Colgate-Palmolive Considering Sale of Personal Care Brands Including Softsoap and Speed Stick
Colgate-Palmolive is reportedly exploring the sale of several personal care brands, including Softsoap, Irish Spring, and Speed Stick. The company has enlisted Goldman Sachs to assist in the process, with potential proceeds from these sales expected to exceed $1 billion. These brands are part of Colgate's broader personal care unit, which generated approximately $3.5 billion in annual net sales in 2025 or about 17% of total revenue. The move aligns with a trend among consumer goods companies to divest non-core assets amid rising costs and shifting market dynamics. Colgate is focusing on its core oral care segment, which accounts for nearly half of the company's net sales. The potential sale comes as North America volumes declined in Q1 2026 due to price-sensitive shoppers opting for cheaper alternatives. Colgate’s CEO has acknowledged challenges in turning around the North American business amid intensifying competition and is seeking long-term strategies to address these issues.
Topics: Colgate-Palmolive Divestiture Irish Spring Softsoap Speed Stick