Procter’s Brands Have Worldwide Appeal

Article Excerpt

THE PROCTER & GAMBLE CO. $67 (New York symbol PG; Conservative Growth Portfolio, Consumer sector; Shares outstanding: 3.1 billion; Market cap: $207.7 billion; WSSF Rating: Above average) is one of the world’s largest makers of household and personal care products. Over 20 of its 300 brands each generate annual sales of over $1 billion, including Crest (toothpaste), Tide (detergent), Head & Shoulders (shampoo) and Pampers (diapers). Wal-Mart accounts for 15% of Procter’s sales. Shifting away from food products The company now aims to sell some of its slowergrowing brands, and focus on its more promising health and beauty operations. For example, Procter will set up its coffee business as a separate company called The Folgers Coffee Company. This division supplies 2% of Procter’s sales. Procter will probably opt for a split-off transaction, which gives stockholders the option of exchanging their Procter shares for Folgers shares. Unlike a typical spin-off, only those Procter stockholders who wish to participate will receive Folgers shares. A split-off…