Performance

P erformance at Colgate is more than just

financial strength—it is our commitment to

grow the business with innovative, more

sustainable products that make the lives of

consumers healthier and more enjoyable.

Performance

2015
AT A
GLA N C E

$
16,034
Million

90%
worldwide sales
2015

Over 90% of our pulp and paper

is certified or is in the process
of being certified as being
sourced from responsibly
managed forests

37%
58.6
Approximately 37%
% of our packaging materials
by weight globally
come from recycled
Gross profit sources
margin 2015

77%
of palm oil and palm kernel
oil purchases are of physical
85%
certified sustainable oils; Improved sustainability
balance covered by profile in 85% of new
GreenPalm certificates products (1)

(1)
The performance results are based on representative new products and product updates evaluated against
comparable Colgate products, considering a 2010 baseline, across seven impact areas to characterize likely
improvement in the sustainability profile, based on review of quantitative and qualitative data.
 Performance

Financial Strength

For the full year 2015, worldwide net sales were $16,034 million. Global unit volume
grew 1.5 percent and pricing increased 3 percent. Our leading share of the global
toothpaste market increased and our global leadership in manual toothbrushes also
strengthened.

Net Sales Gross Profit Margin

($ billions) (% of sales)

17.4 17.4 2.93(2) 2.93

17.3 17.3 58.8(1) 58.8(1) 2.84(2) 2.81(2) 2.84
(2)

17.1 17.1 58.7(1) 58.7(1) 58.7(1) 58.7

2.68
(1) (2)
2.68(2)
2.51(2) 2.51 (2)

16.7 16.7 58.3(1) 58.6 58.6

58.3(1)
58.6 58.6
2.57 2.57 1.
58.5 58.5
2.47 2.47
Additional 2015 highlights 2.38 2.36 2.38 2.36
58.1 58.1
can be found in Colgate’s 16.0
57.6(1)
16.0
57.6(1)
2015 Annual Report.
1.52
57.3 57.3

In 2015, Forbes
named Colgate one ’11 ’12 ’13 ’11
’14 ’12
’15 ’13 ’14’11 ’15
’12 ’13 ’11
’14 ’12
’15 ’13 ’14
’11 ’15
’12 ’13 ’11
’14 ’12
’15 ’13 ’1
’14
of the World’s Most
Reputable Companies
Diluted Earnings(3) Dividends Paid(3)
and Most Innovative ($ per share) ($ per share)

17.4 17.4
Companies. 2.93(2) 2.93(2) 1.50 1.50
17.3 17.3 58.8(1) 58.8(1) 2.84(2) 2.81(2)2.84
(2)
2.81(2) 1.42 1.42
17.1 58.7(1) 58.7(1) 58.7(1) 58.7
2.68
(1) (2)
2.68(2) 1.33 1.33
2.51(2) 2.51(2)
1.22 1.22
16.7 58.3(1) 58.6 58.6
58.3(1)
58.6 58.6
2.57 2.57 1.14 1.14
58.5 58.5
2.47 2.47
2.38 2.36 2.38 2.36
58.1 58.1
16.0 16.0
57.6(1) 57.6(1)

1.52 1.52
57.3 57.3
The Colgate brand
was ranked in 2015 by
Interbrand as one of the
’13 ’11
’14 ’12 Best ’14
’15 ’13 Global Brands.
’11 ’15’12 ’13 ’11
’14 ’12
’15 ’13 ’14’11 ’15’12 ’13 ’11
’14 ’12
’15 ’13 ’11 ’15
’14 ’12 ’13 ’11
’14 ’12
’15 ’13 ’14 ’15

(1) 2013–2015 exclude charges related to the 2012 Restructuring Program. 2012–2014 exclude costs
related to the sale of land in Mexico. 2011 excludes costs associated with various business realign-

Colgate’s ment and other cost-saving initiatives. A complete reconciliation between reported results (GAAP)
and results excluding these items (Non-GAAP), including a description of such items, is available on
Governance Colgate’s website and on page 130 of this report.

Principles (2) 2015 excludes a gain from the sale of the Company’s laundry detergent business in the South Pacific
and excludes charges related to a change in accounting for the Company’s Venezuelan operations,
the 2012 Restructuring Program and certain other 2015 items. 2013 and 2014 exclude charges related
Colgate’s Governance to the 2012 Restructuring Program, remeasurement charges resulting from devaluations and effective
devaluations in Venezuela and certain other 2013 and 2014 items. 2012 excludes charges related
Principles support our to the 2012 Restructuring Program and certain other 2012 items. 2011 excludes costs associated
continuing financial with business realignment and other cost-saving initiatives and certain other 2011 items. A complete
success. See the reconciliation between reported results (GAAP) and results excluding these items (Non-GAAP),
including a description of such items, is available on Colgate’s website and on page 130 of this report.
Governance section on (3) Per share amounts have been restated for the 2013 two-for-one stock split.
Colgate’s website at
ColgatePalmolive.com
for more information.
Performance

Consumer-Driven Innovation

Every day, people around the world use Colgate products to care for themselves,
their families and their pets. Colgate delights shoppers with innovative products that
meet their needs, exceed their expectations and add value to their lives. Colgate’s
nine consumer innovation centers, situated close to consumers in different parts of
the world, are focused on developing insight-driven innovation. Operating in over 200
countries and territories across four major product categories that encompass over
20 sub-categories, Colgate launches over 600 new products and product updates
every year.

Colgate

600
launches over

new products and

product updates
every year.*

Engaging to Build Our Brands with Consumers

Stronger consumer engagement begins with better insights. We are obtaining deeper and
more meaningful consumer insights and using them to strengthen product development,
packaging and the communications we deliver through our integrated marketing
campaigns.
Innovation
We listen to consumers both as we develop products and when they are put on Opportunities
the shelves. Over 1,000 studies are conducted annually around the world to hear from
consumers before our products are sold. We have built brand loyalty by maintaining a Colgate is working to
create products to meet
deep understanding of local tastes and habits across categories. Colgate investigates
the evolving needs of
key consumer insights, unmet consumer needs and opportunities for performance consumers, focusing on
improvement in existing products. innovation opportunity
We also listen to consumer feedback on our products. Colgate’s Consumer Affairs spaces that are based
departments manage consumer relations around the world, covering 95 percent of on global megatrends.
Colgate’s business. Highly skilled consumer representatives respond to consumer A formal process is in
place for Colgate teams
complaints, inquiries and compliments through multiple channels of communication.
around the world to
We use robust quality control and quality assurance programs to ensure Colgate’s research and ideate
consumer satisfaction policy is followed and provide continuous feedback to improve on these topics, which
our service delivery. In addition, we regularly monitor key performance indicators for include the area of
service in several regions around the world, specifically for phone interactions, striving water scarcity as well
for 100 percent satisfaction. In our 2015 surveys, over 90 percent of consumers who as the area of naturals
and well-being.
called us in North America were “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with our service.
*Minions image licensed from Universal Studios Licensing LLC. All Rights Reserved.
 page 64

Performance

Increasingly, consumers are

purchasing products that both
meet their needs and have a
reduced environmental and social
footprint. They want to buy safe
products from brands that they
trust and expect transparency
about the ingredients in their
products.
Performance

Product Sustainability at Colgate

Product sustainability at Colgate means a continued with suppliers on green chemistry and continue to
commitment to safe, sustainable, high-quality products expand the portfolio of products that help consumers
that consumers can trust. Collaborative teams across use less water. In the Personal Care category we are
the Colgate world are coming together to develop educating consumers in underserved communities
products with an improved sustainability profile that with handwashing education programs, formulating
continue to meet and exceed consumer expectations. products with an improved ingredient sustainability
As part of our 2015 and 2020 Sustainability Strategies, profile and exploring products that allow consumers to
we have committed to increase the sustainability profile use less water. Within the Oral Care category, we have
in all new products we produce and in the balance of goals to expand the number of children reached though
our portfolio. We are embedding this goal across all our Bright Smiles, Bright Futures program, a commit-
categories. In 2015, we improved the sustainability ment to breakthrough innovation in oral care packaging
profile in 85 percent of our new product launches (see and a commitment to remove PVC from toothbrush
page 68). packaging. We are also promoting water conserva-
We also recognize that consumers are increasingly tion awareness to our consumers with a Save Water
interested in products with a sustainable or natural message. Hill’s Pet Nutrition supports shelters and pet
brand promise, and we provide products to meet this adoption through its Food Shelter Love Program and
expectation. For example, our Tom’s of Maine business is taking steps to improve consumer communication
provides products created with a defined Stewardship with on-package recycling communications on cans,
Model for natural, sustainable and responsible product making a commitment to responsible and sustainable
development and ingredient sourcing (see page 79). seafood and leading our Zero Waste to Landfill efforts.
Product sustainability at Colgate extends beyond Some of the choices we make for our products may
our own operations to the full value chain of our affect multiple products within a category. For example,
products, from our supply chain to consumer usage, improving a preservative can have far‑reaching impacts
to product end-of-life. We are working to reduce the across more than 20 product variants (see page 70 for
carbon footprint of our ingredients (see page 92), to examples).
reduce the water needed during the use of our prod- Colgate has also integrated sustainability into
ucts (see page 101), and taking steps to encourage a our product development and packaging design
circular economy for our packaging (see page 112). processes. Changes and opportunities to improve
Each global category—Oral Care, Home Care, product sustainability are considered throughout the
Personal Care and Pet Nutrition—has specific sustain- development process by multiple functions. Annually,
ability strategies and goals. For example, in our Home new products planned for launch are reviewed with our
Care category we are working to offer concentrated Product Sustainability Scorecard.
products, improve ingredient biodegradability, engage

Embedding Sustainability Across Our Categories

See pages 17 to 25 for more information on how we are embedding sustainability across our product categories.
Performance

Product Safety and Quality

The decisions we make on ingredients are based on a thorough evaluation of the

latest scientific evidence. When we choose an ingredient—whether to contribute to
the performance of a product or to keep it safe against microorganisms—it is first
pre-screened by a team of Colgate scientists. Every ingredient is assessed alone and
within a formula to ensure that nothing unexpected will occur. Our ingredient review
assesses not just what happens in our laboratories, but also across a range of real-
world conditions—during manufacturing, in transportation, at the store, in consumers’
Ingredient homes and after consumer use.
Sustainability We continuously monitor and evaluate the safety of our ingredients, and we
actively engage with outside experts and resources to understand emerging
We improved the science and deepen our knowledge. We seek the facts so that we can make the
ingredient sustainability
right decisions. Where we see opportunities regarding ingredients that are raising
profile in Palmolive
Oats bar soap, consumer questions, we substitute with other safe ingredients that provide the same
removing a parabens- or better benefits without sacrificing quality. Through this ongoing effort, we no
preserved extract. longer use or are on our way to eliminating some of the ingredients currently raising
consumer questions, as described below.

Ingredient Highlights
n In 2013, Colgate made commitments to eliminate formaldehyde donors, parabens,
phthalates and microbeads from our products over the next two years. Colgate
has eliminated phthalates and microbeads from all products and expects to
eliminate formaldehyde donors and parabens in the limited number of remaining
products over the course of 2016. See Colgate’s Policy on Ingredient Safety for
“We’re not just thinking about
the safety of the person more information.
holding the toothbrush,
but also the safety of their n We comply with all aspects of the European Union’s REACH regulation
toddlers and pets. Together, (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemical substances).
we at Colgate-Palmolive
have a lot of experience,
n We disclose in the U.S. and Canada the ingredients in Oral Care, Personal
knowledge and collected
data about how our products Care and Home Care products according to the Consumer Product Ingredient
are used, and we combine Communication Initiative (CPICI) of the American Cleaning Institute, the Consumer
those to make robust, safe Specialty Products Association and the Canadian Consumer Specialty Products
products.” Association.
~Dan Roman,
Product Compliance Engineer n As a member of the Grocery Manufacturers Association, Colgate contributed
to the development of the Smart LabelTM initiative. This platform will enable
consumers to obtain additional details about products by scanning a QR code or
doing an online search to reach a landing page with information on ingredients.
Performance

Product Safety Testing

Colgate has a long-standing worldwide policy to Globally, there are circumstances when regulatory
minimize and to ultimately eliminate animal testing for agencies require animal testing. In such limited
all Oral Care, Personal Care and Home Care products. instances, the tests are conducted at external testing
Central to this commitment are our 30-year-long efforts facilities that meet both government standards and the
to encourage the development of alternatives that rigorous requirements established by Colgate with input
are scientifically valid and can be accepted by safety from animal welfare groups. We look forward to a day
regulators. We are a leader in promoting, encouraging when all necessary safety studies can be performed
and participating in the development, validation and without the use of animals and will continue to work to
acceptance of alternative non-animal testing methods help make that day come sooner.
worldwide, investing over $1 million annually on For more information on Hill’s Pet Nutrition’s commit-
research with non-animal alternatives. We also work ment to the humane treatment of dogs and cats, see the
closely with worldwide regulatory agencies to examine Hill’s Commitment to Animal Welfare at HillsPet.com.
how non-animal tests can be incorporated into their
safety requirements for consumer products.

Partnering to Develop Alternatives

Colgate continues our commitment to finding and using alternative testing methods through support and involvement with
the European Partnership for Alternative Approaches to Animal Testing (EPAA) and the Institute for In Vitro Sciences (IIVS).
We actively share our work to reduce animal use and develop alternatives so that this information can help others in their
search for ways to minimize animal use.
Performance

Colgate’s Product Sustainability Scorecard

Scorecard In order to measure progress toward our 2015 goal to increase the sustainability
Validation profile in all new products we produce and in the balance of our portfolio, Colgate
began evaluating new products using a Product Sustainability Scorecard in 2012.
Colgate engaged Pure Strategies, a leading sustainability consultant, to validate our
Product Sustainability Scorecard and the 2013–2015 results. Pure Strategies provided
the following validation statement in regard to the Colgate Product Sustainability
Scorecard: “Nothing came to our attention that caused us to believe that Colgate’s
Product Sustainability Scorecard could not be used to track progress on improving
Colgate engaged
Pure Strategies to the sustainability profile of new products and the balance of their portfolio.” The
validate our Product scorecard rates products with 25 parameters across seven impact areas: Responsible
Sustainability Sourcing and Raw Materials, Energy and Greenhouse Gases, Waste, Water,
Scorecard. Ingredient Profile, Packaging and Social Impact. Colgate set a stretch goal to improve
the sustainability profile in all new products by 2015. Through cross-functional
collaboration across the Colgate world, we have made progress each year and are
delighted to have improved the sustainability profile in 85 percent of new products
in 2015.(1) We will continue our progress in the coming years, with a renewed stretch
goal to reach 100 percent by 2020.

Percentage of New Products with Improved Sustainability Profile

2012 2013 2014 2015 2020 Goal

24% 48% 72% 85% 100%

We improved the sustainability profile in 85% of new products and the balance of our portfolio in 2015.(1)
(1)
The performance results are based on representative new products and product updates evaluated against comparable Colgate products, considering a 2010
baseline, across seven impact areas to characterize likely improvement in the sustainability profile, based on review of quantitative and qualitative data.
Performance

2015 Product Highlights

Palmolive Caprice Specialties shampoo and conditioner products

in Mexico now require nearly 90 percent less water to manufacture
and have an improved ingredient sustainability profile.

Developed to appeal to Chinese consumers

looking for effective products with healthy,
natural ingredients, a new line of toothpaste
launched in 2016 in China offers refreshing
benefits. It uses natural ingredients such as
aloe extract, seaweed extract and lotus leaf
extract.

As part of our work with suppliers A portable travel toothbrush

to improve the sustainability of in North America is now
preservatives in raw materials, made with 20 percent less
products such as Irish Spring plastic resin and the package
Signature for Men Hydrating now includes our Save Water
body wash and Softsoap brand reminder. Less energy is also
specialty foaming hand soap in required in the manufacturing
North America now contain a self- process.
preserved surfactant (an important
soap ingredient).

Ajax Lemon Lime dish detergent in Colgate’s Africa/Eurasia

Division now has an improved ingredient sustainability profile,
requires less water and generates less waste in the manufacturing
process and has an improved ratio of the weight of the package
compared to the weight of the product.
Performance

2015 Product Highlights

New Sanex Advanced Atopiderm hand cream in Europe

has an improved ingredient sustainability profile, contains
no parabens and provides a clinically-proven improvement
in skin soothing, softness and smoothness.

Palmolive Naturals bar soap in Latin America now

requires less energy and water to manufacture and
produces 8 tons less manufacturing waste per month.

Moving towards more local sourcing of ingredients and products

reduces greenhouse gas emissions associated with transportation.
For example, Colgate Optic White Whiten and Restore in Turkey is
now sourced from Poland instead of China; Colgate’s Maximum Cavity
Protection toothpaste from Colombia, Ecuador and Peru is now sourced
from Colombia instead of Mexico; and a key ingredient in Colgate
Maximum Cavity Protection Plus Sugar Acid Neutralizer toothpaste in
Europe is now sourced from the United Kingdom instead of Brazil.

Palmolive Spa Gourmet

Mint shower gel in
Colgate’s Africa/Eurasia
Colgate Max Fresh
Division has an improved
Shockwave toothpaste
ingredient sustainability
in North America has
profile, and fewer resources
an improved ingredient
are required to produce the
sustainability profile.
product formula.

Sustainability improvements made across a platform of products, such

as a range of similar toothpaste or body wash products, can have a
big impact. For example, several toothpaste variants in Latin America,
such as Colgate Herbal Brilliant White toothpaste in Argentina, now
contain a natural key ingredient instead of a chemically-converted
ingredient. The glycerin for the toothpaste is also now sourced from
Latin America, and the toothpaste requires less water for production.
Performance

2015 Product Highlights

Introduced in Poland in 2014, an improved manufacturing

process for a range of toothpaste variants reduces the
energy, greenhouse gases, water and waste associated
with production. In 2015, this improvement was made
for Colgate Total Daily Repair, Colgate Sensitive with
Sensifoam and Colodent Whitening Explosion in Europe.

Ajax Citrus Burst floor cleaner in Colgate’s South Pacific

region has an improved ingredient sustainability profile, and
fewer resources are required to produce the product formula.

We improved the ingredient sustainability

profile in an update of Softsoap Black
Orchid and Velvet Hibiscus body wash in
the U.S.

Colgate continues to offer more sustainable product options, including Palmolive eco+ automatic dishwasher detergent,
which is phosphate-free; Palmolive pure + clear dishwashing detergent, which has no heavy fragrances; the Sanex Zero%
range, specifically developed to contain a reduced number of chemical ingredients; and Tom’s of Maine personal and oral
care products with naturally sourced or derived ingredients.
Performance

Improving Raw Materials

Colgate is working with our supplier partners to improve the sustainability of our raw materials. We are exploring
ways to implement green chemistry, move to renewable raw materials and improve our upstream carbon and water
footprints.

Product Highlights

Colgate is partnering to identify and develop more sustainable preservation solutions,

including sponsoring and participating in the Green Chemistry and Commerce Council
(GC3) Preservative Task Force. We are also working with chemical suppliers to improve
the sustainability of preservatives in raw materials and moving to self-preserved raw
materials where possible. For example, an ingredient that is now used across all of
Softsoap cleansing products is a self-preserved surfactant, cocoamido propyl betaine,
which does not need an additional antimicrobial preservative.

Several Hill’s Pet Nutrition products have a reduced carbon footprint due to
energy efficiency improvements in the supply chain. For example, a Hill’s vitamin
supplier now uses solar energy to contribute the energy needed for vitamin
production. Other suppliers have also reduced their water use and greenhouse
gas emissions, improving the footprint for products such as Hill’s Ideal Balance
Crafted Grain Free, Hill’s Science Diet Feline Adult Hairball Control and Hill’s
Prescription Diet Canine Metabolic and Mobility.

Tom’s of Maine uses a USDA-certified bio-based propylene glycol, which is

made from renewable carbon content (vegetable oil) instead of petroleum in
its deodorants, reducing greenhouse gases by up to 61 percent based on life
cycle analysis compared with petroleum-based counterparts. Tom’s of Maine’s
Naturally Dry antiperspirant stick is a first in the industry, using aluminum
chlorohydrate, a wetness protection ingredient, made from recycled aluminum
originally derived from natural mineral bauxite ore. Tom’s of Maine also uses
Rainforest Alliance certified palm oil in its soap products.

In North America, Colgate Enamel Health Multi-Protection

toothpaste has a reduced carbon footprint with a new formula that is
self-preserving, eliminating the need for an additional preservative.
Performance

In Asia, the charcoal in Colgate Total Charcoal Deep Clean toothpaste,

Colgate Active Salt Charcoal toothpaste and Palmolive Naturals
Flawless Clean bar soap is a by-product of the bamboo industry.

In 2015, Colgate estimated or updated the carbon and water footprints for our
Oral Care, Personal Care and Home Care categories (see pages 92 and 98).
We are beginning to use this data to engage with our suppliers in the areas
where we can have the greatest impact.

Focus on Packaging
Recycled Content
Colgate is committed to improving the sustainability profile of our packaging.
Approximately
Colgate’s packaging organization regularly evaluates materials and processes that
can improve the sustainability profile of our packages. 37%
of our packaging
Colgate’s packaging sustainability strategy centers around the following actions: materials by weight
globally come from
n Assessing the human health and environmental impact of our packaging where
recycled sources
appropriate n
n Striving to design products for reuse, recyclability and materials reduction while Colgate’s 2020 goal
ensuring product integrity is to increase
n Working to minimize the volume and weight of our packaging and using the recycled content in
minimum amount of packaging required to label and protect our products our packaging to

n Utilizing recycled content 50%

n Increasing the recyclability of our packaging through design choices and innovation
n Expanding refill package systems in product categories where feasible
n Coding our packaging with recycling symbols where appropriate, supporting efforts
to educate consumers and supporting innovative efforts to improve local recycling
systems

In 2014, Colgate set additional packaging targets for 2020. We committed to improve
the recyclability of our packaging, committing resources to enable breakthrough Responsible
innovation in Oral Care packaging. We have also committed to deliver 100 percent Sourcing
recyclable packaging in our Personal Care, Home Care and Hill’s Pet Nutrition
categories. Additionally, we will increase the recycled content of our packaging to Over 90% of our pulp
50 percent. and paper is certified or
is in the process of being
We are working to improve recyclability of our packages through development of
certified as being sourced
perforated shrink sleeves and phasing out use of PVC in our toothbrush packaging.
from responsibly managed
We are exploring alternatives to mixed plastic resins, doy packs, sachets and forests. See page 116 or
wrappers as well as innovative underarm antiperspirant and deodorant packaging. Colgate’s Policy on
No Deforestation for
more information.
Performance

Packaging Highlights

Oral Care
In Colgate’s Oral Care category, we are using recycled content and certified materials in many of our cartons,
phasing out PVC plastic blisters from our toothbrush packaging and researching options to improve the recyclability
of oral care packaging.

Approximately 65% of Colgate’s toothpaste

cartons globally are recyclable.

In North America, Colgate Enamel

Health toothpaste cartons are now
made from recycled cardboard.

Colgate Salt Fresh toothpaste in Asia has

an improved product-to-package ratio.

A new children’s battery-operated toothbrush in North America

has a cardboard carton instead of PVC plastic packaging. This
change also eliminates the need for water cooling of the plastic,
resulting in less water use during manufacture of the toothbrush.
Performance

Packaging Highlights

Personal Care
In our Personal Care category, we continue to minimize the volume and weight of our packaging and increase the
recycled content and recyclability of our plastics where feasible.

A new bottle for Palmolive Naturals shampoo

variants in Colgate’s South Pacific region
now has a reduced cap and bottle weight.

Palmolive Naturals Luminous Hydration

shampoo in Latin America has a reduced
cap and bottle weight.

The new Sanex Advanced line of hand

creams in Europe uses less secondary
packaging for display in stores.

Home Care
In Colgate’s Home Care category, we are continuing to minimize the volume and weight of our packaging, increase
our use of recycled plastics, improve the recyclability of our packaging and design packaging for refill and reuse
across many of our products.

A new size of Axion dishwashing cream in Latin America has an improved

product to package ratio. More product can also be transported per truck,
reducing greenhouse gases associated with transport.
Performance

Home Care Continued ...

Ajax Bucket Dilutable Cleanser in Europe with a new

cap design has an improved product-to-package ratio.
The change in design also reduced the number of
trucks needed to transport the caps by approximately
40 percent, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

A new size for Ajax dishwashing detergent in North

America has an improved product-to-package ratio
and uses less secondary packaging.

Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Hill’s Pet Nutrition is optimizing primary and secondary packaging, engaging with packaging suppliers to
improve efficiency and encouraging consumers to recycle its wet food cans.

In 2015, Hill’s completed the qualification and integration of a new packaging

vendor in the U.S. and converted two of three corrugate boxes to 100 percent
recycled materials in the Richmond, Indiana plant. Investigation of specifications
that would enable a third box to convert to 100 percent recycled content is
underway. Hill’s also optimized the supply of corrugate boxes to its dry food
plants in the U.S., reducing system-wide inbound freight miles from 1,100 miles
to 160 miles and reducing greenhouse gases.

Hill’s has started to roll out a communication on its

Science Diet and Prescription Diet wet food cans
encouraging consumers to “Please Recycle Can.”

Packaging End-of-Life

We recognize the importance of reducing waste at every stage of the product life cycle including at the end-of-life of
our products and packaging. See page 112 for more information on our programs to collect packaging waste and our
commitment to work with stakeholders to drive continuous improvement in local recycling systems.
Performance

Brands That Delight Consumers and Sustain Our World

Our commitment to product sustainability is built on annually. We also work to instill new behaviors, which
a long-standing commitment to deliver innovative are supported by public policy. See pages 47 to 50
products that make the lives of consumers healthier for examples of our Bright Smiles, Bright Futures and
and more enjoyable. Through our products and brands, other oral health programs. Our ongoing oral care
we are working to deliver solutions to health problems, research will help us to both deliver products to meet
to educate our consumers about sustainability and local needs and continue to grow our business. For
to enable them to use fewer resources. From our first example, in Latin America we have completed the first
bar of soap sold in 1806 to industry-leading oral care ever baseline survey to understand the level of gingivitis
products today, a commitment to both delight and help in six countries. That data will be shared with the dental
our consumers is part of our brand promise. profession with a goal to work together to significantly
As a leading provider of oral care products, oral reduce the level of disease through education and use
health is strongly linked to our business, and Colgate of Colgate products. We are also investing in growing
has the unique ability to educate and improve the oral our brands through encouraging consumers to brush
health of children and their families around the world. properly for a recommended two minutes, two times
We perform extensive clinical research to develop the a day with toothpaste—bringing shared value for both
best technology, conducting more than 100 studies Colgate and the community.

Maximum Cavity Protection Plus Sugar Acid Neutralizer Toothpaste

Colgate’s Maximum Cavity Protection Plus Sugar Acid Neutralizer toothpaste provides an important public health benefit and
enhanced anticavity protection—reducing early tooth decay by half.(1)

(1)
In a six month clinical study. Regular fluoride toothpaste reduced early decay by nearly one-third (32 percent).
Performance

Additional Highlights:

Handwashing with soap is one of the most effective ways

to reduce the spread of disease. Through our Protex and
Palmolive brands, we are working with public health officials,
academia, local schools and clinics to educate millions of
children and their families about the health and hygiene benefits
of handwashing with soap. Learn more on pages 51 to 53.

Just like the human epidemic, almost 50 percent of

the pet population in the U.S. is overweight. Hill’s Pet
Nutrition nutritionists and veterinarians developed
Prescription Diet Metabolic clinical nutrition specially
formulated to support weight management. Eighty-eight
percent of pets lost weight at home in two months when
fed the nutrition of Prescription Diet Metabolic.

We are seeking solutions to allow consumers to use less water and energy
with our products. For example, a new product in Europe, Ajax Easy Rinse
Spray also helps consumers save water by making it easier to rinse the
product after cleaning. Our fast dry technology, in multiple fabric softener
offerings globally, brings a unique technology that wicks away water from
fabric to help clothes dry faster, saving consumers time and energy. Colgate’s
no-rinse fabric softener technology also enables consumers to save water.

Colgate is promoting water conservation awareness to our consumers

worldwide through reminders on our packaging, digital and in-store
engagement and our oral health education and handwashing awareness
programs. See page 103 for more information.
Performance

Spotlight on ... Product Stewardship at Tom’s of Maine “The ingredients inside

Our Tom’s of Maine business provides products created with a defined Stewardship your natural personal care
products matter, and we
Model for natural, sustainable and responsible product development and ingredient
believe that you have a right
sourcing. The Stewardship Model is a practical tool that guides the brand’s decision- to know what they are, what
making on its products. Every ingredient Tom’s of Maine uses goes through a purpose they serve, the
stewardship review process. Tom’s of Maine also screens prospective suppliers to natural source they come
make sure their approach to purity, consistency, safety, processing, sustainability and from and how are they are
responsibility meets the stewardship standards with proof to back it up. made.”

~Joanne Murphy,
Stewardship Committee
Leader, Tom’s of Maine

Tom’s of Maine Stewardship Model

Our Standards for Natural

n Sourced and derived from nature n Simple and understandable
n Free of artificial flavors, fragrances, ingredients n Ingredient processing that
colors, sweeteners and n Free from animal ingredients supports our philosophy of human
preservatives n Not tested on animals and environmental health

Our Standards for Sustainable

n Originating from recyclable or n Striving to reduce waste through n Promoting the use of sustainable
renewable plant-based resources recycled content, recycling and growing and harvesting practices
biodegradability

Our Standards for Responsible

n Delivering value to our consumers n Sourced from suppliers and n Conform to the requirements of
n Sufficient research conducted to regions which promote basic regulatory authorities (Food and
show safety and efficacy human rights Drug Administration and Federal
n Purposeful in system of ingredients n Honesty in all claims made for Trade Commission) and other
with complete transparency about ingredients, packaging and professional organizations with
the purpose and source of the products which we have chosen to partner
ingredient (American Dental Association)
Performance

Access and Affordability

Product sustainability at Colgate also means a commit- supply small, low-priced items to Sari Sari stores. These
ment to providing affordable product options in our port- stores contribute almost 50 percent of our sales in the
folio. We have established a 2020 goal to have a positive country. In Latin America and Africa, sachets of cleaning
impact by expanding access to affordable health and products, dish detergent and fabric softener are avail-
wellness products for millions of people in underserved able at lower price points. In India, Colgate developed
communities. toothpaste variants at a 10 rupee price point to meet
We make products more affordable while maintain- the needs of those consumers with a low, fixed budget.
ing quality with smaller sizes, refill packages and value This toothpaste offering has grown to play a key role for
options. We work for wide distribution so that more Colgate in the India toothpaste segment, demonstrating
consumers have access to Colgate products. Offer- strong year-on-year growth. We are reaching consumers
ings are customized to best reach consumers within in rural areas and building distribution; over 40 percent
their socioeconomic level, taking into account available of stores that sell toothpaste in India now offer this
household income and specific consumer needs. We are product.
also finding ways to offer the benefits of more premium Colgate is also finding ways to offer the benefits
products at affordable price points to provide products of more premium products at affordable price points,
that yield more product per use and to help consumers both in emerging markets and for value consumers in
to dose properly to eliminate waste. developed markets. In 2015, Colgate launched a tooth-
Globally, we strategically balance Colgate’s portfolio brush with a tapered bristle at an affordable price point
between base and premium tiers as appropriate for in Vietnam, Taiwan and China. Tapered bristles have
the region. Products like our Colgate Maximum Cavity been shown in a clinical study to remove more plaque,
Protection toothpaste are targeted for usage by the reduce gingivitis and reduce gum abrasion. Our Extra
whole family at an affordable price point, while offerings Clean toothbrush was also relaunched globally last year
like Colgate Total Multi‑benefit or Colgate Sensitive Pro at an affordable price point. We also continue to expand
Relief toothpastes are offered at higher price points, distribution of Colgate Maximum Cavity Protection Plus
addressing more therapeutic needs of consumers. In Sugar Acid Neutralizer toothpaste, which provides an
Colgate’s Africa/Eurasia Division, toothbrush offerings important public health benefit, which is enhanced anti-
range from value options of Extra Clean and Double cavity protection. In Brazil, smaller, more affordable sizes
Action to Zig Zag, a mid-tier price product, to Colgate of this toothpaste as well as Colgate Luminous White
360, a super-premium option. In the Philippines, we toothpaste are contributing to our growth in the region.
In some markets, building rural distribution is chal-
lenging. We are working to develop innovative models
and distribution networks to reach more consumers. For
example, in India we are reaching remote village areas
with special compact vans, increasing our coverage in
rural areas from 22,000 villages in 2012 to 57,000 vil-
lages in 2015. In that time, Colgate has also recruited
over 1,000 new salespeople and added over 1,000 new
vans. In Cameroon, Colgate has improved coverage
and customer service levels in smaller towns by using
branded motorcycles able to visit remote villages to take
orders. As next steps, we will identify key markets for
In emerging markets, Colgate makes products more afford- replication of these models and test the model in new
able with smaller sizes, refill packages and value options. locations.
Performance

Partnering with Customers

We partner with hundreds of thousands of retail stores, of the business. Additionally, Colgate participates in
large and small, to sell Colgate products around a program to obtain feedback from six major global
the world. Treating all retail customers with fairness retailers. Results are analyzed at a customer, country,
and integrity is a priority. We engage our customers region and global level and are used to identify global
worldwide by sharing unique shopper insights, trends, providing key input to shaping the direction of
providing innovative in-store marketing communications the Company’s overall customer engagement strategy.
and merchandising techniques and developing and In 2015, Colgate was ranked No. 4 out of 19 industry
executing joint business planning initiatives. These leading fast-moving consumer goods manufacturers.
activities ensure the right product assortment at each This marks the fourth year in a row Colgate has been
location and help to make shopping a consumer- ranked fourth or higher.
friendly, enjoyable experience that drives increased Colgate also partners with key customers to advance
sales for both Colgate and the retailer. our mutual sustainability goals. We often partner to
To ensure continued success, we track retailer engage consumers with programs such as our Bright
satisfaction in 20 of Colgate’s largest subsidiaries every Smiles, Bright Futures (BSBF) oral health education
two years. The Company participates in a widely- program, Operation Smile and Terracycle®. We also
used industry standard syndicated survey run by the regularly report to several retailers through product
Advantage Group. The objective is to measure our stewardship surveys. In Advantage Group surveys,
Customer Engagement with the goal of strengthening Colgate was ranked in the top tier of suppliers in 12 of
our performance across key markets. In 2015, Colgate 17 markets when assessed for our ability to work with
was ranked as the No. 1 manufacturer in eight separate retailers to meet goals on social and environmental
countries. Colgate was also ranked in the top one-third sustainability. We were ranked as “top supplier” on this
of all manufacturers in countries representing 89 percent topic in Russia, Colombia, Central America and Italy.

Highlights

n Colgate partnered with retailers around the world to

celebrate World Water Day on March 22, 2016, and raise
awareness about water conservation. In Turkey, Colgate
partnered with retail partner Migros to reach online
shoppers with a Save Water message. See page 103 for
more information on World Water Day.

n Colgate partners with retail stores around the world such

as Walgreens, Carrefour, Tesco, Walmart, Rossmann
and Coles to promote oral health through our BSBF
program, Oral Health Month campaigns and other oral
health programs. In several programs, Colgate and
retailers work together to provide oral health education
in local schools as well.
Performance

n Colgate partners with retailers such

as Rossmann in Europe and Tops in
Thailand to promote handwashing
awareness both in-store and online
with the Palmolive and Protex brands.

n To help consumers “upcycle” Colgate products, Colgate and Terracycle® partnered with both Shoprite and
Meijer stores in 2015 on a recycled playground giveaway. In-store displays drove awareness for recycling
through Terracycle® and publicized a contest for schools to win a playground made from recycled toothbrushes
and toothpaste tubes. Tom’s of Maine and Terracycle® also partnered with Hannaford stores in the U.S. to
reward a school with a garden made from natural care waste collected through the Tom’s of Maine Natural
Care Brigade.

n Colgate partnered with retailer Auchan in Portugal in 2015 to provide free dental check-ups at Auchan stores
and to promote oral health habits for Auchan employees at their headquarters and to children at a local school.

n In Colombia, Colgate received the 2015 Best Supplier—Sustainable Development award from retailer Grupo
Exito in recognition for our investment in health education, contribution to the community and reduction of our
impact on climate and the environment. Colgate was also one of three finalists for Grupo Exito’s 2015 Consumer
Goods Best Supplier award.

n In 2014 and 2015, Colgate collaborated with Target in the U.S. to make a donation to St. Jude Children’s
Research Hospital’s Target House with sales of an exclusive children’s toothpaste and toothbrush as well as
Softsoap liquid hand soap and Palmolive dish liquid. Colgate also donated $100,000 to a special event for
children in December 2015, along with children’s toothbrush, toothpaste and Softsoap products.

n Tom’s of Maine was named one of 20 natural brands in Target’s highly selective Made to Matter program,
which delivers exclusive product innovations focused on the sustainability objectives of clean label, reduced
packaging, and closed loop systems.

n In Brazil, Colgate has partnered with Walmart on three End-to-End projects to improve sustainability across
a product’s value chain. For example, making changes to a shopper pack of toothpaste and soap reduced
greenhouse gas emissions, plastic and fuel use.
Performance

Product Sustainability Partnerships

Colgate partners with industry groups, non-governmental organizations and research groups around the world to
meet our product sustainability goals and to share insights to collectively work towards more sustainable product
offerings. Below are some highlights.

n Colgate was one of 25 American Cleaning Institute (ACI) n Colgate is a member of the Roundtable on Sustainable
member companies to complete the requirements for ACI’s Palm Oil (RSPO), which is working on solutions for the use
first year of the Charter for Sustainable Cleaning. Com- and growth of sustainable palm oil.
panies who sign up for the Charter must formally commit
to the ACI Principles for Sustainability, participate in ACI’s n Colgate is a member of the Round Table on Responsible
Sustainability Metrics Program and work toward imple- Soy (RTRS), an internationally recognized forum working
menting a set of Essential Sustainability Procedures and to develop and promote a standard of sustainability for the
Activities (SPAs). production, processing, trading and use of soy.

n Colgate is also committed to the European International n Colgate is an active member of AIM-PROGRESS, serving
Association for Soaps, Detergents and Maintenance Prod- on its leadership team. AIM-PROGRESS is a global
uct’s (AISE) Charter for Sustainable Cleaning. industry forum to promote responsible sourcing practices
and sustainable production systems. It is a global initiative
n Colgate is an active member of the Home and Personal supported and sponsored by the European Brands
Care Sector of The Sustainability Consortium, which is Association in Europe and the Grocery Manufacturers
committed to improving product sustainability through the Association in North America.
development of a standardized Sustainability Measurement
and Reporting System. n Colgate continues our commitment to finding and using
alternatives to animal testing through support and in-
n Colgate is a member of the Forum for the Future Beauty volvement with the European Partnership for Alternative
and Personal Care Working Group, an industry collabora- Approaches to Animal Testing (EPAA) and the Institute for
tion to improve sustainability in the beauty and personal In Vitro Sciences (IIVS).
care sector.
n Colgate is an active member of the Society of Toxicology
n As a member of the Grocery Manufacturers Association, (SOT). SOT is committed to creating a safer and healthier
Colgate contributes to the development of the Smart world by advancing the science of toxicology. In addition
LabelTM initiative. This platform will enable consumers to to supporting these broad objectives of SOT, Colgate
obtain additional details about products by scanning a QR also supports SOT specifically in the areas of research
code or doing an online search to reach a landing page and education in the field of alternatives to animal testing.
with information on ingredients. This support funds education and research for students
and postdoctoral fellows and then makes grants available
n Hill’s Pet Nutrition is a member of the Pet Food Sustain- to in-career researchers to advance the development of
ability Working Group, a collaboration to align on sustain- non-animal methods for research and testing.
ability principles for the pet food industry.
n Colgate is a Global Partner in the Society of Environmental
n Colgate joined other companies in 2011 to found the Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC). Colgate supports
American Institute for Packaging and the Environment SETAC’s mission to develop principles and practices
(AMERIPEN), which is focused on coordinating the indus- for protection, enhancement and management of the
try’s environmental packaging efforts. environment by providing a forum where professionals can
exchange ideas and discuss environmental challenges,
n Colgate is a palm oil member of The Forest Trust (TFT), regulations, research and development and environmental
which is working with Colgate to meet our palm oil education.
traceability and responsible sourcing commitments.