health, safety and well-being of our employees and their families has been and remains our first priority. While we 
have reopened most of our offices, in some instances on a limited and voluntary basis, many of our office-based employees 
globally continue to work from home. We have implemented additional health and safety measures consistent with 
government recommendations and/or requirements to help ensure employee safety in our offices, production facilities, 
warehouses and technology centers, often at additional cost. These measures may include: health and temperature 
screening, social distancing and personal protective equipment protocols, hand washing, contact tracing, enhanced cleaning 
procedures, respiratory hygiene, education and, in some instances, testing and/or vaccination requirements. In addition, 
during the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen increased instances of absenteeism and, in some cases, we have experienced 
some limited production facility closures and related supply chain disruptions. Furthermore, some of our suppliers, 
customers, distributors, logistics providers and service providers have experienced disruptions to their businesses.

We saw a significant increase in demand across many of our categories, such as liquid hand soap, dish liquid, bar soap 

and cleaners, during 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, driven by consumer pantry-loading and increased 
consumption of our products. While consumer demand for most of these categories declined year-over-year in 2021, most 
still remained above historical levels, and we believe that some of this increase in consumption is sustainable in light of 
changes in consumer behavior related to COVID-19. Across our business, changes in consumer demand for our products 
vary by product category, channel and geography depending on, among other things, the severity of the COVID-19 
outbreak, the availability of our products at retailers and supply chain disruptions. At the same time, during the COVID-19 
pandemic, we have experienced disruptions in certain channels, including travel retail. We also continue to see changes in 
the purchasing patterns of our consumers, including the nature and/or frequency of visits by consumers to retailers and 
dental, veterinary and skin health professionals and a shift in many markets to purchasing our products online.

COVID-19 and government steps to reduce the spread and address the impact of COVID-19 have impacted and may 

continue to impact our consumers’ ability to purchase and our ability to manufacture and distribute our products. While we 
believe that, in the long-term, consumer demand for the products in our categories will continue to be strong, uncertainties 
continue surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. These uncertainties include: the impact of the timing and scale of changes 
to travel and movement restrictions in certain geographies, the availability and widespread distribution and use of 
COVID-19 vaccines, the emergence and spread of COVID-19 variants, the timing and impact of consumer pantry-loading 
and destocking activity in certain markets, product demand trends and the impact of COVID-19 on the global economy, 
including as a result of inflation, and supply chain disruptions. COVID-19 has also disrupted our retail customers, contract 
manufacturers, logistics providers and other third parties; their ability to address COVID-19 and maintain their operations 
at full capacity has impacted and may continue to impact sales of and consumer access to our products. We expect the 
ongoing economic impact and health concerns associated with COVID-19 to continue to impact consumer behavior, 
shopping patterns and consumption preferences during 2022.

While we currently expect to be able to continue operating our business as described above and we intend to continue 

to work with government authorities and to follow the necessary protocols to maintain the health and safety of our 
employees and third parties, uncertainty resulting from COVID-19 could result in an unforeseen additional disruption to 
our business, including our global supply chain and retailer network, and/or require us to incur additional operational costs.

For more information about the anticipated COVID-19 impact, see “Outlook” below.

25

(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Business Strategy

To achieve our business and financial objectives, we are focused on driving organic sales growth and long-term 
profitable growth through innovation on our core businesses; leveraging faster growth in adjacent categories; expanding in 
high-growth channels and markets and delivering margin expansion through operating leverage and efficiency. We are also 
seeking to maximize the impact of our ESG programs and leading in the development of human capital, including our 
sustainability and social impact and DE&I strategies, which we are working to integrate across our organization. We are 
strengthening our capabilities in areas such as innovation, digital, eCommerce and data and analytics enabling us to be 
more responsive in today’s rapidly changing world. In particular, we believe our digital transformation is of paramount 
importance to our success going forward. We continue to invest behind our brands, including through advertising, and to 
develop initiatives to build strong relationships with consumers, dental, veterinary and skin health professionals and 
traditional and eCommerce retailers. We also continue to broaden our eCommerce offerings, including direct-to-consumer 
and subscription services. We continue to believe that growth opportunities are greater in those areas of the world in which 
economic development and rising consumer incomes expand the size and number of markets for our products.

We are also changing the way we work to drive growth and how we approach innovation with focus, empowerment, 
experimentation and digitization to respond to the dynamic retail landscape and the evolving preferences of our customers 
and consumers. The retail landscape, the ease of new entrants into the market in many of our categories and the evolving 
preferences of our customers and consumers demand that we work differently and faster in an agile, authentic and 
culturally relevant manner to drive innovation.

The investments needed to drive growth are supported through continuous, Company-wide initiatives to lower costs 

and increase effective asset utilization. Through these initiatives, which are referred to as our funding-the-growth 
initiatives, we seek to become even more effective and efficient throughout our businesses. These initiatives are designed 
to reduce costs associated with direct materials, indirect expenses, distribution and logistics and advertising and 
promotional materials, among other things, and encompass a wide range of projects, examples of which include raw 
material substitution, reduction of packaging materials, consolidating suppliers to leverage volumes and increasing 
manufacturing efficiency through SKU reductions and formulation simplification. We also continue to prioritize our 
investments in high growth segments within our Oral Care, Personal Care and Pet Nutrition businesses, including by 
expanding our portfolio in premium skin health. 

On January 27, 2022, the Board approved a targeted productivity program (the “2022 Global Productivity Initiative”). 

The program is intended to reallocate resources towards our strategic priorities and faster growth businesses, drive 
efficiencies in our operations and streamline our supply chain to reduce structural costs. Implementation of the 2022 Global 
Productivity Initiative, which is expected to be substantially completed by December 31, 2022, is projected to result in 
cumulative pre-tax charges, once all phases are approved and implemented, totaling between $200 and $240, which are 
currently estimated to be comprised of the following: employee-related costs, including severance, pension and other 
termination benefits (80%); asset-related costs, primarily accelerated depreciation and asset write-downs (10%); and other 
charges (10%), which include contract termination costs, consisting primarily of implementation-related charges resulting 
directly from exit activities and the implementation of new strategies. It is estimated that approximately 90% of the charges 
will result in cash expenditures. For more information regarding the 2022 Global Productivity Initiative, see “Restructuring 
and Related Implementation Charges” below. 

Significant Items Impacting Comparability

In the fourth quarter of 2021, we recorded a non-cash charge of $571 pretax ($518 aftertax) to adjust the carrying 
values of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible related to the Filorga skin health business. The impairment was due 
primarily to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Filorga business as a result of government restrictions and 
reduced consumer mobility, which negatively impacted consumption in the duty-free, travel retail and pharmacy channels. 
See Note 5, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

In 1990, our Canadian subsidiary (“CP Canada”), issued C$145 of Canadian dollar-denominated unsecured 
unsubordinated 12.85% guaranteed notes due October 4, 2030 (the “Canada notes”). In the third quarter of 2021, CP 
Canada redeemed the Canada notes and recorded a loss on the early extinguishment of debt of $75 pretax ($55 aftertax), 
which is included in Interest (income) expense, net in the Consolidated Statements of Income, representing the difference 
between the redemption price and the carrying amount of the debt extinguished.

26

(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

In 2019, we received a favorable judgment regarding certain value-added tax previously paid in Brazil. As a result of 
this favorable judgment, during the fourth quarter of 2019, we filed an application with the Brazilian government to recover 
value-added tax previously paid and recorded a benefit. In May 2021, the Brazilian Supreme Court issued a clarifying 
ruling allowing a higher deduction of state value-added tax when determining the taxable base. In light of this ruling, we 
recorded an additional benefit of $26 pretax ($20 aftertax) in the year ended December 31, 2021.

The Global Growth and Efficiency Program, a multi-year restructuring program, concluded on December 31, 2019. 

Initiatives under the Global Growth and Efficiency Program fit within the program’s three focus areas of expanding 
commercial hubs, extending shared business services and streamlining global functions and optimizing the global supply 
chain and facilities. During the year ended December 31, 2020, we adjusted the accrual balances related to certain projects 
approved prior to the conclusion of the Global Growth and Efficiency Program to reflect our revised estimate of remaining 
liabilities, which resulted in a reduction of $16 ($13 aftertax) to restructuring accruals. For more information regarding the 
Global Growth and Efficiency Program, see Note 4, Restructuring and Related Implementation Charges to the 
Consolidated Financial Statements.

The provision for income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2020 includes $71 of income tax benefits, of which 
$45 relates to previously recorded foreign withholding taxes and $26 relates to a previously recorded valuation allowance 
against a deferred tax asset. As described more fully in “Results of Operations-Income Taxes,” below, both items were 
previously recorded in connection with the charge recorded in 2017 and revised in 2018 related to the Tax Cuts and Jobs 
Act (the “TCJA”).

On January 31, 2020, we acquired Hello Products LLC (“hello”), an oral care business, for cash consideration of $351. 
The acquisition was financed with a combination of debt and cash. This acquisition is part of our strategy to focus on high 
growth segments within our Oral Care, Personal Care and Pet Nutrition businesses. See Note 3, Acquisitions to the 
Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Outlook

Looking forward, we expect global macroeconomic, political and market conditions to remain challenging, especially 
due to COVID-19. During the year ended December 31, 2021, all of our divisions experienced significantly higher raw and 
packaging material costs. We also incurred increased logistics costs due to volume and capacity constraints in the shipping 
and logistics industry and higher eCommerce demand. We expect this difficult cost environment to continue in 2022.

While the global marketplace in which we operate has always been highly competitive, we continue to experience 
heightened competitive activity in certain markets from strong local competitors, from other large multinational companies, 
some of which have greater resources than we do, and from new entrants into the market in many of our categories. Such 
activities have included more aggressive product claims and marketing challenges, as well as increased promotional 
spending and geographic expansion.  

We have been negatively affected by changes in the policies and practices of our trade customers in key markets, such 

as inventory de-stocking, fulfillment requirements, limitations on access to shelf space, delisting of our products and 
certain environmental, sustainability, supply chain and packaging standards or initiatives. In addition, the retail landscape 
in many of our markets continues to evolve as a result of the rapid growth of eCommerce, changing consumer preferences 
(as consumers increasingly shop online and via mobile and social applications) and the increased presence of alternative 
retail channels, such as subscription services and direct-to-consumer businesses. These trends have been magnified due to 
COVID-19 in many of our geographies and we plan to continue to invest behind our digital and analytics capabilities and 
higher growth businesses, such as eCommerce. This rapid growth in eCommerce and the emergence of alternative retail 
channels have created and may continue to create pricing pressures and/or adversely affect our relationships with our key 
retailers.

In addition, given that approximately 70% of our Net sales originate in markets outside the U.S., we have experienced 
and will likely continue to experience volatile foreign currency fluctuations. As discussed above, we have also experienced 
higher raw and packaging material and logistics costs. While we have taken, and will continue to take, measures to mitigate 
the effect of these conditions, such as the 2022 Global Productivity Initiative and our funding the growth and revenue 
growth management initiatives, including additional pricing, in the current environment, it may become increasingly 
difficult to implement certain of these mitigation strategies. Should these conditions persist, they could adversely affect our 
future results. 

27

(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

As discussed above, we continue to closely monitor the impact of COVID-19 on our business. During 2020 as a result 

of the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw a significant increase in demand across many of our categories, such as liquid hand 
soap, dish liquid, bar soap and cleaners. While consumer demand for most of these categories declined year-over-year in 
2021, most remained above historical levels. We believe that some of this increased consumption is sustainable due to 
consumer behavior changes related to COVID-19. We expect increased volatility across all of our categories, and it is 
therefore difficult to predict category growth rates in the near term. COVID-19 has also disrupted our retail customers, 
contract manufacturers, logistics providers and other third parties; their ability to address COVID-19 and maintain their 
operations at full capacity has impacted and may continue to impact sales of and consumer access to our products. While 
we have taken, and will continue to take, measures to mitigate the effects of COVID-19, we cannot estimate with certainty 
the full extent of COVID-19’s impact on our business, results of operations, cash flows and/or financial condition. For 
more information about factors that could impact our business, including due to COVID-19, see “Risk Factors” in Part I, 
Item 1A of this Annual Report.

In summary, we believe that we are well prepared to meet the challenges ahead due to our strong financial condition, 

broad based experience operating in challenging environments, resilient global supply chain and focused business strategy. 
Our strategy is based on driving organic sales growth and long-term profitable growth through innovation within our core 
businesses, leveraging faster growth in adjacent categories, expanding in high-growth channels and markets and delivering 
margin expansion through operating leverage and efficiency. We are also seeking to maximize the impact of our 
environmental, social and governance programs and leading in the development of human capital, including our 
sustainability and social impact and DE&I strategies. Our commitment to these priorities, the strength of our brands, the 
breadth of our global footprint and a commitment to driving efficiency in cash generation should position us well to 
manage through the challenges presented by COVID-19 and increase shareholder value over time.

28

(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Results of Operations

This section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K generally discusses 2021 and 2020 items and year-to-year 

comparisons between 2021 and 2020. Discussions of 2019 items and year-to-year comparisons between 2020 and 2019 that 
are not included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K can be found in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial 
Condition and Results of Operations” in Part II, Item 7 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year 
ended December 31, 2020.

Net Sales

Worldwide Net sales were $17,421 in 2021, up 6.0% from 2020, due to volume growth of 1.0%, net selling price 
increases of 3.5%, and positive foreign exchange of 1.5%. Organic sales (Net sales excluding, as applicable, the impact of 
foreign exchange, acquisitions and divestments), a non-GAAP financial measure as discussed below, increased 4.5% in 
2021.

Net sales in the Oral, Personal and Home Care product segment were $14,110 in 2021, up 4.0% from 2020, due to net 

selling price increases of 2.5% and positive foreign exchange of 1.5%, while volume was flat. Organic sales in the Oral, 
Personal and Home Care product segment increased 2.5% in 2021.

The increase in organic sales in 2021 versus 2020 was due to an increase in Oral Care organic sales, partially offset by 

a decrease in Personal Care organic sales. The increase in Oral Care was primarily due to organic sales growth in the 
toothpaste, manual toothbrush and mouthwash categories. The decrease in Personal Care was primarily due to organic sales 
declines in the liquid hand soap and bar soap categories. 

The Company’s share of the global toothpaste market was 39.4% for full year 2021, down 0.3 share points from full 
year 2020, and its share of the global manual toothbrush market was 30.9% for full year 2021, up 0.1 share points from full 
year 2020. Full year 2021 market shares in toothpaste were up in Europe and Africa/Eurasia and down in North America, 
Latin America and Asia Pacific versus full year 2020. In the manual toothbrush category, full year 2021 market shares 
were up in Latin America, Europe and Africa/Eurasia and down in North America and Asia Pacific versus full year 2020. 
For additional information regarding the Company’s use of market share data and limitations of such data, see “Market 
Share Information” below.

Net sales for Hill’s Pet Nutrition were $3,311 in 2021, an increase of 15.0% from 2020, driven by volume growth of 

8.0%, net selling price increases of 5.5% and positive foreign exchange of 1.5%. Organic sales for Hill’s Pet Nutrition 
increased 13.5% in 2021.

The increase in organic sales in 2021 versus 2020 was primarily due to increases in organic sales in the Science Diet 

and Prescription Diet categories.

29

(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Gross Profit/Margin

Worldwide Gross profit increased 4% to $10,375 in 2021 from $10,017 in 2020. Gross profit in 2020 included 
acquisition-related costs. Excluding acquisition-related costs in 2020, Gross profit increased to $10,375 in 2021 from 
$10,021 in 2020, reflecting an increase of $565 resulting from higher Net sales and a decrease of $211 resulting from lower 
Gross profit margin.

Worldwide Gross profit margin decreased to 59.6% in 2021 from 60.8% in 2020. This decrease in Gross profit margin 

was primarily due to higher raw and packaging material costs (450 bps), partially offset by cost savings from the 
Company’s funding-the-growth initiatives (210 bps) and higher pricing (120 bps).

Gross profit, GAAP

Acquisition-related costs 

Gross profit, non-GAAP

Gross profit margin

2021

2020

$ 

10,375  $ 

10,017 

— 

4 

$ 

10,375  $ 

10,021 

2021

2020

Basis Point 
Change

 59.6 %

 60.8 %

 (120) 

30

 
 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased 6% to $6,407 in 2021 from $6,019 in 2020. Selling, general and 

administrative expenses in 2020 included benefits resulting from the Global Growth and Efficiency Program. Excluding 
benefits resulting from the Global Growth and Efficiency Program, Selling, general and administrative expenses increased 
to $6,407 in 2021 from $6,022 in 2020, reflecting higher overhead expenses of $312 and increased advertising investment 
of $73.

Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of Net sales increased to 36.8% in 2021 from 36.5% in 
2020.  Excluding benefits resulting from the Global Growth and Efficiency Program, Selling, general and administrative 
expenses as a percentage of Net sales increased by 20 bps to 36.8% in 2021 as compared to 36.6% in 2020. This increase 
was due to higher overhead expenses (50 bps), driven by higher logistics costs, partially offset by decreased advertising 
investment (30 bps), both as a percentage of Net sales. In 2021, advertising investment decreased as a percentage of Net 
sales to 11.6% from 11.9% in 2020, while it increased in absolute terms by 3.7% to $2,021 as compared with $1,948 in 
2020.

Selling, general and administrative expenses, GAAP

Global Growth and Efficiency Program

Selling, general and administrative expenses, non-GAAP

Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of Net sales, 
GAAP

Global Growth and Efficiency Program
Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of Net sales, 
non-GAAP

2021

2020

$ 

6,407  $ 

6,019 

— 

3 

$ 

6,407  $ 

6,022 

2021

2020

Basis Point 
Change

 36.8 %

 — %

 36.5 %

 0.1 %

 36.8 %

 36.6 %

 30 

 20 

31

 
 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Other (Income) Expense, Net

Other (income) expense, net was $65 and $113 in 2021 and 2020, respectively. Other (income) expense, net in 2021 

included a benefit related to a value-added tax matter in Brazil. Other (income) expense, net in 2020 included benefits 
resulting from the Global Growth and Efficiency Program and acquisition-related costs.

Other (income) expense, net, GAAP

Global Growth and Efficiency Program

Acquisition-related costs 

Value-added tax matter in Brazil

Other (income) expense, net, non-GAAP

2021

2020

$ 

65  $ 

113 

— 

— 

26 

13 

(2) 

— 

$ 

91  $ 

124 

Excluding the items described above in both periods, as applicable, Other (income) expense, net was $91 in 2021 and 

$124 in 2020, comprised of the following:

Amortization of intangible assets
Equity income
Write-off of certain investments and fixed assets
Other, net
Total Other (income) expense, net

2021

2020

$ 

$ 

89  $ 
(12)   
10 
4 
91  $ 

88 
(12) 
— 
48 
124 

Goodwill & Indefinite-Lived Intangible Impairment Charges

The Company made revisions to the internal forecasts relating to its Filorga reporting unit during the fourth quarter of 
2021 due primarily to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Filorga skin health business as a result of government 
restrictions and reduced consumer mobility, which negatively impacted consumption in the duty-free, travel retail and 
pharmacy channels. The Company concluded that the changes in circumstances in this reporting unit triggered the need for 
an interim impairment review of its indefinite-lived trademark and goodwill and, accordingly, performed an interim 
impairment test for the trademark as of December 31, 2021. The Company concluded that the carrying value of the 
trademark exceeded its estimated fair value, and recorded an impairment charge of $204, reducing the carrying value to 
approximately $588. After adjusting the carrying value of the trademark, the Company completed a quantitative 
impairment test for goodwill and recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $367 in the Filorga reporting unit, reducing the 
carrying value of goodwill to approximately $577. The Company continues to believe in the strength of the Filorga brand 
and is confident about its growth opportunities. See Note 5, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements for further information. 

32

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Operating Profit

Operating profit decreased 14% to $3,332 in 2021 from $3,885 in 2020. In 2021, Operating profit included a benefit 
related to a value-added tax matter in Brazil, and goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible impairment charges related to the 
Filorga reporting unit. In 2020, Operating profit included benefits resulting from the Global Growth and Efficiency 
Program and acquisition-related costs. Excluding these items in both periods, as applicable, Operating profit was flat in 
2021.

Operating profit margin was 19.1% in 2021, a decrease of 450 bps compared with 23.6% in 2020. Excluding the items 

described above in both periods, as applicable, Operating profit margin was 22.3% in 2021, a decrease of 120 bps from 
23.5% in 2020. This decrease in Operating profit in 2021 was primarily due to a decrease in Gross profit (120 bps), as a 
percentage of Net sales.

2021

2020

% Change

$ 

3,332  $ 

3,885 

 (14) %

— 
— 

(26)   

571 
3,877  $ 

(16) 
6 

— 

— 
3,875 

2021

2020

 — %

Basis Point 
Change

 (450) 

 23.6 %

 (0.1) %

 — 

 — 

 — 

 23.5 %

 (120) 

Operating profit, GAAP

Global Growth and Efficiency Program
Acquisition-related costs 

Value-added tax matter in Brazil

Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible impairment charges
Operating profit, non-GAAP

$ 

Operating profit margin, GAAP

Global Growth and Efficiency Program

Acquisition-related costs 

Value-added tax matter in Brazil

Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible impairment charges

Operating profit margin, non-GAAP

 19.1 %

 — 

 — 

 (0.2) %

 3.4 %

 22.3 %

Non-Service Related Postretirement Costs

Non-service related postretirement costs were $70 in 2021 compared to $74 in 2020. 

33

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Interest (Income) Expense, Net

Interest (income) expense, net was $175 in 2021 compared with $164 in 2020. In 2021 and 2020, Interest (income) 
expense, net included losses on the early extinguishment of debt. Excluding the losses on the early extinguishment of debt, 
in both periods, Interest (income) expense, net was $100 in 2021 compared to $141 in 2020, primarily due to lower average 
interest rates on debt. 

Interest (income) expense, GAAP

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

Interest (income) expense, non-GAAP

2021

2020

$ 

$ 

175  $ 

(75)   

100  $ 

164 

(23) 

141 

34

 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Income Taxes

The effective income tax rate was 24.3% in 2021 and 21.6% in 2020. As reflected in the table below, the non-GAAP 

effective income tax rate was 22.0% in 2021 and 23.6% in 2020. 

As Reported GAAP
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible impairment 
charges

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

Value-added tax matter in Brazil

Non-GAAP

As Reported GAAP

Global Growth and Efficiency Program

Subsidiary and operating structure initiatives

Acquisition-related costs

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

$ 

$ 

$ 

Income Before 
Income Taxes

2021
Provision For 
Income Taxes(1)

Effective Income 
Tax Rate(2)

3,087  $ 

571 

75 

(26)   

3,707  $ 

749 

53 

20 

(6) 

816 

 24.3 %

 (2.1) %

 (0.3) %

 0.1 %

 22.0 %

Income Before 
Income Taxes

2020
Provision For 
Income Taxes(1)

Effective Income 
Tax Rate(2)

3,647  $ 

(16)   

— 

6 

23 

787 

(3) 

71 

2 

5 

862 

 21.6 %

 — 

 2.0 %

 — 

 — 

 23.6 %

Non-GAAP

$ 

3,660  $ 

_______ 
(1)  

(2)  

The income tax effect on non-GAAP items is calculated based upon the tax laws and statutory income tax rates applicable in the tax jurisdiction(s) 
of the underlying non-GAAP adjustment. 
The impact of non-GAAP items on the Company’s effective tax rate represents the difference in the effective tax rate calculated with and without 
the non-GAAP adjustment on Income before income taxes and Provision for income taxes.

The provision for income taxes for 2020 includes $71 of income tax benefits, of which $45 relates to previously 

recorded foreign withholding taxes and $26 relates to a previously recorded valuation allowance against a deferred tax 
asset. As described more fully below, both items were previously recorded in connection with the charge recorded by the 
Company in 2017 and revised in 2018 related to the TCJA.

As part of the previously recorded charge for the TCJA, the Company had provided for foreign withholding taxes 

expected to be paid on the remittance of earnings from certain overseas subsidiaries no longer deemed indefinitely 
reinvested. As a result of a reorganization of the ownership structure of certain foreign subsidiaries, the Company 
determined that no withholding taxes will be due on the remittance by certain subsidiaries of earnings previously deemed 
reinvested and, accordingly, reversed $45 of previously recorded foreign withholding taxes in the first quarter of 2020.

Also as part of the previously recorded charge for the TCJA, the Company provided a valuation allowance against a 

deferred tax asset related to foreign tax credit carry-forwards that the Company did not expect to be able to use due to 
changes made by the TCJA. As a result of a new operating structure implemented within one of the Company’s divisions, 
the Company believes the use of these foreign tax credit carry-forwards will not be limited in the future and, accordingly, 
reversed the previously recorded valuation allowance of $26 in the first quarter of 2020.

The effective income tax rate in all years benefited from tax planning associated with the Company’s global business 

initiatives.

35

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Net income attributable to Colgate-Palmolive Company and Earnings per share

Net income attributable to Colgate-Palmolive Company of $2,166, or $2.55 per share on a diluted basis, in 2021 

decreased from $2,695, or $3.14 per share on a diluted basis, in 2020. In 2021, Net income attributable to Colgate-
Palmolive Company included aftertax goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible impairment charges, an aftertax benefit 
related to a value-added tax matter in Brazil and an aftertax loss on the early extinguishment of debt. In 2020, Net income 
attributable to Colgate-Palmolive Company included aftertax benefits resulting from the Global Growth and Efficiency 
Program, aftertax acquisition-related costs, a tax benefit related to subsidiary and operating structure initiatives and an 
aftertax loss on the early extinguishment of debt.

Excluding the items described above in both periods, as applicable, Net income attributable to Colgate-Palmolive 

Company increased 3% to $2,719 in 2021 from $2,633 in 2020, and Earnings per common share on a diluted basis 
increased 5% to $3.21 in 2021 from $3.06 in 2020.

2021

Income 
Before 
Income 
Taxes

Provision 
For 
Income 
Taxes(1)

Net Income 
Including 
Noncontrolling 
Interests

Less: Income 
Attributable To 
Noncontrolling 
Interests

Net Income 
Attributable to 
Colgate-
Palmolive 
Company

$  3,087  $ 

749  $ 

2,338  $ 

172  $ 

2,166  $ 

Diluted 
Earnings 
Per 
Share(2)
2.55 

571 

75 

53 

20 

518 

55 

— 

— 

518 

0.61 

55 

0.07 

(26)   
$  3,707  $ 

(6)   
816  $ 

(20)   
2,891  $ 

— 
172  $ 

(20)   
2,719  $ 

(0.02) 
3.21 

2020

Net Income 
Including 
Noncontrolling 
Interests

Less: Income 
Attributable To 
Noncontrolling 
Interests

Net Income 
Attributable to 
Colgate-
Palmolive 
Company

787  $ 

2,860  $ 

165  $ 

2,695  $ 

Income 
Before 
Income 
Taxes
$  3,647  $ 

Provision 
For 
Income 
Taxes(1)

(16)   

(3)   

  — 
6 

23 

71 
2 

5 

(13)   

(71)   
4 

18 

— 

— 
— 

— 

Diluted 
Earnings 
Per 
Share(2)
3.14 

(13)   

(0.02) 

(71)   
4 

(0.08) 
— 

18 

0.02 

3.06 

As Reported GAAP
Goodwill and indefinite-lived 
intangible impairment charges
Loss on early extinguishment of 
debt
Value-added tax matter in 
Brazil
Non-GAAP

As Reported GAAP
Global Growth and Efficiency 
Program
Subsidiary and operating 
structure initiatives
Acquisition-related costs
Loss on early extinguishment of 
debt

Non-GAAP

$  3,660  $ 

862  $ 

2,798  $ 

165  $ 

2,633  $ 

_______
(1)  

(2)  

The income tax effect on non-GAAP items is calculated based upon the tax laws and statutory income tax rates applicable in the tax jurisdiction(s) 
of the underlying non-GAAP adjustment.
The impact of non-GAAP adjustments on diluted earnings per share may not necessarily equal the difference between “GAAP” and “non-GAAP” as 
a result of rounding.

36

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Segment Results

The Company markets its products in over 200 countries and territories throughout the world in two product segments: 

Oral, Personal and Home Care; and Pet Nutrition. The Company evaluates segment performance based on several factors, 
including Operating profit. The Company uses Operating profit as a measure of the operating segment performance 
because it excludes the impact of corporate-driven decisions related to interest expense and income taxes.

Oral, Personal and Home Care

North America

Net sales
Operating profit
% of Net sales

$ 
$ 

2021
3,694 
754 
 20.4 %

$ 
$ 

2020
3,741 
988 
 26.4 %  

% Change
 (1.0) %
 (24) %
(600) bps

Net sales in North America decreased 1.0% in 2021 to $3,694, driven by volume declines of 4.0%, partially offset by 
net selling price increases of 2.0% and positive foreign exchange of 1.0%. Organic sales in North America decreased 2.0% 
in 2021. The organic sales decline was largely driven by the United States.

The decrease in organic sales in North America in 2021 versus 2020 was primarily due to decreases in Personal Care 
and Home Care organic sales. The decrease in Personal Care was primarily due to organic sales declines in the liquid hand 
soap and bar soap categories. The decrease in Home Care was primarily due to organic sales declines in the hand dish 
category, partially offset by organic sales growth in the liquid cleaner category. 

Operating profit in North America decreased 24% in 2021 to $754, or 600 bps to 20.4% as a percentage of Net 
sales. This decrease in Operating profit as a percentage of Net sales was primarily due to a decrease in Gross profit (330 
bps) and an increase in Selling, general and administrative expenses (300 bps), both as a percentage of Net sales. This 
decrease in Gross profit was primarily due to higher raw and packaging material costs (600 bps), partially offset by cost 
savings from the Company’s funding-the-growth initiatives (190 bps) and higher pricing. This increase in Selling, general 
and administrative expenses was due to higher overhead expenses (290 bps), primarily driven by higher logistics costs, and 
increased advertising investment (10 bps).

37

 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Latin America

Net sales
Operating profit
% of Net sales

$ 
$ 

2021
3,663 
1,012 
 27.6 %

$ 
$ 

2020
3,418 
975 
 28.5 %  

% Change

 7.0  %
 4  %
(90) bps

Net sales in Latin America increased 7.0% in 2021 to $3,663, as volume growth of 1.0% and net selling price increases 

of 7.0% were partially offset by negative foreign exchange of 1.0%. Organic sales in Latin America increased 8.0% in 
2021. Organic sales growth was led by Brazil, Mexico, Argentina and Colombia.

The increase in organic sales in Latin America in 2021 versus 2020 was due to increases in Oral Care, Personal Care 

and Home Care organic sales. The increase in Oral Care was primarily due to organic sales growth in the toothpaste, 
manual toothbrush and mouthwash categories. The increase in Personal Care was primarily due to organic sales growth in 
the bar soap and underarm protection categories. The increase in Home Care was primarily due to organic sales growth in 
the fabric softener and liquid cleaner categories. 

Operating profit in Latin America increased 4% in 2021 to $1,012, while as a percentage of Net sales it decreased 90 

bps to 27.6%. This decrease in Operating profit as a percentage of Net sales was due to a decrease in Gross profit (150 
bps), partially offset by a decrease in Selling, general and administrative expenses (20 bps) and a decrease in Other 
(income) expense, net (40 bps), all as a percentage of Net sales. This decrease in Gross profit was primarily due to higher 
raw and packaging material costs (740 bps), which were partially offset by cost savings from the Company’s funding-the-
growth initiatives (330 bps) and higher pricing. This decrease in Selling, general and administrative expenses was due to 
decreased advertising investment (70 bps), partially offset by higher overhead expenses (50 bps), primarily driven by 
higher logistics costs. The decrease in Other (income) expense, net was primarily due to a value added tax refund.

38

 
 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Europe

Net sales
Operating profit

% of Net sales

2021
2,841 
682 

$ 
$ 

2020
2,747 
652 

$ 
$ 

% Change
 3.5  %
 5  %

 24.0 %

 23.7 %  

30  bps

Net sales in Europe increased 3.5% in 2021 to $2,841, as Net selling prices were flat and positive foreign exchange of 

4.0% was partially offset by volume declines of 0.5%. Organic sales in Europe decreased 0.5% in 2021. Organic sales 
declines were driven by the Filorga duty-free business and Germany, partially offset by organic sales growth in Poland. 

The decrease in organic sales in Europe in 2021 versus 2020 was due to decreases in Personal Care and Home Care 
organic sales, partially offset by an increase in Oral Care organic sales. The decrease in Personal Care was primarily due to 
organic sales declines in the liquid hand soap, body wash, skin health and bar soap categories. The decrease in Home Care 
was primarily due to organic sales declines in the bleach and hand dish categories, partially offset by organic sales growth 
in the fabric softener category. The increase in Oral Care was primarily due to organic sales growth in the toothpaste, 
prescription dental and manual toothbrush categories.

Operating profit in Europe increased 5% in 2021 to $682, or 30 bps to 24.0% as a percentage of Net sales. This 

increase in Operating profit as a percentage of Net sales was primarily due to a decrease in Selling, general and 
administrative expenses (110 bps), partially offset by a decrease in Gross profit (100 bps), both as a percentage of Net 
sales. This decrease in Gross profit was primarily due to higher raw and packaging material costs (330 bps), partially offset 
by cost savings from the Company’s funding-the-growth initiatives (220 bps). This decrease in Selling, general and 
administrative expenses was largely due to decreased advertising investment (100 bps). 

39

 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Asia Pacific

Net sales
Operating profit
% of Net sales

$ 
$ 

2021
2,867 
844 
 29.4 %

$ 
$ 

2020
2,701 
773 
 28.6 %  

% Change

 6.0  %
 9  %
80  bps

Net sales in Asia Pacific increased 6.0% in 2021 to $2,867, driven by volume growth of 3.0% and positive foreign 

exchange of 3.0%, while net selling prices were flat. Organic sales in Asia Pacific increased 3.0% in 2021. Organic sales 
growth was led by India and the Greater China region.

The increase in organic sales in 2021 versus 2020 was primarily due to an increase in Oral Care organic sales. The 
increase in Oral Care was driven by organic sales growth in the toothpaste, manual toothbrush and mouthwash categories. 

Operating profit in Asia Pacific increased 9% in 2021 to $844, or 80 bps to 29.4% of Net sales. This increase in 
Operating profit as a percentage of Net sales was due primarily to an increase in Gross profit (50 bps) and a decrease in 
Other (income) expense, net (40 bps), both as a percentage of Net sales. This increase in Gross profit was primarily due to 
cost savings from the Company’s funding-the-growth initiatives (230 bps), mix (20 bps) and other, partially offset by 
higher raw and packaging material costs (230 bps). The decrease in Other (income) expense, net was primarily due to a 
gain on an investment. 

40

 
 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Africa/Eurasia

Net sales
Operating profit
% of Net sales

$ 
$ 

2021
1,045 
203 
 19.4 %

$ 
$ 

2020

% Change

981 
206 
 21.0 %  

 6.5  %
 (1) %
(160) bps

Net sales in Africa/Eurasia increased 6.5% in 2021 to $1,045, as volume growth of 1.0% and net selling price 
increases of 6.0% were partially offset by negative foreign exchange of 0.5%. Organic sales in Africa/Eurasia increased 
7.0% in 2021. Organic sales growth was led by Turkiye, Nigeria and South Africa.

The increase in organic sales in 2021 versus 2020 was primarily due to an increase in Oral Care organic sales. The 

increase in Oral Care was primarily due to organic sales growth in the toothpaste and manual toothbrush categories. 

Operating profit in Africa/Eurasia decreased 1% in 2021 to $203, or 160 bps to 19.4% of Net sales. This decrease in 
Operating profit as a percentage of Net sales was primarily due to a decrease in Gross profit (170 bps), partially offset by a 
decrease in Selling, general and administrative expenses (60 bps), both as a percentage of Net sales. This decrease in Gross 
profit was primarily due to higher raw and packaging material costs (590 bps), partially offset by higher pricing and cost 
savings from the Company’s funding-the-growth initiatives (190 bps). This decrease in Selling, general and administrative 
expenses was due to decreased advertising investment (140 bps), partially offset by higher overhead expenses (80 bps), 
primarily driven by higher logistics costs.

41

 
 
 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Net sales
Operating profit
% of Net sales

$ 
$ 

2021
3,311 
901 
 27.2 %

$ 
$ 

2020
2,883 
793 
 27.5 %  

% Change
 15.0  %
 14  %
(30) bps

Net sales for Hill’s Pet Nutrition increased 15.0% in 2021 to $3,311, driven by volume growth of 8.0%, net selling 
price increases of 5.5% and positive foreign exchange of 1.5%. Organic sales in Hill’s Pet Nutrition increased 13.5% in 
2021. Organic sales growth was led by the United States and Europe.

The increase in organic sales in 2021 versus 2020 was due to organic sales growth in the Science Diet and Prescription 

Diet categories.

Operating profit in Hill’s Pet Nutrition increased 14% in 2021 to $901, while as a percentage of Net sales it decreased 

30 bps to 27.2%. This decrease in Operating profit as a percentage of Net sales was due to a decrease in Gross profit (40 
bps) and an increase in Selling, general and administrative expenses (30 bps), partially offset by a decrease in Other 
(income) expense, net (40 bps), all as a percentage of Net sales. This decrease in Gross profit was primarily due to higher 
raw and packaging material costs (300 bps), partially offset by higher pricing and cost savings from the Company’s 
funding-the-growth initiatives (100 bps). This increase in Selling, general and administrative expenses was due to increased 
advertising investment (110 bps), partially offset by lower overhead expenses (80 bps). This decrease in Other (income) 
expense, net was primarily due to the portion of costs incurred in 2020 in connection with the voluntary recall of selected 
canned dog food products due to potentially elevated levels of Vitamin D resulting from a supplier error for which Hill’s 
was not indemnified.

42

 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Corporate

Operating profit (loss)

2021

2020

$ 

(1,064)  $ 

(502) 

% Change
 112  %

Corporate operations include Corporate overhead costs, research and development costs, stock-based compensation 

expense related to stock options and restricted stock unit awards, restructuring and related implementation costs and gains 
and losses on sales of non-core product lines. The components of Operating profit (loss) for the Corporate segment are 
presented as follows:

Global Growth and Efficiency Program
Acquisition-related costs
Value-added tax matter in Brazil
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible impairment charges
Corporate overhead costs and other, net
Total Corporate Operating profit (loss)

2021

2020

$ 

$ 

—  $ 
— 
26 
(571)   
(519)   
(1,064)  $ 

16 
(6) 
— 
— 
(512) 
(502) 

43

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Restructuring and Related Implementation Charges 

Global Productivity Initiative

       On January 27, 2022, the Board approved the 2022 Global Productivity Initiative. The program is intended to 
reallocate resources towards the Company’s strategic priorities and faster growth businesses, drive efficiencies in the 
Company’s operations and streamline the Company’s supply chain to reduce structural costs. 

       Implementation of the Global Productivity Initiative, which is expected to be substantially completed by December 31, 
2022, is projected to result in cumulative pre-tax charges, once all phases are approved and implemented, totaling between 
$200 and $240, which are currently estimated to be comprised of the following: employee-related costs, including 
severance, pension and other termination benefits (80%); asset-related costs, primarily accelerated depreciation and asset 
write-downs (10%); and other charges (10%), which include contract termination costs, consisting primarily of 
implementation-related charges resulting directly from exit activities and the implementation of new strategies. It is 
estimated that approximately 90% of the charges will result in cash expenditures. Annualized pre-tax savings are projected 
to be in the range of $90 to $110. 

44

(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

This Annual Report on Form 10-K discusses certain financial measures on both a GAAP and a non-GAAP basis. The 
Company uses the non-GAAP financial measures described below internally in its budgeting process, to evaluate segment 
and overall operating performance and as a factor in determining compensation. The Company believes that these non-
GAAP financial measures are useful in evaluating the Company’s underlying business performance and trends; however, 
this information should be considered as supplemental in nature and is not meant to be considered in isolation or as a 
substitute for the related financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP. In addition, these non-GAAP financial 
measures may not be the same as similar measures presented by other companies. 

Net sales growth (GAAP) and organic sales growth (Net sales growth excluding the impact of foreign exchange, 
acquisitions and divestments) (non-GAAP) are discussed in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Management believes the 
organic sales growth measure provides investors and analysts with useful supplemental information regarding the 
Company’s underlying sales trends by presenting sales growth excluding, the external factor of foreign exchange, as well 
as the impact of acquisitions and divestments, as applicable. A reconciliation of organic sales growth to Net sales growth 
for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 is provided below.

Worldwide Gross profit, Gross profit margin, Selling, general and administrative expenses, Selling, general and 
administrative expenses as a percentage of Net sales, Other (income) expense, net, Operating profit, Operating profit 
margin, Interest (income) expense, net, effective income tax rate, Net income attributable to Colgate-Palmolive Company 
and Earnings per share on a diluted basis are discussed in this Annual Report on Form 10-K both on a GAAP basis and 
excluding, as applicable, goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible impairment charges, a benefit related to a value-added tax 
matter in Brazil, the benefits resulting from the Global Growth and Efficiency Program, a benefit related to a 
reorganization of the ownership structure of certain foreign subsidiaries and a new operating structure implemented within 
one of the Company’s divisions, acquisition-related costs and losses on the early extinguishment of debt. These non-GAAP 
financial measures exclude items that, either by their nature or amount, management would not expect to occur as part of 
the Company’s normal business on a regular basis, such as restructuring charges, charges for certain litigation and tax 
matters, gains and losses from certain acquisitions, divestitures and certain unusual, non-recurring items. Investors and 
analysts use these financial measures in assessing the Company’s business performance, and management believes that 
presenting these financial measures on a non-GAAP basis provides them with useful supplemental information to enhance 
their understanding of the Company’s underlying business performance and trends. These non-GAAP financial measures 
also enhance the ability to compare period-to-period financial results. A reconciliation of each of these non-GAAP 
financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 
2020 is presented within the applicable section of Results of Operations.

45

(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

The following tables provide a quantitative reconciliation of Net sales growth to organic sales growth for the years 

ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 versus the prior year:

Year ended December 31, 2021

Oral, Personal and Home Care

North America

Latin America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Africa/Eurasia

Total Oral, Personal and Home Care

Pet Nutrition

Total Company

Year ended December 31, 2020

Oral, Personal and Home Care

North America

Latin America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Africa/Eurasia

Total Oral, Personal and Home Care

Pet Nutrition

Total Company

Market Share Information 

Net Sales Growth
(GAAP)

Foreign
Exchange
Impact

Acquisitions and 
Divestments
Impact 

Organic
Sales Growth
(Non-GAAP)

(1.0)%

7.0%
3.5%

6.0%

6.5%

4.0%

15.0%

6.0%

1.0%

(1.0)%

4.0%

3.0%

(0.5)%

1.5%

1.5%

1.5%

—%

—%

—%

—%

—%

—%

—%

—%

(2.0)%

8.0%

(0.5)%

3.0%

7.0%

2.5%

13.5%

4.5%

Net Sales Growth
(GAAP)

Foreign
Exchange
Impact

Acquisitions and 
Divestments
Impact 

Organic
Sales Growth
(Non-GAAP)

9.5%

(5.0)%

12.0%

(0.5)%

—%

3.0%

14.0%

5.0%

—%

(14.0)%

1.5%

(1.0)%

(8.5)%

(5.0)%

(0.5)%

(3.5)%

1.5%

—%

7.5%

—%

1.0%

2.0%

—%

1.5%

8.0%

9.0%

3.0%

0.5%

7.5%

6.0%

14.5%

7.0%

Management uses market share information as a key indicator to monitor business health and performance. References 

to market share in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are based on a combination of consumption and market share data 
provided by third-party vendors, primarily Nielsen, and internal estimates. All market share references represent the 
percentage of the dollar value of sales of our products, relative to all product sales in the category in the countries in which 
the Company competes and purchases data (excluding Venezuela from all periods).

Market share data is subject to limitations on the availability of up-to-date information. In particular, market share data 

is currently not generally available for certain retail channels, such as eCommerce or certain discounters. The Company 
measures year-to-date market shares from January 1 of the relevant year through the most recent period for which market 
share data is available, which typically reflects a lag time of one or two months. The Company believes that the third-party 
vendors we use to provide data are reliable, but we have not verified the accuracy or completeness of the data or any 
assumptions underlying the data. In certain limited circumstances, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the ability of our 
third-party vendors to provide the Company with reliable updated market share data. In addition, market share information 
calculated by the Company may be different from market share information calculated by other companies due to 
differences in category definitions, the use of data from different countries, internal estimates and other factors.

46

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Company expects cash flow from operations and debt issuances will be sufficient to meet foreseeable business 

operating and recurring cash needs (including for debt service, dividends, capital expenditures, share repurchases and 
acquisitions). The Company believes its strong cash generation and financial position should continue to allow it broad 
access to global credit and capital markets.

Cash Flow

Net cash provided by operations decreased to $3,325 in 2021 as compared to $3,719 in 2020, primarily due to changes 

in working capital. The Company’s working capital as a percentage of Net sales was (2.7)% in 2021 and (4.4)% in 2020. 
This change in working capital as a percentage of Net sales is primarily due to lower accrued liabilities, partially offset by 
higher accounts payable and higher prepaid expenses. The Company defines working capital as the difference between 
current assets (excluding Cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities, the latter of which is reported in Other 
current assets) and current liabilities (excluding short-term debt). 

Investing activities used $592 of cash in 2021 compared to $779 during 2020. Investing activities in 2020 included the 
acquisition of hello for cash consideration of $351 as part of the Company’s continued strategy to focus on the high growth 
segments within its Oral Care, Personal Care and Pet Nutrition businesses. This acquisition was financed with a 
combination of debt and cash.

Capital expenditures in the year ended December 31, 2021 were $567, an increase from $410 in 2020. Capital 

expenditures increased in 2021 primarily due to capacity expansion of manufacturing facilities and sustainability projects. 
Capital expenditures for 2022 are expected to be approximately 4.0% of Net sales. The Company continues to focus its 
capital spending on projects that are expected to yield high aftertax returns.

Financing activities used $2,774 of cash during 2021 compared to $2,919 during 2020. The decrease in cash used was 
primarily due to a decrease in net payments on debt, partially offset by higher share repurchases, net in 2021 as compared 
to 2020.

In 2020, as a result of the incremental debt related to recent acquisitions, net of proceeds from the exercise of stock 
options, the Company moderated its share repurchases, net. In addition, due to the initial uncertainties resulting from the 
COVID-19 pandemic and our intent to preserve cash, the Company discontinued all share repurchases other than those 
pursuant to equity plans during the second quarter of 2020. The Company resumed its share repurchases, at a moderated 
level, net in the third quarter of 2020. Share repurchases, net returned to historical levels in 2021.

Long-term debt, including the current portion, decreased to $7,206 as of December 31, 2021, as compared to $7,343 as 

of December 31, 2020, and total debt decreased to $7,245 as of December 31, 2021 as compared to $7,601 as of 
December 31, 2020. The Company’s debt issuances and redemptions support the Company’s capital structure objectives of 
funding its business and growth initiatives while minimizing its risk-adjusted cost of capital.

During the fourth quarter of 2021, the Company issued €500 of eight-year notes at a fixed coupon rate of 0.300% (the 

“Sustainability Bond”). The debt issuance was under the Company’s shelf registration statement. An amount equal to the 
net proceeds of the Sustainability Bond will be used to finance or refinance, in part or in full, new and existing projects and 
programs with distinct environmental or social benefits pursuant to the Company’s Sustainable Financing Framework. 

During the fourth quarter of 2021, the Company redeemed prior to maturity all of its outstanding 0.000% notes due 

2021 with a principal amount of €500, originally issued on November 12, 2019. The redemption was financed with 
commercial paper borrowings. The redemption price was equal to the carrying amount of the debt extinguished.

In 1990, the Company’s Canadian subsidiary (“CP Canada”), issued C$145 of Canadian dollar-denominated 

unsecured unsubordinated 12.85% guaranteed notes due October 4, 2030 (the “Canada notes”). During the third quarter of 
2021, CP Canada redeemed the Canada notes and recorded a loss on the early extinguishment of debt of $75, which is 
included in Interest (income) expense, net in the Consolidated Statements of Income, representing the difference between 
the redemption price and the carrying amount of the debt extinguished.

47

(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

During the fourth quarter of 2020, the Company redeemed prior to maturity all of its outstanding 2.450% notes due 
2021 with a principal amount of $300, originally issued on November 8, 2011, and all of its outstanding 2.300% notes due 
2022 with a principal amount of $500, originally issued on May 3, 2012. These redemptions were financed with 
commercial paper borrowings and cash. The Company recorded a loss on this early extinguishment of debt of $23, which is 
included in Interest (income) expense, net in the Consolidated Statements of Income, representing the difference between 
the redemption price and the carrying amount of the debt extinguished.

At December 31, 2021, the Company had access to unused domestic and foreign lines of credit of $3,457 (including 
under the facility discussed below) and could also issue long-term debt pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement. 
In August 2021, the Company entered into a new $3,000 five-year revolving credit facility with a syndicate of banks for a 
five-year term expiring August 2026, which replaced, on substantially similar terms, the Company’s $2,650 revolving 
credit facility that was scheduled to expire in November 2024. Commitment fees related to the credit facility were not 
material. The Company’s $1,500 364-day credit facility with a syndicate of banks expired in August 2021 and was not 
renewed.

Domestic and foreign commercial paper outstanding was $1,204 and $1,389 as of December 31, 2021 and 

December 31, 2020, respectively. The average daily balances outstanding of commercial paper in 2021 and 2020 were 
$2,052 and $1,050, respectively. The Company classifies commercial paper and certain current maturities of notes payable 
as long-term debt when it has the intent and ability to refinance such obligations on a long-term basis, including, if 
necessary, by utilizing its available lines of credit (under the facilities discussed above).

The following is a summary of the Company’s commercial paper and global short-term borrowings as of 

December 31, 2021 and 2020:

2021

2020

Weighted 
Average 

Weighted 
Average 

Global short-term borrowings
Commercial Paper (1)
Total

Interest Rate Maturities Outstanding
2022
39 
1,204 
2022
1,243 

 0.7 %
 (0.4) %

$ 

$ 

Interest Rate Maturities Outstanding
8 
2021
1,389 
2021
1,397 

 4.8 %
 (0.3) %

$ 

$ 

(1) Commercial paper included a current portion of $250, included in Notes and loans payable, as of December 31, 2020.

Certain of the agreements with respect to the Company’s bank borrowings contain financial and other covenants as 

well as cross-default provisions. Noncompliance with these requirements could ultimately result in the acceleration of 
amounts owed. The Company is in full compliance with all such requirements and believes the likelihood of 
noncompliance is remote. Refer to Note 6, Long-Term Debt and Credit Facilities to the Consolidated Financial Statements 
for further information about the Company’s long-term debt and credit facilities.

Dividend payments in 2021 were $1,679, an increase from $1,654 in 2020. Dividend payments increased to $1.79 per 

share in 2021 from $1.75 per share in 2020. In the first quarter of 2021, the Company increased the quarterly common 
stock dividend to $0.45 per share from $0.44 per share, effective in the second quarter of 2021. 

The Company repurchases shares of its common stock in the open market and in private transactions to maintain its 
targeted capital structure and to fulfill certain requirements of its compensation and benefit plans. On June 18, 2018, the 
Board authorized the repurchase of shares of the Company’s common stock having an aggregate purchase price of up to 
$5,000 under the 2018 Program. The Board also has authorized share repurchases on an ongoing basis to fulfill certain 
requirements of the Company’s compensation and benefit programs. The shares are repurchased from time to time in open 
market or privately negotiated transactions at the Company’s discretion, subject to market conditions, customary blackout 
periods and other factors.

Aggregate share repurchases in 2021 consisted of approximately 16.4 million common shares under the 2018 Program 

and 0.3 million common shares to fulfill the requirements of compensation and benefit plans, for a total purchase price of 
$1,320. Aggregate repurchases in 2020 consisted of approximately 18.2 million common shares under the 2018 Program 

48

 
 
 
 
 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

and 0.4 million common shares to fulfill the requirements of compensation and benefit plans, for a total purchase price of 
$1,476. Share repurchases net of proceeds from exercise of stock options were $896 and $602 in 2021 and 2020, 
respectively.

Cash and cash equivalents decreased $56 during 2021 to $832 at December 31, 2021, compared to $888 at 
December 31, 2020. Cash and cash equivalents held by the Company’s foreign subsidiaries was $784 and $872, 
respectively, at December 31, 2021 and 2020.

The following represents the scheduled maturities of the Company’s contractual obligations as of December 31, 2021:

Total

2022

2023

2024

2025

2026

Thereafter

Long-term debt including current portion(1)
Net cash interest payments on long-term debt(2)
Operating Leases
Purchase obligations(3)
U.S. tax reform payments 

$ 

6,002  $  456  $  908  $  506  $  135  $  566  $ 
1,391 

  109 

65 

72 

99 

83 

685 
724 

210 

  156 
  421 

  109 
  171 

25 

46 

76 
90 

62 

61 
22 

77 

48 
19 

  — 

3,431 
963 

235 
1 

— 

Total

$ 

9,012  $ 1,167  $ 1,333  $  817  $  367  $  698  $ 

4,630 

_______
(1)

(2)

(3)

The Company classifies commercial paper and notes maturing within the next 12 months as long-term debt when it has the intent 
and ability to refinance such obligations on a long-term basis. The amounts in this table exclude such obligations.
Includes the net interest payments on fixed and variable rate debt and associated interest rate swaps. Interest payments associated 
with floating rate instruments are based on management’s best estimate of projected interest rates for the remaining term of variable 
rate debt.
The Company had outstanding contractual obligations with suppliers at the end of 2021 for the purchase of raw, packaging and 
other materials and services in the normal course of business. These purchase obligation amounts represent only those items which 
are based on agreements that are legally binding and that specify all significant terms including minimum quantity, price and term 
and do not represent total anticipated purchases.

Long-term liabilities associated with the Company’s postretirement plans are excluded from the table above due to the 
uncertainty of the timing of these cash disbursements. The amount and timing of cash funding related to these benefit plans 
will generally depend on local regulatory requirements, various economic assumptions (the most significant of which are 
detailed in “Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates” below) and voluntary Company contributions. Based on 
current information, the Company is not required to make a mandatory contribution to its qualified U.S. pension plan in 
2021. The Company does not expect to make any voluntary contributions to its U.S. postretirement plans in 2022. In 
addition, total benefit payments expected to be paid from the Company’s assets to participants in unfunded plans are 
estimated to be approximately $89 for the year ending December 31, 2022.

Additionally, liabilities for unrecognized income tax benefits are excluded from the table above as the Company is 
unable to reasonably predict the ultimate amount or timing of a settlement of such liabilities. See Note 11, Income Taxes to 
the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.

As more fully described in Note 13, Commitments and Contingencies to the Consolidated Financial Statements, the 

Company has commitments and contingencies with respect to lawsuits, environmental matters, taxes and other matters 
arising in the ordinary course of business.

49

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Company does not have off-balance sheet financing or unconsolidated special purpose entities.

Managing Foreign Currency, Interest Rate, Commodity Price and Credit Risk Exposure

The Company is exposed to market risk from foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity price 

fluctuations. Volatility relating to these exposures is managed on a global basis by utilizing a number of techniques, 
including working capital management, selling price increases, selective borrowings in local currencies and entering into 
selective derivative instrument transactions, issued with standard features, in accordance with the Company’s treasury and 
risk management policies. The Company’s treasury and risk management policies prohibit the use of derivatives for 
speculative purposes and leveraged derivatives for any purpose.

The sensitivity of our financial instruments to market fluctuations is discussed below. See Note 2, Summary of 

Significant Accounting Policies and Note 7, Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements for further discussion of derivatives and hedging policies and fair value measurements.

Foreign Exchange Risk

As the Company markets its products in over 200 countries and territories, it is exposed to currency fluctuations 
related to manufacturing and selling its products in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. The Company manages its foreign 
currency exposures through a combination of cost-containment measures, sourcing strategies, selling price increases and 
the hedging of certain costs in an effort to minimize the impact on earnings of foreign currency rate movements. See 
“Results of Operations” above for a discussion of the foreign exchange impact on Net sales in each operating segment.

The assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates with 
resulting translation gains and losses accumulated in a separate component of shareholders’ equity. Income and expense 
items are translated into U.S. dollars at average rates of exchange prevailing during the year.

The Company primarily utilizes foreign currency contracts, including forward and swap contracts, option contracts, 
foreign and local currency deposits and local currency borrowings to hedge portions of its exposures relating to foreign 
currency purchases, assets and liabilities created in the normal course of business and the net investment in certain foreign 
subsidiaries. The duration of foreign currency contracts generally does not exceed 12 months and the contracts are valued 
using observable market rates.

The Company’s foreign currency forward contracts that qualify for cash flow hedge accounting resulted in a net 
unrealized gain of $12 and net unrealized loss of $11 at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Changes in the fair 
value of cash flow hedges are recorded in Other comprehensive income (loss) and are reclassified into earnings in the same 
period or periods during which the underlying hedged transaction is recognized in earnings. At the end of 2021, an 
unfavorable 10% change in exchange rates would have resulted in a net unrealized loss of $76.

50

(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Interest Rate Risk

The Company manages its mix of fixed and floating rate debt against its target with debt issuances and by entering into 

interest rate swaps in order to mitigate fluctuations in earnings and cash flows that may result from interest rate volatility. 
The Company utilizes forward-starting interest rate swaps to mitigate the risk of variability in interest rate for future debt 
issuances. The notional amount, interest payment and maturity date of the swaps generally match the principal, interest 
payment and maturity date of the related debt, and the swaps are valued using observable benchmark rates.

Based on year-end 2021 variable rate debt levels, a 1% increase in interest rates would have increased Interest 

(income) expense, net by $14 in 2021.

The Company is assessing the impact of the discontinuation of LIBOR as a benchmark interest rate on its current 
financial instruments and contractual arrangements, including debt outstanding, and believes it will not be material as the 
Company does not have significant exposure to LIBOR in either its debt or other financing arrangements. The Company 
will continue to monitor its exposure in subsequent periods.

Commodity Price Risk

The Company is exposed to price volatility related to raw materials used in production, such as essential oils, resins, 

tropical oils, pulp, tallow, corn, poultry and soybeans. The Company manages its raw material exposures through a 
combination of cost containment measures, ongoing productivity initiatives and the limited use of commodity hedging 
contracts. Futures contracts are used on a limited basis, primarily in the Hill’s Pet Nutrition segment, to manage volatility 
related to anticipated raw material inventory purchases of certain traded commodities.

The Company’s open commodity derivative contracts that qualify for cash flow hedge accounting resulted in a net 
unrealized gain of $2 and $3 at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. At the end of 2021, an unfavorable 10% change 
in commodity futures prices would have resulted in a net unrealized loss of $1.

Credit Risk

The Company is exposed to the risk of credit loss in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to financial 
instrument contracts; however, nonperformance is considered unlikely and any nonperformance is unlikely to be material 
as it is the Company’s policy to contract with diverse, credit-worthy counterparties based upon both strong credit ratings 
and other credit considerations. 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In November 2021, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update 
(“ASU”) No. 2021-10, “Government Assistance (Topic 832).” This ASU requires increased disclosure on an annual basis 
about transactions with domestic, foreign, local, regional and national governments, including entities related to those 
governments and intergovernmental organizations, that are accounted for by applying a grant or contribution accounting 
model by analogy to other accounting guidance. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning on January 1, 2022 
and is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.

In October 2021, the FASB issued ASU No. 2021-08, “Business Combinations (Topic 805): Accounting for Contract 
Assets and Contract Liabilities from Contracts with Customers.” This ASU requires contract assets and contract liabilities 
acquired in a business combination to be recognized and measured by the acquirer on the acquisition date in accordance 
with ASU No. 2016-10, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606).” This guidance is effective for the 
Company beginning on January 1, 2023 and is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s Consolidated 
Financial Statements.

In January 2021, the FASB issued ASU No. 2021-01, “Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Scope.” This ASU 

clarifies that certain optional expedients and exceptions in Topic 848 apply to derivatives that are affected by the 
discounting transition. This guidance was effective upon issuance for the Company and is not expected to have a material 
impact on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.

51

 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

In October 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-10, “Codification Improvements.” This ASU improves the 
consistency of the codification topics by including all disclosure guidance in the appropriate disclosure section and also 
clarifies the application of various provisions in the codification. This guidance was effective for the Company beginning 
on January 1, 2021 and did not have a material impact on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.

In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-04, “Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects 

of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting.” The ASU provides optional expedients and exceptions for applying 
generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) to contracts, hedging relationships and other transactions that reference 
LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued because of reference rate reform. This guidance was effective 
upon issuance of this ASU for contract modifications and hedging relationships on a prospective basis and is not expected 
to have a material impact on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.

In January 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-01, “Investments-Equity Securities (Topic 321), Investments-Equity 

Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815)-Clarifying the Interactions between 
Topic 321, Topic 323, and Topic 815.” The guidance provides clarification of the interaction of rules for equity securities, 
the equity method of accounting and forward contracts and purchase options on certain types of securities. This guidance 
was effective for the Company beginning on January 1, 2021 and did not have a material impact on the Company’s 
Consolidated Financial Statements.

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-12, “Income taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for 

Income Taxes.” This ASU simplifies the accounting for income taxes by removing certain exceptions to the general 
principles in ASC 740 and also clarifies and amends existing guidance to improve consistent application. This guidance 
was effective for the Company beginning on January 1, 2021 and did not have a material impact on the Company’s 
Consolidated Financial Statements.

Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United 
States of America requires management to use judgment and make estimates. The level of uncertainty in estimates and 
assumptions increases with the length of time until the underlying transactions are completed. Actual results could 
ultimately differ from those estimates. The accounting policies that are most critical in the preparation of the Company’s 
Consolidated Financial Statements are those that are both important to the presentation of the Consolidated Financial 
Statements and require significant or complex judgments and estimates on the part of management. The Company’s critical 
accounting policies are reviewed periodically with the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.

In certain instances, accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America allow for the selection of 

alternative accounting methods. The Company’s significant policies that involve the selection of alternative methods are 
accounting for inventories and shipping and handling costs.

▪

▪

The Company accounts for inventories using both the first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) method (75% of inventories) and 
the last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) method (25% of inventories). There would have been no material impact on 
reported earnings for 2021 or 2020 had all inventories been accounted for under the FIFO method.

Shipping and handling costs may be reported as either a component of Cost of sales or Selling, general and 
administrative expenses. The Company accounts for such costs, primarily related to warehousing and outbound 
freight, as fulfillment costs and reports them in the Consolidated Statements of Income as a component of Selling, 
general and administrative expenses. Accordingly, the Company’s Gross profit margin is not comparable with the 
gross profit margin of those companies that include shipping and handling charges in cost of sales. If such costs 
had been included as a component of Cost of sales, the Company’s Gross profit margin would have been lower by 
968 bps in 2021, by 845 bps in 2020, and 810 bps in 2019, with no impact on reported earnings.

The areas of accounting that involve significant or complex judgments and estimates are pensions and other retiree 
benefit cost assumptions, stock-based compensation, asset impairments, uncertain tax positions, tax valuation allowances, 
legal and other contingency reserves.

52

 
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

▪

▪

▪

▪

In accounting for pension and other postretirement benefit costs, the most significant actuarial assumptions are the 
discount rate and the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets. The discount rate used to measure the 
benefit obligation for U.S. defined benefit plans was 2.98% and 2.65% as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, 
respectively. The discount rate used to measure the benefit obligation for other U.S. postretirement plans was 
3.06%, and 2.88% as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Discount rates used for the U.S. and 
international defined benefit and other postretirement plans are based on a yield curve constructed from a portfolio 
of high-quality bonds whose projected cash flows approximate the projected benefit payments of the plans. The 
assumed expected long-term rate of return on plan assets for U.S. plans was 5.70% as of December 31, 2021 and 
2020. In determining the expected long-term rate of return, the Company considers the nature of the plans’ 
investments and the historical rate of return.

Average annual rates of return for the U.S. plans for the most recent 1-year, 5-year, 10-year, 15-year and 25-year 
periods were 3%, 8%, 8%, 6% and 7%, respectively. In addition, the current assumed rate of return for the U.S. 
plans is based upon the nature of the plans’ investments with a target asset allocation of approximately 76% in 
fixed income securities, 21% in equity securities and 3% in real estate and other investments. A 1% change in the 
assumed rate of return on plan assets of the U.S. pension plans would impact future Net income attributable to 
Colgate-Palmolive Company by approximately $18. A 1% change in the discount rate for the U.S. pension plans 
and U.S. other retiree benefit plan would impact future Net income attributable to Colgate-Palmolive Company by 
approximately $2 and $10, respectively. A third assumption is the long-term rate of compensation increase, a 
change in which would partially offset the impact of a change in either the discount rate or the expected long-term 
rate of return. This rate was 3.50% as of December 31, 2021, and 2020. Refer to Note 10, Retirement Plans and 
Other Retiree Benefits to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of the Company’s pension 
and other postretirement plans.

The assumption requiring the most judgment in accounting for other postretirement benefits (other than the 
discount rate noted above) is the medical cost trend rate. The Company reviews external data and its own 
historical trends for health care costs to determine the medical cost trend rate. The assumed rate of increase for the 
U.S. postretirement benefit plans is 6.00% for 2022, declining to 4.75% by 2026 and remaining at 4.75% for the 
years thereafter. The effect on the total of service cost and interest costs components of a 1% increase in the 
assumed long-term medical cost trend rate would decrease Net income attributable to Colgate-Palmolive 
Company by $11.

The Company recognizes the cost of employee services received in exchange for awards of equity instruments, 
such as stock options and restricted stock units (both performance-based and time-vested), based on the fair value 
of those awards at the date of grant. The Company uses the Black-Scholes-Merton (“Black-Scholes”) option 
pricing model to estimate the fair value of stock option awards. The weighted-average estimated fair value of each 
stock option award granted in the year ended December 31, 2021 was $11.11. The Black-Scholes model uses 
various assumptions to estimate the fair value of stock option awards. These assumptions include the expected 
term of stock option awards, expected volatility rate, risk-free interest rate and expected dividend yield. While 
these assumptions do not require significant judgment, as the significant inputs are determined from historical 
experience or independent third-party sources, changes in these inputs could result in significant changes in the 
fair value of stock option awards. A one-year change in expected term would result in a change in fair value of 
approximately 4%. A 1% change in volatility would change fair value by approximately 6%. The Company uses a 
Monte-Carlo simulation to determine the fair value of performance-based restricted stock units at the date of 
grant. The Monte-Carlo simulation model uses substantially the same inputs as the Black-Scholes model.

Goodwill and indefinite-life intangible assets, such as the Company’s global brands, are subject to impairment 
tests at least annually or when events or changes in circumstances indicate an asset may be impaired. In assessing 
impairment, the Company performs either a quantitative or a qualitative analysis.

53

(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Determining the fair value of the Company’s reporting units for goodwill and the fair value of its intangible assets 
requires significant estimates and judgments by management. When a quantitative analysis is performed, the 
Company generally uses the income approach, which requires several estimates, including future cash flows 
consistent with management’s strategic plans, sales growth rates, foreign exchange rates and the selection of 
royalty rates and a discount rate. Estimating sales growth rates requires significant judgment by management in 
areas such as future economic conditions, category growth rates, product pricing, consumer tastes and preferences 
and future expansion expectations. In selecting an appropriate royalty rate, the Company considers recent market 
transactions for similar brands and products. In determining an appropriate discount rate, the Company considers 
the current interest rate environment and its estimated cost of capital. Other qualitative factors the Company 
considers, in addition to those quantitative measures discussed above, include assessments of general 
macroeconomic conditions, industry-specific considerations and historical financial performance. The Company 
generally engages a third-party valuation firm to assist it in determining the fair value of intangible assets acquired 
in business combinations.

In determining the fair value of the Company’s reporting units, fair value is also determined using the market 
approach, which is generally derived from metrics of comparable publicly traded companies. As multiple 
valuation methodologies are used, the Company also performs a qualitative analysis comparing the fair value of a 
reporting unit under each method to assess its reasonableness and ensure consistency of results.

Determining the expected life of a brand requires management judgment and is based on an evaluation of several 
factors including market share, brand history, future expansion expectations, the level of in-market support 
anticipated by management, legal or regulatory restrictions and the economic environment in the countries in 
which the brand is sold. 

The Company made revisions to the internal forecasts relating to its Filorga reporting unit during the fourth 
quarter of 2021 due primarily to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Filorga skin health business as a 
result of government restrictions and reduced consumer mobility, which negatively impacted consumption in the 
duty-free, travel retail and pharmacy channels. The Company concluded that the changes in circumstances in this 
reporting unit triggered the need for an interim impairment review of its indefinite-lived trademark and goodwill 
and, accordingly, performed an interim impairment test for the trademark as of December 31, 2021. The Company 
concluded that the carrying value of the trademark exceeded its estimated fair value, and recorded an impairment 
charge of  $204, reducing the carrying value to approximately $588. After adjusting the carrying value of the 
trademark, the Company completed a quantitative impairment test for goodwill and recorded a goodwill 
impairment charge of  $367 in the Filorga reporting unit, reducing the carrying value of goodwill to approximately 
$577. 

Except for the Filorga skin health business, as described above, the estimated fair value of the Company’s 
reporting units substantially exceeds the recorded carrying value. The fair value of the Company’s indefinite-life 
intangible assets other than Filorga exceeds their recorded carrying value by at least 20%. Therefore, it is not 
reasonably likely that significant changes in these estimates would occur that would result in an impairment 
charge related to these assets.

▪

▪

The recognition and measurement of uncertain tax positions involves consideration of the amounts and 
probabilities of various outcomes that could be realized upon ultimate resolution.

Tax valuation allowances are established to reduce deferred tax assets, such as tax loss carryforwards, to net 
realizable value. Factors considered in estimating net realizable value include historical results by tax jurisdiction, 
carryforward periods, income tax strategies and forecasted taxable income.

54

(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

▪

Legal and other contingency reserves are based on management’s assessment of the risk of potential loss, which 
includes consultation with outside legal counsel and other advisors. Such assessments are reviewed each period 
and revised based on current facts and circumstances, if necessary. While it is possible that the Company’s cash 
flows and results of operations in a particular quarter or year could be materially affected by the impact of such 
contingencies, based on current knowledge it is the opinion of management that these matters will not have a 
material effect on the Company’s financial position, or its ongoing results of operations or cash flows. Refer to 
Note 13, Commitments and Contingencies to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of the 
Company’s contingencies.

The Company generates revenue through the sale of well-known consumer products to trade customers under 
established trading terms. While the recognition of revenue and receivables requires the use of estimates, there is a short 
time frame (typically less than 60 days) between the shipment of product and cash receipt, thereby reducing the level of 
uncertainty in these estimates. Refer to Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to the Consolidated Financial 
Statements for further description of the Company’s significant accounting policies.

55

(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Statements

This Annual Report on Form 10-K may contain forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private 
Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 or by the SEC in its rules, regulations and releases that set forth anticipated 
results based on management’s current plans and assumptions. Such statements may relate, for example, to sales or volume 
growth, net selling price increases, organic sales growth, profit or profit margin levels, earnings per share levels, financial 
goals, the impact of foreign exchange volatility, the impact of COVID-19, cost-reduction plans (including the 2022 Global 
Productivity Initiative), tax rates, new product introductions, commercial investment levels, acquisitions, divestitures, share 
repurchases, or legal or tax proceedings, among other matters. These statements are made on the basis of the Company’s 
views and assumptions as of this time and the Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements whether as a 
result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law or by the rules and regulations of the SEC. 
Moreover, the Company does not, nor does any other person, assume responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of 
those statements. The Company cautions investors that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future 
performance and that actual events or results may differ materially from those statements. Actual events or results may 
differ materially because of factors that affect international businesses and global economic conditions, as well as matters 
specific to the Company and the markets it serves, including the uncertain economic and political environment in different 
countries and its effect on consumer spending habits, foreign currency rate fluctuations, exchange controls, sanctions, 
tariffs, price or profit controls, labor relations, changes in foreign or domestic laws, or regulations or their interpretation, 
political and fiscal developments, including changes in trade, tax and immigration policies, increased competition and 
evolving competitive practices (including from the growth of eCommerce and the entry of new competitors and business 
models), the ability to operate and respond effectively during a pandemic, epidemic or widespread public health concern, 
including COVID-19, ability to manage disruptions in our global supply chain and/or key office facilities, ability to 
manage the availability and cost of raw and packaging materials and logistics costs, the ability to maintain or increase 
selling prices as needed, changes in the policies of retail trade customers, the emergence of alternative retail channels, the 
growth of eCommerce and the rapidly changing retail landscape (as consumers increasingly shop online and via mobile and 
social applications), the ability to develop innovative new products, the ability to lower costs, successfully implement the 
2022 Global Productivity Initiative and drive growth and instill a growth mindset to drive innovation, the ability to 
maintain the security of our information technology systems from a cyber-security incident or data breach, the ability to 
lessen and address the effects of climate change and achieve our sustainability and social impact targets, the ability to 
complete acquisitions and divestitures as planned, the ability to successfully integrate acquired businesses, the ability to 
attract and retain key employees and integrate DE&I initiatives across our organization, the uncertainty of the outcome of 
legal proceedings, whether or not the Company believes they have merit, and the ability to address uncertain or unfavorable 
global economic conditions, disruptions in the credit markets and tax matters. For information about these and other factors 
that could impact the Company’s business and cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements, 
refer to Part I, Item 1A “Risk Factors.”

ITEM 7A.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

See “Managing Foreign Currency, Interest Rate, Commodity Price and Credit Risk Exposure” in Part II, Item 7.

56

ITEM 8. 

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

See “Index to Financial Statements.”

ITEM 9. 

CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND 
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None.

ITEM 9A.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

The Company’s management, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s Chairman of the 
Board, President and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of 
the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2021 (the 
“Evaluation”). Based upon the Evaluation, the Company’s Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer 
and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) 
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) are effective.

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The Company’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial 

reporting, as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Management, under the 
supervision and with the participation of the Company’s Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer and 
Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based upon the 
framework in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the 
Treadway Commission and concluded that it was effective as of December 31, 2021. 

The Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, has audited the 
effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2021, and has expressed an 
unqualified opinion in their report, which appears under “Index to Financial Statements – Report of Independent 
Registered Public Accounting Firm.”

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The Company is in the process of upgrading its enterprise IT system to SAP S/4 HANA. This change has not had and 

is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting. 

Except as noted above, there were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred 
during the Company’s most recent fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, 
the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. 

ITEM 9B.  OTHER INFORMATION

None.

ITEM 9C.     Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections

Not applicable.

57

ITEM 10.  DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

See “Information about our Executive Officers” in Part I, Item 1 of this report.

PART III

Additional information required by this Item relating to directors, executive officers and corporate governance of the 

Company is incorporated herein by reference to the Company’s Proxy Statement for its 2022 Annual Meeting of 
Stockholders (the “2022 Proxy Statement”).

Code of Ethics

The Company’s Code of Conduct promotes the highest ethical standards in all of the Company’s business dealings. 
The Code of Conduct satisfies the SEC’s requirements for a Code of Ethics for senior financial officers and applies to all 
Company employees, including the Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial 
Officer and the Vice President and Controller, and the Company’s directors. The Code of Conduct is available on the 
Company’s website at www.colgatepalmolive.com. Any amendment to the Code of Conduct will promptly be posted on 
the Company’s website. It is the Company’s policy not to grant waivers of the Code of Conduct. In the extremely unlikely 
event that the Company grants an executive officer a waiver from a provision of the Code of Conduct, the Company will 
promptly disclose such information by posting it on its website or by using other appropriate means in accordance with 
SEC rules.

ITEM 11.  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information regarding executive compensation set forth in the 2022 Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by 

reference.

58

ITEM 12.  SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND 

RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

(a) The information regarding security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management set forth in the 2022 

Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

(b) The Registrant does not know of any arrangements that may at a subsequent date result in a change in control of 

the Registrant.

(c) Equity compensation plan information as of December 31, 2021:

(a)

(b)

Number of securities to 
be issued upon 
exercise of outstanding 
options, warrants and 
rights
(in thousands)

Weighted-average 
exercise price of 
outstanding options, 
warrants and rights

(c)
Number of securities 
remaining available for 
future issuance under 
equity compensation 
plans (excluding 
securities reflected in 
column (a))
(in thousands)

28,011  (1) $ 

72.27  (2)

37,028  (3)

Not applicable  
28,011   

$ 

Not applicable  
72.27   

Not applicable  
37,028   

Plan Category

Equity compensation plans 

approved by security holders
Equity compensation plans not 
approved by security holders

Total

_______
(1)

Consists of 26,095 options outstanding and 1,916 restricted stock units awarded but not yet vested under the Company’s 2013 
Incentive Compensation Plan and the Company’s 2019 Incentive Compensation Plan, respectively, as more fully described in 
Note 8, Capital Stock and Stock-Based Compensation Plans to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

(2)

(3)

Includes the weighted-average exercise price of stock options outstanding of $72 and restricted stock units of $76.

Amount includes 26,038 options available for issuance and 10,990 restricted stock units available for issuance under the 
Company’s 2019 Incentive Compensation Plan.

ITEM 13.  CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS AND DIRECTOR 

INDEPENDENCE

The information regarding certain relationships and related transactions and director independence set forth in the 2022 

Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 14.  PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

The information regarding auditor fees and services set forth in the 2022 Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by 

reference.

59

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 15.  EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a) Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedules

PART IV

See “Index to Financial Statements.”

(b) Exhibits:

60

 
 
Exhibit No.

Description

3-A

3-B

4

a)

b)

c)

Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended. (Registrant hereby incorporates by reference Exhibit 3-
A to its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2008, File No. 1-644.)

Colgate-Palmolive Company By-laws, Amended and Restated as of December 9, 2021. (Registrant 
hereby incorporates by reference Exhibit 3.01 to its Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 9, 
2021, File No. 1-644.)

Description of Securities of the Registrant**

Indenture, dated as of November 15, 1992, between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon 
(formerly known as The Bank of New York) as Trustee. (Registrant hereby incorporates by reference 
Exhibit 4.1 to its Registration Statement on Form S-3 and Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 filed on June 
26, 1992, Registration No. 33-48840.)(1)  

Colgate-Palmolive Company Employee Stock Ownership Trust Agreement dated as of June 1, 1989, as 
amended. (Registrant hereby incorporates by reference Exhibit 4-B (b) to its Quarterly Report on Form 
10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2000, File No. 1-644.)

10-A a)

Colgate-Palmolive 2019 Incentive Compensation Plan. (Registrant hereby incorporates by reference 
Annex C to its 2019 Notice of Annual Meeting and Proxy Statement, File No. 1-644.)*

b)

c)

d)

Form of Nonqualified Option Award Agreement used in connection with grants under the Colgate-
Palmolive Company 2019 Incentive Compensation Plan. (Registrant hereby incorporates by reference 
Exhibit 10-C to its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2019, File No. 
1-644.)*

Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement used in connection with grants under the Colgate-
Palmolive Company 2019 Incentive Compensation Plan. (Registrant hereby incorporates by reference 
Exhibit 10-D to its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2019, File No. 
1-644.)*

Form of Performance Stock Unit Award Agreement for the 2020-2022 Performance Cycle (Registrant 
hereby incorporates by reference Exhibit 10-A to its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended 
March 31, 2020, File No. 1-644.)*

10-B a)

Colgate-Palmolive Company 2013 Incentive Compensation Plan. (Registrant hereby incorporates by 
reference Annex B to its 2013 Notice of Annual Meeting and Proxy Statement, File No. 1-644.)*

b)

c)

d)

Form of Nonqualified Option Award Agreement used in connection with grants under the 2013 Incentive 
Compensation Plan. (Registrant hereby incorporates by reference Exhibit 10-A (b) to its Annual Report 
on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, File No. 1-644.)*

Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement used in connection with grants under the 2013 Incentive 
Compensation Plan. (Registrant hereby incorporates by reference Exhibit 10-A (c) to its Annual Report on 
Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, File No. 1-644.)*

Form of Performance Stock Unit Award Agreement for the 2019-2021 Performance Cycle. (Registrant 
hereby incorporates by reference Exhibit 99 to its Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 20, 2019, 
File No. 1-644.)*

10-C a)

Colgate-Palmolive Company Executive Incentive Compensation Plan Trust, as amended. (Registrant 
hereby incorporates by reference Exhibit 10-B (b) to its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended 
December 31, 1987, File No. 1-644.)*

b)

Amendment, dated as of October 29, 2007, to the Colgate-Palmolive Company Executive Incentive 
Compensation Plan Trust. (Registrant hereby incorporates by reference Exhibit 10-A (b) to its Quarterly 
Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2007, File No. 1-644.)*

10-D

Colgate-Palmolive Company Supplemental Salaried Employees’ Retirement Plan, amended and restated, 
effective as of January 1, 2021.* **

61

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
10-E

a)

Colgate-Palmolive Company Executive Severance Plan, as amended and restated through September 13, 
2018. (Registrant hereby incorporates by reference Exhibit 10-A to its Current Report on Form 8-K filed 
on September 18, 2018, File No. 1-644.)*

b)

Colgate-Palmolive Company Executive Severance Plan Trust. (Registrant hereby incorporates by 
reference Exhibit 10-E (b) to its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1987, File 
No. 1-644.)*

10-F

10-G a)

Colgate-Palmolive Company Pension Plan for Outside Directors, as amended and restated. (Registrant 
hereby incorporates by reference Exhibit 10-D to its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended 
December 31, 1999, File No. 1-644.)*

Colgate-Palmolive Company Restated and Amended Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee 
Directors, as amended. (Registrant hereby incorporates by reference Exhibit 10-H to its Annual Report on 
Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1997, File No. 1-644.)*

b)

Amendment, effective as of January 1, 2005, to the Colgate-Palmolive Company Restated and Amended 
Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors. (Registrant hereby incorporates by reference 
Exhibit 10-F to its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2007, File No. 
1-644.)*

10-H  

Colgate-Palmolive Company Deferred Compensation Plan, amended and restated, effective as of October 
28, 2021. (Registrant hereby incorporates by reference Exhibit 10-B to its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q 
for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, File No. 1-644.)*

10-I

10-J

10-K

10-L

21

23

24

31-A  

31-B  

32

101

Colgate-Palmolive Company Above and Beyond Plan – Officer Level. (Registrant hereby incorporates by 
reference Exhibit 10-A to its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2004, 
File No. 1-644.)*

Five Year Credit Agreement, dated as of August 20, 2021, by and among Colgate-Palmolive Company, as 
Borrower, Citibank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and Arranger, and the Lenders party thereto.
(Registrant hereby incorporates by reference Exhibit 10-A to its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the 
quarter ended September 30, 2021, File No. 1-644.) 

Colgate-Palmolive Company Supplemental Savings and Investment Plan, amended and restated, effective 
as of January 1, 2021.* **

Form of Indemnification Agreement between Colgate-Palmolive Company and its directors, executive 
officers and certain key employees. (Registrant hereby incorporates by reference Exhibit 10-K to its 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, File No. 1-644.)

Subsidiaries of the Registrant.**

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.**

Powers of Attorney.**

Certificate of the Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of Colgate-Palmolive 
Company pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.**

Certificate of the Chief Financial Officer of Colgate-Palmolive Company pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) 
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.**

Certificate of the Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial 
Officer of Colgate-Palmolive Company pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 
1934 and 18 U.S.C. § 1350.***

The following materials from Colgate-Palmolive Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year 
ended December 31, 2021, formatted in Inline eXtensible Business Reporting Language (Inline XBRL): 
(i) the Consolidated Statements of Income, (ii) the Consolidated Balance Sheets, (iii) the Consolidated 
Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity, (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive 
Income, (v) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, (vi) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, 
and (vii) Financial Statement Schedule.**

104

Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101).**

62

 
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
__________
* 

Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.

**  Filed herewith.

*** Furnished herewith.

(1)  Registrant hereby undertakes to furnish the Commission, upon request, with a copy of any instrument with respect to 
long-term debt where the total amount of securities authorized thereunder does not exceed 10% of the total assets of 
the Registrant and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.

The exhibits indicated above that are not included with the Form 10-K are available upon request and payment of a 
reasonable fee approximating the registrant’s cost of providing and mailing the exhibits. Inquiries should be directed to:

Colgate-Palmolive Company
Office of the Secretary (10-K Exhibits)
300 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10022-7499

63

ITEM 16.  FORM 10-K SUMMARY

None.

64

 COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY
SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly 

caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

Colgate-Palmolive Company
            (Registrant)

Date: February 17, 2022

By

/s/ Noel R. Wallace
Noel R. Wallace 
Chairman of the Board, President and
Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below on 

February 17, 2022, by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated.

(a)           Principal Executive Officer

  (d)           Directors:

/s/ Noel R. Wallace
Noel R. Wallace 
Chairman of the Board, President and
Chief Executive Officer

/s/ Noel R. Wallace
Noel R. Wallace

(b)           Principal Financial Officer

  John P. Bilbrey, John T. Cahill, 

Lisa M. Edwards, C. Martin Harris, 
Martina Hund-Mejean, Kimberly A. Nelson,
Lorrie M. Norrington, Michael B. Polk, 
Stephen I. Sadove*

/s/ Stanley J. Sutula III
Stanley J. Sutula III
Chief Financial Officer

*By: /s/ Jennifer M. Daniels
Jennifer M. Daniels
As Attorney-in-Fact

(c)           Principal Accounting Officer

/s/ Philip G. Shotts
Philip G. Shotts
Vice President and Controller

65

  
  
  
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
  
   
 
 
Index to Financial Statements

Consolidated Financial Statements

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (PCAOB ID 238)

Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2021 and 2020

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 
2019

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Financial Statement Schedule

Page

67

70

71

72

73

74

75

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019

122

Selected Financial Data

Market Information

123

All other financial statements and schedules not listed have been omitted since the required information is included in 

the financial statements or the notes thereto or is not applicable or required.

66

  
 
  
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
  
 
     Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Colgate-Palmolive Company

Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting

We  have  audited  the  consolidated  financial  statements,  including  the  related  notes  and  financial  statement 
schedule, of Colgate-Palmolive Company and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) as listed in the accompanying index 
(collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). We also have audited the Company's internal 
control  over  financial  reporting  as  of  December  31,  2021,  based  on  criteria  established  in  Internal  Control  - 
Integrated  Framework  (2013)  issued  by  the  Committee  of  Sponsoring  Organizations  of  the  Treadway 
Commission (COSO).

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the 
financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, and the results of its operations and its cash 
flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2021 in conformity with accounting principles 
generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material 
respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2021, based on criteria established 
in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the COSO.

Basis for Opinions

The Company's management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective 
internal  control  over  financial  reporting,  and  for  its  assessment  of  the  effectiveness  of  internal  control  over 
financial  reporting,  included  in  Management’s  Annual  Report  on  Internal  Control  Over  Financial  Reporting 
appearing  under  Item  9A.  Our  responsibility  is  to  express  opinions  on  the  Company’s  consolidated  financial 
statements and on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audits. We are a public 
accounting  firm  registered  with  the  Public  Company  Accounting  Oversight  Board  (United  States)  (PCAOB)  and 
are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws 
and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan 
and  perform  the  audits  to  obtain  reasonable  assurance  about  whether  the  consolidated  financial  statements  are 
free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial 
reporting was maintained in all material respects.

Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material 
misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures 
that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts 
and  disclosures  in  the  consolidated  financial  statements.  Our  audits  also  included  evaluating  the  accounting 
principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of 
the consolidated financial statements. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an 
understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and 
testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our 
audits  also  included  performing  such  other  procedures  as  we  considered  necessary  in  the  circumstances.  We 
believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting

A  company’s  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  is  a  process  designed  to  provide  reasonable  assurance 
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in 
accordance  with  generally  accepted  accounting  principles.  A  company’s  internal  control  over  financial  reporting 
includes  those  policies  and  procedures  that  (i)  pertain  to  the  maintenance  of  records  that,  in  reasonable  detail, 
accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable 
assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance 
with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made 
only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable 
assurance  regarding  prevention  or  timely  detection  of  unauthorized  acquisition,  use,  or  disposition  of  the 
company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements. 

67

Because  of  its  inherent  limitations,  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  may  not  prevent  or  detect 
misstatements.  Also,  projections  of  any  evaluation  of  effectiveness  to  future  periods  are  subject  to  the  risk  that 
controls  may  become  inadequate  because  of  changes  in  conditions,  or  that  the  degree  of  compliance  with  the 
policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Critical Audit Matters 

The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated 
financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (i) 
relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (ii) involved our 
especially  challenging,  subjective,  or  complex  judgments.  The  communication  of  critical  audit  matters  does  not 
alter  in  any  way  our  opinion  on  the  consolidated  financial  statements,  taken  as  a  whole,  and  we  are  not,  by 
communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the 
accounts or disclosures to which it relates.

Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Asset Impairment Assessments - Filorga
As  described  in  Notes  2  and  5  to  the  consolidated  financial  statements,  the  Company’s  consolidated  balance  of 
goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets was $3.3 billion and $1.6 billion, respectively, as of December 31, 
2021.  Goodwill  and  indefinite-lived  intangible  assets  are  subject  to  impairment  tests  at  least  annually  or  when 
events  or  changes  in  circumstances  indicate  that  an  asset  may  be  impaired.  Given  the  impact  of  the  COVID-19 
pandemic on the Filorga skin health business, during the fourth quarter of 2021, the Company concluded that the 
changes  in  circumstances  in  this  reporting  unit  triggered  the  need  for  an  interim  impairment  review  of  its 
indefinite-lived trademark and goodwill. Accordingly, the Company performed an interim impairment test for the 
trademark as of December 31, 2021. The Company concluded that the carrying value of the trademark exceeded its 
estimated  fair  value,  and  recorded  an  impairment  charge  of  $204  million,  reducing  the  carrying  value  to 
approximately  $588  million.  After  adjusting  the  carrying  value  of  the  trademark,  the  Company  completed  a 
quantitative  impairment  test  for  goodwill  and  recorded  a  goodwill  impairment  charge  of  $367  million  in  the 
Filorga reporting unit, reducing the carrying value of goodwill to approximately $577 million. The fair value of the 
Filorga  reporting  unit  and  indefinite-lived  trademark  were  determined  using  an  income  approach.  This  method 
incorporates significant judgments and estimates by management regarding several key inputs, including future 
cash flows, sales growth rates, discount rate, and the selection of royalty rates, among others.  

The  principal  considerations  for  our  determination  that  performing  procedures  relating  to  the  goodwill  and 
indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment assessments of Filorga is a critical audit matter are (i) the significant 
judgment  by  management  when  developing  the  fair  value  of  the  reporting  unit  and  indefinite-lived  intangible 
asset;  (ii)  a  high  degree  of  auditor  judgment,  subjectivity,  and  effort  in  performing  procedures  and  evaluating 
management’s  significant  assumptions  related  to  the  sales  growth  rates  and  discount  rate  for  the  goodwill  and 
indefinite-lived  intangible  asset,  and  the  royalty  rate  for  the  indefinite-lived  intangible  asset;  and  (iii)  the  audit 
effort involved the use of professionals with specialized skill and knowledge.

Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming 
our overall opinion on the consolidated financial statements. These procedures included testing the effectiveness 
of  controls  relating  to  management’s  goodwill  and  indefinite-lived  intangible  asset  impairment  assessments, 
including  controls  over  the  valuation  of  the  Filorga  reporting  unit  and  indefinite-lived  intangible  asset.  These 
procedures  also  included,  among  others  (i)  testing  management’s  process  for  developing  the  fair  value  of  the 
reporting  unit  and  indefinite-lived  intangible  asset;  (ii)  evaluating  the  appropriateness  of  the  income  approach; 
(iii) testing the completeness and accuracy of underlying data used in the income approach; and (iv) evaluating 
the reasonableness of significant assumptions used by management related to the sales growth rates and discount 
rate for the goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset, and the royalty rate for the indefinite-lived intangible 
asset. Evaluating management’s significant assumptions related to the sales growth rates and discount rate for the 
goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset and the royalty rate for the indefinite-lived intangible asset involved 
evaluating whether the significant assumptions used by management were reasonable considering (i) the current 
and past performance of the reporting unit; (ii) the consistency with external market and industry data, and (iii) 
whether these assumptions were consistent with evidence obtained in other areas of the audit. Professionals with 
specialized skill and knowledge were used to assist in evaluating the appropriateness of the income approach and 
the reasonableness of the discount rate and royalty rate significant assumptions.

68

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

New York, New York
February 17, 2022
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2002.

69

COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

Consolidated Statements of Income

For the years ended December 31,

(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)

Net sales

Cost of sales

Gross profit

Selling, general and administrative expenses

Other (income) expense, net

Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible impairment charges

Operating profit

Non-service related postretirement costs

Interest (income) expense, net

Income before income taxes

Provision for income taxes

Net income including noncontrolling interests

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

Net income attributable to Colgate-Palmolive Company

Earnings per common share, basic

Earnings per common share, diluted

2021

2020

2019

$ 

17,421  $ 

16,471  $ 

15,693 

7,046 

10,375 

6,407 

65 

571 

3,332 

70 

175 

3,087 

749 

2,338 

172 

6,454 

10,017 

6,019 

113 

— 

3,885 

74 

164 

3,647 

787 

2,860 

165 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2,166  $ 

2,695  $ 

2.56  $ 

2.55  $ 

3.15  $ 

3.14  $ 

6,368 

9,325 

5,575 

196 

— 

3,554 

108 

145 

3,301 

774 

2,527 

160 

2,367 

2.76 

2.75 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

70

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

For the years ended December 31,

 (Dollars in Millions)

Net income including noncontrolling interests

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:

     Cumulative translation adjustments

     Retirement plan and other retiree benefit adjustments

     Gains (losses) on cash flow hedges

Total Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax

Total Comprehensive income including noncontrolling interests

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
Less: Cumulative translation adjustments attributable to 
noncontrolling interests

Total Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests
Total Comprehensive income attributable to Colgate-Palmolive 
Company

2021

2020

2019

$ 

2,338  $ 

2,860  $ 

2,527 

(193)   

134 

16 

(43)   

2,295 

172 

(2)   

170 

(24)   

(40)   

(2)   

(66)   

2,794 

165 

6 

171 

25 

(100) 

(12) 

(87) 

2,440 

160 

(2) 

158 

$ 

2,125  $ 

2,623  $ 

2,282 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

71

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Consolidated Balance Sheets

As of December 31,

 (Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Assets

Current Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Receivables (net of allowances of $78 and $89, respectively)

Inventories

Other current assets

Total current assets

Property, plant and equipment, net

Goodwill

Other intangible assets, net

Deferred income taxes

Other assets

Total assets

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

Current Liabilities

Notes and loans payable

Current portion of long-term debt

Accounts payable

Accrued income taxes

Other accruals

Total current liabilities

Long-term debt

Deferred income taxes

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

Commitments and contingent liabilities

Shareholders’ Equity

Common stock, $1 par value (2,000,000,000 shares authorized, 1,465,706,360 shares issued)

Additional paid-in capital

Retained earnings

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

Unearned compensation

Treasury stock, at cost

Total Colgate-Palmolive Company shareholders’ equity

Noncontrolling interests

Total equity

Total liabilities and equity

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

72

2021

2020

$ 

832  $ 

1,297 

1,692 

576 

4,397 

3,730 

3,284 

2,462 

193 

974 

888 

1,264 

1,673 

513 

4,338 

3,716 

3,824 

2,894 

291 

857 

$ 

15,040  $ 

15,920 

$ 

39  $ 

12 

1,479 

436 

2,085 

4,051 

7,194 

395 

2,429 
14,069 
— 

1,466 

3,269 

24,350 

(4,386) 

(1) 

258 

9 

1,393 

403 

2,341 

4,404 

7,334 

426 

2,655 
14,819 
— 

1,466 

2,969 

23,699 

(4,345) 

(1) 

(24,089) 

(23,045) 

609 

362 

971 

$ 

15,040  $ 

743 

358 

1,101 

15,920 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity

(Dollars in Millions)

Colgate-Palmolive Company Shareholders’ Equity

Common 
Stock

Additional 
Paid-In 
Capital

Unearned 
Compensation

Treasury 
Stock

Retained 
Earnings

Accumulated 
Other 
Comprehensive 
Income (Loss)

Noncontrolling 
Interests

Balance, January 1, 2019

$ 

1,466  $ 

2,204  $ 

(3)  $  (21,196)  $  21,615  $ 

(4,188) 

$ 

Net income

Other comprehensive income (loss), net 
of tax

Dividends ($1.71)/per share*

Stock-based compensation expense

Shares issued for stock options

Shares issued for restricted stock awards

Noncontrolling interests assumed 
through acquisition

Treasury stock acquired

Other

2,367 

(1,472) 

(85) 

100 

210 

(29) 

305 

29 

(1,202) 

3 

1 

1 

(9) 

Balance, December 31, 2019

$ 

1,466  $ 

2,488  $ 

(2)  $  (22,063)  $  22,501  $ 

(4,273) 

$ 

Net income

Other comprehensive income (loss), net 
of tax

Dividends ($1.75)/per share*

Stock-based compensation expense

Shares issued for stock options

Shares issued for restricted stock awards

Noncontrolling interests acquired

Treasury stock acquired

Other

2,695 

(1,502) 

(72) 

107 

400 

(31) 

462 

31 

(1,476) 

5 

1 

1 

5 

Balance, December 31, 2020

$ 

1,466  $ 

2,969  $ 

(1)  $  (23,045)  $  23,699  $ 

(4,345) 

$ 

Net income

Other comprehensive income (loss), net 
of tax

Dividends ($1.79)/per share*

Stock-based compensation expense

Shares issued for stock options

Shares issued for restricted stock awards

Treasury stock acquired

Other

2,166 

(1,515) 

(41) 

135 

188 

(27) 

248 

27 

(1,320) 

4 

— 

1 

— 

Balance, December 31, 2021

$ 

1,466  $ 

3,269  $ 

(1)  $  (24,089)  $  24,350  $ 

(4,386) 

$ 

* Two dividends were declared in each of the first quarters of 2021, 2020 and 2019.

299 

160 

(2) 

(141) 

125 

441 

165 

6 

(152) 

(99) 

(3) 

358 

172 

(2) 

(166) 

— 

362 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

73

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows 

For the years ended December 31,

(Dollars in Millions)

Operating Activities

Net income including noncontrolling interests

$ 

2,338  $ 

2,860  $ 

2,527 

2021

2020

2019

Adjustments to reconcile net income including noncontrolling interests to net cash 
provided by operations:

Depreciation and amortization

Restructuring and termination benefits, net of cash

Stock-based compensation expense

Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible impairment charges

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

Deferred income taxes

Voluntary benefit plan contributions

Cash effects of changes in:

Receivables

Inventories

Accounts payable and other accruals

Other non-current assets and liabilities

Net cash provided by operations

Investing Activities

Capital expenditures

Purchases of marketable securities and investments

Proceeds from sale of marketable securities and investments

Payment for acquisitions, net of cash acquired

Other investing activities

Net cash used in investing activities

Financing Activities

Short-term borrowing (repayment) less than 90 days, net
Principal payments on debt (1)

Proceeds from issuance of debt

Dividends paid

Purchases of treasury shares

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

Purchases of non-controlling interests in subsidiaries

Other financing activities

Net cash used in financing activities

Effect of exchange rate changes on Cash and cash equivalents

Net (decrease) increase in Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

Supplemental Cash Flow Information

Income taxes paid

556 

(21) 

135 

571 

75 

(132) 

— 

(84) 

(72) 

14 

(55) 

3,325 

(567) 

(141) 

141 

— 

(25) 

(592) 

(171) 

(703) 

699 

(1,679) 

(1,320) 

424 

— 

(24) 

539 

(71) 

107 

— 

23 

(120) 

— 

138 

(251) 

520 

(26) 

3,719 

(410) 

(143) 

124 

(353) 

3 

(779) 

488 

(1,085) 

— 

(1,654) 

(1,476) 

874 

(99) 

33 

(2,774) 

(2,919) 

(15) 

(56) 

888 

(16) 

5 

883 

$ 

$ 

832  $ 

888  $ 

890  $ 

845  $ 

Interest paid
(1) For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, Principal payments on debt includes cash charges of $75 and $20, respectively, related to the 

188  $ 

194  $ 

$ 

extinguishment of debt prior to maturity. See Note 6, Long-Term Debt and Credit Facilities for additional information.

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

74

519 

18 

100 

— 

— 

17 

(113) 

19 

(77) 

36 

87 

3,133 

(335) 

(184) 

131 

(1,711) 

— 

(2,099) 

296 

(1,441) 

2,578 

(1,614) 

(1,202) 

498 

— 

15 

(870) 

(7) 

157 

726 

883 

803 

185 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

  1. 

Nature of Operations

The Company manufactures and markets a wide variety of products in the U.S. and around the world in two product 
segments: Oral, Personal and Home Care; and Pet Nutrition. Oral, Personal and Home Care products include toothpaste, 
toothbrushes, mouthwash, bar and liquid hand soaps, shower gels, shampoos, conditioners, deodorants and antiperspirants, 
skin health products, dishwashing detergents, fabric conditioners, household cleaners and other similar items. These 
products are sold primarily to a variety of traditional and eCommerce retailers, wholesalers and distributors worldwide. Pet 
Nutrition products include specialty pet nutrition products manufactured and marketed by Hill’s Pet Nutrition. The 
principal customers for Pet Nutrition products are authorized pet supply retailers, veterinarians and eCommerce retailers. 
Some of our products are also sold direct-to-consumer. Principal global and regional trademarks include Colgate, 
Palmolive, elmex, hello, meridol, Sorriso, Tom’s of Maine, EltaMD, Filorga, Irish Spring, Lady Speed Stick, PCA SKIN, 
Protex, Sanex, Softsoap, Speed Stick, Ajax, Axion, Fabuloso, Murphy, Soupline and Suavitel, as well as Hill’s Science 
Diet and Hill’s Prescription Diet.

The Company’s principal classes of products accounted for the following percentages of worldwide Net sales for the 

past three years:

Oral Care
Personal Care
Home Care
Pet Nutrition

Total

2021

2020

2019

 44 %
 20 %
 17 %
 19 %
 100 %

 44 %
 21 %
 18 %
 17 %
 100 %

 46 %
 20 %
 18 %
 16 %
 100 %

75

  
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

2. 

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation

The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Colgate-Palmolive Company and its majority-owned or 

controlled subsidiaries. Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. The Company’s investments in 
consumer products companies with interests ranging between 20% and 50%, where the Company has significant influence 
over the investee, are accounted for using the equity method. Net income (loss) from such investments is recorded in Other 
(income) expense, net in the Consolidated Statements of Income. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, equity method 
investments included in Other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets were $64 and $56, respectively. Unrelated third 
parties hold the remaining ownership interests in these investments. Investments with less than a 20% interest are recorded 
at cost and periodically adjusted based on observable price changes or quoted market prices in active markets, if applicable. 

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United 
States of America requires management to use judgment and make estimates that affect the reported amounts of assets and 
liabilities and disclosure of contingent gains and losses at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of 
revenues and expenses during the reporting period. The level of uncertainty in estimates and assumptions increases with the 
length of time until the underlying transactions are completed. As such, the most significant uncertainty in the Company’s 
assumptions and estimates involved in preparing the financial statements includes pension and other retiree benefit cost 
assumptions, stock-based compensation, asset impairments, uncertain tax positions, tax valuation allowances and legal and 
other contingency reserves. Additionally, the Company uses available market information and other valuation 
methodologies in assessing the fair value of financial instruments and retirement plan assets. Judgment is required in 
interpreting market data to develop the estimates of fair value and, accordingly, changes in assumptions or the estimation 
methodologies may affect the fair value estimates. Actual results could ultimately differ from those estimates.

Revenue Recognition

The Company’s revenue contracts represent a single performance obligation to sell its products to trade customers. 

Sales are recorded at the time control of the products is transferred to trade customers, in an amount that reflects the 
consideration the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for the products. Control is the ability of trade customers 
to “direct the use of” and “obtain” the benefit from our products. In evaluating the timing of the transfer of control of 
products to trade customers, the Company considers several control indicators, including significant risks and rewards of 
products, the Company’s right to payment and the legal title of the products. Based on the assessment of control indicators, 
sales are generally recognized when products are delivered to trade customers. 

Net sales reflect the transaction prices for contracts, which include units shipped at selling list prices reduced by 
variable consideration. Variable consideration includes expected sales returns and the cost of current and continuing 
promotional programs. Current promotional programs primarily include product listing allowances and co-operative 
advertising arrangements. Continuing promotional programs are predominantly consumer coupons and volume-based sales 
incentive arrangements. The cost of promotional programs is estimated using the expected value method considering all 
reasonably available information, including the Company’s historical experience and its current expectations, and is 
reflected in the transaction price when sales are recorded. Adjustments to the cost of promotional programs in subsequent 
periods are generally not material, as the Company’s promotional programs are typically of short duration, thereby 
reducing the uncertainty inherent in such estimates. 

Sales returns are generally accepted at the Company’s discretion and are not material to the Company’s Consolidated 
Financial Statements. The Company’s contracts with trade customers do not have significant financing components or non-
cash consideration and the Company does not have unbilled revenue or significant amounts of prepayments from 
customers. The Company records Net sales excluding taxes collected on its sales to its trade customers. Shipping and 
handling activities are accounted for as contract fulfillment costs and classified as Selling, general and administrative 
expenses.

76

COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Shipping and Handling Costs

Shipping and handling costs are classified as Selling, general and administrative expenses and were $1,687, $1,392 

and $1,275 for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Marketing Costs

The Company markets its products through advertising and other promotional activities. Advertising costs are included 

in Selling, general and administrative expenses and are expensed as incurred. Certain consumer and trade promotional 
programs, such as consumer coupons, are recorded as a reduction of sales.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

The Company considers all highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less at the time of 

purchase to be cash equivalents.

Inventories

The cost of approximately 75% of inventories is determined using the FIFO method, which is stated at the lower of 
cost or net realizable value. The cost of all other inventories, in the U.S. and Mexico, is determined using the LIFO method, 
which is stated at the lower of cost or market. Inventories in excess of one year of forecasted sales are classified in the 
Consolidated Balance Sheets as non-current “Other assets.”

Property, Plant and Equipment

Land, buildings and machinery and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is provided, primarily using the straight-

line method, over-estimated useful lives ranging from 3 to 15 years for machinery and equipment and up to 40 years for 
buildings. Depreciation attributable to manufacturing operations is included in Cost of sales. The remaining component of 
depreciation is included in Selling, general and administrative expenses.

Goodwill and Other Intangibles

Goodwill and indefinite-life intangible assets, such as the Company’s global brands, are subject to impairment tests at 

least annually or when events or changes in circumstances indicate that an asset may be impaired. Other intangible assets 
with finite lives, such as local brands and trademarks, customer relationships and non-compete agreements, are amortized 
over their estimated useful lives, generally ranging from 5 to 40 years. Amortization expense related to intangible assets is 
included in Other (income) expense, net, which is included in Operating profit.

Income Taxes

The provision for income taxes is determined using the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred tax 
assets and liabilities are recognized based upon the differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and 
liabilities using enacted tax rates that will be in effect at the time such differences are expected to reverse. Deferred tax 
assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some 
portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. 

The Company uses a comprehensive model to recognize, measure, present and disclose in its financial statements 
uncertain tax positions that the Company has taken or expects to take on an income tax return. The Company recognizes 
interest expense and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within Provision for income taxes.

77

COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Financial Instruments

Derivative instruments are recorded as assets and liabilities at estimated fair value based on available market 
information. The Company’s derivative instruments that qualify for hedge accounting are designated as either fair value 
hedges, cash flow hedges or net investment hedges. For fair value hedges, changes in the fair value of the derivative, as 
well as the offsetting changes in the fair value of the hedged item, are recognized in earnings each period. For cash flow 
hedges, changes in the fair value of the derivative are recorded in Other comprehensive income (loss) and are recognized in 
earnings when the offsetting effect of the hedged item is also recognized in earnings. For hedges of the net investment in 
foreign subsidiaries, changes in the fair value of the derivative are recorded in Other comprehensive income (loss) to offset 
the change in the value of the net investment being hedged. Cash flows related to hedges are classified in the same category 
as the cash flows from the hedged item in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

The Company may also enter into certain foreign currency and interest rate instruments that economically hedge 
certain of its risks but do not qualify for hedge accounting. Changes in fair value of these derivative instruments, based on 
quoted market prices, are recognized in earnings each period. The Company’s derivative instruments and other financial 
instruments are more fully described in Note 7, Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments along with the related 
fair value measurement considerations.

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company recognizes the cost of employee services received in exchange for awards of equity instruments, such as 

stock options and restricted stock units (both performance-based and time-vested), based on the fair value of those awards 
at the date of grant over the requisite service period. The Company uses the Black-Scholes-Merton (“Black-Scholes”) 
option pricing model to estimate the fair value of stock option awards. In addition to performance conditions, performance-
based restricted stock units also include a total shareholder return modifier. Because the total shareholder return modifier is 
considered a market condition, the Company uses a Monte-Carlo simulation model to determine the fair value of 
performance-based restricted stock units. The fair value of time-vested restricted stock units is determined based on the 
closing market price of the Company’s stock at the date of grant. Stock-based compensation plans, related expenses and 
assumptions used in the Black-Scholes option pricing model are more fully described in Note 8, Capital Stock and Stock-
Based Compensation Plans.

Currency Translation

The assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries, other than those operating in highly inflationary environments, are 
translated into U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates with resulting translation gains and losses accumulated in a separate 
component of shareholders’ equity. Income and expense items are translated into U.S. dollars at average rates of exchange 
prevailing during the year.

For subsidiaries operating in highly inflationary environments, local currency-denominated non-monetary assets, 
including inventories, goodwill and property, plant and equipment, are remeasured at their historical exchange rates, while 
local currency-denominated monetary assets and liabilities are remeasured at year-end exchange rates. Remeasurement 
adjustments for these operations are included in Net income attributable to Colgate-Palmolive Company. 

78

COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In November 2021, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update 
(“ASU”) No. 2021-10, “Government Assistance (Topic 832).” This ASU requires increased disclosure on an annual basis 
about transactions with domestic, foreign, local, regional and national governments, including entities related to those 
governments and intergovernmental organizations, that are accounted for by applying a grant or contribution accounting 
model by analogy to other accounting guidance. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning on January 1, 2022 
and is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.

In October 2021, the FASB issued ASU No. 2021-08, “Business Combinations (Topic 805): Accounting for Contract 
Assets and Contract Liabilities from Contracts with Customers.” This ASU requires contract assets and contract liabilities 
acquired in a business combination to be recognized and measured by the acquirer on the acquisition date in accordance 
with ASU No. 2016-10, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606).” This guidance is effective for the 
Company beginning on January 1, 2023 and is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s Consolidated 
Financial Statements.

In January 2021, the FASB issued ASU No. 2021-01, “Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Scope.” This ASU 

clarifies that certain optional expedients and exceptions in Topic 848 apply to derivatives that are affected by the 
discounting transition. This guidance was effective upon issuance for the Company and is not expected to have a material 
impact on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.

In October 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-10, “Codification Improvements.” This ASU improves the 
consistency of the codification topics by including all disclosure guidance in the appropriate disclosure section and also 
clarifies the application of various provisions in the codification. This guidance was effective for the Company beginning 
on January 1, 2021 and did not have a material impact on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.

In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-04, “Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects 

of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting.” The ASU provides optional expedients and exceptions for applying 
generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) to contracts, hedging relationships and other transactions that reference 
LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued because of reference rate reform. This guidance was effective 
upon issuance of this ASU for contract modifications and hedging relationships on a prospective basis and is not expected 
to have a material impact on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.

In January 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-01, “Investments-Equity Securities (Topic 321), Investments-Equity 

Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815)-Clarifying the Interactions between 
Topic 321, Topic 323, and Topic 815.” The guidance provides clarification of the interaction of rules for equity securities, 
the equity method of accounting and forward contracts and purchase options on certain types of securities. This guidance 
was effective for the Company beginning on January 1, 2021 and did not have a material impact on the Company’s 
Consolidated Financial Statements.

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-12, “Income taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for 

Income Taxes.” This ASU simplifies the accounting for income taxes by removing certain exceptions to the general 
principles in ASC 740 and also clarifies and amends existing guidance to improve consistent application. This guidance 
was effective for the Company beginning on January 1, 2021 and did not have a material impact on the Company’s 
Consolidated Financial Statements.

Reclassifications

Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. 

79

COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

3. 

Acquisitions

Hello Products LLC (“hello”)

On January 31, 2020, the Company acquired hello, an oral care business, for cash consideration of $351. The 

acquisition was financed with a combination of debt and cash. This acquisition is part of the Company’s strategy to focus 
on high growth segments within its Oral Care, Personal Care and Pet Nutrition businesses.

The total purchase price consideration of $351 has been allocated to the net assets acquired based on their respective 

estimated fair values as follows:

Receivables 
Inventories 
Other assets and liabilities, net 
Other intangible assets 
Goodwill
Fair value of net assets acquired

$ 

$ 

11 
13 
(4) 
160 
171 
351 

Other intangible assets acquired include trademarks, valued at $115, which are considered to have a finite useful life of 

25 years, and customer relationships valued at $45, which are considered to have a finite useful life of 17 years. Goodwill 
of $171 was allocated to the North America segment and is deductible for tax purposes.

Pro forma results of operations have not been presented as the impact on the Company’s Consolidated Financial 

Statements is not material.

80

 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

 4. 

Restructuring and Related Implementation Charges 

2022 Global Productivity Initiative

On January 27, 2022, the Board approved a targeted productivity program (the “2022 Global Productivity Initiative”). 

The program is intended to reallocate resources towards the Company’s strategic priorities and faster growth businesses, 
drive efficiencies in the Company’s operations and streamline the Company’s supply chain to reduce structural costs. 

Implementation of the 2022 Global Productivity Initiative, which is expected to be substantially completed by 
December 31, 2022, is projected to result in cumulative pre-tax charges, once all phases are approved and implemented, 
totaling between $200 and $240, which are currently estimated to be comprised of the following: employee-related costs, 
including severance, pension and other termination benefits (80%); asset-related costs, primarily accelerated depreciation 
and asset write-downs (10%); and other charges (10%), which include contract termination costs, consisting primarily of 
implementation-related charges resulting directly from exit activities and the implementation of new strategies. It is 
estimated that approximately 90% of the charges will result in cash expenditures. 

Global Growth and Efficiency Program

The Global Growth and Efficiency Program, which commenced in the fourth quarter of 2012, concluded on 

December 31, 2019. Initiatives under the Global Growth and Efficiency Program fit within the program’s three focus areas 
of expanding commercial hubs, extending shared business services and streamlining global functions and optimizing the 
global supply chain and facilities. Substantially all initiatives under the Global Growth and Efficiency Program had been 
implemented as of December 31, 2019.

In the third quarter of 2020, the Company adjusted the accrual balances related to certain projects approved prior to the 

conclusion of the Global Growth and Efficiency Program to reflect its revised estimate of remaining liabilities. This 
adjustment resulted in a reduction of $16 ($13 aftertax), of which a benefit of $3 was recorded in Selling, general and 
administrative expenses and $13 was recorded in Other (income) expense, net. 

For the year ended December 31, 2019, restructuring and related implementation charges are reflected in the 

Consolidated Statements of Income as follows: 

Cost of sales
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Other (income) expense, net
Non-service related postretirement costs
Total Global Growth and Efficiency Program charges, pretax

Total Global Growth and Efficiency Program charges, aftertax

$ 

$ 

$ 

2019

8 
60 
57 
7 
132 

102 

Restructuring and related implementation charges in the preceding table and the adjustment recorded in the third 
quarter of 2020 were recorded in the Corporate segment as these initiatives were predominantly centrally directed and 
controlled and were not included in internal measures of segment operating performance.

81

 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Total charges incurred for the Global Growth and Efficiency Program related to initiatives undertaken by the following 

reportable operating segments:

North America
Latin America
Europe
Asia Pacific
Africa/Eurasia
Hill’s Pet Nutrition
Corporate
Total

2019

Total Program
Charges

 4 %
 12 %
 4 %
 6 %
 (1) %
 2 %
 73 %
 100 %

 17 %
 5 %
 19 %
 4 %
 5 %
 8 %
 42 %
 100 %

Over the course of the Global Growth and Efficiency Program, the Company incurred total pretax charges of $1,854 

($1,380 aftertax) in connection with the implementation of various projects as follows: 

Employee-Related Costs
Incremental Depreciation
Asset Impairments
Other
Total

Total Program Charges
as of December 31, 2019
706 
$ 
128 
58 
962 
1,854 

$ 

Over the course of the Global Growth and Efficiency Program, the majority of the costs incurred related to the 
following projects: the implementation of the Company’s overall hubbing strategy; the consolidation of facilities; the 
extension of shared business services and streamlining of global functions; the closing of the Morristown, New Jersey 
personal care facility; the simplification and streamlining of the Company’s research and development capabilities and oral 
care supply chain, both in Europe; redesigning the European commercial organization; restructuring how the Company will 
provide future retirement benefits to substantially all of the U.S.-based employees participating in the Company’s defined 
benefit retirement plan by shifting them to the Company’s defined contribution plan; and the implementation of a 
Corporate efficiencies program. 

Employee-Related Costs primarily included severance and other termination benefits and were calculated based on 
long-standing benefit practices, local statutory requirements and, in certain cases, voluntary termination arrangements. 
Employee-Related Costs also included pension and other retiree benefit enhancements. 

Incremental Depreciation was recorded to reflect changes in useful lives and estimated residual values for long-lived 
assets that will be taken out of service prior to the end of their normal service period. Asset Impairments were recorded to 
write down inventories and assets held for sale or disposal to their fair value based on amounts expected to be realized. 
Charges against assets within Asset Impairments are net of cash proceeds pertaining to the sale of certain assets.

Other charges consisted primarily of charges resulting directly from exit activities and the implementation of new 

strategies as a result of the Global Growth and Efficiency Program. 

82

 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

5.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

The net carrying value of Goodwill as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 by segment was as follows:

Oral, Personal and Home Care

North America
Latin America
Europe
Asia Pacific
Africa/Eurasia

Total Oral, Personal and Home Care
Pet Nutrition
Total Goodwill

2021

2020

$ 

$ 

912  $ 
159 
1,902 
182 
114 
3,269 
15 
3,284  $ 

912 
171 
2,415 
190 
121 
3,809 
15 
3,824 

The change in the amount of Goodwill during 2021 is due to the goodwill impairment charge related to the Filorga 

reporting unit as more fully described below, and foreign currency translation. 

Other intangible assets as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 were comprised of the following:

2021

2020

Gross 
Carrying 
Amount

Accumulated 
Amortization

Net

Gross 
Carrying 
Amount

Accumulated 
Amortization

Net

Trademarks - finite life
Other finite life intangible assets
Indefinite life intangible assets
Total Other intangible assets

$ 

$ 

891  $ 
744 
1,561 
3,196  $ 

(445)  $ 
(289)   
— 

446  $ 
455 
1,561 

(734)  $  2,462  $ 

902  $ 
786 
1,865 
3,553  $ 

(422)  $ 
(237)   
— 

480 
549 
1,865 
(659)  $  2,894 

The change in the net carrying amounts of Other intangible assets during 2021 was primarily due to the impact of 

impairment charge related to the Filorga indefinite-lived trademark as more fully described below, foreign currency 
translation and amortization expense of $89. Annual estimated amortization expense for each of the next five years is 
expected to be approximately $77. 

The Company made revisions to the internal forecasts relating to its Filorga reporting unit during the fourth quarter of 
2021 due primarily to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Filorga skin health business as a result of government 
restrictions and reduced consumer mobility, which negatively impacted consumption in the duty-free, travel retail and 
pharmacy channels. The Company concluded that the changes in circumstances in this reporting unit triggered the need for 
an interim impairment review of its indefinite-lived trademark and goodwill and, accordingly, performed an interim 
impairment test for the trademark as of December 31, 2021. The Company concluded that the carrying value of the 
trademark exceeded its estimated fair value, and recorded an impairment charge of $204, reducing the carrying value to 
approximately $588. After adjusting the carrying value of the trademark, the Company completed a quantitative 
impairment test for goodwill and recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $367 in the Filorga reporting unit, reducing the 
carrying value of goodwill to approximately $577. The goodwill and trademark impairment charges are presented as a 
separate line item in the Consolidated Statements of Income.

83

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

The Company used the income approach to determine the fair value of the Filorga reporting unit and indefinite-lived 

trademark that required significant judgments and estimates by management regarding several key inputs, including future 
cash flows consistent with management’s strategic plans, sales growth rates and the selection of royalty rate and a discount 
rate, among others. Estimating sales growth rates requires significant judgment by management in areas such as future 
economic conditions, category and industry growth rates, product pricing, consumer tastes and preferences and future 
expansion expectations.

84

COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

6. 

Long-Term Debt and Credit Facilities

Long-term debt consisted of the following at December 31:

Notes
Commercial paper
Finance Lease Obligations

Less: Current portion of long-term debt
Total

Weighted 
Average 
Interest Rate
1.9%
(0.4)%
Various

Maturities
2022 - 2078
2022
Various

2021
$  5,958 
  1,204 
44 
  7,206 
(12) 
$  7,194 

2020
$  6,170 
  1,139 
34 
  7,343 
(9) 
$  7,334 

The weighted-average interest rate on short-term borrowings included in Notes and loans payable in the Consolidated 

Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 was 0.7% and 4.8%, respectively. 

The Company classifies commercial paper and notes maturing within the next twelve months as long-term debt when 

it has the intent and ability to refinance such obligations on a long-term basis. Excluding such obligations, scheduled 
maturities of long-term debt and finance leases outstanding as of December 31, 2021, were as follows: 

Years Ended December 31,
2022
2023
2024
2025
2026
Thereafter

$ 

456 
908 
506 
135 
566 
3,431 

The Company has entered into interest rate swap agreements and foreign exchange contracts related to certain of these 

debt instruments. See Note 7, Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments for further information about the 
Company’s financial instruments.

The Company’s debt issuances and redemptions support its capital structure strategy objectives of funding its business 

and growth initiatives while minimizing its risk-adjusted cost of capital. During the fourth quarter of 2021, the Company 
issued €500 of eight-year notes at a fixed coupon rate of 0.300%. The debt issuance was under the Company’s shelf 
registration statement. An amount equal to the net proceeds of the notes will be used to finance or refinance, in part or in 
full, new and existing projects and programs with distinct environmental or social benefits. 

During the fourth quarter of 2021, the Company redeemed prior to maturity all of its outstanding 0.000% notes due 

2021 with a principal amount of €500, originally issued on November 12, 2019. The redemption was financed with 
commercial paper borrowings. The redemption price was equal to the carrying amount of the debt extinguished.

In 1990, the Company’s Canadian subsidiary (“CP Canada”), issued C$145 of Canadian dollar-denominated 

unsecured unsubordinated 12.85% guaranteed notes due October 4, 2030 (the “Canada notes”). During the third quarter of 
2021, CP Canada redeemed the Canada notes and recorded a loss on the early extinguishment of debt of $75, which is 
included in Interest (income) expense, net in the Consolidated Statements of Income, representing the difference between 
the redemption price and the carrying amount of the debt extinguished.

85

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

During the fourth quarter of 2020, the Company redeemed prior to maturity all of its outstanding 2.450% notes due 
2021 with a principal amount $300, originally issued on November 8, 2011, and all of its outstanding 2.300% notes due 
2022 with a principal amount of $500, originally issued on May 3, 2012. These redemptions were financed with 
commercial paper borrowings and cash. The Company recorded a loss on the early extinguishment of debt of $23, which is 
included in Interest (income) expense, net in the Consolidated Statements of Income, representing the difference between 
the redemption price and the carrying amount of the debt extinguished. 

At December 31, 2021, the Company had access to unused domestic and foreign lines of credit of $3,457 (including 
under the facility discussed below) and could also issue long-term debt pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement. 
In August 2021, the Company entered into a new $3,000 five-year revolving credit facility with a syndicate of banks for a 
five-year term expiring August 2026, which replaced, on substantially similar terms, the Company’s $2,650 revolving 
credit facility that was scheduled to expire in November 2024. Commitment fees related to the credit facility are not 
material. The Company’s $1,500 364-day credit facility with a syndicate of banks expired in August 2021 and was not 
renewed.

Certain agreements with respect to the Company’s bank borrowings contain financial and other covenants as well as 

cross-default provisions. Noncompliance with these requirements could ultimately result in the acceleration of amounts 
owed. The Company is in full compliance with all such requirements and believes the likelihood of noncompliance is 
remote.

86

COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

7. 

Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments 

The Company uses available market information and other valuation methodologies in assessing the fair value of 

financial instruments. Judgment is required in interpreting market data to develop the estimates of fair value and, 
accordingly, changes in assumptions or the estimation methodologies may affect the fair value estimates. The Company is 
exposed to the risk of credit loss in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to financial instrument contracts; 
however, nonperformance is considered unlikely and any nonperformance is unlikely to be material, as it is the Company’s 
policy to contract only with diverse, credit-worthy counterparties based upon both strong credit ratings and other credit 
considerations.

The Company is exposed to market risk from foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity price 

fluctuations. Volatility relating to these exposures is managed on a global basis by utilizing a number of techniques, 
including working capital management, sourcing strategies, selling price increases, selective borrowings in local currencies 
and entering into selective derivative instrument transactions, issued with standard features, in accordance with the 
Company’s treasury and risk management policies, which prohibit the use of derivatives for speculative purposes and 
leveraged derivatives for any purpose. It is the Company’s policy to enter into derivative instrument contracts with terms 
that match the underlying exposure being hedged. Provided below are details of the Company’s exposures by type of risk 
and derivative instruments by type of hedge designation.

Valuation Considerations

The Company’s derivative instruments include interest rate swap contracts, forward-starting interest rate swaps, 
foreign currency contracts and commodity contracts. The Company utilizes interest rate swap contracts to manage its 
targeted mix of fixed and floating rate debt, and these swaps are classified as follows:

Level 1: Based upon quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2: Based upon observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.
Level 3: Based upon unobservable inputs reflecting the reporting entity’s own assumptions.

Foreign Exchange Risk

As the Company markets its products in over 200 countries and territories, it is exposed to currency fluctuations 
related to manufacturing and selling its products in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. The Company manages its foreign 
currency exposures through a combination of cost containment measures, sourcing strategies, selling price increases and 
the hedging of certain costs in an effort to minimize the impact on earnings of foreign currency rate movements.

The Company primarily utilizes foreign currency contracts, including forward and swap contracts, option contracts, 

foreign and local currency deposits and local currency borrowings to hedge portions of its foreign currency purchases, 
assets and liabilities arising in the normal course of business and the net investment in certain foreign subsidiaries. The 
duration of foreign currency contracts generally does not exceed 12 months and the contracts are valued using observable 
market rates (Level 2 valuation).

Interest Rate Risk

The Company manages its targeted mix of fixed and floating rate debt with debt issuances and by entering into interest 

rate swaps in order to mitigate fluctuations in earnings and cash flows that may result from interest rate volatility. The 
Company utilizes forward-starting interest rate swaps to mitigate the risk of variability in interest rate for future debt 
issuances. The notional amount, interest payment and maturity date of the swaps generally match the principal, interest 
payment and maturity date of the related debt, and the swaps are valued using observable benchmark rates (Level 2 
valuation).

87

COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Commodity Price Risk

The Company is exposed to price volatility related to raw materials used in production, such as essential oils, resins, 

tropical oils, pulp, tallow, corn, poultry and soybeans. The Company manages its raw material exposures through a 
combination of cost containment measures, sourcing strategies, ongoing productivity initiatives and the limited use of 
commodity hedging contracts. Futures contracts are used on a limited basis, primarily in the Hill’s Pet Nutrition segment, 
to manage volatility related to raw material inventory purchases of certain traded commodities, and these contracts are 
measured using quoted commodity exchange prices (Level 1 valuation). The duration of the commodity contracts generally 
does not exceed 12 months.

Credit Risk

The Company is exposed to the risk of credit loss in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to financial 
instrument contracts; however, nonperformance is considered unlikely and any nonperformance is unlikely to be material 
as it is the Company’s policy to contract with diverse, credit-worthy counterparties based upon both strong credit ratings 
and other credit considerations. 

The following table summarizes the fair value of the Company’s derivative instruments and other financial instruments 
which are carried at fair value in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2021 and December 31, 
2020:

Assets

Liabilities

Account

Fair Value

Account

Fair Value

Designated derivative 

instruments

Interest rate swap contracts

Other current 
assets

Interest rate swap contracts Other assets

Forward-starting interest 
rate swaps

Foreign currency contracts

Commodity contracts

Total designated

Other assets

Other current 
assets
Other current 
assets

December 
31, 2021

December 
31, 2020

December 
31, 2021

December 
31, 2020

$ 

5  $ 

—  Other accruals

$ 

—  $ 

— 

20 

22 

2 

14  Other liabilities

5  Other liabilities

7  Other accruals

3  Other accruals

— 

21 

6 

— 

$ 

49  $ 

29 

$ 

27  $ 

— 

— 

— 

93 

— 

93 

Other financial 
instruments

Marketable securities

Total other financial 
instruments

Other current 
assets

34 

$ 

34  $ 

37 

37 

88

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

The carrying amount of cash, cash equivalents, accounts receivable and short-term debt approximated fair value as of 
December 31, 2021 and 2020. The estimated fair value of the Company’s long-term debt, including the current portion, as 
of December 31, 2021 and 2020, was $7,651 and $8,175, respectively, and the related carrying value was $7,206 and 
$7,343, respectively. The estimated fair value of long-term debt was derived principally from quoted prices on the 
Company’s outstanding fixed-term notes (Level 2 valuation).

The following amounts were recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheet related to cumulative basis adjustment for fair 
value hedges as of:

Long-term debt:

Carrying amount of hedged item

Cumulative hedging adjustment included in the carrying amount

The following tables present the notional values as of:

December 31, 2021

December 31, 2020

$ 

$ 

405  $ 

5  $ 

413 

14 

Fair Value Hedges 

Cash Flow Hedges 

Net Investment Hedges

December 31, 2021

Foreign
Currency
Contracts

Foreign 
Currency 
Debt

Interest 
Rate 
Swaps

Forward-
Starting 
Interest Rate 
Swaps

Commodity 
Contracts

Total

$ 

566  $ 

—  $ 

400  $ 

—  $ 

—  $ 

873 

173 

— 

4,600 

— 

— 

700 

— 

24 

— 

966 

1,597 

4,773 

Foreign
Currency
Contracts

Foreign 
Currency 
Debt

December 31, 2020
Forward-
Starting 
Interest Rate 
Swaps

Interest 
Rate 
Swaps

Commodity 
Contracts

Total

Fair Value Hedges 

Cash Flow Hedges 

Net Investment Hedges

$ 

589  $ 

—  $ 

400  $ 

—  $ 

—  $ 

854 

528 

— 

4,523 

— 

— 

300 

— 

17 

— 

989 

1,171 

5,051 

89

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

The following table presents the location and amount of gains (losses) on hedges recognized on the Company’s 
Consolidated Statements of Income:

Twelve Months Ended December 31,

2021

2020

Selling, general 
and 
administrative 
expenses

Interest 
(income) 
expense, 
net

Selling, general 
and 
administrative 
expenses

Interest 
(income) 
expense, 
net

Cost of 
sales

Cost of 
sales 

Gain (loss) on hedges 
recognized in income:
Interest rate swaps 
designated as fair value 
hedges:

Derivative instrument

$ 

Hedged items

Foreign currency 
contracts designated as 
fair value hedges:

Derivative instrument

Hedged items
Foreign currency 
contracts designated as 
cash flow hedges: 

Amount reclassified from 
OCI

Commodity contracts 
designated as cash flow 
hedges:

Amount reclassified from 
OCI

Total gain (loss) on hedges 
recognized in income

$ 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

6 

(6) 

$ 

8 

$ 

(8) 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

$ 

$ 

— 

— 

(10) 

10 

29 

(29) 

— 

— 

(12) 

— 

— 

1 

— 

— 

5 

— 

— 

(1) 

— 

$ 

(7)  $ 

— 

$ 

— 

$ 

— 

$ 

— 

$ 

— 

— 

90

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

The following table presents the location and amount of unrealized gains (losses) on hedges included in OCI:

Foreign currency contracts designated as cash flow hedges:

Gain (loss) recognized in OCI
Forward-starting interest rate swaps designated as cash flow 
hedges:

Gain (loss) recognized in OCI

Commodity contracts designated as cash flow hedges:

Gain (loss) recognized in OCI

Foreign currency contracts designated as net investment hedges:

Gain (loss) on instruments

Gain (loss) on hedged items

Foreign currency debt designated as net investment hedges:

Gain (loss) on instruments

Gain (loss) on hedged items

Twelve Months Ended

December 31,

2021

2020

$ 

16 

$ 

(11) 

(6) 

3 

30 

(30) 

370 

(370) 

5 

3 

(52) 

52 

(356) 

356 

(3) 

Total unrealized gain (loss) on hedges recognized in OCI

$ 

13 

$ 

91

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

8. 

Capital Stock and Stock-Based Compensation Plans

Preference Stock

The Company has the authority to issue 50,262,150 shares of preference stock. 

Stock Repurchases

On June 18, 2018, the Board authorized the repurchase of shares of the Company’s common stock having an aggregate 

purchase price of up to $5 billion under a new share repurchase program (the “2018 Program”), which replaced a 
previously authorized share repurchase program. The Company commenced repurchases of shares of the Company’s 
common stock under the 2018 Program beginning June 19, 2018. The Board also has authorized share repurchases on an 
ongoing basis to fulfill certain requirements of the Company’s compensation and benefit programs. The shares are 
repurchased from time to time in open market or privately negotiated transactions at the Company’s discretion, subject to 
market conditions, customary blackout periods and other factors. The Company repurchased its common stock at a cost of 
$1,320 during 2021 under the 2018 Program.

The Company may use either authorized and unissued shares or treasury shares to meet share requirements resulting 

from the exercise of stock options and the vesting of restricted stock unit awards.

A summary of common stock and treasury stock activity for the three years ended December 31 is as follows:

Balance, January 1, 2019

Common stock acquired

Shares issued for stock options

Shares issued for restricted stock units and other

Balance, December 31, 2019

Common stock acquired

Shares issued for stock options

Shares issued for restricted stock units and other

Balance, December 31, 2020

Common stock acquired

Shares issued for stock options

Shares issued for restricted stock units and other

Balance, December 31, 2021

Common 
Stock 
Outstanding

Treasury 
Stock

  862,912,792 

  602,793,568 

  (17,219,642)    17,219,642 

8,145,777 

(8,145,777) 

862,852 

(862,852) 

  854,701,779 

  611,004,581 

  (18,701,843)    18,701,843 

  13,018,354 

  (13,018,354) 

875,311 
  849,893,601 

(875,311) 
  615,812,759 

  (16,518,163)    16,518,163 

6,357,793 

(6,357,793) 

747,053 

(747,053) 

  840,480,284 

  625,226,076 

92

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company recognizes the cost of employee services received in exchange for awards of equity instruments, such as 

stock options and restricted stock units, based on the fair value of those awards at the date of grant. The fair value of 
restricted stock units, generally based on market prices, is amortized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service 
period. The estimated fair value of stock options on the date of grant is amortized on a straight-line basis over the requisite 
service period for each separately vesting portion of the award. Awards to employees eligible for retirement prior to the 
award becoming fully vested are recognized as compensation cost from the grant date through the date that the employee 
first becomes eligible to retire and is no longer required to provide service to earn the award.

The Company has one incentive compensation plan pursuant to which it issues restricted stock units (both 

performance-based and time-vested) and stock options to employees and shares of common stock and stock options to non-
employee directors. The Personnel and Organization Committee of the Board of Directors, which is comprised entirely of 
independent directors, administers the incentive compensation plan. The total stock-based compensation expense charged 
against pretax income for this plan was $135, $107 and $100 for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, 
respectively. The total income tax benefit recognized on stock-based compensation, excluding excess tax benefits, was 
approximately $25, $20 and $20 for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Stock-based compensation expense is recorded within Selling, general and administrative expenses in the Corporate 

segment as these amounts are not included in internal measures of segment operating performance.

The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate the fair value of stock option awards. The 
weighted-average estimated fair value of stock options granted in the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 was 
$11.11, $11.26 and $10.48, respectively. Fair value is estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the 
assumptions summarized in the following table:

Expected term of options
Expected volatility rate
Risk-free interest rate
Expected dividend yield

2021

2020

2019

6 years
 20.3 %
 1.0 %
 2.3 %

6 years
 21.8 %
 0.5 %
 2.3 %

6 years
 19.2 %
 1.5 %
 2.3 %

The weighted-average expected term of options granted each year was determined with reference to historical exercise 

and post-vesting cancellation experience, the vesting period of the awards and the contractual term of the awards, among 
other factors. Expected volatility incorporates implied share-price volatility derived from exchange traded options on the 
Company’s common stock. The risk-free interest rate for the expected term of the option is based on the yield of a zero-
coupon U.S. Treasury bond with a maturity period equal to the option’s expected term.

93

  
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Performance-based Restricted Stock Units

In 2019, the Company evolved its approach to granting long-term incentive compensation from granting time-vested 

restricted stock units following the conclusion of a three-year performance cycle to granting officers and other key 
employees a target number of unearned performance-based restricted stock units at the beginning of each three-year 
performance cycle. Awards are earned and vest following the conclusion of the performance period on the basis of 
achievement of performance goals established at the commencement of each three-year performance period.

A summary of performance-based restricted stock unit activity for the year ended December 31, 2021 is presented 

below:

Performance-based restricted stock units as of January 1, 2021
Activity:
Granted
Forfeited

Performance-based restricted stock units as of December 31, 2021

Shares
(in thousands)

Weighted Average 
Grant Date Fair Value 
Per Award

860  $ 

355 
(189)   
1,026  $ 

73 

70 
81 
70 

As of December 31, 2021, there was $26 of total unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested 

performance-based restricted stock unit awards, which will be recognized ratably over the remaining performance period.

The Company uses a Monte-Carlo simulation model to estimate the fair value of performance-based restricted stock 

units at the date of grant.

Time-Vested Restricted Stock Units

The Company also grants time-vested restricted stock unit awards. As described above, under the Company’s previous 

long-term incentive program, time-vested restricted stock unit awards were granted to officers and other key employees 
following a three-year performance period. Awards vest at the end of the restriction period, which is three years from the 
date of grant. Awards for the 2018-2020 performance period were granted in 2021. No awards were granted in 2019 or 
2020 for the 2016-2018 or 2017-2019 performance periods. As of December 31, 2021, approximately 10,990,000 shares of 
common stock were available for future restricted stock unit awards.

A summary of restricted stock unit activity during 2021 is presented below:

Restricted stock units as of January 1, 2021
Activity:
Granted
Vested
Forfeited

Restricted stock units as of December 31, 2021

Shares
(in thousands)

Weighted Average 
Grant Date Fair Value 
Per Award

1,897  $ 

749 
(674)   
(56)   
1,916  $ 

73 

78 
70 
74 
76 

As of December 31, 2021, there was $56 of total unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested time-vested 

restricted stock unit awards, which will be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2 years. The total fair value of 
time-vested restricted stock units vested during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 was $47, $58 and $53, 
respectively.

94

  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Stock Options

The Company issues non-qualified stock options to non-employee directors, officers and other employees. Beginning 
in 2019, stock options have a contractual term of eight years. Prior to 2019, stock options generally had a contractual term 
of six years. Stock options generally vest ratably over three years. As of December 31, 2021, approximately 26,038,000 
shares of common stock were available for future stock option grants. 

A summary of stock option activity during 2021 is presented below:

Options outstanding, January 1, 2021
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited
Expired
Options outstanding, December 31, 2021
Options exercisable, December 31, 2021

Shares
(in thousands)
27,530 
5,120 
(6,358) 
(173) 
(24) 
26,095 
16,725 

Weighted 
Average 
Exercise 
Price

Weighted 
Average 
Remaining 
Contractual Life
(in years)

Intrinsic Value 
of Unexercised 
In-the-Money 
Options

$ 

$ 

71 
77 
68 
75 
73 
72 
72 

5
3

$ 
$ 

309 
223 

As of December 31, 2021, there was $32 of total unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested options, 
which will be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.5 years. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during 
the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 was $83, $136 and $84, respectively.

The benefits of tax deductions in excess of grant date fair value resulting from the exercise of stock options and 

vesting of restricted stock unit awards for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 were $9, $8 and $6, 
respectively, and are recognized in the provision for income taxes as a discrete item in the quarterly period in which they 
occur and classified as an operating cash flow. Cash proceeds received from options exercised for the years ended 
December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 were $424, $874 and $498, respectively.

95

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

9.

Employee Stock Ownership Plan

In 1989, the Company expanded its Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) through the introduction of a 

leveraged ESOP that funds certain benefits for employees who have met eligibility requirements. As of December 31, 2021 
and 2020, there were 10,290,667 and 11,545,950 shares of common stock, respectively, outstanding and issued to the 
Company’s ESOP. 

During 2000, the ESOP entered into a loan agreement with the Company under which the benefits of the ESOP may 

be extended through 2035. As of December 31, 2021, the ESOP had outstanding borrowings from the Company of $1, 
which represents unearned compensation shown as a reduction in Shareholders’ equity.

Dividends on stock held by the ESOP are paid to the ESOP trust and, together with cash contributions from the 
Company, are (a) used by the ESOP to repay principal and interest, (b) credited to participant accounts, (c) used for 
contributions to the Company’s defined contribution plans or (d) used to pay the Company’s defined contribution plan 
expenses. Stock is allocated to participants based upon the ratio of the current year’s debt service to the sum of total 
outstanding principal and interest payments over the life of the debt. As of December 31, 2021, 9,559,255 shares of 
common stock had been released and allocated to participant accounts and 731,412 shares of common stock were available 
for future release and allocation to participant accounts. 

Dividends on the stock used to repay principal and interest or credited to participant accounts are deductible for 
income tax purposes and, accordingly, are reflected net of their tax benefit in the Consolidated Statements of Changes in 
Shareholders’ Equity.

Annual expense related to the ESOP was $0 in 2021, 2020 and 2019. 

 The Company paid dividends on the shares held by the ESOP of $20 in 2021, $23 in 2020 and $25 in 2019. The 

Company did not make any contributions to the ESOP in 2021, 2020 or 2019.

96

COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

10. 

Retirement Plans and Other Retiree Benefits

Retirement Plans

The Company and certain of its U.S. and foreign subsidiaries maintain defined benefit retirement plans. Benefits under 

these plans are based primarily on years of service and employees’ earnings.

In the U.S., effective January 1, 2014, the Company provides virtually all future retirement benefits through the 
Company’s defined contribution plan. As a result, service after December 31, 2013 is not considered for participants in the 
Company’s principal U.S. defined benefit retirement plan. Participants in the Company’s principal U.S. defined benefit 
retirement plan whose retirement benefit was determined under the cash balance formula continue to earn interest credits 
on their vested balances as of December 31, 2013 but no longer receive pay credits. Participants whose retirement benefit 
was determined under the final average earnings formula or career average earnings formula continue to have their accrued 
benefit adjusted for pay increases until termination of employment. 

97

COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

In the Company’s principal U.S. plans and certain funded foreign plans, funds are contributed to trusts in accordance 

with regulatory limits to provide for current service and for any unfunded projected benefit obligation over a reasonable 
period. The target asset allocation for the Company’s defined benefit plans is as follows:

Asset Category
Equity securities
Fixed income securities
Real estate and other investments

Total

United States

International

 21 %
 76 %
 3 %
 100 %

 22 %
 63 %
 15 %
 100 %

At December 31, 2021, the allocation of the Company’s plan assets and the level of valuation input, as applicable, for 

each major asset category were as follows:

Level of 
Valuation
Input

Level 1
Level 1
Level 1
Level 1
Level 2
Level 2

Cash and cash equivalents
U.S. common stocks
International common stocks
Pooled funds(1)
Fixed income securities(2)
Guaranteed investment contracts(3)

Investments valued using NAV per share(4)

Domestic, developed and emerging markets equity 
funds
Fixed income funds(5)
Hedge funds(6)
Multi-asset funds(7)
Real estate funds(8)

Pension Plans

United States

International

Other Retiree
Benefit Plans

$ 

38  $ 
— 
— 
48 
905 
1 
992 

361 
469 
— 
26 
— 
856 

9  $ 
2 
13 
116 
67 
51 
258 

97 
328 
8 
2 
30 
465 

— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
— 

— 
— 

Other assets and liabilities, net(9)
Total Investments

(14)   
1,834  $ 

$ 

— 
723  $ 

98

  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

 At December 31, 2020, the allocation of the Company’s plan assets and the level of valuation input, as applicable, for 

each major asset category were as follows:

Level of 
Valuation
Input

Level 1
Level 1
Level 1
Level 1
Level 2
Level 2

Cash and cash equivalents
U.S. common stocks
International common stocks
Pooled funds(1)
Fixed income securities(2)
Guaranteed investment contracts(3)

Investments valued using NAV per share(4)

Domestic, developed and emerging markets equity 
funds
Fixed income funds(5)
Hedge funds(6)
Multi-asset funds(7)
Real estate funds(8)

Pension Plans

United States

International

Other Retiree
Benefit Plans

$ 

50  $ 
— 
— 
65 
1,117 
1 
1,233 

456 

136 
— 
77 

34 

703 

12  $ 
1 
8 
117 
59 
55 
252 

183 

225 
6 
2 

30 

446 

— 
— 
— 
— 
2 
— 
2 

1 

— 
— 
— 

— 

1 

— 
3 

Other assets and liabilities, net(9)
Total Investments

(15)   
1,921  $ 

$ 

— 
698  $ 

_______
(1)

Pooled funds primarily invest in U.S. and foreign equity securities, debt and money market securities. 

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

The fixed income securities are traded over-the-counter and certain of these securities lack daily pricing or liquidity and as such are 
classified as Level 2. As of  December 31, 2021, approximately 40% of the U.S. pension plan fixed income portfolio was invested 
in U.S. treasury or agency securities, with the remainder invested in other government bonds and corporate bonds, compared to 
approximately 50% as of December 31, 2020.

The guaranteed investment contracts (“GICs”) represent contracts with insurance companies measured at the cash surrender value 
of each contract. The Level 2 valuation reflects that the cash surrender value is based principally on a referenced pool of investment 
funds with active redemption.

Investments that are measured at fair value using net asset value (“NAV”) per share as a practical expedient have not been classified 
in the fair value hierarchy. The NAV is based on the value of the underlying investments owned, minus its liabilities, divided by the 
number of shares outstanding. There are no unfunded commitments related to these investments. Redemption notice period 
primarily ranges from 0-3 months and redemption frequency windows range from daily to quarterly.

Fixed income funds primarily invest in U.S. government and investment grade corporate bonds.

(6) Consists of investments in underlying hedge fund strategies that are primarily implemented through the use of long and short equity 

and fixed income securities and derivative instruments such as futures and options.

(7) Multi-asset funds primarily invest across a variety of asset classes, including global stocks and bonds, as well as alternative 

strategies.

(8) Real estate is valued using the NAV per unit of funds that are invested in real estate property. The investment value of the real 
estate property is determined quarterly using independent market appraisals as determined by the investment manager. 

(9)

This category primarily includes unsettled trades for investments purchased and sold and dividend receivables. 

99

 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Equity securities in the U.S. plans did not include any investment in the Company’s common stock at either 

December 31, 2021 or December 31, 2020. In 2020, the U.S. plans sold 739,869 shares of the Company’s common stock to 
the Company to take the number of shares of the Company’s stock in the U.S. plans to zero as of December 31, 2020. No 
shares of the Company’s stock were purchased by the U.S. plans in 2021 or 2020. The plans received no dividends on the 
Company’s common stock in either 2021 or 2020.

Other Retiree Benefits

The Company and certain of its subsidiaries provide health care and life insurance benefits for retired employees to the 

extent not provided by government-sponsored plans.

The Company uses a December 31 measurement date for its defined benefit and other retiree benefit plans. 

Summarized information for the Company’s defined benefit and other retiree benefit plans is as follows:

100

COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Pension Plans
2021
2020

2020

2021

United States

International

Other Retiree 
Benefit Plans
2020

2021

Change in Benefit Obligations

Benefit obligations at beginning of year

$ 2,363  $ 2,272  $ 1,013  $  876  $  1,112  $  1,050 

Service cost

Interest cost

Participants’ contributions

Acquisitions/plan amendments

Actuarial loss (gain)

Foreign exchange impact

Termination benefits

Curtailments and settlements

Benefit payments

Other

Benefit obligations at end of year

Change in Plan Assets

  — 

61 

1 

74 

  — 

  — 

19 

20 

6 

(2)    — 

  — 

(52)    171 

  — 

  — 

(39)   

(38)   

17 

21 

26 

35 

5 

  — 

30 

65 

46 

  — 

(50)   

(8)   

  — 

3 

  — 

  — 

  — 

(5)   

(3)   

(4)   

(7)    — 

(158)    (155)   

(40)   

(40)   

(35)   

  — 

  — 

  — 

  — 

  — 

20 

37 

— 

— 

61 

(9) 

— 

— 

(47) 

— 

$ 2,207  $ 2,363  $  937  $ 1,013  $  1,080  $  1,112 

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

$ 1,921  $ 1,806  $  698  $  586  $ 

3  $ 

Actual return on plan assets

Company contributions

Participants’ contributions

Foreign exchange impact

Settlements and acquisitions

Benefit payments

Other

46 

28 

  243 

30 

  — 

  — 

45 

33 

6 

  — 

  — 

(14)   

(3)   

(3)   

(5)   

59 

36 

  — 

32 

5 

  — 

26 

26 

  — 

  — 

(158)    (155)   

(40)   

(40)   

(35)   

(47) 

  — 

  — 

  — 

  — 

  — 

37 

2 

11 

— 

— 

— 

— 

3 

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

$ 1,834  $ 1,921  $  723  $  698  $  —  $ 

Funded Status

Benefit obligations at end of year
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
Net amount recognized

Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet

Noncurrent assets

Current liabilities

Noncurrent liabilities

Net amount recognized
Amounts Recognized in Accumulated Other 
Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Actuarial loss

Transition/prior service cost

Accumulated benefit obligation

$ 2,207  $ 2,363  $  937  $ 1,013  $  1,080  $  1,112 
3 
  1,834 
$  (373)  $  (442)  $  (214)  $  (315)  $ (1,080)  $  (1,109) 

  — 

  1,921 

  698 

  723 

$ 

70  $  20  $  72  $  18  $  —  $  — 

(27)   

(30)   

(13)   

(14)   

(47)   

(45) 

(416)    (432)    (273)    (319)    (1,033)    (1,064) 

$  (373)  $  (442)  $  (214)  $  (315)  $ (1,080)  $  (1,109) 

$  866  $  902  $  179  $  255  $  356  $ 

429 

  — 

1 

9 

7 

  — 

— 

$  866  $  903  $  188  $  262  $  356  $ 

429 

$ 2,171  $ 2,325  $  872  $  946  $  —  $  — 

101

  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Pension Plans
2021
2021
2020
2020
International
United States

Other Retiree 
Benefit Plans
2020
2021

Weighted-Average Assumptions Used to Determine 
Benefit Obligations
Discount rate

 2.98 %  2.65 %  2.10 %  1.61 %  3.06 %  2.88 %

Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets

 5.70 %  5.70 %  2.72 %  2.93 %

N/A  5.70 %

Long-term rate of compensation increase
ESOP growth rate
Medical cost trend rate of increase
Interest Crediting Rate

 3.50 %  3.50 %  2.89 %  2.62 %  3.50 %  3.50 %
 — %  6.00 %  10.00 %
 — %  6.00 %  6.00 %
 — %
 — %

 — %  — %
 — %  — %
 2.85 %  2.48 %  0.84 %  0.83 %

 — %
 — %

The actuarial gains recorded during 2021 for both the U.S. pension and other retiree benefit plans were primarily a 
result of an increase in discount rates applied against future estimated benefit payments that resulted in a decrease in the 
benefit obligation for both the U.S. pension and Other retiree benefit plans. The actuarial losses incurred during 2020 were 
primarily driven by a decrease in discount rates applied against future expected benefit payments that resulted in an 
increase in the benefit obligation for both the U.S. pension and Other retiree benefit plans.

The overall investment objective of the plans is to balance risk and return so that obligations to employees are met. 
The Company evaluates its expected long-term rate of return on plan assets on an annual basis. In determining the expected 
long-term rate of return, the Company considers the nature of the plans’ investments and the historical rates of return. The 
assumed expected long-term rate of return on plan assets as of December 31, 2021 for the U.S. plans was 5.70%. Average 
annual rates of return for the U.S. plans for the most recent 1-year, 5-year, 10-year, 15-year and 25-year periods were 3%, 
8%, 8%, 6% and 7%, respectively. Similar assessments were performed in determining rates of return on international 
pension plan assets to arrive at the Company’s 2021 weighted-average expected long-term rate of return on plan assets of 
2.72%.

The medical cost trend rate of increase assumed in measuring the expected cost of benefits is projected to decrease 

from 6.00% in 2022 to 4.75% by 2026, remaining at 4.75% for the years thereafter. 

102

  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Pension plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets and plans with accumulated benefit 

obligations in excess of plan assets as of December 31 consisted of the following:

Benefit Obligation Exceeds Fair Value of Plan Assets
Projected benefit obligation
Fair value of plan assets

Accumulated benefit obligation
Fair value of plan assets

2021

2020

$ 

805  $ 
82 

1,092 
299 

771 
81 

882 
134 

Other Retiree Benefit plans with accumulated postretirement benefit obligation in excess of plan assets as of December 

31 consisted of the following:

Benefit Obligation Exceeds Fair Value of Plan Assets
Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation
Fair value of plan assets

2021

2020

$ 

1,080  $ 
— 

1,112 
3 

103

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Summarized information regarding the net periodic benefit costs for the Company’s defined benefit and other retiree 

benefit plans is as follows:

Pension Plans
2021
2019

2021

2020
United States

2020
International

2019

Other Retiree Benefit Plans
2019
2020
2021

Components of Net Periodic 
Benefit Cost

Service cost

Interest cost

Expected return on plan assets
Amortization of transition and 
prior service costs (credits)

Amortization of actuarial loss

Net periodic benefit cost

$ — 

  61 

$  1 

  74 

$  1 

  90 

$ 19 

  20 

$ 17 

  21 

$ 14 

  22 

$  26 

  35 

 (106) 

 (111) 

 (103) 

  (20) 

  (22) 

  (19) 

  — 

  — 

  47 

$  2 

  — 

  46 

$ 10 

  — 

  51 

$ 39 

7 

  1 

  11 

$ 31 

  1 

$ 32 

  — 

9 

$ 25 

  — 

$ 25 

1 

9 

$ 27 

1 

$ 28 

  — 

  23 

$  84 

  — 

$  84 

$  20 

37 

(2) 

  — 

18 

$  73 

  — 

$  73 

$  15 

  41 

(3) 

  — 

  11 

$  64 

  — 

$  64 

Other postretirement charges

(3) 

4 

Total pension cost

$  (1) 

$ 14 

$ 46 

Weighted-Average Assumptions 
Used to Determine Net Periodic 
Benefit Cost

Discount rate
Expected long-term rate of return 
on plan assets
Long-term rate of compensation 
increase

 2.65 %  3.40 %  4.38 %  1.61 %  2.06 %  2.80 %  2.88 %  3.56 %  4.43 %

 5.70 %  6.30 %  6.60 %  2.93 %  3.38 %  4.06 %  5.70 %  6.30 %  6.60 %

 3.50 %  3.50 %  3.50 %  2.62 %  2.83 %  2.86 %

 — %

 — %

 — %

ESOP growth rate

 — %  — %  — %  — %  — %  — %  10.00 %  10.00 %  10.00 %

Medical cost trend rate of increase

 — %  — %  — %  — %  — %  — %  6.00 %  6.00 %  6.00 %

Interest Crediting Rate

 2.48 %  3.21 %  4.26 %  0.83 %  0.85 %  0.85 %

 — %

 — %

 — %

104

  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

The service related component of pension and other postretirement benefit costs is included in Operating profit. The 

non-service related components (interest cost, expected return on assets and amortization of actuarial gains and losses) are 
included in the line item “Non-service related postretirement costs,” which is below Operating profit. 

The Company made no voluntary contributions in 2021 and 2020, and made voluntary contributions of $113 in 2019, 

to its U.S. retirement plans.

Expected Contributions and Benefit Payments

The Company does not expect to make any voluntary contributions to its U.S. postretirement plans for the year ending 

December 31, 2022. Actual funding may differ from current estimates depending on the variability of the market value of 
the assets as compared to the obligation and other market or regulatory conditions.

Benefit payments expected to be paid from the Company’s assets to participants in unfunded plans are estimated to be 

approximately $89 for the year ending December 31, 2022. 

Total benefit payments expected to be paid to participants in both funded and unfunded plans are estimated as follows:

Pension Plans

Years Ended December 31,
2022
2023
2024
2025
2026
2027-2031

United States
$ 

International

Other 
Retiree 
Benefit Plans

Total

147  $ 
146 
147 
144 
147 
692 

43  $ 
40 
45 
44 
46 
246 

47  $ 
48 
49 
50 
51 
267 

237 
234 
241 
238 
244 
1,205 

105

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

11. 

Income Taxes

The components of Income before income taxes are as follows for the years ended December 31:

United States
International
Total Income before income taxes

2021

2020

2019

$ 

$ 

1,256  $ 
1,831 
3,087  $ 

1,317  $ 
2,330 
3,647  $ 

1,050 
2,251 
3,301 

The Provision for income taxes consists of the following for the years ended December 31:

United States
International
Total Provision for income taxes

2021

2020

2019

$ 

$ 

228  $ 
521 
749  $ 

259  $ 
528 
787  $ 

180 
594 
774 

Temporary differences between accounting for financial statement purposes and accounting for tax purposes result in 

the current provision for taxes being higher (lower) than the total provision for income taxes as follows:

Goodwill and intangible assets
Property, plant and equipment
Pension and other retiree benefits
Stock-based compensation
Right-of-use assets/lease liabilities
Tax credits and tax loss carryforwards
Deferred withholding tax
Other, net
Total deferred tax benefit (provision)

2021

2020

2019

$ 

$ 

50  $ 
(19)   
(4)   
11 
(2)   
(2)   
(16)   
19 
37  $ 

1  $ 
12 
10 
(7)   
(1)   
(1)   

111 
18 
143  $ 

34 
12 
(13) 
(1) 
— 
3 
(21) 
(33) 
(19) 

106

  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

The difference between the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate and the Company’s global effective tax rate as 

reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Income is as follows:

Percentage of Income before income taxes

Tax at United States statutory rate
State income taxes, net of federal benefit
Earnings taxed at other than United States statutory rate
Benefit for foreign tax matters(1)
Non-deductible goodwill impairment charges
Foreign-derived intangible income benefit
Other, net

Effective tax rate

2021

2020

2019

 21.0 %
 1.1 
 2.7 
 — 
 2.2 
 (2.2) 
 (0.5) 
 24.3 %

 21.0 %
 1.0 
 3.3 
 (2.0) 
 — 
 (1.6) 
 (0.1) 
 21.6 %

 21.0 %
 0.6 
 4.6 
 (0.9) 
 — 
 (1.3) 
 (0.6) 
 23.4 %

_________
(1)

In 2020, the provision for income taxes includes $71 of income tax benefits recorded on a discrete period basis, of which $45 relates to previously 
recorded foreign withholding taxes and $26 relates to a previously recorded valuation allowance against a deferred tax asset. As part of a previously 
recorded charge for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the “TCJA”), the Company has provided for foreign withholding taxes expected to be paid 
on the remittance of earnings from certain overseas subsidiaries no longer deemed indefinitely reinvested. As a result of a recent reorganization of 
the ownership structure of certain foreign subsidiaries, the Company determined that no withholding taxes will be due on the remittance by certain 
subsidiaries of earnings previously deemed reinvested and, accordingly, reversed $45 of previously recorded foreign withholding taxes. Also as part 
of the previously recorded charge for the TCJA, the Company provided a valuation allowance against a deferred tax asset related to the foreign tax 
credit carryforwards that the Company did not expect to be able to use due to changes made by the TCJA. As a result of a new operating structure 
being implemented within one of the Company’s divisions, the Company believes the use of these foreign tax credit carryforwards will not be 
limited in the future and, accordingly, reversed the previously recorded valuation allowance of $26. In 2019, the provision for income taxes includes 
a net benefit of $29 related to changes enacted by the Swiss government to its corporate tax regime, which included, among other items, the repeal 
of certain preferential tax regimes and an increase to the cantonal tax rate for future periods. Additionally, the government provided transition rules 
which allowed companies to record goodwill for tax purposes, partially offsetting the impact on cash taxes of the higher cantonal rate over the next 
ten years.

107

COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

The components of deferred tax assets (liabilities) are as follows at December 31:

Deferred tax liabilities:

Goodwill and intangible assets
Property, plant and equipment
Right-of-use assets
Deferred withholding tax
Other

Total deferred tax liabilities
Deferred tax assets:

Pension and other retiree benefits
Tax credits and tax loss carryforwards
Lease liabilities
Accrued liabilities
Stock-based compensation
Other

Total deferred tax assets
Valuation Allowance
Net deferred tax assets
Net deferred income taxes

2021

2020

$ 

$ 
$ 
$ 

(523)  $ 
(301)   
(125)   
(111)   
(35)   
(1,095)   

344 
152 
138 
234 
76 
69 
1,013 
(120)  $ 
893  $ 
(202)  $ 

(603) 
(281) 
(131) 
(95) 
(52) 
(1,162) 

404 
127 
144 
250 
73 
125 
1,123 
(96) 
1,027 
(135) 

Applicable U.S. income and foreign withholding taxes have been provided on substantially all of the Company’s 

accumulated earnings of foreign subsidiaries. 

Net tax expense of $(146) was recorded directly through equity in 2021, and net tax benefits of  $101 and $13 were 
recorded directly through equity in 2020 and 2019, respectively. The net tax expense or benefit in each year predominantly 
includes current and future tax impacts related to benefit plans and the impact of currency translation adjustments.

The Company uses a comprehensive model to recognize, measure, present and disclose in its financial statements 

uncertain tax positions that the Company has taken or expects to take on an income tax return.

108

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Unrecognized tax benefits activity for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 is summarized below:

Unrecognized tax benefits:
Balance, January 1

Increases as a result of tax positions taken during the current year
Decreases of tax positions taken during prior years
Increases of tax positions taken during prior years
Decreases as a result of settlements with taxing authorities and the expiration of 

statutes of limitations

Effect of foreign currency rate movements

Balance, December 31

2021

2020

2019

$ 

$ 

227  $ 
26 
(20) 
40 

(23) 
(5) 
245  $ 

173  $ 
18 
(5)   
57 

(19)   
3 
227  $ 

190 
14 
(21) 
20 

(30) 
— 
173 

If all of the unrecognized tax benefits for 2021 above were recognized, approximately $235 would impact the effective 

tax rate. Although it is possible that the amount of unrecognized benefits with respect to our uncertain tax positions will 
increase or decrease in the next twelve months, the Company does not expect material changes.

The Company recognized expense of approximately $10, $9 and $0 for interest and penalties related to the above 
unrecognized tax benefits within income tax expense in 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The Company had accrued 
interest and penalties of approximately $35, $24 and $23 as of December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

The Company and its subsidiaries file U.S. federal income tax returns as well as income tax returns in many state and 

foreign jurisdictions. All U.S. federal income tax returns through December 31, 2013 have been audited by the IRS and 
there are limited matters which the Company plans to appeal for years 2010 through 2013, the settlement of which is not 
expected to have a material effect on the Company’s results of operations, cash flows or financial condition. With a few 
exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to U.S. state and local income tax examinations for income tax returns 
through December 31, 2016. In addition, the Company has subsidiaries in various foreign jurisdictions that have statutes of 
limitations for tax audits generally ranging from three to six years. 

The Company has made an accounting policy election to treat Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income taxes as a current 

period expense rather than including these amounts in the measurement of deferred taxes.

109

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

12. 

Earnings Per Share

For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, earnings per share were as follows:

2021

2020

2019

Net income 
attributable 
to Colgate-
Palmolive 
Company

Shares
(millions)

Per
Share

Net income 
attributable 
to Colgate-
Palmolive 
Company

Shares
(millions)

Per
Share

Net income 
attributable 
to Colgate-
Palmolive 
Company

Shares
(millions)

Per
Share

$ 

2,166 

845.0  $ 2.56  $ 

2,695 

856.8  $ 3.15  $ 

2,367 

859.1  $ 2.76 

3.3 

2.5 

2.0 

Basic EPS
Stock options and 
restricted stock 
units

Diluted EPS

$ 

2,166 

848.3  $ 2.55  $ 

2,695 

859.3  $ 3.14  $ 

2,367 

861.1  $ 2.75 

Basic earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income available for common stockholders by the 

weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the period. 

Diluted earnings per common share is computed using the treasury stock method on the basis of the weighted-average 

number of shares of common stock plus the dilutive effect of potential common shares outstanding during the period. 
Dilutive potential common shares include outstanding stock options and restricted stock units.

As of December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, the average number of stock options that were anti-dilutive and not 
included in diluted earnings per share calculations were 2,495,393, 3,257,310 and 19,901,202, respectively. As of 
December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, the average number of restricted stock units that were anti-dilutive and not included in 
diluted earnings per share calculations were 126,378, 25,381 and 4,516, respectively.

110

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

13.

Commitments and Contingencies

As of December 31, 2021, the Company has various contractual commitments for future multi-year purchases of 

raw, packaging and other materials totaling approximately $724.

As a global company serving consumers in more than 200 countries and territories, the Company is routinely 

subject to a wide variety of legal proceedings. These include disputes relating to intellectual property, contracts, 
product liability, marketing, advertising, foreign exchange controls, antitrust and trade regulation, as well as labor and 
employment, pension, data privacy and security, environmental and tax matters and consumer class actions. 
Management proactively reviews and monitors the Company’s exposure to, and the impact of, environmental matters. 
The Company is party to various environmental matters and, as such, may be responsible for all or a portion of the 
cleanup, restoration and post-closure monitoring of several sites.

The Company establishes accruals for loss contingencies when it has determined that a loss is probable and that 

the amount of loss, or range of loss, can be reasonably estimated. Any such accruals are adjusted thereafter as 
appropriate to reflect changes in circumstances.

The Company also determines estimates of reasonably possible losses or ranges of reasonably possible losses in 
excess of related accrued liabilities, if any, when it has determined that a loss is reasonably possible and it is able to 
determine such estimates. For those matters disclosed below for which the amount of any potential losses can be 
reasonably estimated, the Company currently estimates that the aggregate range of reasonably possible losses in excess 
of any accrued liabilities is $0 to approximately $425 (based on current exchange rates). The estimates included in this 
amount are based on the Company’s analysis of currently available information and, as new information is obtained, 
these estimates may change. Due to the inherent subjectivity of the assessments and the unpredictability of outcomes 
of legal proceedings, any amounts accrued or included in this aggregate range may not represent the ultimate loss to 
the Company. Thus, the Company’s exposure and ultimate losses may be higher or lower, and possibly significantly 
so, than the amounts accrued or the range disclosed above.

Based on current knowledge, management does not believe that the ultimate resolution of loss contingencies 
arising from the matters discussed herein will have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position 
or its ongoing results of operations or cash flows. However, in light of the inherent uncertainties noted above, an 
adverse outcome in one or more matters could be material to the Company’s results of operations or cash flows for any 
particular quarter or year.

Brazilian Matters

There are certain tax and civil proceedings outstanding, as described below, related to the Company’s 1995 

acquisition of the Kolynos oral care business from Wyeth (the “Seller”).

The Brazilian internal revenue authority has disallowed interest deductions and foreign exchange losses taken by 
the Company’s Brazilian subsidiary for certain years in connection with the financing of the Kolynos acquisition. The 
tax assessments with interest, penalties and any court-mandated fees, at the current exchange rate, are approximately 
$106. This amount includes additional assessments received from the Brazilian internal revenue authority in April 
2016 relating to net operating loss carryforwards used by the Company’s Brazilian subsidiary to offset taxable income 
that had also been deducted from the authority’s original assessments. The Company has been disputing the 
disallowances by appealing the assessments since October 2001. 

In each of September 2015, February 2017, June 2018, April 2019 and September 2020, the Company lost an 
administrative appeal and subsequently filed an appeal in Brazilian federal court. Currently, there are five appeals 
pending in the Brazilian federal court. Although there can be no assurances, management believes, based on the 
opinion of its Brazilian legal counsel, that the disallowances are without merit and that the Company should ultimately 
prevail. The Company is challenging these disallowances vigorously.

111

COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

In July 2002, the Brazilian Federal Public Attorney filed a civil action against the federal government of Brazil, 
Laboratorios Wyeth-Whitehall Ltda. (the Brazilian subsidiary of the Seller) and the Company, as represented by its 
Brazilian subsidiary, in the 6th. Lower Federal Court in the City of São Paulo, seeking to annul an April 2000 decision 
by the Brazilian Board of Tax Appeals that found in favor of the Seller’s Brazilian subsidiary on the issue of whether it 
had incurred taxable capital gains as a result of the divestiture of Kolynos. The action seeks to make the Company’s 
Brazilian subsidiary jointly and severally liable for any tax due from the Seller’s Brazilian subsidiary. The case has 
been pending since 2002, and the Lower Federal Court has not issued a decision. Although there can be no assurances, 
management believes, based on the opinion of its Brazilian legal counsel, that the Company should ultimately prevail 
in this action. The Company is challenging this action vigorously.

In December 2005, the Brazilian internal revenue authority issued to the Company’s Brazilian subsidiary a tax 
assessment with interest, penalties and any court-mandated fees of approximately $47, at the current exchange rate, 
based on a claim that certain purchases of U.S. Treasury bills by the subsidiary and their subsequent disposition during 
the period 2000 to 2001 were subject to a tax on foreign exchange transactions. The Company had been disputing the 
assessment within the internal revenue authority’s administrative appeals process. However, in November 2015, the 
Superior Chamber of Administrative Tax Appeals denied the Company’s final administrative appeal, and the Company 
has filed a lawsuit in the Brazilian federal court. In the event the Company is unsuccessful in this lawsuit, further 
appeals are available within the Brazilian federal courts. Although there can be no assurances, management believes, 
based on the opinion of its Brazilian legal counsel, that the tax assessment is without merit and that the Company 
should ultimately prevail. The Company is challenging this assessment vigorously.

Competition Matter

Certain of the Company’s subsidiaries were historically subject to actions and, in some cases, fines, by 

governmental authorities in a number of countries related to alleged competition law violations. Substantially all of 
these matters also involved other consumer goods companies and/or retail customers. The Company’s policy is to 
comply with antitrust and competition laws and, if a violation of any such laws is found, to take appropriate remedial 
action and to cooperate fully with any related governmental inquiry. The status as of December 31, 2021 of such 
competition law matters pending against the Company during the year ended December 31, 2021 is set forth below.

▪

In July 2014, the Greek competition law authority issued a statement of objections alleging a restriction 
of parallel imports into Greece. The Company responded to this statement of objections. In July 2017, the 
Company received the decision from the Greek competition law authority in which the Company was 
fined $11. The Company appealed the decision to the Greek courts. In April 2019, the Greek courts 
affirmed the judgment against the Company’s Greek subsidiary, but reduced the fine to $10.5 and 
dismissed the case against Colgate-Palmolive Company. The Company’s Greek subsidiary and the Greek 
competition authority have appealed the decision to the Greek Supreme Court.

112

 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Talcum Powder Matters

The Company has been named as a defendant in civil actions alleging that certain talcum powder products that 

were sold prior to 1996 were contaminated with asbestos and/or caused mesothelioma and other cancers. Many of 
these actions involve a number of co-defendants from a variety of different industries, including suppliers of asbestos 
and manufacturers of products that, unlike the Company’s products, were designed to contain asbestos. As of 
December 31, 2021, there were 171 individual cases pending against the Company in state and federal courts 
throughout the United States, as compared to 136 cases as of December 31, 2020. During the year ended December 31, 
2021, 74 new cases were filed and 39 cases were resolved by voluntary dismissal, settlement or dismissal by the court. 
The value of the settlements in the years presented was not material, either individually or in the aggregate, to each 
such period’s results of operations. 

A significant portion of the Company’s costs incurred in defending and resolving these claims has been, and the 

Company believes that a portion of the costs will continue to be, covered by insurance policies issued by several 
primary, excess and umbrella insurance carriers, subject to deductibles, exclusions, retentions, policy limits and 
insurance carrier insolvencies.

While the Company and its legal counsel believe that these cases are without merit and intend to challenge them 

vigorously, there can be no assurances regarding the ultimate resolution of these matters.

ERISA Matter

In June 2016, a putative class action claiming that residual annuity payments made to certain participants in the 

Colgate-Palmolive Company Employees’ Retirement Income Plan (the “Plan”) did not comply with the Employee 
Retirement Income Security Act was filed against the Plan, the Company and certain individuals (the “Company 
Defendants”) in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York (the “Court”). The relief sought 
includes recalculation of benefits, pre- and post-judgment interest and attorneys’ fees. This action was certified as a 
class action in July 2017. In July 2020, the Court granted in part and denied in part the Company Defendants’ motion 
for summary judgment and dismissed certain claims on consent of the parties. In August 2020, the Court granted the 
plaintiffs’ motion for summary judgment on the remaining claims. The Company and the Plan are contesting this 
action vigorously and, in September 2020, appealed to the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. The 
appeal is currently pending. 

113

COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

14. 

Segment Information

The Company operates in two product segments: Oral, Personal and Home Care; and Pet Nutrition. 

The operations of the Oral, Personal and Home Care product segment are managed geographically in five reportable 

operating segments: North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Africa/Eurasia.

The Company evaluates segment performance based on several factors, including Operating profit. The Company uses 

Operating profit as a measure of operating segment performance because it excludes the impact of Corporate-driven 
decisions related to interest expense and income taxes.

The accounting policies of the operating segments are generally the same as those described in Note 2, Summary of 
Significant Accounting Policies. Intercompany sales have been eliminated. Corporate operations include costs related to 
stock options and restricted stock units, research and development costs, Corporate overhead costs, restructuring and 
related implementation charges and gains and losses on sales of non-core product lines and assets. The Company reports 
these items within Corporate operations as they relate to Corporate-based responsibilities and decisions and are not 
included in the internal measures of segment operating performance used by the Company to measure the underlying 
performance of the operating segments.

Approximately 70% of the Company’s Net sales are generated from markets outside the U.S., with approximately 45% 

of the Company’s Net sales coming from emerging markets (which consist of Latin America, Asia (excluding Japan), 
Africa/Eurasia and Central Europe). Oral, Personal and Home Care sales to Walmart, Inc. and its affiliates represent 
approximately 12%, 12% and 11% of the Company’s Net sales in 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. No other customer 
represented more than 10% of Net sales in any period presented.

In 2021, Corporate Operating profit included goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible impairment charges of $571, and 

a benefit of $26 related to a value-added tax matter in Brazil. In 2020, Corporate Operating profit included benefits of $16 
resulting from the Global Growth and Efficiency Program and a charge of $6 for acquisition-related costs. In 2019, 
Corporate Operating profit included charges of $125 resulting from the Global Growth and Efficiency Program, a charge of 
$24 for acquisition-related costs and a benefit of $30 from a value-added tax matter in Brazil.

2021

2020

2019

Net sales
Oral, Personal and Home Care

North America(1)
Latin America
Europe

Asia Pacific

Africa/Eurasia

Total Oral, Personal and Home Care
Pet Nutrition(2)
Total Net sales

$ 

3,694  $ 

3,741  $ 

3,663 
2,841 

2,867 

1,045 

14,110 

3,311 

3,418 
2,747 

2,701 

981 

13,588 

2,883 

$ 

17,421  $ 

16,471  $ 

3,424 

3,606 
2,450 

2,707 

981 

13,168 

2,525 

15,693 

_________
(1) 

Net sales in the U.S. for Oral, Personal and Home Care were $3,391, $3,447 and $3,166 in 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

(2) 

Net sales in the U.S. for Pet Nutrition were $2,018, $1,712 and $1,441 in 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

114

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Operating profit

Oral, Personal and Home Care

North America

Latin America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Africa/Eurasia

Total Oral, Personal and Home Care

Pet Nutrition

Corporate

Total Operating profit

Capital expenditures

Oral, Personal and Home Care

North America

Latin America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Africa/Eurasia

Total Oral, Personal and Home Care

Pet Nutrition

Corporate

Total Capital expenditures

Depreciation and amortization

Oral, Personal and Home Care

North America

Latin America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Africa/Eurasia

Total Oral, Personal and Home Care

Pet Nutrition

Corporate

2021

2020

2019

$ 

754  $ 

988  $ 

1,012 

682 

844 

203 

3,495 

901 

975 

652 

773 

206 

3,594 

793 

(1,064)   

(502)   

982 

963 

624 

749 

187 

3,505 

703 

(654) 

$ 

3,332  $ 

3,885  $ 

3,554 

2021

2020

2019

$ 

87  $ 

65  $ 

118 

44 

50 

33 

332 

147 

88 

104 

41 

51 

13 

274 

56 

79 

$ 

567  $ 

409  $ 

2021

2020

2019

$ 

104  $ 

101  $ 

88 

98 

96 

9 

395 

62 

99 

81 

94 

95 

9 

380 

58 

101 

43 

90 

42 

40 

8 

223 

41 

71 

335 

94 

84 

72 

100 

8 

358 

55 

106 

519 

Total Depreciation and amortization

$ 

556  $ 

539  $ 

115

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Identifiable assets
Oral, Personal and Home Care

North America
Latin America
Europe
Asia Pacific
Africa/Eurasia

Total Oral, Personal and Home Care
Pet Nutrition
Corporate(1)
Total Identifiable assets

2021

2020

2019

$ 

$ 

4,058  $ 
2,369 
4,432 
2,161 
599 
13,619 
1,342 
79 
15,040  $ 

4,132  $ 
2,251 
5,386 
2,272 
605 
14,646 
1,210 
64 
15,920  $ 

3,576 
2,384 
5,104 
2,155 
590 
13,809 
1,175 
50 
15,034 

____________
(1)

In 2021, Corporate identifiable assets primarily consisted of investments in equity securities (87%) and derivative instruments 
(10%). In 2020, Corporate identifiable assets primarily consisted of investments in equity securities (95%). In 2019, Corporate 
identifiable assets primarily consisted of investments in equity securities (92%) and derivative instruments (2%). 

Long-lived assets(1)
United States
International
Total Long-lived assets

2021

2020

2019

$ 

$ 

1,981  $ 
2,275 
4,256  $ 

1,889  $ 
2,348 
4,237  $ 

1,895 
2,359 
4,254 

____________
(1)

Long-lived assets include Property, plant and equipment, net and lease right-of-use assets. 

116

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

15.  Leases 

The Company enters into leases for land, office space, warehouses and equipment. A number of the leases include 
one or more options to renew the lease terms, purchase the leased property or terminate the lease. The exercise of these 
options is at the Company’s discretion and is therefore recognized on the balance sheet when it is reasonably certain the 
Company will exercise such options. As the Company’s leases typically do not contain a readily determinable implicit 
rate, the Company determines the present value of the lease liability using its incremental borrowing rate at the lease 
commencement date. 

Substantially all of the Company’s leases are considered operating leases. Finance leases were not material as of 

December 31, 2021 and 2020. 

As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company’s right-of use assets and liabilities for operating leases were as 

follows:

Other assets

Other accruals

Other liabilities

Total operating lease liabilities 

Lease liabilities for operating leases as of December 31, 2021 were as follows:

2022
2023
2024
2025
2026
Thereafter

Total lease commitments

Less: Interest

Present value of lease liabilities

2021

2020

$ 

527  $ 

521 

137 

451 

$ 

588  $ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

137 

476 

613 

156 
109 
76 
61 
48 
235 
685 
(97) 
588 

The components of the Company’s operating lease cost for the twelve months ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 

were as follows:

Operating lease cost

Short-term lease cost

Variable lease cost

Sublease Income

Total lease cost

2021

2020

$ 

142  $ 

155 

7 

20 

(1)   

3 

20 

— 

$ 

168  $ 

178 

Short-term lease cost represents the Company’s cost with respect to leases with a duration of 12 months or less and 
is not reflected on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. Variable lease costs are comprised of costs, such as the 
Company’s proportionate share of actual costs for utilities, common area maintenance, property taxes and insurance, that 
are not included in the lease liability and are recognized in the period in which they are incurred. 

117

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

Supplemental cash flow information related to operating leases for the twelve months ended December 31, 2021 and 

2020 was as follows:

▪
▪

Payments against amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities: $173 and $193, respectively 
Lease assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities: $197 and $163, respectively.

As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the weighted-average remaining lease term for operating leases was 8 and 8 

years, respectively, and the weighted-average discount rate for operating leases was 4.0% and 4.2%, respectively. 

There were no material operating leases that the Company had entered into and that were yet to commence as of 

December 31, 2021. 

118

COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

16. 

Supplemental Income Statement Information

Other (income) expense, net
Global Growth and Efficiency Program
Amortization of intangible assets
Equity income
Value-added tax matter in Brazil
Write-off of certain investments and fixed assets
Acquisition-related costs
Charges for a change in go-to-market strategy in certain countries
Other, net
Total Other (income) expense, net

Interest (income) expense, net

Interest incurred

Interest capitalized

Interest income

Total Interest (income) expense, net

Research and development
Advertising

2021

2020

2019

—  $ 
89 
(12)   
(26)   
10 
— 
— 
4 
65  $ 

(13)  $ 
88 
(12)   
— 
— 
2 
— 
48 
113  $ 

57 
62 
(9) 
(30) 
51 
21 
15 
29 
196 

$ 

$ 

2021

2020

2019

$ 

195  $ 

184  $ 

(3)   

(17)   

(1)   

(19)   

$ 

175  $ 

164  $ 

193 

(1) 

(47) 

145 

2021

2020

2019

$ 
$ 

307  $ 
2,021  $ 

290  $ 
1,948  $ 

281 
1,694 

119

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

17.

Supplemental Balance Sheet Information

Inventories by major class are as follows at December 31:

Inventories

Raw materials and supplies

Work-in-process

Finished goods

Total Inventories, net

Non-current inventory, net

Current Inventories, net

2021

2020

$ 

505  $ 

39 

1,248 

1,792  $ 

(100)   

454 

45 

1,256 

1,755 

(82) 

1,692  $ 

1,673 

$ 

$ 

Inventories valued under LIFO amounted to $410 and $439 at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The excess 

of current cost over LIFO cost at the end of each year was $60 and $65, respectively. The liquidations of LIFO inventory 
quantities had no material effect on income in 2021, 2020 and 2019. Inventory classified as non-current at December 31, 
2021 was recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as “Other assets.”

Property, plant and equipment, net
Land
Buildings
Manufacturing machinery and equipment
Other equipment

Accumulated depreciation
Total Property, plant and equipment, net

Other accruals
Accrued advertising and coupon redemption
Accrued payroll and employee benefits
Accrued taxes other than income taxes
Restructuring accrual
Pension and other retiree benefits
Lease liabilities due in one year
Accrued interest
Derivatives
Other
Total Other accruals

Other liabilities
Pension and other retiree benefits
Restructuring accrual

Long-term lease liabilities

Other
Total Other liabilities

120

2021

2020

$ 

163  $ 

1,603 
5,527 
1,606 
8,899 
(5,169)   
3,730  $ 

166 
1,623 
5,409 
1,553 
8,751 
(5,035) 
3,716 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2021

2020

709  $ 
353 
118 
7 
87 
137 
38 
6 
630 
2,085  $ 

728 
401 
116 
21 
89 
137 
39 
93 
717 
2,341 

2021

2020

1,722  $ 
2 

451 

254 
2,429  $ 

1,815 
10 

476 

354 
2,655 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Dollars in Millions Except Share and Per Share Amounts)

18. 

Supplemental Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Information

Other comprehensive income (loss) components attributable to Colgate-Palmolive Company before tax and net of tax 

during the years ended December 31 were as follows:

2021

2020

2019

Pretax

Net of Tax

Pretax

Net of Tax

Pretax

Net of Tax

Cumulative translation adjustments

$ 

(99) $ 

(191)  $ 

(119) $ 

(30)  $ 

49  $ 

27 

Pension and other benefits:

   Net actuarial gain (loss), prior
   service costs and settlements
   during the period
   Amortization of net actuarial loss,
   transition and prior service costs(1)
Retirement Plan and other retiree benefit
adjustments

Cash flow hedges:
   Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow 
   hedges

   Reclassification of (gains) losses 
   into net earnings on cash flow 
   hedges(2)
Gains (losses) on cash flow hedges
Total Other comprehensive income 
(loss)

102   

82   

71 

63 

(125)  

(97) 

(204)  

(154) 

74   

57 

72   

54 

184   

134 

(51)  

(40) 

(132)  

(100) 

13   

10 

(3)  

(2) 

(9)  

(7) 

7   

20   

6 

16 

—   

(3)  

— 

(2) 

(6)  

(15)  

$ 

105  $ 

(41)  $ 

(173) $ 

(72)  $ 

(98) $ 

(5) 

(12) 

(85) 

_________
(1)

These components of Other comprehensive income (loss) are included in the computation of total pension cost. See Note 10, 
Retirement Plans and Other Retiree Benefits for additional details.

(2)

These (gains) losses are reclassified into Cost of sales. See Note 7, Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments for 
additional details.

There were no tax impacts on Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Noncontrolling interests.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) is comprised of cumulative foreign currency translation gains and 
losses, unrecognized pension and other retiree benefit costs and unrealized gains and losses from derivative instruments 
designated as cash flow hedges. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 
consisted primarily of aftertax unrecognized pension and other retiree benefit costs of $1,044 and $1,178, respectively, and 
cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments of $3,349 and $3,158, respectively. Foreign currency translation 
adjustments in 2021 primarily reflect losses from the euro, Brazilian real, Thailand bhat and Turkish lira. Foreign currency 
translation adjustments in 2020 primarily reflect loss from the Brazilian real and the Mexican peso. 

121

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

(Dollars in Millions)

Additions

Balance at 
Beginning of 
Period

Charged to 
Costs and 
Expenses

Other Deductions

Balance at 
End of Period

Year Ended December 31, 2021
Allowance for doubtful accounts and estimated 

returns

Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets

Year Ended December 31, 2020
Allowance for doubtful accounts and estimated 

returns

Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets

Year Ended December 31, 2019
Allowance for doubtful accounts and estimated 

returns

Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

89  $ 

96  $ 

35  $  —  $ 

27  $  —  $ 

46  $ 

3  $ 

76  $ 

115  $ 

16  $  —  $ 

31  $  —  $ 

3  $ 

50  $ 

82  $ 

54  $ 

6  $  —  $ 

68  $  —  $ 

12  $ 

7  $ 

78 

120 

89 

96 

76 

115 

122

  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY

Market Information

The Company’s common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange, and its trading symbol is CL. 

Stock Price Performance Graphs 

The following graphs compare cumulative total shareholder returns on Colgate-Palmolive Company common stock 
against the S&P Composite-500 Stock Index and a peer company index for the twenty-year, ten-year and five-year periods 
each ended December 31, 2021. The peer company index is comprised of consumer products companies that have both 
domestic and international businesses. For 2021, the peer company index consisted of Campbell Soup Company, The 
Clorox Company, The Coca-Cola Company, ConAgra Brands, Inc., The Estee Lauder Companies, Inc., General Mills, 
Inc., Johnson & Johnson, Kellogg Company, Kimberly-Clark Corporation, The Kraft Heinz Company, Mondelez 
International, Inc., PepsiCo, Inc., The Procter & Gamble Company, Reckitt Benckiser Group plc and Unilever PLC. 

These performance graphs do not constitute soliciting material, are not deemed filed with the SEC and are not 

incorporated by reference in any of the Company’s filings under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act 
of 1934, as amended, whether made before or after the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and irrespective of any 
general incorporation language in any such filing, except to the extent the Company specifically incorporates these 
performance graphs by reference therein.

123

 
 
  
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Shareholder Information

Corporate Office
Colgate-Palmolive Company
300 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10022-7499
(212) 310-2000

Stock Exchange
The common stock of Colgate-Palmolive 
Company is listed and traded on the New 
York Stock Exchange under the symbol CL. 

Transfer Agent and Registrar
Our transfer agent, Computershare, can 
assist you with a variety of shareholder 
services including change of address, 
stock transfers, questions about dividend 
checks, direct deposit of dividends and 
Colgate’s Direct Stock Purchase Plan.

Direct Stock Purchase Plan
A Direct Stock Purchase Plan is available 
through Computershare. The Plan includes 
dividend reinvestment options, offers 
optional cash investments by check or 
automatic monthly payments, as well as 
many other features. If you would like to 
learn more about the Plan or to enroll, 
please contact Computershare:

Computershare
PO Box 505000
Louisville, KY  40233-5000
1-800-756-8700 or (781) 575-3301

Email: web.queries@computershare.com

Website: www.computershare.com

Hearing impaired: 
TDD 1-800-231-5469

Annual Meeting
Colgate’s shareholders are invited to 
attend our annual meeting, which will be 
held exclusively online via live webcast. 
It will be held at 10:00 a.m. ET on Friday, 
May 6, 2022 and can be accessed at www.
virtualshareholdermeeting.com/CL2022. 

Independent Registered  
Public Accounting Firm
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Communications to the  
Board of Directors
Colgate shareholders and other interested 
parties are encouraged to communicate 
directly with the Company’s independent 
directors as a group, individual 
independent directors and committee 
chairs by sending an email to directors@
colpal.com or by writing to Directors, 
c/o Office of the Chief Legal Officer, 
Colgate-Palmolive Company, 300 Park 
Avenue, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10022. 
Such communications are handled in 
accordance with the procedures described 
in the Governance section of our website 
at www.colgatepalmolive.com.

SEC and NYSE Certifications
The certifications of Colgate’s Chief 
Executive Officer and Chief Financial 
Officer, required under Section 302 
of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, 
have been filed as exhibits to Colgate’s 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year 
ended December 31, 2021. In addition, in 
2021, Colgate’s Chief Executive Officer 
submitted the annual certification to the 
NYSE regarding Colgate’s compliance 
with the NYSE corporate governance 
listing standards.

Forward-Looking Statements
This 2021 Annual Report may contain 
forward-looking statements. These 
statements are made on the basis of our 
views and assumptions as of this time, 
and we undertake no obligation to update 
these statements. We caution investors 
that any such forward-looking statements 
are not guarantees of future performance 
and that actual events or results may 
differ materially from those statements. 
Investors should consult the Company’s 
filings with the Securities and Exchange 
Commission (including the information 
set forth under the caption “Risk Factors” 
in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 
10-K for the year ended December 31, 
2021) for information about certain factors 
that could cause such differences. 

Reports and Polices
Annual reports, press releases, SEC filings 
and other publications are available on our 
website at www.colgatepalmolive.com. 
Also available on our website is additional 
information on our Sustainability & Social 
Impact and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion 
strategies and recent achievements, 
our Code of Conduct, and Colgate’s 
sustainability policies on, among other 
things, Ingredient Safety, No Deforestation, 
Palm Oil, Responsible Soy, Environment, 
Health & Safety and Product Research and 
Animal Welfare. 

Investor Relations
1-855-322-3551 or (212) 310-2575 

Email: investor_relations@colpal.com

Institutional Investors: 
Call John Faucher at (212) 310-3653

Consumer Affairs
For Oral, Personal and Home Care
1-800-468-6502

For Hill’s Pet Nutrition
1-800-445-5777

Corporate Communications
(212) 310-2551

Media Inquiries
(212) 310-2670

Email: colgate_palmolive_media_ 
inquiries@colpal.com

More information about Colgate  
and our products is available on our 
website at www.colgatepalmolive.com

© 2022 Colgate-Palmolive Company
Design by Robert Webster Inc. (RWI), 
www.rwidesign.com
Printing by DSG | UW

 The Company has complied with applicable public health and regulatory guidance, including social 
distancing and the use of face coverings, in the preparation of this Annual Report.

Sustainability In Action:  
Leading With Zero Waste Facilities 
As of December 31, 2021, Colgate has 26 TRUE Zero Waste certifications 
in 16 countries on five continents, more than any other company. 

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TRUE and the related logo is a trademark owned by Green Business Certification Inc.™ and is used with permission. 

Colgate-Palmolive Company is a caring, innovative growth company reimagining a healthier 
future for all people, their pets and our planet. Focused on Oral Care, Personal Care, Home 
Care and Pet Nutrition, we sell our products in more than 200 countries and territories 
under brands such as Colgate, Palmolive, elmex, hello, meridol, Sorriso, Tom’s of Maine, 
EltaMD, Filorga, Irish Spring, PCA SKIN, Protex, Sanex, Softsoap, Speed Stick, Ajax, Axion, 
Fabuloso, Soupline and Suavitel, as well as Hill’s Science Diet and Hill’s Prescription Diet. 
We are recognized for our leadership and innovation in promoting sustainability and 
community wellbeing, including our achievements in decreasing plastic waste and promoting 
recyclability, saving water, conserving natural resources and improving children’s oral health 
through the Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures program, which has reached more than  
1.4 billion children since 1991. For more information about Colgate’s global business and how 
we are building a future to smile about, visit www.colgatepalmolive.com.

www.instagram.com/colgatepalmoliveco

www.linkedin.com/company/colgate-palmolive

www.youtube.com/user/colgatepalmolive

twitter.com/CP_News