Colgate keeps smiling as Q3 profit holds steady despite softer sales

MUMBAI: The toothpaste stayed bright, even if the shine dulled a touch on the top line. Colgate-Palmolive (India) Limited reported a steady performance for the third quarter ended December 31, 2025, with net profit largely flat at Rs 327.5 crore, compared with Rs 322.8 crore in the same quarter last year.

For the December quarter, total income stood at Rs 1,525.4 crore, marginally higher than Rs 1,482.2 crore a year ago. Revenue from operations, including other operating income, came in at Rs 1,485.1 crore, reflecting a modest year-on-year increase, even as sales net of GST dipped 3.2 per cent compared to the corresponding period last year.

Profit before tax for the quarter was Rs 435.7 crore, slightly lower than Rs 442.3 crore in the preceding quarter, while expenses remained tightly managed at Rs 1,092.3 crore. Advertising spend continued to be a major outlay at Rs 225.1 crore, underscoring the company’s focus on brand visibility in a competitive FMCG landscape.

For the nine months ended December 31, 2025, Colgate-Palmolive India posted a net profit of Rs 971.9 crore, down from Rs 1,081.8 crore in the same period last year. Total income for the nine-month period stood at Rs 4,511.9 crore, compared with Rs 4,697.4 crore a year earlier.

Sales performance over nine months reflected pressure on volumes, with sales net of GST declining 3.2 per cent year on year, even as disciplined cost controls helped cushion the impact on profitability. Profit before tax for the nine-month period was Rs 1,309.9 crore, versus Rs 1,452.2 crore in the previous year.

Other income provided some support during the quarter and nine months, aided by interest on income tax refunds amounting to Rs 21.8 crore for the period ended December 31, 2025.

Basic and diluted earnings per share for the December quarter stood at Rs 12.04, compared with Rs 11.87 a year ago, while nine-month EPS came in at Rs 35.74.

While demand conditions remain mixed, Colgate’s steady margins, controlled costs and continued brand investment suggest the company is prioritising resilience over aggressive growth choosing consistency over sparkle in a crowded oral care aisle.