Croda backs full-year outlook as Consumer Care drives sales increase

Croda International PLC on Thursday said a double-digit increase at its Consumer Care division underpinned a better-than-expected third quarter sales performance.

The Yorkshire, England-based speciality chemicals firm said sales rose 5.9% to £449.9 million in the three months ended September 30 from £424.7 million the year prior.

On an organic basis, sales increased 6.6% beating market consensus of 5.4% cited by JPMorgan.

Growth was driven by Consumer Care where sales rose 10%, or 11% on an organic basis.

"Beauty sales were exceptionally strong, with double-digit percentage sales growth in both Beauty Actives and Beauty Care, supported by our increased innovation activity. In Life Sciences, good year-on-year sales growth in Pharma and Seed Enhancement was partially offset by a challenging demand environment continuing in Crop Protection," Croda said in a trading statement.

To enhance growth, Croda said it is focusing sales resource on "key customer segments where it creates the greatest value".

To enhance efficiency, it is targeting an around £50 million reduction in working capital and around £100 million of total annualised pre-tax benefits both for full year 2028.

"We remain on track to deliver the expected transformation benefits, with further incremental cost savings expected in H226 and in 2027 as we deliver efficiencies particularly by optimising our supply chain," it added.

The FTSE 100 listing said it remains on track to deliver its full year 2026 outlook and full year 2028 financial framework.

For financial 2026, Croda continues to expect group organic sales growth within the 3% to 6% range and a further increase in adjusted operating margin driven by improving profitability in Consumer Care and Life Sciences and the benefits of its transformation programme.

Shares in Croda were 2.4% higher at 3,698.00 pence each in London on Thursday.

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