Baby boomers heading into retirement face a specific math problem: They need income that grows faster than inflation, drawn from businesses stable enough to survive whatever the next decade throws at them. With the 10-Year Treasury yielding 4.56% as of July 10, 2026 and Core PCE inflation still climbing (index at 130.08 in May 2026, up 0.3% month over month), fixed-rate bonds alone will not preserve purchasing power over a 25-year retirement. Dividend Kings, companies with 50-plus years of consecutive dividend hikes, remain the workhorse solution.
Here are three durable-income names built for the long haul, each with a specific bull case and a risk worth respecting.
Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ | JNJ Price Prediction) is the healthcare anchor almost every retirement portfolio needs. The company just posted Q1 2026 revenue of $24.06 billion (up 9.9% year over year) and adjusted EPS of $2.70, both ahead of Street expectations, and management raised FY2026 guidance to revenue of $100.3 billion to $101.3 billion and adjusted EPS of $11.45 to $11.65.
The dividend track record is the headline. The board approved a 3.1% dividend increase to $1.34 per share quarterly, marking 64 consecutive years of dividend growth, verified by the payment record showing the Q2 2026 ex-dividend date of May 26, 2026 at $1.34 versus $1.30 the prior quarter. The annualized forward payout of $5.36 gives retirees a concrete income figure to plan around.
Growth is accelerating too. DARZALEX delivered $3.96 billion in the quarter (up 22.5%), TREMFYA grew 68.3%, and CARVYKTI expanded 62.1%. CEO Joaquin Duato called this “a strong start to 2026” delivering on the promise of “a year of accelerated growth and impact.” Shares reflect that momentum: JNJ is up around 52% over the past year and 23.23% year to date through July 22, with a beta of 0.235 that still qualifies as defensive.
Risk/caveat: STELARA biosimilar erosion hit hard, with sales down 59.7% to $656M, and the planned Orthopaedics separation carries execution risk. At a forward P/E near 22, this is no longer a bargain-bin buy.
Kimberly-Clark (KMB) Kimberly-Clark (NASDAQ:KMB) is the consumer-staples version of this trade: Huggies, Kleenex, Scott, Kotex, Cottonelle, Poise and Depend all sit in cabinets that get restocked whether the economy is booming or contracting.
The Q1 2026 print was solid: adjusted EPS of $1.97, which beat the $1.93 estimate, on revenue of $4.16 billion. The company reaffirmed 2026 guidance for organic sales growth of ~2.5% and double-digit adjusted EPS growth on a constant-currency basis, with International Personal Care up 9.1% to $1.51 billion.
The dividend? The Q1 2026 quarterly rose to $1.28 from $1.26 in Q4 2025, extending a streak the data confirms has run every single year from 1999 through 2026. The 4.7% trailing yield is one of the highest available in blue-chip staples.
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Valuation looks reasonable too: forward P/E of 15 versus a trailing 22, with a beta of 0.279. CEO Mike Hsu framed the pending Kenvue acquisition as a “generational value creation opportunity.” For retirees hunting income, this is a Dividend King built to weather cycles.
If maximizing income across a full portfolio is the objective, 24/7 Wall St.’s 10 Dividend Kings research report drills into how these multi-decade compounders fit alongside other steady-payer names.
Risk/caveat: Reported net sales fell 14% year over year due to IFP discontinued operations and the US private label diaper exit, and the consumer tissue restructuring plus Kenvue integration risk are real. As of July 22, shares are down 15.52% over the past year — a reminder that even Kings have off years.
Genuine Parts Company (GPC) Genuine Parts Company (NYSE:GPC) owns NAPA Auto Parts and one of the strongest industrial distribution networks in North America. Q1 2026 delivered adjusted EPS of $1.77, revenue of $6.26B (up 6.8% YoY), and comparable sales up 2.4%. Management reaffirmed FY2026 guidance for sales growth of 3% to 5.5%, adjusted diluted EPS of $7.50 to $8 and free cash flow of $550 million to $700 million.
The dividend streak here is the longest of the three. Data confirms 70 consecutive years of dividend increases announced with Q4 2025, with the annual rate up 3.2% to $4.25 per share. Payment records verify the Q1 2026 quarterly at $1.0625 (up from $1.03 through 2025), annualized forward of $4.25, with the latest payment on July 2, 2026. The 3.53% yield gives income a running start, and the planned tax-free separation into Global Automotive and Global Industrial businesses is targeted for Q1 2027, which could unlock trapped value.
CEO Will Stengel noted the team “delivered first quarter results ahead of expectations” while progressing on the separation.
Risk/caveat: Q4 2025 posted a GAAP net loss of $609.5 million driven by a $742 million pension settlement charge and a $150.5 million First Brands supplier bankruptcy credit loss. Add tariff exposure, separation execution risk, and a Q1 2026 free cash flow deficit of $33.6 million and the near-term picture is choppier than the streak suggests.
The Bottom Line All three names are Dividend Kings in defensive sectors, and all three have raised payouts through recessions, wars, and rate cycles. For baby boomers building an income base to draw from for decades, that consistency is the point. The forward-looking question is whether each company can navigate its current transition (JNJ’s Orthopaedics spin, KMB’s Kenvue integration, and GPC’s separation) without disrupting cash flow to shareholders. History says the odds favor the Kings.
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Key Takeaways Kimberly-Clark is expanding its portfolio with innovation across multiple price points and categories.KMB said that innovation, not promotions, drove volume and mix growth while supporting market share gains.KMB's enhanced Snug & Dry launch improved household penetration and product velocities. Kimberly-Clark Corporation (KMB - Free Report) continues to strengthen its portfolio through differentiated, science-backed innovation across its good, better, best product ladder, enabling it to address a broad range of consumer needs and price points. In the first quarter of fiscal 2026, these innovation efforts supported solid organic sales growth, with volume plus mix growth improving to 3%, extending two consecutive years of broad-based gains in this metric
The company highlighted that it is building market share across its key focus areas of Baby Care, Women’s Health and Active Aging as it continues to execute its innovation-led strategy. By consistently introducing differentiated products that address evolving consumer needs, Kimberly-Clark is expanding its product portfolio and strengthening its position across these key categories.
Kimberly-Clark emphasized that recent volume and mix improvements have been driven primarily by product innovation rather than promotional activity, highlighting the strength of the company’s innovation-focused growth model. Promotional programs are designed to support product launches by encouraging consumer trial and accelerating adoption, rather than serving as the primary driver of sales. This disciplined approach supports sustainable volume and mix growth while reinforcing the company’s innovation-led strategy.
In the first quarter, promotional efforts were centered on the enhanced Snug & Dry offering, which feature a softer feel enabled by a redesigned absorbent core. According to the company, this innovation has delivered encouraging results, contributing to higher household penetration and improved product velocities.
Overall, Kimberly-Clark’s continued investment in consumer-centric innovation is reinforcing its competitive position across key categories. As the company expands its pipeline of differentiated products, it is well-positioned to build on its market share momentum and support sustainable, profitable organic growth over the long term.
The Zacks Rundown for KMBShares of this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company have gained 7.6% in the past six months compared with the industry’s growth of 1.8%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, KMB trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 14.24, lower than the industry’s average of 18.43.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for KMB’s current fiscal-year earnings implies a year-over-year decline of 0.8% and the same for next fiscal year earnings implies growth of 0.9%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Stocks to ConsiderSome better-ranked stocks have been discussed below:
Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (CHD - Free Report) develops, manufactures and markets household, personal care and specialty products. At present, CHD carries a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CHD’s current fiscal-year sales implies a decline of 1% and the same for current fiscal-year earnings suggests growth of 6.2% from the year-ago reported figures. CHD reported a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 6.5%.
Krispy Kreme, Inc. (DNUT - Free Report) produces doughnuts in the United States, the U.K., Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Canada, Japan and internationally. At present, DNUT carries a Zacks Rank of 2.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for DNUT’s current fiscal-year sales indicates a decline of 14%, and the same for earnings implies growth of 30% from the year-ago reported figures. DNUT delivered a trailing four-quarter negative earnings surprise of 6.3%, on average.
Ryohin Keikaku Co., Ltd. (RYKKY - Free Report) engages in the retail of household goods and food items in Japan and internationally. RYKKY currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for RYKKY's current fiscal-year sales and earnings implies growth of 6.9% and 8.3%, respectively, from the year-ago actuals.
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In 2026, the Dividend Kings have significantly outperformed the S&P 500 as investors rotate out of high-valuation growth stocks and into companies offering stable, reliable cash flows. This shift is clearly visible in fund flows: the equal-weighted NOBL Dividend Aristocrats ETF has outperformed market-cap-weighted growth funds during the 2026 rotation. Its equal-weight structure helps it avoid being dragged down by the heavy concentration in a handful of large-cap tech names that dominate many growth benchmarks.
The Dividend Kings are the 56 companies that have raised their dividends for at least 50 years, a testament to their dependability and consistency. Those are two “must-have” items for investors who rely on passive income to supplement their overall income. Unlike the Dividend Aristocrats, the Dividend Kings do not have to be members of the S&P 500.
We screened the current Dividend Kings for companies that are outperforming the S&P 500, which is up 9% this year, and four of our favorite companies are significantly outperforming the venerable index. Of course, all four offer reliable passive income given their Dividend Kings status, but they also deliver big total returns to shareholders. All four are rated Buy by the top Wall Street firms we cover.
Why we recommend the Dividend Kings Companies that have paid and raised dividends for 50 years or more are the kinds of stocks growth and income investors want to buy and hold in their portfolios indefinitely. These stocks are mostly conservative and, should a dramatic market correction occur, will likely hold their ground much better than volatile technology names.
Coca-Cola Coca-Cola (NYSE: KO | KO Price Prediction) is an American multinational corporation founded in 1892. This company remains a top long-time holding of Warren Buffett, whose 400 million shares are 9.3% of the float and 9.9% of the portfolio. The stock pays a dependable 2.48% dividend. Surging by more than 16% year to date, the stock is easily outpacing both the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite while extending its historic dividend growth streak to 64 consecutive years.
Coca-Cola is the world’s largest beverage company, offering consumers more than 500 sparkling and still brands. Led by Coca-Cola, one of the world’s most valuable and recognizable brands, the company’s portfolio features 20 billion-dollar brands, including:
Diet Coke Coca-Cola Light Coca-Cola Zero Sugar Caffeine-free Diet Coke Cherry Coke Fanta Orange Fanta Zero Orange Fanta Zero Sugar Fanta Apple Sprite Sprite Zero Sugar Simply Orange Simply Apple Simply Grapefruit Fresca Schweppes Dasani Fuze Tea Glacéau Smartwater Glacéau Vitaminwater Gold Peak Ice Dew Powerade Topo Chico Minute Maid Globally, it is the top provider of sparkling beverages, ready-to-drink coffees, juices, and juice drinks. Through the world’s most extensive beverage distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy the company’s beverages at a rate of over 1.9 billion servings per day. And remember that the company owns 19.5% of Monster Beverage (NASDAQ: MNST), which continues to deliver strong financial results.
Citigroup has a Buy rating with a $91 target price on the shares.
Colgate-Palmolive This consumer staples giant has been an outstanding idea for conservative investors, paying a dividend every year since 1895 and currently yielding 2.19%. Colgate-Palmolive (NYSE: CL) is a growth company focused on Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care, and Pet Nutrition. The shares have surged roughly 20.4% year to date. The consumer staples giant remains an ultra-reliable income stock. It features an uninterrupted streak of payouts stretching back to 1895. It has also successfully increased its annual dividend distribution for 63 consecutive years.
The company sells its products under such brands as:
Colgate Palmolive Elmex Hello Meridol Sorriso Tom’s of Maine EltaMD Filorga Irish Spring Lady Speed Stick PCA SKIN Protex Sanex Softsoap Speed Stick Ajax Axion Fabuloso Murphy Soupline Suavitel Hill’s Science Diet and Hill’s Prescription Diet The Home Care product segment is managed geographically in five segments:
North America Latin America Europe Asia Pacific Africa/Eurasia All the segments sell primarily to a variety of traditional and e-commerce retailers, wholesalers, distributors, dentists, and skin health professionals.
The Pet Nutrition products include specialty pet nutrition products manufactured and marketed by Hill’s Pet Nutrition. Customers of Pet Nutrition products include authorized pet supply retailers, veterinarians, and e-commerce retailers.
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UBS has a big $100 target price.
Kimberly-Clark Kimberly-Clark (NYSE:KMB) is an American multinational personal care company that primarily manufactures and markets paper-based consumer products worldwide. The stock is also beating the index this year, up over 13%. Yielding 4.41%, the company raised its dividend for the 54th consecutive year earlier this year, retaining its spot on the Dividend Kings list.
It operates through three segments. The Personal Care segment offers a diverse range of products, including:
Disposable diapers Swim pants, training and youth pants, baby wipes Feminine and incontinence care products It provides related products under the Huggies, Pull-Ups, Little Swimmers, GoodNites, DryNites, Sweety, Kotex, U by Kotex, Intimus, Depends, Plenitud, Softex, Poise, and other brand names.
The Consumer Tissue segment provides facial and bathroom tissues, paper towels, napkins, and related products under these brand names:
Kleenex Scott Cottonelle Viva Andrex Scottex Neve The K-C Professional segment offers wipers, tissues, towels, apparel, soaps, and sanitizers under the Kleenex, Scott, WypAll, Kimtech, and KleenGuard brands.
In 2025, Kimberly-Clark announced it would acquire Kenvue (NYSE: KVUE) in a $48.7 billion deal, with the transaction expected to close in the second half of 2026. The acquisition will create a combined consumer health and wellness company, with Kenvue shareholders receiving cash and stock. Kenvue shareholders will get $3.50 in cash plus 0.14625 shares of Kimberly-Clark.
Piper Sandler has an Overweight rating with a $121 target price.
Target The steady dividend and improving consumer have helped boost the shares big in 2026. Target (NYSE: TGT) is a general merchandise retailer in the United States that offers apparel for women, men, boys, girls, toddlers, infants, and newborns, as well as jewelry, accessories, and shoes. The company also offers a range of beauty and personal care products, baby gear, cleaning supplies, paper products, and pet care products.
Surging 32% through early July 2026, the stock is easily outpacing the S&P 500’s roughly 9% rally. Despite this massive outperformance, it still trades at a cheap valuation and offers an attractive dividend yield of 3.56%.
Target also provides:
Dry grocery, dairy, frozen food, beverages, candy, snacks, deli, bakery, meat, and food service Electronics, which includes video game hardware and software Toys, entertainment, sporting goods, and luggage Furniture, lighting, storage, kitchenware, small appliances, home décor, bed, and bath Home improvement School and office supplies Greeting cards, party supplies, and other seasonal merchandise In addition, the company sells merchandise through periodic design and creative partnerships, shop-in-shop experiences, and in-store amenities. It also sells its products through its stores and digital channels, including Target.com.
Jefferies has a Buy rating and a $161 target price.
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Are you seeking the safety of everyday essentials or the potential of a corporate turnaround? Church & Dwight (CHD +0.72%) and Kimberly-Clark (KMB +2.26%) represent two very different ways to play the household products market.
Church & Dwight specializes in a lean portfolio of diverse brands ranging from baking soda to laundry detergent. Kimberly-Clark is a global giant focused on health and hygiene categories like diapers and tissues. Both companies are navigating shifting consumer habits, making 2026 a pivotal year for comparing their investment potential.
The case for Church & DwightChurch & Dwight manufactures and markets a variety of household and personal care products under a lean strategy focused on seven "power brands,” including Arm & Hammer and OxiClean. These items are sold through various retail channels, with Walmart (WMT +1.51%) serving as the company's largest customer, accounting for approximately 23% of consolidated net sales. Customer concentration like this adds a layer of risk to the business, especially as the company continues to divest non-core lines to focus on high-growth consumer staples stocks that resonate with modern shoppers.
In FY 2025, revenue reached nearly $6.2 billion, representing modest growth of roughly 1.6% compared to the prior year. Net income for the period was approximately $736.8 million, resulting in a healthy net margin of roughly 11.9%. This steady performance suggests that the company's efforts to exit the vitamins and showerhead businesses have allowed management to stabilize its earnings profile in a competitive market.
As of its December 2025 balance sheet, the company's debt-to-equity ratio stood at roughly 0.6x. This ratio, which compares total debt (short-term plus long-term) to shareholder equity, indicates that the company carries roughly $0.60 in debt for every dollar of equity. The current ratio of approximately 1.1x indicates the company has $1.10 in current assets to cover every $1.00 of short-term liabilities, while free cash flow reached close to $1.1 billion during the fiscal year.
The case for Kimberly-ClarkKimberly-Clark is a global leader in essential health and hygiene products, operating well-known brands such as Huggies and Kleenex in more than 175 countries. Like its smaller rival, the company relies heavily on Walmart, which accounts for approximately 16% of its consolidated net sales. The company is currently reshaping its global footprint by separating its international family care business into the Arbex joint venture, a move designed to streamline operations and focus on core categories.
In FY 2025, revenue reached nearly $17.2 billion, representing a decline of roughly 14.2% from the previous year. This revenue drop reflects the structural changes within its business units, yet net income for the year remained close to $2.0 billion. Despite the lower top-line figure, the company maintained a net margin of roughly 11.7%, showcasing its ability to generate significant cash from its global brand portfolio.
As of the December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio was approximately 4.9x. This ratio compares total debt (short-term plus long-term) to shareholder equity, suggesting the company relies more heavily on borrowed funds than its counterpart. A current ratio of nearly 0.7x means the company has roughly $0.70 in current assets for every $1.00 in short-term liabilities, though it still generated nearly $1.6 billion in free cash flow during FY 2025.
Risk profile comparisonChurch & Dwight faces intense competitive pressures from legacy consumer goods companies like Procter & Gamble (PG +0.13%) as well as the rising popularity of private-label products. The company relies on sole-source suppliers for certain raw materials, creating a vulnerability to supply chain disruptions and logistical instability. Additionally, any failure to successfully execute on recent divestitures or integrate new acquisitions could result in unforeseen costs or asset impairment charges.
Kimberly-Clark is navigating the complex integration of the Kenvue (KVUE +1.56%) acquisition, which carries risks related to cultural misalignment and a substantially increased debt load. The company must also contend with significant commodity volatility in materials like cellulose fiber and petroleum-based plastics, which can squeeze margins if costs cannot be passed to consumers. Global rivals such as Unilever (UL +1.20%) continue to innovate aggressively, forcing the company to invest heavily in marketing and product development to protect its market share.
Valuation comparisonWhile Kimberly-Clark offers a lower forward P/E based on future earnings estimates, Church & Dwight commands a higher P/S ratio due to its premium brand positioning and stronger balance sheet.
MetricChurch & DwightKimberly-ClarkSector BenchmarkForward P/E25.7x14.7x287.6xP/S ratio3.7x2.1xn/aSector benchmark uses the SPDR XLP sector ETF.
Valuation metrics sourced from Financial Modeling Prep (FMP) and may differ from other data providers.
These two companies serve the consumer products market, with a heavy reliance on Walmart and other major retailers. One is significantly larger than the other, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a better investment.
Kimberly-Clark manufactures a wide range of household and personal care items, including essentials such as diapers, paper towels, toilet paper, and feminine hygiene products. It has become a staple in many investors’ portfolios because of its consistent revenue and reliable dividend.
Church & Dwight isn’t as well known as Kimberly-Clark, but it manufactures a variety of similar products, including laundry, personal care, and health and wellness items. It’s a smaller company, and although it does pay a dividend, it reinvests much of its revenue in expansion. At the same time, it carefully curates its product lines, cutting underperforming products.
Investors seeking reliable set-and-forget sources of dividend income may prefer Kimberly-Clark. But if I had to choose one, I’d invest in the leaner, smaller Church & Dwight. I believe it offers a better balance of long-term growth alongside dividend income.
As of market close on July 7, the S&P 500 (^GSPC 0.42%) and Nasdaq Composite (^IXIC 0.23%) are up 9.6% and 11.1% year to date (YTD), respectively, and hovering around all-time highs. The tech sector -- which makes up 38% of the index -- is largely responsible for the strong gains because it is up 24.5% YTD.
However, some noteworthy value stocks are doing even better than the tech-heavy S&P 500. Kimberly-Clark (KMB 2.75%) is up 13.7% YTD, and that's without even factoring in two $1.28 per share dividend payments. Earlier this year, Kimberly-Clark raised its dividend for the 54th consecutive year, retaining its spot on the list of Dividend Kings, which have at least 50 consecutive years of dividend increases.
Here's why Kimberly-Clark remains a great dividend stock to buy for the second half of the year.
Image source: Getty Images.
1. Kimberly-Clark is recession-resistant Kimberly-Clark has a portfolio of leading household and personal care brands, many of which are paper-based. Its crown jewel is Huggies, which is the No. 2 diaper brand in the world behind Pampers. Other notable brands include Kleenex, Kotex, Scott, and Cottonelle.
Demand for these products tends to be consistent across economic cycles, though Kimberly-Clark's margins have been under pressure due to rising costs and inflationary pressures on consumer spending. In Kimberly-Clark's first-quarter 2026 earnings call, it forecasted $150 million to $170 million in additional costs if oil remained around $100 per barrel. Oil prices have come down significantly since that late April earnings call, but the months when oil was elevated will affect its full-year margins.
However, Kimberly-Clark is implementing productivity initiatives, new pricing with suppliers, and hedging programs to improve margins. Kimberly-Clark's chief financial officer, Nelson Urdaneta, said the following on the Q1 2026 earnings call:
I'd also remind everyone that we've got a solid track record over the last four years of recovering any input cost inflation and actually expanding margins. If you look at 2023 through 2025, we expanded both gross margins and operating profit margins beyond the levels pre-pandemic. So we're confident in our ability to cover all these input costs over time.
Kimberly-Clark isn't immune to consumer spending trends or macroeconomic factors, but it has done a good job adjusting to the new normal of cost inflation.
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2. A major acquisition is right around the corner In November 2025, Kimberly-Clark announced the acquisition of Kenvue (KVUE 1.80%). The consumer health company spun off from Johnson & Johnson in August 2023 and owns many noteworthy brands, including Aveeno, Neutrogena, Tylenol, Listerine, Johnson's, and BAND-AID.
Since then, Kimberly-Clark and Kenvue shareholders have overwhelmingly approved the acquisition, and Kimberly-Clark has moved forward with key organizational and leadership decisions.
The deal will diversify Kimberly-Clark's revenue streams and enhance its resilience in a recession. Kimberly-Clark expects the transaction to close before the end of the year.
3. Kimberly-Clark is dirt cheap You may think that Kimberly-Clark would command a premium valuation, given that its stock price is outpacing the S&P 500 and Nasdaq in 2026. However, Kimberly-Clark fell 23% last year and is down 18.1% over the last decade.
Kimberly-Clark now trades at just 15.2 times analyst consensus 2026 earnings estimates of $7.54 per share. Its 10-year median price-to-earnings ratio is 21.9.
A top high-yield dividend stock to buy now Investors who believe the Kenvue acquisition is the right move are getting a chance to buy Kimberly-Clark at a dirt cheap valuation. Kimberly-Clark expects the combined company to deliver $2.1 billion in annual run rate synergies by the second year following the acquisition, unlocking operating leverage and boosting margins.
In the meantime, investors can count on Kimberly-Clark's high-yield dividend. Although a high yield can sometimes indicate that a dividend is becoming unsustainable, Kimberly-Clark's earnings and free cash flow still exceed its payout.
With an established and recession-resistant portfolio of brands, Kimberly-Clark stands out as an attractive value stock for investors looking for an alternative to high-flying growth stocks. Unlike hyperscaler cloud computing companies, Kimberly-Clark isn't spending a ton of capital expenditures on big ideas that it needs to pay off. Rather, it is a stable stalwart that has rewarded income investors for decades.
Therefore, Kimberly-Clark can continue to outperform the S&P 500 and Nasdaq because its earnings growth expectations are already low. So even decent results would likely be received well by investors. However, Kimberly-Clark isn't without its risks.
If the Kenvue acquisition doesn't go as smoothly as planned or fails to unlock the cost savings Kimberly-Clark hopes for, it could make its dividend less affordable, which could strain its balance sheet. The combined company must also prove it can extract value from a larger portfolio of brands, which comes with a slew of execution challenges from a new leadership team.
Therefore, some investors may want to wait for the dust to settle after the Kenvue acquisition before buying the stock. Investors who don't mind the uncertainty can scoop up shares at an attractive valuation.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Kimberly-Clark (NASDAQ: KMB) will issue its second quarter 2026 results on Tuesday, August 4. A press release and supplemental materials will be issued at approximately 6:30 a.m. EDT.
Kimberly-Clark management will then host a live Q&A session with analysts beginning at 8:00 a.m. EDT.
The earnings release, supplemental materials, and Kimberly-Clark's Q&A session can be accessed at Kimberly-Clark - Investor Relations. A replay of the webcast will be available following the event through the same website.
About Kimberly-Clark
Kimberly-Clark (NASDAQ: KMB) and its trusted brands are an indispensable part of life for people in more than 175 countries and territories. Our portfolio of brands, including Huggies, Kleenex, Scott, Kotex, Cottonelle, Poise, Depend, Pull-Ups, Goodnites, Intimus, Plenitud, Sweety, Softex, Viva and WypAll, hold No. 1 or No. 2 share positions in approximately 70 countries. Our company's purpose is to deliver Better Care for a Better World. We are committed to using sustainable practices designed to support a healthy planet, build strong communities, and enable our business to thrive for decades to come. To keep up with the latest news and learn more about the company's more than 150-year history of innovation, visit the Kimberly-Clark website.
[KMB-F]
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Kimberly-Clark delivered broad-based organic sales growth, primarily driven by volume and mix, partially offset by pricing. The macro environment improved somewhat with energy prices normalizing, but the consumer sentiment remains low, meaning that people are likely to remain value-focused, leading to continued pricing headwinds. The dividend discount models imply limited upside from the current price levels. The insider selling activity and the relatively high short interest are also concerning.
Key Takeaways KMB could face higher input costs if oil averages about $100 per barrel in the second half of fiscal 2026.KMB targets 6% gross productivity again, backed by efficiency initiatives and supply chain investments.KMB said about 80% of its cost basket is covered through contracts, hedging and cost management. Kimberly-Clark Corporation (KMB - Free Report) faces near-term challenges related to increased input costs. At its first-quarter fiscal 2026 earnings call, the company indicated that if oil prices average around $100 per barrel in the second half of fiscal 2026, the company could face incremental gross input costs of approximately $150-$170 million. However, this potential impact has not been incorporated into its outlook due to ongoing uncertainty and multiple evolving factors.
KMB is focused on managing rising input costs through strengthened cost management capabilities, pricing discipline and continued industry-leading productivity. The company has also enhanced its Revenue Growth Management discipline, reinforcing its ability to manage pricing effectively. It remains committed to a disciplined approach centered on maintaining pricing net of commodity input cost neutrality over time, while leveraging all available tools to uphold this pricing and cost management framework.
Kimberly-Clark continues to execute a strong pipeline of productivity initiatives, consistently delivering 6% gross productivity for two consecutive years. It has already achieved 6% gross productivity in the first quarter of fiscal 2026, and remains on track to deliver the same level for the full year.
Management highlighted a robust pipeline of efficiency initiatives while continuing to make significant investments in its North America supply chain. The previously announced $2 billion supply chain investment is progressing as planned, supporting its long-term operational priorities.
Additionally, the company noted that approximately 80% of its overall cost basket is covered through contractual arrangements, programmatic hedging and other cost management measures, providing greater visibility into input costs while supporting a disciplined approach to managing cost exposure. Overall, Kimberly-Clark believes its disciplined execution, productivity initiatives and integrated margin management framework support its ability to recover input cost inflation over time while remaining aligned with its long-term margin expansion plans.
The Zacks Rundown for KMBShares of this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company have gained 17% in the past six months compared with the industry’s growth of 4.8%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, KMB trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 15.29, lower than the industry’s average of 17.96.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for KMB’s current fiscal year earnings implies a year-over-year decline of 0.7%, while the consensus mark for next fiscal year earnings implies year-over-year growth of 0.5%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Stocks to ConsiderSome better-ranked stocks have been discussed below:
ARKO Corp. (ARKO - Free Report) operates a chain of convenience stores in the United States. ARKO currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ARKO's current fiscal-year sales implies a decline of 2.8%, while the same for current fiscal-year earnings implies growth of 93.3% from the year-ago reported figures. ARKO delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 43.2%, on average.
Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (CHD - Free Report) develops, manufactures and markets household, personal care and specialty products. At present, CHD carries a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy).
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CHD’s current fiscal-year sales implies a decline of nearly 1%, and the same for current fiscal-year earnings implies growth of 6.2% from the year-ago reported figures. CHD reported a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 6.5%.
Ollie’s Bargain Outlet Holdings Inc. (OLLI - Free Report) is a retailer of closeout merchandise and excess inventory in the United States. It holds a Zacks Rank #2.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Ollie Bargain’s current financial-year sales and earnings indicates 12.7% and 17.1% growth from the last year, respectively. OLLI reported a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 4.9%.
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of KMB, SU either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Arbex, a new global leader in tissue and hygiene, today commences operations as an independent business and unveils details of its brand, leadership team, and company structure. Announced in June 2025 as a $3.4 billion joint venture between Suzano (NYSE: SUZ), the world’s largest pulp supplier, and Kimberly-Clark Corporation (NASDAQ: KMB), a global leader in consumer goods and personal care, the new business will manufacture, market and distribute consumer and professional products across more than 70 markets on five continents.
Arbex has assumed ownership of assets previously run by Kimberly-Clark’s International Family Care & Professional (IFP) business unit, which includes 22 manufacturing sites in 14 countries, and a portfolio of more than 40 regional brands including Andrex®, Hakle®, and Scottex®. The company also holds a long-term license for the use of Kimberly-Clark’s global brands, including Kleenex®, Cottonelle®, Scott®, WypAll®, Viva®, and Kimberly-Clark Professional.
Ehab Abou-Oaf, previously President of Kimberly-Clark’s IFP business, directly transitions in as Chief Executive Officer of Arbex. He will be based in London, alongside the majority of the global leadership team. Luís Bueno, previously Executive Vice President of Suzano’s consumer goods business, becomes Chief Operating Officer. And Oscar Mousinho, a Kimberly-Clark veteran who most recently served as Global CFO of the Pet Nutrition business at Mars, is the incoming Chief Financial Officer. Walter Schalka, who spent over a decade as CEO of Suzano before stepping down in 2024, will chair Arbex’s Board of Directors.
Ehab Abou-Oaf, CEO of Arbex, said:
“This new company brings together a distinguished heritage, a portfolio of trusted brands, and a compelling vision for the future. Our parent companies have given us a sturdy foundation and a leading market position. In an increasingly dynamic and evolving global landscape, Arbex is embarking on a new journey from a position of strength, and we believe we can shape the future of the tissue and hygiene sector.
“Our immediate priority is ensuring a smooth and seamless transition for our colleagues, customers and consumers around the world. Our team will work hard to grow our business, continuing to earn the trust of hundreds of millions of households worldwide who use our products every day, and remaining committed to delivering quality, sustainability and value.”
Luís Renato Bueno, Chief Operating Officer of Arbex, said:
“Arbex brings together world-class talent with brands that already hold significant market share in over 70 countries around the world. From day one we will be a successful global business, which gives us an exciting launchpad for accelerated growth and an opportunity to build on momentum.
“We are combining the best of Suzano’s industrial and operational expertise, with Kimberly-Clark’s formidable international marketing and brand capabilities – uniting these through shared values of innovation and sustainability. With a pure-play focus on tissue and hygiene products, we believe Arbex has commercial, technical and innovation capabilities that can deliver top-line and bottom-line improvements, helping make us the undisputed global leader in our sector.”
NOTES TO EDITOR
About Arbex
Arbex is a leading global tissue and hygiene business, that is home to some of the world’s most trusted consumer brands. We have a portfolio of household and professional products sold in more than 70 countries, including Kleenex, Scott, Cottonelle, WypAll, Andrex and Viva.
Arbex is joint venture between Suzano, the world’s largest pulp supplier, and Kimberly-Clark, a global leader in consumer goods and personal care. We combine local market insight with global scale and expertise, with 22 manufacturing facilities across 14 countries on five continents.
Learn more at arbex.com
Announced appointments to the senior leadership team of Arbex include:
Ehab Abu-Oaf, Chief Executive Officer (formerly President, International Family Care & Professional, Kimberly-Clark) Luís Renato Bueno, Chief Operating Officer (formerly Executive Vice President Consumer Goods, Suzano) Oscar Mousinho, Chief Financial Officer (formerly Global Chief Financial Officer Pet Nutrition, Mars) Caroline Carpenedo, Chief People, Sustainability, Communications & Corporate Brand Officer (formerly Executive Vice President, People & Management, Safety, Suzano) Chris Burniston, Chief Legal Counsel (formerly Vice President & General Counsel, International Family Care & Professional, Kimberly-Clark) Andrew Behles, Chief of Strategy & Transformation Officer (formerly Senior Director, FP&A and Strategy, Chief of Staff, International Family Care & Professional, Kimberly-Clark) Fiona Emmett, Chief Growth Officer (formerly Vice President International Family Care & Professional Growth, Kimberly-Clark) Pablo Cadaval, Chief Technology Officer, Supply Chain and R&D (formerly R&D Director, Head of R&D, Suzano) Dan Howell, President, Europe (formerly Managing Director & Vice President UK & Ireland, International Family Care & Professional, Kimberly-Clark) Rez Hassan, President, Asia, (formerly Managing Director & Vice President Asia, International Family Care & Professional, Kimberly-Clark) Marina Negrisoli, President, Latin America (formerly Joint Venture Integration Office Director, Suzano) Mark Taylor, President, UK & Ireland (formerly Commercial Director UK & Ireland, International Family Care & Professional, Kimberly-Clark) About Suzano
Suzano is the world's largest pulp supplier, a major paper and packaging producer in the Americas, and one of Brazil’s biggest employers.
Driven by a deep commitment to sustainability and innovation, Suzano produces responsibly-grown raw materials that are exported to more than 100 countries around the world. These are used to make everyday items that reach more than two billion people, including toilet paper and tissue, packaging, printing and writing paper, personal hygiene products, and textiles.
Founded in Brazil over 100 years ago, today Suzano operates across Latin America, North America, Europe and Asia. The company’s shares are listed on the B3 in São Paulo (SUZB3) and the New York Stock Exchange (SUZ).
Learn more at: suzano.com.br/en
About Kimberly-Clark
Kimberly-Clark (NASDAQ: KMB) and its trusted brands are an indispensable part of life for people in more than 175 countries and territories. Our portfolio of brands, including Huggies, Kleenex, Scott, Kotex, Cottonelle, Poise, Depend, Pull-Ups, Goodnites, Intimus, Plenitud, Sweety, Softex, Viva and WypAll, hold No. 1 or No. 2 share positions in approximately 70 countries. Our company's purpose is to deliver Better Care for a Better World. We are committed to using sustainable practices designed to support a healthy planet, build strong communities, and enable our business to thrive for decades to come. To keep up with the latest news and learn more about the company's more than 150-year history of innovation, visit the Kimberly-Clark website.
Kimberly-Clark (NASDAQ:KMB | KMB Price Prediction) just sent another check to shareholders, and the math is making conservative income investors nervous. The consumer staples giant paid out $1.28 per share on July 2, 2026, marking another quarter in a dividend streak that now stretches more than five decades. The problem? On certain adjusted measures, the payout ratio is hovering near 80%, and free cash flow barely covered the dividend last year. For retirees who depend on this Dividend Aristocrat for income, that’s the kind of data point that triggers a portfolio review.
However, if you dig into the balance sheet, a very different story emerges. Kimberly-Clark is actively deleveraging, equity is rebuilding at a pace not seen in years and operating cash flow just exploded in the most recent quarter. The dividend sits on a wider beam than the trailing payout ratio suggests.
The Payment That Sparked the Debate The Q1 2026 declaration lifted the quarterly rate to $1.28 from $1.26, extending Kimberly-Clark’s growth streak to 53 consecutive years of annual increases. At the current price of $110.06, that puts the trailing dividend yield at 5%, well above the broader market and competitive with investment-grade corporate bonds.
The annualized run rate sits at $5.12 per share for 2026, up from $5.04 in 2025 and $4.88 in 2024. The progression has been remarkably mechanical: small, predictable raises that prioritize the streak over flash.
Why Retirees Are Worried: The Coverage Math The case against Kimberly-Clark starts with one statistic that should make any dividend investor pause. In fiscal 2025, the company generated $1.639 billion in free cash flow against $1.660 billion in dividend payments. That’s a coverage ratio of 0.99x, the first time in a decade that free cash flow has not comfortably covered the distribution.
Historical context makes the deterioration look sharper. From 2016 through 2024, free cash flow coverage typically ran between 1.4x and 1.9x. The driver was capital intensity. Capital expenditures jumped to $1.138 billion in 2025 from $721 million in 2024, consuming 41% of operating cash flow, the highest ratio in the 10-year period.
Q1 2026 looks tighter still when isolated. Free cash flow of $321 million fell short of the $418 million dividend payment. Buybacks also pulled back hard: share repurchases dropped to $141 million in 2025 from $1.0 billion in 2024. Management is clearly prioritizing the dividend, which is exactly what raises the question of whether something has to give.
The Balance Sheet Counter-Argument Here’s where the bear case starts breaking down. While free cash flow tightened, Kimberly-Clark used 2025 to materially strengthen its capital structure.
Shareholder equity rose to $1.502 billion at year-end 2025 from $840 million in 2024, a 79% jump. Total debt fell by $620 million to $7.296 billion. The debt-to-equity ratio improved from 9.42x to 4.86x in a single year. By the end of Q1 2026, equity had climbed further to $1.796 billion while total debt continued to drift down to $7.084 billion.
Retained earnings of $9.611 billion provide a substantial accumulated cushion. That’s the profile of a company simultaneously paying down debt, raising distributions, and reinvesting in capacity.
Q1 2026 Cash Flow Tells a Different Story The single most underappreciated data point in this debate is the operating cash flow swing in the latest quarter. Q1 2026 operating cash flow came in at $745 million, up 128% year over year. That’s the kind of working capital release that doesn’t happen at companies on the verge of cash distress.
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Earnings followed the same path. Adjusted EPS of $1.97 beat the $1.93 consensus, the fourth consecutive quarterly beat. Revenue of $4.163 billion topped expectations, and net income jumped 17% year over year to $665 million. The International Personal Care segment posted 9% revenue growth with operating profit up 22%.
CEO Mike Hsu framed the quarter directly: “Our first quarter results highlight the strength and resilience of the growth engine we’ve built through Powering Care…[and] we continue to generate meaningful cost savings that reinforce our strong financial foundation and enable us to invest in our exciting future.”
Dividend Scorecard Metric Value Assessment Current Yield 5% Premium income Consecutive Growth Years 53 Dividend Aristocrat tier Payout Ratio (GAAP EPS) ~67% Elevated but workable FCF Coverage (FY 2025) 0.99x Tight Debt-to-Equity 4.86x Improving sharply Beta 0.302 Low volatility Latest Raise $1.26 to $1.28 On schedule Grade: B+
The free cash flow squeeze is real and worth monitoring, but balance sheet repair, the 27-year uninterrupted payment record, and the operating cash flow acceleration in Q1 2026 outweigh the trailing coverage concern. A pure A would require restored FCF coverage above 1.3x.
The Macro Backdrop Favors the Dividend Retirees evaluating Kimberly-Clark aren’t doing so in a vacuum. The savings rate has compressed to 4% in Q1 2026 from 6% in Q1 2024, suggesting income-dependent households are drawing down reserves. Per-capita disposable income has climbed to $68,391, but Social Security receipts of $1.630 trillion now anchor retiree budgets more than ever.
Demand for Kimberly-Clark’s core categories has held up. Spending on the “Other” nondurable goods category, which captures personal care and household products, ran at $1,810.8 billion in May 2026 versus $1,714.6 billion in May 2025. Tissue, diapers, and feminine care are textbook recession-resistant categories, and the BEA data shows consumers continuing to spend on them through a softening savings environment.
The Kenvue Wild Card Looming over everything is the pending $48.7 billion Kenvue (NYSE:KVUE) acquisition, which shareholders have already approved. Integration risk is real, but so is the strategic logic of combining Kimberly-Clark’s distribution muscle with Kenvue’s branded consumer health portfolio. The IFP joint venture with Suzano (NYSE:SUZ), expected to close mid-2026, further reshapes the asset base. Management has guided to organic sales growth of around 3% and double-digit adjusted EPS growth on a constant-currency basis for 2026.
What to Watch Next The stock has come back to life. Shares are up nearly 8% year to date and more than 11% over the past month, recovering from a tough trailing 12 months that saw the stock fall over 15%. The analyst target sits at $114.80, modest upside from current levels, and the consensus skews toward Hold with nine Hold ratings against six Buy or Strong Buy ratings and just one Sell rating.
For retirees, the key signal posts are clear. First, watch full-year free cash flow coverage restore above 1.2x as the elevated capex cycle normalizes. Second, watch the Kenvue integration cadence for evidence that combined cash flow can fund a larger dividend base. Third, keep an eye on the quarterly raise in early 2027. A skipped or token increase would break the rhythm in a way the bond market would notice immediately.
The 80% payout headline is doing more rhetorical work than the underlying numbers justify. A company actively deleveraging, growing equity at double-digit rates, beating earnings four quarters in a row, and operating in categories with documented stable demand is a Dividend Aristocrat navigating a heavy CapEx cycle while keeping the streak intact.
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Ten years is a long time. In a decade, interest rates will have cycled multiple times, a recession will have come and gone, and the stocks that dominate the headlines today will likely have been replaced by something no one is talking about yet. That's exactly why dividend investing across a 10-year window is different from everything else in a portfolio.
You're not really trying to predict the next quarter or the next runner. You're buying businesses that will pay you while you wait, and ideally pay you more each year than they did the year before. The three companies below are solid dividend stocks to hold for the next 10 years.
1. The Clorox Company The Clorox Company (CLX +2.25%) has been through a stretch that would have broken a lesser brand. A $580 million ERP system upgrade in 2023 caused a cyberattack disruption that knocked organic sales down 17% in a single quarter. The stock fell to decade-low valuations. Most investors moved on.
Image source: Getty Images.
What happened next is the actual story. Clorox spent the following years rebuilding, and in January 2026, it made its most significant strategic move in decades: a $2.25 billion acquisition of GOJO Industries, the maker of Purell. The deal closed April 1, 2026. Purell is not a specialty brand. It is the category. After the pandemic permanently changed how the world thinks about hand hygiene, owning Purell for the next 10 years means owning a product that now lives in every school, hospital, office building, and restaurant in the country, as a reflex rather than a purchase decision. Clorox's long-term sales target of 3% to 5% organic growth now has a new engine behind it.
The near-term noise is real: Fiscal 2026 earnings-per-share guidance was cut as GOJO integration costs and debt weighed on the balance sheet. The stock yields nearly 5% at current prices. Morningstar values it at $134 per share against a price near $95. For a 10-year holder, those integration costs become a footnote. The Purell brand does not.
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2. Brown-Forman Corporation Brown-Forman Corporation (BFB 0.07%) has raised its dividend for 42 consecutive years. That streak covers the dot-com crash, the 2008 financial crisis, COVID-19, and the current macro uncertainty, and it kept going through all of it. The company makes Jack Daniel's, Woodford Reserve, Herradura Tequila, and el Jimador, among others. Its core product is aged whiskey, which takes years to produce, creates a natural supply constraint, and carries margin profiles that most consumer goods companies would trade anything to have.
The stock is under pressure right now because the global spirits market has softened. Premium bourbon and tequila consumers pulled back in 2025 and early 2026 as price fatigue set in after years of category inflation. This is all a cyclical problem, not a structural one. Meanwhile, Brown-Forman launched Jack Daniel's Tennessee Blackberry in 2026 and saw "outstanding consumer engagement" on the new flavor extension -- proof that the brand still has room to grow inside an audience it already owns.
The dividend yield near current prices sits around 3.6%. A decade from now, if Brown-Forman maintains its historical dividend growth rate of roughly 6% to 8% per year, the yield on today's cost basis will be substantially higher, which is the entire logic of buying a dividend grower when sentiment is low. Ten years of compounding on a premium spirits portfolio is a quiet but powerful bet.
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3. Kimberly-Clark Kimberly-Clark (KMB +3.43%) is in the middle of what its own company filings call the most consequential transformation in its 154-year history. The company that makes Huggies, Kleenex, Scott, Cottonelle, and Pull-Ups is rebuilding itself from the inside -- selling lower-margin businesses, restructuring its cost base, and reinvesting in brand equity and product innovation.
In Q1 2026, adjusted operating profit grew 3.7%, and the company reaffirmed its full-year guidance -- a signal that the restructuring isn't disrupting the underlying business. In May, Pull-Ups launched a new Learning Layer system that adds educational interactivity to the training pant category. That might sound like a small product update, but Kimberly-Clark has been a Dividend King -- notching 50-plus consecutive years of dividend increases -- by making exactly these kinds of moves: incremental improvements to products parents buy on autopilot, over and over, for decades.
The pending combination with Kenvue (KVUE +3.08%) will create one of the world's largest personal care and consumer health platforms. For a 10-year investor, that combination means owning Kleenex, Huggies, Neutrogena, Tylenol, and Listerine under one operational umbrella. The dividend yield is safe, the brands are permanent, and the stock doesn't show up on any "hot picks" list, which is common for 10-year compounders.
Coach Prime encourages men to get their annual physicals and shares words of encouragement as the new face of Depend Real Fit® packaging
, /PRNewswire/ -- This Men's Health Month, Depend®, the #1 brand of absorbent underwear, and Deion "Coach Prime" Sanders are encouraging men to take a proactive approach to their health with "Depend Wake Up Calls" – reminding Men to stop putting off regular checkups and screenings.
Now through the end of the month, consumers can sign up to receive a video message from Coach Prime, delivered in his signature motivational style and centered on accountability, preparation, and confidence.
DEPEND® AND DEION “COACH PRIME”SANDERS ENCOURAGE PROACTIVE CARE DURING MEN’S HEALTH MONTH
DEPEND® AND DEION “COACH PRIME”SANDERS ENCOURAGE PROACTIVE CARE DURING MEN’S HEALTH MONTH By visiting DependWakeUpCall.com, consumers can choose from one of three video text messages encouraging them to schedule a physical, supporting those navigating a recent health diagnosis, or empowering those experiencing bladder leaks to move past embarrassment and get back to living life.
After publicly sharing his bladder cancer diagnosis and recovery journey, Coach Prime knows firsthand how critical early detection can be. Together, Depend and Coach Prime are urging men to stop delaying care and take action on their health. This partnership builds on Coach Prime's longstanding relationship with Depend as someone who personally relies on the brand after undergoing bladder removal surgery following his bladder cancer diagnosis in 2025.
"Too many men keep putting their health on pause and that's a losing game," said Deion Sanders. "Together with Depend, I'm encouraging you to stop waiting, stop the excuses and take control now. You don't always need a doctor to light that fire - sometimes you need a coach to push you to be your best."
The campaign coincides with the nationwide rollout of new Depend Real Fit® packaging featuring Coach Prime on pack for the first time ever. By bringing his signature swagger straight to the package, Coach Prime boldly shows how actively managing health challenges head-on is a point of pride, not something to hide.
Bladder leaks affect millions of Americans, yet many people suffer in silence, letting stigma stand in the way of solutions. Together, Depend and Coach Prime are working to change that narrative - shifting the conversation from embarrassment to empowerment.
"Coach Prime is a powerful partner for Depend because he embodies unapologetic confidence and authenticity," said Katie Moran, North America President of Adult and Feminine Care. "Together, we're working to break the stigma around bladder leaks by bringing this very real experience into the open and empowering people to move past embarrassment, reclaim their confidence and get back to living life to the fullest every day."
For more information about bladder health and how Depend is helping shift the conversation, visit depend.com or follow Depend on social media.
About Kimberly-Clark
Kimberly-Clark (NASDAQ: KMB) and its trusted brands are an indispensable part of life for people in more than 175 countries and territories. Our portfolio of brands, including Huggies, Kleenex, Scott, Kotex, Cottonelle, Poise, Depend, Andrex, Pull-Ups, Goodnites, Intimus, Plenitud, Sweety, Softex, Viva and WypAll, hold No. 1 or No. 2 share positions in approximately 70 countries. Our company's purpose is to deliver Better Care for a Better World. We are committed to using sustainable practices designed to support a healthy planet, build strong communities, and enable our business to thrive for decades to come. To keep up with the latest news and learn more about the company's more than 150-year history of innovation, visit the Kimberly-Clark website.
Media Contacts:
Alison Brod Marketing + Communications
[email protected]
Investors have compelling anecdotal evidence that they should be cautious about the market. The Shiller P/E ratio, an indicator of the market's long-term valuation, is at 41, its highest level since the dot-com bubble.
Moreover, Warren Buffett's former company, Berkshire Hathaway, holds almost $397 billion in liquidity, a record level, and more than the nearly $330 billion value of its stock portfolio. That could indicate it is accumulating cash in anticipation of a discounted market.
However, investors should note that Berkshire remains heavily invested in stocks, and certainly, some stocks can offer value in the current market, particularly among dividend payers. Knowing that, these three consumer names are probably a good place to invest cash while earning generous dividend payments.
Image source: Getty Images.
1. Realty Income Realty Income (O +1.31%) leases single-tenant properties to many of the world's best-known corporations. Companies ranging from Walmart to FedEx to Wynn Resorts operate businesses in properties owned by this real estate investment trust (REIT).
That client base delivers steady revenue and a 99% occupancy rate. With that, the company continues to develop and acquire additional properties.
That base also helps Realty Income maintain its reputation as the "monthly dividend company." True to that name, it has made a payout every month since 1994, increasing the amount at least once per year. At $3.25 per year, its dividend yield is 5.1%, far above the 1.1% average for the S&P 500 (^GSPC +0.50%).
Fortunately, it earned $4.25 per share in funds from operations (FFO) income, a measure of a REIT's free cash flow. That likely means it can continue to support its dividend and fund payout hikes.
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Moreover, while investors may focus on its 55 P/E ratio, it sells at a price-to-FFO ratio of around 15, indicating the stock is much cheaper than it might appear. That increases the likelihood the stock will move higher over the long term, and its dividend should pay shareholders generously in the meantime.
2. Clorox Clorox (CLX 1.51%) is a consumer staples stock that has struggled to gain respect in recent years. In addition to its flagship bleach brand, the company owns Kingsford charcoal, Hidden Valley salad dressing, and Burt's Bees personal care products.
Clorox stock surged during the pandemic amid temporarily high demand for cleaning supplies, but unfortunately, a 2023 cyberattack and implementation of a new CRM system led to stock selling. More recently, rising input costs squeezed margins, forcing a downward revision in sales and earnings forecasts.
However, Clorox has a streak of annual dividend increases spanning decades. Consequently, its $4.96-per-share yearly dividend yields about 5.6%.
Admittedly, its $380 million in free cash flow over the trailing 12 months was well short of the $602 million in dividend costs for the period. Still, a $476 million venture termination payment, a one-time charge, caused that shortfall. Furthermore, since abandoning the streak of payout hikes would hurt the stock's reputation, the company will likely maintain the streak despite its struggles.
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Furthermore, Clorox's stock is also cheap. Amid its troubles, its P/E ratio has fallen to 14, well below the S&P 500 average of 31. Assuming investors capitalize on that discounted price, the strength of Clorox's brands should bring stability, and the dividend will likely deliver increasing returns as investors wait for improvement.
3. Kimberly-Clark Kimberly-Clark (KMB +0.74%) has long maintained its stability with brands like Kleenex, Huggies, and Cottonelle. Moreover, it is about to expand its reach with the upcoming merger with Kenvue, formerly a Johnson & Johnson division. This buyout brings famous brands such as Tylenol, Listerine, Neutrogena under its umbrella.
The Kenvue merger may make some investors nervous. Kimberly-Clark's $32 billion market cap is well below the $48.7 billion cost of the deal, meaning the company will almost certainly have to issue shares to close the deal.
Concerns about the deal's cost have likely contributed to a significant decline in Kimberly-Clark stock. However, the lower stock price may indicate investors have priced in much of the upcoming stock dilution. In addition, many investors believe synergies, the disposition of lower-margin businesses, and the company's financial strength will make the deal work.
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Fortunately, its $5.12-per-share dividend has increased for 54 straight years, making it a Dividend King, or a company that has raised its annual dividend for at least 50 consecutive years. The company yields 5.2%. Also, its $1.8 billion in free cash flow over the trailing 12 months was just above the $1.7 billion dividend cost, indicating it can still afford its payout.
Additionally, the pullback in the stock price has taken its P/E ratio to just 15. That low valuation buys investors a stock that owns many of America's most respected consumer brands. With more brands coming under its control following the merger, Kimberly-Clark will likely protect investor wealth while continuing to raise its dividend.
, /PRNewswire/ -- The board of directors of Kimberly-Clark Corporation (NASDAQ: KMB) has declared a regular quarterly dividend of $1.28 per share. The dividend is payable in cash on July 2, 2026, to stockholders of record at the close of business on June 5, 2026.
Kimberly-Clark has paid a dividend for 92 consecutive years and has increased its dividend for 54 consecutive years.
About Kimberly-Clark
Kimberly-Clark (NASDAQ: KMB) and its trusted brands are an indispensable part of life for people in more than 175 countries and territories. Our portfolio of brands, including Huggies, Kleenex, Scott, Kotex, Cottonelle, Poise, Depend, Andrex, Pull-Ups, Goodnites, Intimus, Plenitud, Sweety, Softex, Viva and WypAll, hold No. 1 or No. 2 share positions in approximately 70 countries. Our company's purpose is to deliver Better Care for a Better World. We are committed to using sustainable practices designed to support a healthy planet, build strong communities, and enable our business to thrive for decades to come. To keep up with the latest news and learn more about the company's more than 150-year history of innovation, visit the Kimberly-Clark website.
[KMB-F]
Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/648588/Kimberly_Clark_v1_Logo.jpg
Key Takeaways KMB posts 3% volume plus mix growth in Q1, backed by innovation and market share gains.Kimberly-Clark targets 6% gross productivity improvement for fiscal 2026.KMB expects 70-80 basis points of gross and operating margin expansion this year. Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s (KMB - Free Report) Powering Care growth engine continues to support strong base business momentum across the portfolio. At its first-quarter 2026 earnings call, management highlighted the company’s focus on delivering differentiated, science-backed innovation across multiple price tiers within its good, better and best product offerings, helping strengthen competitiveness and support long-term growth.
KMB’s innovation continued to support solid organic sales growth in the first quarter of 2026, with volume plus mix growth increasing to 3%. Management noted that this performance builds on two consecutive years of broad-based volume plus mix growth across the business, with ongoing market share gains within its key focus categories, including Baby Care, Women’s Health and Active Aging.
Pricing philosophy remains focused on maintaining pricing net of costs neutral over time as part of its integrated margin management strategy under the Powering Care plan. Kimberly-Clark highlighted several key drivers supporting the strategy, including revenue growth management initiatives and a strong pipeline of productivity programs. The company has already delivered two consecutive years of 6% gross productivity improvement and reported another 6% productivity gain in the first quarter of fiscal 2026. Kimberly-Clark also expects to maintain approximately 6% gross productivity improvement for the full year.
Furthermore, the program is on track to meet or exceed $200 million in savings. As a result, Kimberly-Clark forecasts that both gross and operating profit margins will expand by 70 to 80 basis points for the full year. The company also said that its previously announced $2 billion investment in the North American supply chain is progressing as planned.
Overall, Kimberly-Clark’s Powering Care strategy appears well-positioned to strengthen growth through innovation, productivity gains, margin expansion and supply chain investments, supporting long-term competitiveness and profitability.
The Zacks Rundown for KMBShares of KMB have lost 12.7% in the past three months compared with the industry’s decline of 14.6%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, KMB trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 12.87, lower than the industry’s average of 17.55. KMB currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for KMB’s current fiscal year earnings implies a year-over-year decline of 0.7%, and the same for next fiscal year earnings implies year-over-year growth of 0.4%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Stocks to ConsiderSome better-ranked stocks have been discussed below:
Krispy Kreme, Inc. (DNUT - Free Report) produces doughnuts in the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Canada, Japan, and internationally. At present, DNUT carries a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 (Strong Buy) Rank stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for DNUT’s current fiscal-year sales implies a decline of 14%, and the same for earnings implies growth of 80% from the year-ago reported figures. DNUT delivered a trailing four-quarter negative earnings surprise of 6.3%, on average.
ARKO Corp. (ARKO - Free Report) operates a chain of convenience stores in the United States. ARKO currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ARKO's current fiscal-year sales implies a decline of 2.8%, while the same for current fiscal-year earnings implies growth of 93.3% from the year-ago reported figures. ARKO delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 43.2%, on average.
Ryohin Keikaku Co., Ltd. (RYKKY - Free Report) engages in the retail of household goods and food items in Japan and internationally. RYKKY currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for RYKKY's current fiscal-year sales and earnings implies growth of 5.6% and 5.6%, respectively, from the year-ago actuals.
Kimberly-Clark is an attractive value and income play, trading near 52-week lows with a 5.2% yield. KMB's Q1 2026 showed 2.5% organic sales and 3% volume-plus-mix growth, driven by innovation and premiumization, not discounting. The pending Kenvue merger positions KMB for enhanced growth and synergy, with integration and operating model alignment progressing well.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Mike Hsu, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and Nelson Urdaneta, Chief Financial Officer of Kimberly-Clark Corporation (NASDAQ: KMB), will be featured speakers at the Deutsche Bank dbAccess Global Consumer Conference on Thursday, June 4, at 11:45 a.m. CEST / 5:45 a.m. ET.
A link to the broadcast will be provided through the Investors section of Kimberly-Clark's website at www.kimberly-clark.com.
About Kimberly-Clark
Kimberly-Clark (NASDAQ: KMB) and its trusted brands are an indispensable part of life for people in more than 175 countries and territories. Our portfolio of brands, including Huggies, Kleenex, Scott, Kotex, Cottonelle, Poise, Depend, Andrex, Pull-Ups, Goodnites, Intimus, Plenitud, Sweety, Softex, Viva and WypAll, hold No. 1 or No. 2 share positions in approximately 70 countries. Our company's purpose is to deliver Better Care for a Better World. We are committed to using sustainable practices designed to support a healthy planet, build strong communities, and enable our business to thrive for decades to come. To keep up with the latest news and learn more about the company's more than 150-year history of innovation, visit the Kimberly-Clark website.
[KMB-F]
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Choosing between stable dividends and market-leading brands often leads investors to Kimberly-Clark (KMB +0.74%) and The Clorox Company (CLX 1.51%), but which of these household giants offers better value for the year ahead?
Kimberly-Clark focuses on paper-based personal care essentials like diapers and tissues, while Clorox dominates the cleaning and bleach categories. Both companies navigate high commodity costs and intense competition. Investors often compare them because they provide consistent products that consumers buy regardless of the economic climate.
The case for Kimberly-ClarkKimberly-Clark produces essential personal care and family care products under recognizable brands including Huggies, Kleenex, Poise, and Cottonelle. Its primary customers include large retailers that are considered leading consumer staples stocks in their own right. Walmart accounts for approximately 16% of net sales from continuing operations, and such customer concentration adds a layer of risk to the business.
In FY 2025, revenue reached nearly $16.4 billion, down from $16.8 billion in the prior year as the company navigated shifting consumer demand. Net income for the fiscal year was approximately $2.0 billion, a decline compared to the $2.5 billion reported during the 2024 fiscal period. This resulted in a net margin of approximately 12.2%, which represents the percentage of each dollar of sales that becomes profit after all expenses.
The company reported a debt-to-equity ratio of nearly 4.8x as of its December 2025 balance sheet, a metric that measures total debt relative to shareholders' equity. Its current ratio is roughly 0.7x, which compares short-term assets to short-term liabilities to help investors assess immediate liquidity. Free cash flow for the period totaled nearly $1.6 billion, reflecting cash from operations minus capital expenditures, providing the business with capital for dividends or reinvestment.
The case for The CloroxThe Clorox Company manufactures a diverse range of products, including cleaning supplies, food storage, and water filtration, under brands such as Brita, Pine-Sol, and Clorox. It maintains a strong presence in the market for everyday cleaning and bleach products, regardless of the economy. Walmart and its affiliates accounted for nearly 27% of net sales in FY 2025, and such customer concentration adds a layer of risk to the business.
For the fiscal year ending in 2025, the company generated nearly $7.1 billion in revenue, essentially flat compared to the previous year. Net income rose significantly to approximately $810.0 million, up from $280.0 million in the 2024 fiscal period as profitability recovered. This improvement led to a net margin of roughly 11.4%, which is the amount of profit the company retains from its total sales after all costs.
Clorox reported a debt-to-equity ratio of approximately 9.0x as of June 2025, indicating that its total debt is quite high relative to its shareholders’ equity. The current ratio is roughly 0.8x, which measures the ability to cover short-term obligations with short-term assets such as cash and inventory. Free cash flow for the fiscal year totaled nearly $761.0 million, the cash remaining after paying for operations and capital expenditures to support growth.
Risk profile comparisonKimberly-Clark faces intense competition from Procter & Gamble and generic store brands, which requires significant spending on advertising and innovation to maintain market share. Geopolitical instability and currency fluctuations affect half of its sales that occur outside the United States, further complicating its operational risks.
Clorox faces significant customer concentration risk, as Walmart and its affiliates accounted for nearly 27% of net sales in FY 2025. This gives large retailers the power to demand lower pricing or prioritize their own private-label products. Cybersecurity also remains a concern following a major 2023 incident, alongside the execution risks and potential business disruptions associated with a large-scale software upgrade.
Valuation comparisonKimberly-Clark currently appears to be the more affordable option based on its Forward P/E relative to future earnings estimates, though both companies trade at lower multiples than the broader sector average.
MetricKimberly-ClarkThe CloroxSector BenchmarkForward P/E13.2x17.4x25.5xP/S ratio1.9x1.6xSector benchmark uses the SPDR XLP sector ETF.
Valuation metrics sourced from Financial Modeling Prep (FMP) and may differ from other data providers.
While both of these stocks are interesting in their own ways, investors must realize that they each are in full-blown turnaround mode. First, Kimberly-Clark is selling 51% of its international tissue business to Suzano to streamline its operations. Rather than managing 22 factories with operations in over 70 countries, KMB will let the Brazilian-based pulp manufacturer handle its global operations, while licensing its brands to the company. Meanwhile, Kimberly-Clark also announced a massive $48 billion potential merger with consumer goods behemoth (and recent Johnson & Johnson spinoff) Kenvue.
The idea of this merger makes a lot of sense to me, as the combined company would create a personal care juggernaut. However, it certainly ups the ante for current and prospective Kimberly-Clark shareholders, as its debt load would have to soar to complete the deal. Because of these pending deals and the integration risks they entail, I’d prefer to wait a few quarters to let the dust settle and see more financial details.
As for Clorox, the company is in a turnaround of its own, following a growth slowdown after its pandemic-aided boost and a massive 2023 cyberattack that it is still recovering from financially. However, Clorox’s margins are gradually trending back to their pre-cyberattack and pre-pandemic levels, yet its P/S ratio of 1.7 remains near a decade-long low, and well below its 10-year average of 2.9.
If you’re looking to hit a “home run,” so to speak, with these stocks, KMB probably offers more outperformance potential, albeit with higher risk, thanks to all of its moving parts. That said, I would lean toward the slightly safer Clorox (historically speaking, setting aside the cyberattack), which generates 80% of its sales from brands that are No. 1 or No. 2 in their niche.
Key Takeaways KMB delivers 3% volume plus mix growth driven by innovation across categories.Kimberly-Clark raises its global category growth outlook to 2.5% for fiscal 2026.KMB uses pricing and productivity actions to offset inflation and fire-related costs. Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s (KMB - Free Report) differentiated, science-backed innovation across its “good, better, best” product strategy continues to support business momentum. The company highlighted that innovation helped drive solid organic sales growth in the first quarter of 2026, with volume plus mix growth improving to 3%, building on two consecutive years of broad-based volume plus mix growth. The company also reported continued market share gains across key focus categories, including Baby Care, Women’s Health and Active Aging.
KMB highlighted that growth is being driven primarily by innovation, with promotions used strategically to support innovation initiatives. This reflects healthier and more sustainable business momentum. The company remains focused on driving profitable volume and mix growth while maintaining disciplined Pricing Net of Commodity (PNOC) execution. Management emphasized that innovation remains central to this strategy, supporting stronger business momentum, improving product mix and sustaining profitable growth across operations. To maintain this trajectory, Kimberly-Clark has one of its most active second-quarter innovation and commercial activation lineups set to launch.
Looking ahead, management stated that its trailing 12-month weighted average category growth outlook is around 2.5%, following a strong rebound in North America. However, the company expects a modest slowdown in the second quarter of fiscal 2026 due to a $20 million sales impact from the California distribution center fire, creating a 70 to 80 basis point headwind in North America. Additionally, KMB anticipates a roughly $50 million bottom-line impact from inflationary pressures related to the Middle East war. To mitigate these pressures, the company is utilizing pricing, productivity initiatives and supplier contract renegotiations to navigate ongoing cost pressures.
Overall, Kimberly-Clark’s 3% volume-plus-mix growth reflects innovation-led momentum, though management expects some near-term moderation in the fiscal second quarter before improvement in the second half. Its innovation-led strategy, PNOC discipline and productivity initiatives remain central to management’s plan as the company works through near-term operational and cost headwinds.
The Zacks Rundown for KMBShares of KMB have lost 7.8% in the past six months compared with the industry’s decline of 2.7%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, KMB trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 13.36, lower than the industry’s average of 17.93. KMB currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for KMB’s current fiscal year earnings implies a year-over-year decline of 0.7%, and the same for next fiscal year earnings implies year-over-year growth of 0.4%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Stocks to ConsiderSome better-ranked stocks have been discussed below:
ARKO Corp. (ARKO - Free Report) operates a chain of convenience stores in the United States. ARKO currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ARKO's current fiscal-year sales implies a decline of 2.8%, while the same for current fiscal-year earnings implies growth of 93.3% from the year-ago reported figures. ARKO delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 43.2%, on average.
Nestlé S.A. (NSRGY - Free Report) offers family nutrition products, including early childhood, kids and teenagers, and maternal and adult products; cereals; dairy and drink products. At present, NSRGY carries a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy).
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NSRGY’s current fiscal-year sales and earnings implies growth of 9.1% and 6.8%, respectively, from the year-ago reported figures. NSRGY delivered a trailing four-quarter negative earnings surprise of 1%, on average.
Ryohin Keikaku Co., Ltd. (RYKKY - Free Report) engages in the retail of household goods and food items in Japan and internationally. RYKKY currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for RYKKY's current fiscal-year sales and earnings implies growth of 5.6% and 5.6%, respectively, from the year-ago actuals.
Kimberly-Clark Corporation offers a compelling 5%+ dividend yield and attractive valuation, but persistent inflation and sluggish growth warrant a hold rating. KMB's Q1 showed mixed results: North America faced margin pressure, while international segments delivered strong growth and margin expansion. Integration of Kenvue's portfolio could accelerate free cash flow and growth, but material upside is unlikely before 2026-2027.
U.S. pro soccer captain and father shares his personal bedwetting experience to help normalize childhood nighttime accidents and empower the next generation to Never Stop Dreaming
, /PRNewswire/ -- Tim Ream, U.S. pro soccer captain, has teamed up with Goodnites®, the #1 Nighttime Underwear1 brand to share, for the first time, his childhood experience with bedwetting. A respected leader on and off the field, Ream is also a dedicated father who is using his platform to help support families and children. Goodnites is joining forces with Ream to uplift children experiencing bedwetting with confidence, courage, and positivity, sending a powerful message that nighttime accidents are a normal part of childhood development rather than a barrier to your potential.
Goodnites® Never Stop Dreaming Why This Partnership Matters: One in Six Children Experience Bedwetting
Bedwetting is common, affecting approximately 1 in 6 children, ages 3–12, yet many children who experience it can feel isolated and ashamed. Ream experienced bedwetting until age 11, but it didn't stop him from becoming a professional athlete competing at the highest level of international soccer.
"I'm partnering with Goodnites because I know firsthand that bedwetting doesn't define you or your future," said Tim Ream. "It was tough, but it taught me resilience. Today, as a father, I want to share my story to let children know they are not alone. Bedwetting is not a reflection of who they are and doesn't have to keep them from going after their dreams."
Campaign Details: "To My Younger Self"
Ream is featured in the brand's new multimedia campaign chronicling his journey from a child navigating bedwetting to a celebrated professional athlete and emphasizes that even though bedwetting feels overwhelming when you're little, it does not define who you will become. Watch Ream speak to his younger self here: https://youtu.be/ZKsPcxo8Xl4.
"What Tim Ream says to his younger self matters because it's real. He's lived it, and now he's using his platform to remind kids that bedwetting is common and that they can still be confident and pursue their dreams," said Dan Jackson, North America Vice President & General Manager for Child Care.
Goodnites Brand Mission: Support Beyond the Product
Goodnites has always supported families navigating childhood bedwetting, and this partnership deepens our mission to support not just nighttime needs, but children's confidence and dreams. Through this partnership, Goodnites, the brand that offers nighttime protection against bedwetting accidents, continues to support families navigating bedwetting with products and resources that promote confidence and emotional well-being.
Follow @goodnites on Instagram and Facebook, and @goodnitesbrand on TikTok to learn more.
1Youth Pant Category Share Data
About Goodnites
Goodnites, part of Kimberly–Clark, is the #1 Nighttime Underwear 1 brand founded in 1994 that is focused on helping children, teens and families navigate bedwetting. Beyond being a trusted brand that offers nighttime solutions, the Goodnites website provides educational resources, guidance for caregivers and community outreach aimed at reducing stigma and focuses on children's well–being. Goodnites brand partners with expert organizations and is available nationwide through major retailers and online; more at http://goodnites.com/en-us.
About Kimberly-Clark
Kimberly-Clark (NASDAQ: KMB) and its trusted brands are an indispensable part of life for people in more than 175 countries and territories. Our portfolio of brands, including Huggies, Kleenex, Scott, Kotex, Cottonelle, Poise, Depend, Andrex, Pull-Ups, Goodnites, Intimus, Plenitud, Sweety, Softex, Viva and WypAll, hold No. 1 or No. 2 share positions in approximately 70 countries. Our company's purpose is to deliver Better Care for a Better World. We are committed to using sustainable practices designed to support a healthy planet, build strong communities, and enable our business to thrive for decades to come. To keep up with the latest news and learn more about the company's more than 150-year history of innovation, visit https://www.kimberly-clark.com/en-us/.
Media Contacts:
Kimberly-Clark Media Relations
[email protected]
Pull-Ups®’ new Learning Layer™ technology helps kids notice wetness in the moment, supporting independence and helping to build confidence in their potty training routines.
TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Pull-Ups®, a Kimberly-Clark brand, has introduced Learning Layer™ technology in Canada, addressing a common challenge in potty training: recognizing the difference between wet and dry. The training pant innovation is designed to help kids notice wetness during potty training while supporting independence and confidence during this key developmental milestone.
How Pull-Ups® Learning Layer™ Technology Works
According to Kimberly-Clark, the new Pull-Ups® Learning Layer™ technology is aimed at helping kids notice when they’re wet so that accidents can help reinforce potty training awareness and routines over time. When accidents happen, fluid is held for a bit in the Learning Layer™ technology and is designed to give the child time to recognize the feeling of wetness before it’s absorbed. The Pull-Ups® Learning Layer™ technology is built to support them in the next phase of their development.
By briefly allowing children to feel wetness before absorption, the Learning Layer™ technology helps children:
Notice wetness Learn the difference between wet and dry Build awareness and independence Executive Commentary: Product Innovation and Design
“At Kimberly-Clark, we’re constantly looking for ways to better support parents through everyday moments that matter most,” says Todd Fisher, General Manager, Kimberly-Clark Canada. “Innovations like the new Pull-Ups® Learning Layer™ technology reflect how our teams listen, learn and design with families in mind. By helping make the difference between wet and dry noticeable, we’re not just introducing a new feature, we’re helping turn a stressful moment for family into a meaningful experience for both parents and children.”
"Potty training is one of those key developmental milestones parents often don’t think about until they’re in it. When they are, it can feel overwhelming,” says Tanya Willer, Vice President, Marketing & Sales Strategy, Kimberly-Clark Canada. “The Pull-Ups® Learning Layer™ technology is designed to help children potty training recognize the difference between wet and dry. It can help Big Kids build a routine and become more confident, turning a challenging milestone into a manageable experience for families.”
Product Features and Supporting Benefits
In addition to the new Learning Layer™ technology, Pull-Ups® continues to deliver the training pant features families know and love. Pull-Ups® training pants remain the only national leading training pant brand with re-fastenable sides for easy changes, with targeted absorption zone where boys or girls need it most. They are also dermatologist tested and safe for sensitive skin.
Availability: Where to find Pull-Ups®
Pull-Ups® with Learning Layer™ technology is available now at retailers nationwide, including Loblaw banners like Shoppers Drug Mart and Real Canadian Superstore, Walmart, Amazon and more.
To learn more about Pull-Ups® Learning Layer™ technology and access potty training resources and tips for both Big Kid and family, visit pull-ups.com or follow us on @GrowWithHuggies.
About Kimberly-Clark
Kimberly-Clark Canada (NASDAQ: KMB) and its trusted brands are an indispensable part of life for people in more than 175 countries and territories. Our portfolio of brands include Huggies, Scott, Kotex, Cottonelle, Poise, Depend, Pull-Ups, Goodnites, Viva. Our company's purpose is to deliver Better Care for a Better World. We are committed to using sustainable practices designed to support a healthy planet, build strong communities, and enable our business to thrive for decades to come. To keep up with the latest news and learn more about the company's more than 150-year history of innovation, visit the Kimberly-Clark website.
Diapers, Pull-Ups, Potty-Training
ORG: Kimberly-Clark Canada
BRAND: Pull-Ups
TAXONOMY: Diapers, Pull-Ups, Potty Training
VERSION: 1.0
DATE: June 8, 2026
