Ecolab (ECL -0.09%), a prominent provider of water, hygiene, and energy technologies, released its third-quarter 2024 earnings report on Oct. 29. The company revealed a stronger-than-anticipated adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.83, exceeding analysts' consensus expectations of $1.82. This figure also marked a 19% increase compared to the same quarter in the previous year.
Revenue totaled just under $4 billion, aligning with the company's projection and showing a 1% rise from Q3 2023 despite currency and divestiture headwinds. The quarter reflects Ecolab's effective cost strategies and strong sales performance across its core segments.
| Metric | Q3 2024 Result | Analyst Estimate | Q3 2023 Result | % Change YoY |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adjusted diluted EPS | $1.83 | $1.82 | $1.54 | 19% |
| Revenue (in billions) | $3.998 | N/A | $3.958 | 1% |
| Operating income (in millions) | $1,045 | N/A | $566 | 85% |
Source: Analyst estimates for the quarter provided by FactSet.
Overview of Ecolab
Founded in 1923, Ecolab is a leader in water, hygiene, and energy technology and services, serving industries across the globe. It provides solutions for water treatment, oil and gas operations, and health care facilities. Recently, Ecolab has focused on expanding its digital and sustainable solutions, helping clients reduce water and energy use while lowering emissions. This strategy not only serves rising regulatory standards but also meets growing consumer demands for sustainability.
In recent years, strategic acquisitions -- like that of Purolite for $3.7 billion -- have broadened Ecolab's technological capabilities, specifically in the healthcare and life sciences sectors. Innovation is a cornerstone of its strategy, evident in its 3D TRASAR technology, which enhances operational efficiency. This focus on sustainable and innovative solutions has been a key driver of Ecolab's growth.
Quarterly Highlights
Ecolab's third quarter showed significant achievements, reflecting its determined focus on growth and efficiency. The Global Industrial segment realized a 2% organic sales increase, mainly due to enhanced sales in water treatment and food & beverage. Meanwhile, the Global Institutional & Specialty segment led with a robust 7% organic growth, propelled by consistent demand across all sectors.
The Global Pest Elimination segment posted an 8% organic sales boost, largely supported by increased market activity in food and beverage and retail sectors. However, the Global Healthcare & Life Sciences segment experienced an 18% drop in reported sales, owed to the divestiture of its surgical solutions business. Nonetheless, organic operating income grew by 24% for this segment
Financial performance was underscored by a rise in reported operating income by 85% and organic operating income by 17%. Ecolab's sound cost management strategies led to a 260 basis points rise in organic operating income margin, reaching 17.9%. Free cash flow increased by 35% to $1.4 billion, demonstrating financial stability and enabling the repurchase of 1.9 million shares.
Outlook
With its raised outlook for full-year 2024, Ecolab expects adjusted EPS to soar between $6.60 and $6.70, a 27%-29% improvement over 2023. This upward revision reflects strong confidence in ongoing business drivers such as strategic acquisitions and operational efficiencies. The company is projecting fourth-quarter EPS to range between $1.75 and $1.85, aligning with its solid quarter-over-quarter growth trajectory despite anticipated challenges from divestitures.
Looking toward 2025, Ecolab is optimistic about achieving 12-15% adjusted EPS growth, leveraging its existing investments in innovative and sustainable solutions. While challenges like currency fluctuations and regulatory compliance are on the horizon, Ecolab aims to harness its strong business foundation to continue its growth journey.
