Vice Chairman Juliber Retires from Colgate
The Colgate-Palmolive Company announced that Lois D. Juliber, vice chairman, will retire effective April 1.

Ms. Juliber has served in various corporate positions at Colgate since 1988. In her most recent role as vice chairman, she was responsible for all the company's growth functions including global marketing and business development, R&D, supply chain operations, information technology and business operations in Latin America.

Ms. Juliber said she intends to devote additional time to her work in leadership, issues concerning the aging population and women's advancement, and as a member of the board of directors of Goldman Sachs and DuPont and a trustee of Wellesley College.

Chairman and chief executive officer Reuben Mark said, "We are extremely grateful for Lois' major contributions to our business over these many years and wish her and her husband Jon all the best in their retirement."


February 11, 2005

Playtex Reports Profit Following Woolite Divestiture
Playtex Products, Inc. executives said the company swung to a profit in the fourth quarter due to a gain from the divestiture of Woolite last November. Net income for the quarter was $37.5 million. Exclusing charges and gains, including a gain of $56.5 million from the Woolite sale, Playtex reported a loss of $241,000.

Sales were $140.9 million, down from $143.6 million in the year-ago period. Excluding sales of Wooite, sales rose 1.2% in the fourth quarter. Full-year earnings increased $55.5 million compared to $18.2 million in the year-earlier period.

Zimmerman Leaves Chanel
Jean Hoehn Zimmerman will step down from her position as executive vice president of sales and marketing for fragrance and beaute at Chanel, Inc. in April. Ms. Zimmerman has been at the company for 27 years.

"I think it's a good time to go," Ms. Zimmerman said. "I have more to do with the past of the brand. Other people can take it into the future."

Ms. Zimmerman's decision followed the announcement that her boss and mentor, Arie Kopelman, would step down as president and chief operating officer to become vice chairman four years ago. Maureen Chiquet replaces Ms. Zimmerman as president and chief operating officer.


February 10, 2005

Chemtec Named as Newest Ajinomoto Distributor
The Specialty Chemical Division of Ajinomoto U.S.A., Inc., Paramus, NJ, announced the appointment of Chemtec Chemical Company, Chatsworth, CA as its newest distributor. The distributorship was launched in November 2004 with a technology seminar in Los Angeles hosted jointly by Ajinomoto and Chemtec.

Chemtec was selected as a distributor for a variety of reasons including its outstanding customer service and high level of technical expertise that is supported by its own research laboratory, Ajinomoto executives said.

Ajinomoto's natural anionic surfactants, humectants, emollients and functional ingredients are known for their mildness and gentleness to the skin and hair, and Chemtec will promote these amino acid-based ingredients to the personal care and cosmetic markets. Chemtec will distribute Ajinomoto products throughout the western United States in states that include California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana and Texas.


February 9, 2005

Playtex to Cut 300 Jobs
Playtex Products, Inc. announced its new management will cut more than 300 jobs by the end of this year, accounting for about 20% of its workforce.

The cost-cutting layoffs will affect all of Playtex's locations, executives said. Other measures will include facility consolidations, outsourcing and accelerated depreciation of certain assets. The company also plans to outsource its household glove manufacturing to Malaysia, reduce corporate headquarters office space and reorganize divisions. Playtex hopes these changes will save $12-14 million in 2005, and $22-24 in 2006.

"Many of these initiatives are already underway, and others will be initiated shortly," said Neil DeFeo, president and chief executive officer. "We expect to use the cash generated from the realilgnment to reinvest in our core businesses and pay down debt."

Firmenich Acquires Noville
Geneva, Switzerland-based Firmenich announced its acquisition of Noville, Inc., a U.S. perfume and flavors company. Noville is "well positioned in the U.S. home and oral care markets," according to company executives.

"The acquisition of this highly focused and reputable private company matches our commercial strategy and represents and excellent cultural fit," said Patrich Firmenich, chief executive officer, Firmenich. "It allows us to reinforce our position in major U.S. market segments and to access important new clients."

Cacci is Named President, Burberry Fragrances
Inter Parfums, Inc. appointed Marcella Cacci as president of Burberry Fragrances worldwide, effective March 15. Burberry Fragrances will be a new operating division dedicated solely to the Burberry Brand, according to Inter Parfums executives. In her new role, Ms. Cacci will be responsible for the strategic direction, management and operational control of Burberry Fragrances. Previously she spent five years at Burberry Group.


February 3, 2005

Gillette Reports Double-Digit Increase in Sales, Profit, Income
The Gillette Company announced record results for the fourth quarter and year in net sales, profit from operations, net income and diluted net income per share. For 2004, net sales increased 13% to $10.48 billion. Profit from operations increased 23% to $2.47 billion and net income rose 22% to $1.69 billion.

For the fourth quarter, net sales increased 19% to $3.11 billion, driven by strong consumer demand for new products, two additional selling days and the flow of shipments at the beginning of the 2004 quarter versus the year-ago period, according to Gillette Executives. Profit from operations for the quarter increased 19% to $610 million and net income increased 13%, to $415 million.

Company executives attributed the gains to one of the strongest company-wide new product initiatives in Gillette's history, including the introduction of the M3Power and Venus Divine shavers, Oral-B Sonic Complete, Brush-Ups, the Gillete Complete skin care men's line and the Braun Activator electric shaver.

"We made significant progress last year in all areas of our business," commented James M. Kilts, chairman, president and chief executive officer. "We capped a four-year climb to the top of our sector with a second consecutive year of record results." He added, "Our announced union with Procter & Gamble will combine two great businesses into what will be the best consumer products company in the world."

Perfumania's Fourth Quarter Sales are Up
Perfumania Marketing reported a decrease of 1.1% to $10.1 million retail sales for January 2005, but executives said comparable store sales were up 1.$ to $9.3 million.

For the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended Jan. 29, 2005, total sales and comparable store sales increased 3.4% and 2.7% respectively, executives reported. Total fiscal year retail sales increased 1.6% to $201 million and comparable store sales increased 1.8% to $186.3 million.

"We are pleased with our performance through the end of this fiscal year," said Michael W. Katz, president and chief executive officer of E Com Ventures, Inc., Perfumania's owner. He added, "Despite inclement weather during January, our comparable sales and average sales per store were improved."

Store Sales are Up at Limited Brands
Limited Brands, Columbus, OH, reported a comparable store sales increase of 9% to $750.5 million for the four weeks ended January 29, 2005.

For the fourth quarter, comparable store sales rose 2%. Net sales were $3.3 billion, a 3% increase over the previous year. For the year ended January 29, store sales increased 4% and net sales rose 5% to $9.4 billion.


February 1, 2005

CSPA To Unveil New Business Forum at Mid-Year Meeting
Innovention, a substantial new business-to-business opportunity for the consumer and institutional specialty products industry, will be introduced to members of the Consumer Specialty Products Association (CSPA) at the group's 2005 mid-year meeting. The business forum runs May 2-4 at the Chicago Marriott Downtown, site of the mid-year convention, which takes place May 3-6.

"This day-long networking extravaganza is being called 'Innovention' because it captures the benefits of a convention while focusing on innovation," said CSPA president Chris Cathcart. "It will be a dynamic way to kick off the mid-year meeting, providing member companies with an efficient and economical way to conduct business."

Innovention will feature tabletop displays, a scientific poster session and technical presentations on new products and technologies. A luncheon will feature a recognized expert on innovation as the keynote speaker. A lounge area and private rooms will be available for company to company exchanges. The meeting is open to non-members of CSPA.

The theme Innovention 2005 will run continuously throughout the mid-year meeting, and the general session, division programs and special sessions will emphasize the latest in out-of-the-box thinking and product development. CSPA plans to make this business networking forum an annual event.

Innovention 2005, designed to be an efficient and economical business forum, will feature several activities, including: information exchanges about new products, ingredients and services; learning opportunities for industry professionals; an industry showcase for new and junior professionals; tabletop exhibits for member and non-member companies; a poster session on scientific and technical advances in the industry and a theater area for technical presentations.

For more details, including registration and display information, visit http://www.cspa.org/innovention or call Ann Wheeler at 202/872-8110 or awheeler@cspa.org.

Avon Reports Double-Digit Sales Gain
Avon Products reported that earnings per share increased 27% to $1.77 per share, versus $1.39 per share in 2004. Sales rose 13% in 2004, or 10% in local currencies, to a record $7.66 billion, versus $6.77 billion in 2003. Sales of beauty products grew 17%, with increases in all categories: skin care up 20%; fragrance up 13%; color cosmetics up 14%; and personal care up 24%. Active Representatives rose 11% to 4.9 million and units increased 13%. Net income in 2004 was $846.1 million, up 27% from $664.8 million in 2003.

Cash flow from operations reached a record $883 million for the year, well surpassing the company's upwardly revised 2004 target of $850 million. In recognition of the very healthy levels of cash flow that the company consistently generates, Avon today is announcing an 18% increase in its quarterly dividend and plans for a new $1 billion, five-year share repurchase authorization. The dividend increase comes on top of a 33% increase in 2004, for a cumulative 57% increase in the dividend over the two-year period.

In commenting on 2004 results, Andrea Jung, Avon's chairman and chief executive officer, said, "We are extremely proud to have achieved double-digit topline expansion in local currency for the fifth consecutive year and earnings per share growth of 20% or more for the third consecutive year. Our 17% increase in Beauty sales over last year's strong 15% increase, coupled with continued double-digit gains in active Representatives, reflects the success of our strategies to build the Avon brand and drive growth in our direct selling channel.

"The consistent strength of our consolidated geographic portfolio, together with the tremendous level of cash that our business now generates -- more than double the level of four years ago -- should provide a very solid foundation for unleashing further growth as we continue to move forward with Avon's transformation," Ms. Jung concluded.

For the fourth quarter EPS of $.61 per share, as expected, up 11% from $.55 per share in the fourth quarter of 2003. Avon said that dollar-denominated and local-currency sales in the fourth quarter increased 10% and 7%, respectively, with sales of Beauty products advancing a healthy 16%, well ahead of overall dollar-sales growth. Units and active Representatives both rose 10% in the quarter. Fourth-quarter operating profit grew 6%, as expected. Operating margin contracted 70 basis points, to 17.8%, after an incremental $37 million in consumer and strategic investments. Net income in the quarter rose 11% to $288.8 million, compared with $261.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2003. The quarter's results included $.03 per share negative impact from a non-cash charge for the writedown of securities available to fund select benefit plan obligations. This was offset by a $.02 benefit from a lower-than-anticipated tax rate in the quarter of 25% and a $.01 favorable impact from the reversal of previously recorded restructuring charges.

Analysts Applaud P&G's Gillette deal
If Warren Buffet likes it, so does every one else on Wall Street. Analysts were tripping over themselves in their haste to praise P&G's $57 billion acquisition of Gillette last week. Mr. Buffet, Berkshire Hathaway chairman and Gillette's largest sharehold called the transaction a "dream deal."

According to CBS MarketWatch, Banc of America analyst April Scee recommended her clients buy P&G shares on their current weakness, saying the market doesn't understand the rationale for the transaction.

"The market seems to assume the deal is necessary to perpetuate growth," Ms. Scee told clients in a note. "We believe both companies have strong upsides to current expectations and [the] deal amplifies that."

As for the much of the market's assumption that the merger was driven primarily to gain greater leverage in price negotiations with margin-busting Wal-Mart Stores Inc., at least two analysts don't see it that way.

"While some view the deal as trying to shift the balance of power with Wal-Mart, we see it more about staying ahead of peers and enhancing Wal-Mart relationship," said A.G. Edwards' Jason Gere in a note.

Bear Stearns analyst Christine Augustine concurred, telling clients she didn't see the merger as having a material negative impact on the world's largest retailer.

"Keep in mind that the reason Wal-Mart can charge customers less than many of its competitors is not because Wal-Mart pays the supplier a lower price per unit but because of its lower operating cost structure and more efficient distribution network," said the analyst in her note.

In addition, Mr. Gere affirmed his "buy/aggressive" rating on P&G's stock, telling clients: "We believe the P&G-Gillette deal should promise P&G dominance in the household and personal care industry for a long time."

At Deutsche Bank Securities, analyst Bill Schmitz likewise maintained his "buy" recommendation, and offered a glowing assessment of the deal.

"[The] long-term implications for P&G and the industry are massive, as this union should build the best mousetrap the industry has ever seen," Schmitz told investors in a note.


January 28, 2005

P&G to Buy Gillette Co.
Procter & Gamble (P&G) executives announced that the company will buy Gillette Co. for $55.8 billion. The combined company is expected to generate $60 billion annually.

Following the acquisition, half of P&G's roster of products will comprise health care, personal care and beauty products, according to executives. Gillette hopes to widen its reach through the deal to help the company sell more razors and batteries in large developing markets such as China.

Before the acquisition can go through, the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) will investigate the deal thoroughly and may require P&G to divest some brands into overlapping lines of business, such as deodorants and oral care. However, "The overlaps are minimal," said Clay Daley, P&G's chief financial officer. "There are some, and so we'll obviously need to work with the government authorities on hopefully resolving these overlaps."

P&G executives expect the deal to close this fall.


January 27, 2005

Colgate's Sales and Unit Volume Up Strongly
Colgate-Palmolive Company announced strong worldwide sales and unit volume growth for the fourth quarter 2005. Global sales increased 10.5% and global unit volume increased 9%, company executives said. The global unit increase is the strongest quarterly growth rate in almost 10 years. Excluding a restructuring charge, operating profit declined 5% from fourth quarter 2003 after a 13% increase in total advertising worldwide.

"We are pleased to end the year with excellent top-line momentum," said Reuben Mark, chairman and chief executive officer.

Mr. Mark added that the company reached a new milestone in manual toothbrushes in 2004, with Colgate becoming the new global market share leader in the category. He concluded, "Looking forward, we expect our growth momentum to continue as we enter 2005."

Alberto-Culver Reports Q1 Sales, Profits
The Alberto-Culver Company reported record sales and profits for the first quarter of fiscal 2005, ended Dec. 31, 2004. Sales were $848 million, a 10.8% increase over last year's first quarter, and net earnings rose 21.2% to $51.9 million excluding a non-cash charge.

"New product launches for our main global brand franchises will be coming domestically and around the world (and) will hopefully boost our sales in the second quarter and the rest of fiscal 2005," said Howard B. Bernick, president and chief executive officer.

Estee Lauder's Q2 Sales Rise 8%
The Estee Lauder Companies reported net sales of $1.75 billion for the second fiscal quarter ended Dec. 31, 2004, up 8% from the prior year's second quarter. Net sales rose 5% excluding the impact of foreign currency translation, executives said. Net earnings from continuing operations for the second quarter 2004 were $138.3 million, a 10% increase from the prior year.

"We are pleased to report another quarter of solid sales and earnings growth, reflecting the global appeal of the company's products despite a mixed retail environment this holiday season," said William P. Lauder, president and chief executive officer.

Mr. Lauder said sales grew in all major product categories and regions, aided by a favorable currency environment. "We continue to benefit from our global sourcing and manufacturing initiatives as well as ongoing cost containment efforts," he commented. "These enable us to increase our marketing expenditures to further enhance our brands while meeting our profitability goals." The company will continue to invest in new brands, new channels and new geographic distribution, Mr. Lauder added.


January 26, 2005

Cognis Invests in U.S. Manufacturing Operations
The Care Chemicals Division of Cognis Corp. has announced an expansion of its domestic U.S. manufacturing infrastructure. The existing esterification plant capability of the Cognis site in Mauldin, South Carolina will be extended with an investment of more than $12 million. According to Cognis executives, this investment will give "state-of-the-art" capability for the production of the highest quality ester raw material products for use in the home and personal care markets in the NAFTA region.

Cognis' expertise in ester chemistry has enabled the design of the project to include "future proofing" and global integration. Future proofing allows for systematic stepwise upgrading as Cognis manufacturing technology further advances, ensuring the plant will remain state-of- the-art into the future. The upgraded plant will also become part of a global network of similar plants that already operate in Europe and Asia. Together, these plants ensure that globally harmonized identical products are readily available in all world markets.

According to Cognis executives, this investment marks the latest phase in a process started during 2002, when Cognis Care Chemicals initiated a program to update and strengthen its U.S. manufacturing infrastructure for the manufacturing of raw materials for the home and personal care markets.

PCIE Set for Paris in April
In just 12 weeks, Personal Care Ingredients Europe (PCIE) returns to Paris, home of the European cosmetics market and international center of fashion, culture and good living. But this is an event with substance, as well as style.

The industry-leading three-day scientific conference includes the following speakers: P. Masson, Evic France; K.P. Wilhelm, ProDerm; S. Sagawa, Ajinomoto; J. Kielholz, Boots Healthcare International; A. Ansmann , Cognis Detschland; J. Meyer, Degussa Goldschmidt; J.M. Garcia-Anton, Lipote; A. Naganuma, Shiseido; P. Matts, Procter & Gamble and S. Müller, Ciba Specialty Chemicals.

The organizers are pleased to announce an additional conference during PCIE. This one-day conference on April 12 will offer an in-depth analysis into how the 7th Amendment to the Cosmetics Directive will impact on ingredients suppliers and finished product manufacturers. Key issue to be analysed by the expert panel will include Cosmetic GMP and alternative testing methods.

There are just five booths still available for the exhibition. Companies interested in securing space at PCIE should urgently contact Sara Valorz/Bob Kyte, Tel. (011) +44 1892 518877 or Robert Fischer, Tel: (011) 49-821-325-8317: E-mail: pcie@stepex.com.

Clorox Launches BathWand Cleaning System
The Clorox Company announced it will launch the Clorox BathWand cleaning system in April. The BathWand is an all-in-one sturdy wand combined with scrubber pads. Each pad is pre-loaded with concentrated Clorox cleaner. The 23-inch handle is the optimal length to give users leverage to clean the tub and shower better without having to bend or stretch.

"We know people hate cleaning their bathrooms and that they spend more time cleaning the shower than any other bathroom surface," said Glenn Savage, vice president-general manager, laundry and home care. "The cleaning power of new Clorox BathWand makes it easier than ever to get a sparkling-clean tub and shower."

A starter kit retails for $9.99; sets of five disposable pad refills will be offered at $2.99.

Baum is Appointed to Playtex Board of Directors
Baum is Appointed to Playtex Board of Directors Herbert Baum has been named to the Playtex board of directors, effective immediately. Mr. Baum has maintained key positions at The Dial Corp., Hasbro, Inc., Quaker State and Campbell Soup. Currently Mr. Baum is president and chief executive officer of The Dial Corp.


January 24, 2005

Day Spas of America To Open Second Location
Day Spas of America, with a flagship location in Apollo Beach, FL, is ready for growth in the $11 billion spa market, company executives announced. A new Day Spa location is slated to open mid-2005. The company plans to open additional Day Spas in high-income markets, as well as develop its own line of skin and hair care products. The company is also under negotiations to acquire several existing Day Spas that will be converted to the Day Spas of America format.

The company's private label skin and hair care products line, under development during the past four years, will be marketed under the Apollo Day Spa brand name.

As part of its retail strategy, Day Spas of America plans to focus on three market sizes: spas of 1,750-2,100 square feet for small markets; 2,100-2,500 square feet for medium-size spas and 2,500-3,000 square feet for the maximum size. Services include massages, facials, body wraps, pedicures/manicures, non-surgical "face lifts," hair care, permanent makeup, paraffin and waxing treatments and tanning.


January 21, 2005

Del Labs Shareholders Approve DLI Acquisition
In a special meeting today, DLI shareholders approved the agreement and plan of merger dated July 1, 2004, amended and supplemented, with DLI Holding Corp. Under the terms of the agreement, each outstanding share of DLI common stock will be converted into the right to receive $35 a share in cash, executives announced. The total transaction is valued at approximately $480 million.

The closing of the transaction is expected to occur on Jan. 27, 2005 subject to the satisfaction of all other closing conditions.


January 20, 2005

Inter Parfums Post Sales Results
Inter Parfums, Inc. announced results for the fourth quarter and year. Quarterly sales were $63.4 million, up from $49.2 million a year ago. For the year, Inter Parfums reported sales of $235.6 million, up from $185.6 million from the year-ago period.

Inter Parfums executives said the higher-than-expected sales were driven by the performance of Burberry fragrances.

The company continues to project $15.8 million for 2004 and $280 million for 2005 sales.

Schering-Plough Names Saillot VP, Pharma
Schering-Plough: Jean-Louis Salliot, M.D. was named vice president and head of global pharmacoviligance. He reports to Cecil B. Pickett, senior vice president and president, Schering-Plough Research Institute.

Fragrance Foundation and NPD To Host Seminar
The Fragrance Foundation, New York, NY, and NPD Beauty, Port Washington, NY, will jointly host "2004 Beauty Year in Review" at the Metropolitan Club on Monday, Jan. 31. The event will feature presentations from retailers about the strategies and promotions that were successful during the 2004 holiday season. A market overview of key trends in beauty and fragrance will also be provided.

"We are pleased to present this joint event and work together," said NPD Beauty's president, Timra Carlson. More info: www.fragrance.org or www.npd.com.


January 19, 2005

Ticknor Named to Clorox Board of Directors
Carolyn M. Ticknor was elected to the board of directors, The Clorox Company. Ms. Ticknor is the retired president of Hewlett-Packard's imaging and printing business. She also currently serves on the board of directors for Veritas Software and OfficeMax.

P&G Launches Shania's Wishes for Spring
Procter & Gamble announced the launch of Shania's Wishes for Spring, the newest scented disc in the ScentStories by Febreze family.The disc is part of P&G's marketing partnership with songstress Shania Twain.

Fragrances on the new disc include "daffodils swaying in the breeze," "hanging sheets on the line," "breezes through the window," "mouthwatering citrus" and "picking lily of the valley." With a purchase of the limited-edition disc, consumers can receive a bonus Shania Twain DVD by mail while supplies last.


January 17, 2005

Lubrizol to Close UK Plant
The Lubrizol Corporation announced that it plans to close its Bromborough, England-based manufacturing facility. The plant produces additives for fuels, additives for engine oil lubricants and specialty monomers. Lubrizol will begin to phase out production beginning the second quarter of this year and is expected to be completed by late 2006. During this time UK production will be transferred to French and U.S. higher-capacity facilities.

About 69 employees at the Bromborough plant will be affected by the reorganization. However, some will have the opportunity to relocate to other Lubrizol facilities, executives said.

"This move is consistent with Lubrizol's strategy of optimizing our manufacturing infrastructure to lower our cost structure while simultaneously improving our service capabilities for valued customers," said James L. Hambrick, president and chief executive officer of the company. "We expect the UK facility closure and transfer of production to more efficient manufacturing locations to ultimately generate annual cost savings of $10 million by 2007."

Lubrizol also plans to invest $20 million during the next two years for capacity upgrades at alternate manufacturing facilities.


January 13, 2005

P&G Launches Tide Coldwater
Procter & Gamble introduces Tide Coldwater, a laundry detergent designed to clean in lower temperatures. Company executives said Tide Coldwater provides a deep clean that is fabric- and color-safe. The detergent launches nationally by late this month and broadly in February.

The formulation of the product was fueled by consumer desire to reduce high energy bills, according to P&G executives. "Our research tells us that most consumers recognize and value the benefits of washing in cold water, primarily fabric protection and money and energy savings," said Julie Woffington, Tide brand manager.

The detergent has joined the Alliance to Save Energy, an energy efficiency organization. The launch is supported by advertising designed to educate consumers on the energy benefits of using cold water in the wash. More info can be found at www.tidecoldwater.com.


January 12, 2005

Stephen Farley Joins Yankee Candle Co.
The Yankee Candle Co., South Deerfield, MA, named Stephen Farley senior vice president, retail division. Previously he served as executive vice president, marketing and merchandising at The Bombay Company.

"We are very pleased to have Steve join our leadership team and we look forward to his many contributions as we continue to successfully grow our retail division," said Harlan M. Kent, president of The Yankee Candle Co. "Steve brings proven leadership and general management skills and a strong background in merchandising, sourcing, brand stewardship and marketing."


January 6, 2005

Helen of Troy Reports Record Sales, Earnings
Helen of Troy Limited reported record sales and net earnings for the third quarter and nine months ended Nov. 30, 2004.

In the third quarter, sales increased 24% to $205.6 million. Third quarter net earnings rose 24% as well, to $31.1 million. Both are records, Helen of Troy executives said.

For the nine-month period, sales increased 25% to $453.9 million. Fiscal year-to-date net earnings were 22% higher than the previous year's period, to $64.4 million. Income from continuing operations rose 17% to $64.6 million.

"I am extremely pleased with our excellent sales and earnings results during the third quarter and nine months of this fiscal year," said Gerald Rubin, chairman, chief executive officer and president at Helen of Troy.

He added, "We are currently forecasting sales for next fiscal year, beginning March 1, 2005, in the range of $645-660 million. We are also initiating next fiscal year earnings per share guidance of $2.90-3.00 per diluted share."


January 5, 2005

Ecolab Acquires Midland Research Labs
Ecolab, Inc., St. Paul, MN, announced it has acquired Midland Research Laboratories, Inc., a Lenexa, KS-based provider of water treatment products, process chemicals and services. Midland has sales of about $16 million, company executives said.

Douglas M. Baker, president and chief executive officer, Ecolab, commented, "This acquisition reflects Ecolab's ongoing interest in water care products and services to the middle market, focusing on customers in our existing core markets including hospitality, health care and food and beverage processing."

Clorox Makes Personnel Changes
The Clorox Company announced key personnel changes. Beth Springer was promoted from vice president-general manager of the Glad business unit, to group vice president, effective Jan. 18, reporting to president and chief executive officer Jerry Johnston. In this newly-established role, Ms. Springer will oversee the company's Glad products joint venture with the Procter & Gamble Co. and the company's cat litter, Kingsford charcoal and food products businesses.

Benno Dorer, who has lead the marketing organization for the Glad joint venture since its inception, succeeds Ms. Springer as vice president-general manager for the Glad business.

The company also announced that Laura Stein was named senior vice president-general counsel, effective Jan. 18, also reporting to Mr. Johnston. In her new position, Ms. Stein will oversee the company's legal services and internal audit functions. She succeeds Peter D. Bewley, who is retiring after nearly seven years with the company.


January 4, 2005

Bo Derek Endorses SkinMedica Products
Forty eight-year old Bo Derek will reveal her secret to great skin with her endorsement of SkinMedica's Tissue Nutrient Solution (TNS) Recovery complex family of products. Company executives said Ms. Derek credits TNS products for maintaining the youthful appearance of her skin. After spending years in the sun without sunscreen protection, Ms. Derek tried a variety of products, then was told about TNS Recovery complex by her dermatologist. "The results have exceeded my expectations, and I have faithfully used SkinMedica's TNS line for the past several years," the actress said.

The TNS Recovery complex includes NouriCel-MD, a proprietary blend of multiple human growth factors, soluble collagen, matrix proteins and antioxidants to combat the appearance of wrinkles, dyspigmentation and lack of skin firmness. TNS products are part of a medically-supervised skin care regimen; SkinMedica's Physician Finder at www.skinmedica.com provides information on local physicians who supply the regimen.

"We are delighted to have Bo Derek, the very paradigm of continuing beauty, select our products and now become a spokesperson for them," said SkinMedica president and chief executive officer of SkinMedica.

January 3, 2005

CosmoProf Acquired by Alberto-Culver
Melrose Park, IL-based Alberto-Culver Company's Beauty Systems Group (BSG) has completed the acquisition of CosmoProf, a full service professional beauty products distributor based in Chatsworth, CA.

"CosmoProf is an important addition to Beauty Systems Group, giving us new geography in the very important Los Angeles, California market, as well as Hawaii," commented Howard B. Bernick, Alberto-Culver's president and chief executive officer. In addition, the acquisition provides " more stores and salespeople that will strengthen BSG's existing positions in California, Oregon, Idaho, Washington, Utah, Nevada and Arizona." The addition of CosmoProf's 93 stores and 135 salespeople will bring Beauty Systems Group to more than 700 stores and 1,300 professional sales consultants, according to Alberto-Culver executives.

P&G Searches for New 'Crest Kid'
A whole new generation of kids will be saying "Look, Mom-no cavities!" as they compete for the chance to be the next "Crest kid." Crest launched the nationwide search for the next "Crest kid" to celebrate the brand's 50th birthday. The winner will appear in a modern-day version of the famous "Look, Mom-no cavities!" Norman Rockwell ad and will receive a $25,000 college scholarship.

"The Norman Rockwell ads helped make Crest an iconic brand and introduced fluoride toothpaste to the American public," said Matt Barresi, associate director, North American oral care.

Parents of children aged five through 10 can enter a photo of their child smiling, along with a statement explaining why the child believes he/she should be the next Crest kid. Crest will accept entries until Midnight on Feb. 14. More info: www.crest.com.