Biggest changeConsequently, we are subject to a number of risks associated with doing business in foreign countries, including: • unfavorable and uncertain macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions and potential operational or supply chain disruptions as a result of these developments; 12 • political or economic instability, labor disputes, government corruption and civil unrest, including political or economic instability in the countries of the Eurozone, Egypt, Russia, the Middle East and certain markets in Latin America; • potential disruption from wars and military conflicts; • price controls and related government actions; • the possibility of nationalization of business or industries, expropriation, confiscatory taxation or other similar government action; • the inability to repatriate foreign-based cash for strategic needs in the U.S., either at all or without incurring significant income tax and earnings consequences, as well as the heightened counterparty, internal control and country-specific risks associated with holding cash overseas; • the effect of foreign income taxes, value-added taxes and withholding taxes, including the inability to recover amounts owed to us by a government authority without extended proceedings or at all; • the effect of the U.S. tax treatment of foreign source income and losses, and other restrictions on the flow of capital between countries; • adverse changes in local investment, local employment, local training or exchange control regulations; • legal and regulatory constraints, including the imposition of tariffs, trade restrictions, price, profit or other government controls, labor laws, immigration restrictions, travel restrictions, including as a result of outbreaks of infectious diseases, import and export laws or other government actions generating a negative impact on our business, including changes in trade policies that may be implemented; • currency fluctuations, including the impact of hyper-inflationary conditions in certain economies, particularly where exchange controls limit or eliminate our ability to convert from local currency; • difficulties in hiring and retaining qualified employees; • employment litigation related to employees, contractors and suppliers, particularly in Latin America and Europe; • difficulties in obtaining or unavailability of raw materials; • difficulty in enforcing contractual and intellectual property rights; • lack of well-established or reliable, and impartial legal systems in certain countries where we operate; • challenges relating to enforcement of or compliance with local laws and regulations and with U.S. laws affecting operations outside of the U.S., including without limitation, the U.S.
Biggest changeConsequently, we are subject to a number of risks associated with doing business in foreign countries, including: • unfavorable and uncertain macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions and potential operational or supply chain disruptions as a result of these developments; • legal and regulatory constraints, including the imposition of tariffs, trade restrictions or sanctions, price, profit or other government controls, labor laws, immigration restrictions, travel restrictions, including as a result of outbreaks of infectious diseases, import and export laws or other government actions generating a negative impact on our business, including changes in trade policies that may be implemented; • political or economic instability, labor disputes, government corruption and civil unrest, including political or economic instability in the countries of the Eurozone, Egypt, Russia, the Middle East and certain markets in Latin America; • potential disruption from wars and military conflicts; • price controls and related government actions; • the possibility of nationalization of business or industries, expropriation, confiscatory taxation or other similar government action; • the inability to repatriate foreign-based cash for strategic needs in the U.S., either at all or without incurring significant income tax and earnings consequences, as well as the heightened counterparty, internal control and country-specific risks associated with holding cash overseas; • the effect of foreign income taxes, value-added taxes and withholding taxes, including the inability to recover amounts owed to us by a government authority without extended proceedings or at all; 12 • the effect of the U.S. tax treatment of foreign source income and losses, and other restrictions on the flow of capital between countries; • adverse changes in local investment, local employment, local training or exchange control regulations; • currency fluctuations, including the impact of highly inflationary conditions in certain economies, particularly where exchange controls limit or eliminate our ability to convert from local currency; • difficulties in hiring and retaining qualified employees; • employment litigation related to employees, contractors and suppliers, particularly in Latin America and Europe; • difficulties in obtaining or unavailability of raw materials; • difficulty in enforcing contractual and intellectual property rights; • lack of well-established or reliable, and impartial legal systems in certain countries where we operate; • challenges relating to enforcement of or compliance with local laws and regulations and with U.S. laws affecting operations outside of the U.S., including without limitation, the U.S.
The fear of exposure to or actual effects of a disease outbreak or similar widespread public health concern, could negatively impact our overall business, financial position and financial results.
The fear of exposure to, or the actual effects of, a disease outbreak or similar widespread public health concern, could negatively impact our overall business, financial position and financial results.
Pricing and availability of raw materials, energy, transportation and other services needed for our business can be volatile due to general economic conditions, inflation, labor costs, production levels, import duties and tariffs and other factors beyond our control. There is no certainty that we will be able to offset future cost increases.
Pricing and availability of raw materials, energy, transportation and other services needed for our business can be volatile due to general economic conditions, tariffs, inflation, labor costs, production levels and import duties and other factors beyond our control. There is no certainty that we will be able to offset future cost increases.
Operations of the manufacturing and packaging facilities worldwide and corporate offices of the Company and our suppliers, and the methods we and our suppliers use to obtain supplies and to distribute our products, may be subject to disruption for a variety of reasons, including work stoppages, cyberattacks and other disruptions in information technology systems, demonstrations, disease outbreaks or pandemics, acts of war or conflicts, terrorism, fire, earthquakes, flooding or other natural disasters, disruptions in logistics, loss or impairment of key manufacturing sites, supplier capacity constraints, raw material and product quality or safety issues, industrial accidents or other occupational health and safety issues, availability of raw materials, and other regulatory issues, trade disputes between countries in which we have operations, such as the U.S. and China.
Operations of the manufacturing and packaging facilities worldwide and corporate offices of the Company and our suppliers, and the methods we and our suppliers use to obtain supplies and to distribute our products, may be subject to disruption for a variety of reasons, including work stoppages, cyberattacks and other disruptions in information technology systems, demonstrations, disease outbreaks or pandemics, acts of war or conflicts, terrorism, fire, earthquakes, flooding or other natural disasters, disruptions in logistics, loss or impairment of key manufacturing sites, supplier capacity constraints, raw material and product quality or safety issues, industrial accidents or other occupational health and safety issues, availability of raw materials, and other regulatory issues, including trade disputes between countries in which we have operations, such as the U.S. and China.
We have a material amount of goodwill and other intangible assets which are periodically evaluated for impairment in accordance with current accounting standards. Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are initially recorded at fair value and not amortized, but are tested for impairment at least annually in the fourth quarter or more frequently if impairment indicators arise.
We have a material amount of goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets which are periodically evaluated for impairment in accordance with current accounting standards. Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are initially recorded at fair value and not amortized, but are tested for impairment at least annually in the fourth quarter or more frequently if impairment indicators arise.
We face exposure to claims arising out of alleged defects in our products, including for property damage, bodily injury or other adverse effects; alleged contaminants in our products; and allegations that our products provide inadequate instructions or warnings regarding their use; and failure to perform as advertised.
We face exposure to claims arising out of alleged defects in our products, including for property damage, bodily injury or other adverse effects; alleged contaminants in our products; allegations that our products provide inadequate instructions or warnings regarding their use; and failure to perform as advertised.
If we raise additional funds by issuing debt, we may be subject to limitations on our operations and ability to pay dividends due to restrictive covenants. Generally, to the extent that we incur additional indebtedness, all of the risks described above in connection with our debt obligations could increase. Our credit ratings are important to our cost of capital.
If we raise additional funds by issuing debt, we may be subject to limitations on our operations and ability to pay dividends due to restrictive covenants. Generally, to the extent that we incur additional indebtedness, all of the risks described above in connection with our debt obligations could increase. 18 Our credit ratings are important to our cost of capital.
If we cease doing business with a significant customer or if we experience a significant reduction in net sales to a key customer, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 11 Customers could reduce their purchasing levels or cease buying products from us at any time and for any reason.
If we cease doing business with a significant customer or if we experience a significant reduction in net sales to a key customer, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Customers could reduce their purchasing levels or cease buying products from us at any time and for any reason.
In addition, the use of the latest technology by our customers regarding pricing may lead to category pricing pressures. Consistent with the ongoing variability in information technology systems industry-wide, our IT platforms may not be fully compatible at all times with those used by our customers and we may not be able to respond to customer data or technology demands.
In addition, the use of the latest pricing technology by our customers may lead to category pricing pressures. Consistent with the ongoing variability in information technology systems industry-wide, our IT platforms may not be fully compatible at all times with those used by our customers and we may not be able to respond to customer data or technology demands.
There is also a possibility that third-party manufacturers, which produce a significant portion of certain of our products, could discontinue production with little or no advance notice, or experience financial problems or problems with product quality or timeliness of product delivery, resulting in manufacturing delays or disruptions, regulatory sanctions, product liability claims or consumer complaints.
There is also a possibility that third-party manufacturers, which produce a significant portion of certain of our products, could discontinue production with little or no notice, or experience financial problems or problems with product quality or timeliness of product delivery, resulting in manufacturing delays or disruptions, regulatory sanctions, product liability claims or consumer complaints.
When particular tax matters arise, a number 22 of years may elapse before such matters are audited and finally resolved. Unfavorable resolution of any tax matter in any of the jurisdictions in which we operate could increase the effective tax rate, which would have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
When particular tax matters arise, a number of years may elapse before such matters are audited and finally resolved. Unfavorable resolution of any tax matter in any of the jurisdictions in which we operate could increase the effective tax rate, which would have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
However, these provisions will apply even if the offer may be considered beneficial by some shareholders and could deter or delay an acquisition that our Board of Directors determines is not in our best interests or the best interests of our shareholders. These provisions may also prevent or discourage attempts to remove and replace incumbent directors. 23 1B.
However, these provisions will apply even if the offer may be considered beneficial by some shareholders and could deter or delay an acquisition that our Board of Directors determines is not in our best interests or the best interests of our shareholders. These provisions may also prevent or discourage attempts to remove and replace incumbent directors. 1B.
The discussion below addresses the material factors, of which we are currently aware, that could affect, and in certain cases have affected, our businesses, results of operations and financial condition and make an investment in the Company speculative or risky. 9 Additional factors that could affect our businesses, results of operations and financial condition are discussed in Forward-Looking Statements in MD&A.
The discussion below addresses the material factors, of which we are currently aware, that could affect, and in certain cases have affected, our businesses, results of operations and financial condition and make an investment in the Company speculative or risky. Additional factors that could affect our businesses, results of operations and financial condition are discussed in Forward-Looking Statements in MD&A.
We may not be able to attract, retain and develop key employees, as well as effectively manage human capital resources. Our future performance depends significantly upon the continued service of our executive officers and other key employees, as well as our continuing ability to attract, retain and develop highly qualified and diverse employees, including future members of our management team.
We may not be able to attract, retain and develop key employees, as well as effectively manage human capital resources. Our future performance depends significantly upon the continued service of our executive officers and other key employees, as well as our continuing ability to attract, retain and develop highly qualified employees, including future members of our management team.
It is not possible to predict the final resolution of litigation, investigations, disputes or proceedings in which we currently are or may in the future become involved and our assessment of the materiality of these matters and any reserves taken in connection therewith may not be consistent with their final resolutions.
It is not possible to predict the final resolution of litigation, investigations, disputes or proceedings in which we currently are or may 20 in the future become involved and our assessment of the materiality of these matters and any reserves taken in connection therewith may not be consistent with their final resolutions.
Loss or impairment of the reputation of our Company or our leading brands or failure of our marketing plans could have an adverse effect on our business. We depend on the continuing reputation and success of our brands. Maintaining a strong reputation with consumers, customers, the trade, suppliers and other third-party partners is critical to the success of our business.
Loss or impairment of the reputation of our Company or our leading brands or failure of our marketing plans could have an adverse effect on our business. We depend on the continuing reputation and success of our brands. Maintaining a strong reputation with consumers, customers, suppliers and other third-party partners is critical to the success of our business.
In the US, many of our products and 20 product claims are regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Federal Trade Commission, among other regulatory agencies. Additionally, our and our suppliers' manufacturing and distribution operations are also subject to regulation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
In the US, many of our products and product claims are regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Federal Trade Commission, among other regulatory agencies. Additionally, our and our suppliers' manufacturing and distribution operations are also subject to regulation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
In addition, changes to the mix of products that we sell, as well as the mix of countries in which we sell our products, may adversely impact our net sales, profitability and cash flow. We are subject to risks related to our international operations, including currency fluctuations, which could adversely affect our results of operations.
In addition, changes to the mix of products that we sell, as well as the mix of countries in which we sell our products, may adversely impact our net sales, profitability and cash flow. We are subject to risks related to our international operations, including tariffs and currency fluctuations, which could adversely affect our results of operations.
Operational and Technology Risks Changes in production costs, including raw material prices and transportation costs, from inflation or otherwise, have adversely affected, and in the future could erode, our profit margins and negatively impact operating results.
Operational and Technology Risks Changes in production costs, including raw material prices and transportation costs, from tariffs, inflation or otherwise, have adversely affected, and in the future could erode, our profit margins and negatively impact operating results.
Our financial projections, including any sales or earnings guidance or outlook we may provide from time to time, depend on certain estimates and assumptions related to, among other things, a number of factors: product category growth; development and launch of innovative new products; market share projections; product pricing and sale, volume and product mix; foreign exchange rates and volatility; tax rates; manufacturing costs including commodity prices; distribution channel volume and costs; cost savings; accruals for estimated liabilities, including litigation reserves, measurement of benefit obligations for pension and other postretirement benefit plans; and our ability to generate sufficient cash flow to reinvest in our existing business, fund internal growth, repurchase our stock, make acquisitions, pay dividends and meet debt obligations.
Our financial projections, including any sales or earnings guidance or outlook we may provide from time to time, depend on certain estimates and assumptions related to, among other things, a number of factors: product category growth; development and launch of innovative new products; market share projections; product pricing and sale, volume and product mix; foreign exchange rates and volatility; tax rates; manufacturing costs including commodity prices; distribution channel volume and costs; cost savings; macroeconomic factors, including tariff impacts; accruals for estimated liabilities, including litigation reserves, measurement of benefit obligations for pension and other postretirement benefit plans; and our ability to generate sufficient cash flow to reinvest in our existing business, fund internal growth, repurchase our stock, make acquisitions, pay dividends and meet debt obligations.
In addition, even if we can protect such rights in the United States, the laws of some other countries in which we sell our products may not protect intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States.
In addition, even if we can protect such rights in the United 13 States, the laws of some other countries in which we sell our products may not protect intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States.
Additionally, new products could require regulatory approval which may not be available or may require modification to the product which could impact the production process and the timely introduction of the products.
Additionally, new products 11 could require regulatory approval which may not be available or may require modification to the product which could impact the production process and the timely introduction of the products.
Conversely, rapid increases in demand due to improving economic conditions could lead to supply chain challenges. Global markets continued to face threats and uncertainty during fiscal year 2024. Uncertain economic and financial market conditions, including relating to the results of elections, may also adversely affect the financial condition of our customers, suppliers and other business partners.
Conversely, rapid increases in demand due to improving economic conditions could lead to supply chain challenges. Global markets continued to face threats and uncertainty during fiscal year 2025. Uncertain economic and financial market conditions, including relating to the results of elections, may also adversely affect the financial condition of our customers, suppliers and other business partners.
In particular, the growing presence of, and increasing sales through, e-commerce retailers have affected, and may continue to affect, consumer preferences (as consumers increasingly shop online) and market dynamics, including any pricing pressures for consumer goods as retailers face added costs to build their e-commerce capacity.
In particular, the growing presence of, and increasing sales through, the online channel have affected, and may continue to affect, consumer preferences (as consumers increasingly shop online) and market dynamics, including any 10 pricing pressures for consumer goods as retailers face added costs to build their e-commerce capacity.
In addition, such incidents could result in unauthorized disclosure and misuse of material confidential information. Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated, are constantly evolving and are being made by groups and individuals with a wide range of expertise and motives, and this increases the difficulty of detecting and successfully defending against them.
Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated, are constantly evolving and are being made by groups and individuals with a wide range of expertise and motives, and this increases the difficulty of detecting and successfully defending against cyber incidents. Such incidents could result in unauthorized disclosure and misuse of material confidential information.
Competition for such employees is intense, and there can be no assurance that we can retain and motivate our key employees or attract and retain other highly qualified employees in the future. In addition, competition for labor remains strong and labor costs for manufacturing in the US and Singapore, among other countries, continue to rise.
Competition for such employees is intense, and there can be no assurance that we can retain and motivate our key employees or attract and retain other highly qualified employees in the future. 17 In addition, competition for labor remains strong and labor costs for manufacturing in the US, among other countries, continue to rise.
Any impairment charges could adversely affect the Company’s financial condition and results of operations. See Note 11, Goodwill and intangible assets for further information related to goodwill and intangible assets, and the impairment charges recorded in the fiscal years ended September 30, 2024 and 2022.
Any impairment charges could adversely affect the Company’s financial condition and results of operations. See Note 11, Goodwill and intangible assets for further information related to goodwill and intangible assets, and the impairment charges recorded in the fiscal years ended September 30, 2025 and 2024.
We currently conduct our business on a worldwide basis, with approximately 40% of our sales in fiscal year 2024 arising from foreign countries, and a significant portion of our production capacity and cash is located overseas.
We currently conduct our business on a worldwide basis, with approximately 40% of our sales in fiscal year 2025 arising from foreign countries, and a significant portion of our production capacity and cash is located overseas.
As a result, changes in the strategies or demands of our largest customers, including a reduction in the number of brands they carry, a shift of shelf space to private label or competitors’ products or a decision to lower pricing of consumer products, including branded products, may harm our net sales or margins, and reduce our ability to offer new, innovative products to consumers.
As a result, changes in the strategies or demands of our largest customers, including a reduction in the number of brands they carry, a shift of shelf space to private label or competitors’ products or a decision to lower pricing of consumer products, including branded products, may negatively impact our net sales or margins, and reduce our ability to offer new, innovative products to consumers.
These factors include, but are not limited to, recent supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, wage pressures, ongoing elevated levels of inflation and potential economic slowdown, as well as input costs including fuel and energy costs (for example, the price of gasoline), foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, and other matters that influence consumer spending and preferences.
These factors include, but are not limited to, tariffs, recent supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, wage pressures, ongoing elevated 9 levels of inflation and potential economic slowdown, regulatory changes, as well as input costs including fuel and energy costs (for example, the price of gasoline), foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, and other matters that influence consumer spending and preferences.
Although we are engaged in e-commerce with respect to many of our products, if we are not successful in responding to these competitive factors, changing consumer preferences and market dynamics or expanding sales through evolving sales channels, especially e-commerce retailers, hard discounters and other alternative retail channels, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be negatively impacted.
Although we are engaged in e-commerce with respect to many of our products, if we are not successful in responding to these competitive factors, changing consumer preferences and market dynamics or expanding sales through evolving sales channels, especially the online channel, hard discounters and other alternative retail channels, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be negatively impacted.
Labor shortages, higher employee turnover rates and labor union organizing efforts could also lead to disruptions in our business. 17 A failure to adequately manage human capital resources could have a material adverse effective on our business, prospects, reputation, financial condition and results of operations.
Labor shortages, higher employee turnover rates and labor union organizing efforts could also lead to disruptions in our business. A failure to adequately manage human capital resources could have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, reputation, financial condition and results of operations.
Our dependence on single -source suppliers subjects us to the possible risks of shortages, interruptions and price fluctuations. 14 Global economic factors continue to put significant pressure on suppliers, all of which tends to make the supply environment more expensive.
Our dependence on single -source suppliers subjects us to the possible risks of shortages, interruptions and price fluctuations. Global economic factors, including tariffs, continue to put significant pressure on suppliers, all of which tends to make the supply environment more expensive.
Additionally, the escalating costs of offering and administering health care, retirement and other benefits for employees could result in reduced profitability. Financial and Strategic Risks We have significant debt obligations that could adversely affect our business. As of September 30, 2024, our total aggregate outstanding indebtedness was approximately $3.2 billion.
Additionally, the escalating costs of offering and administering health care, retirement and other benefits for employees could result in reduced profitability. Financial and Strategic Risks We have significant debt obligations that could adversely affect our business. As of September 30, 2025, our total aggregate outstanding indebtedness was approximately $3.4 billion.
Some of the areas where we face risks include: • Diversion of management time and focus from operating our business to challenges related to acquisitions and other strategic transactions; • Failure to successfully integrate and further develop the acquired business or technology; • Implementation or remediation of controls, procedures, and policies at the acquired company; • Integration of the acquired company’s accounting, human resource, and other administrative systems, and coordination of research and development, commercial and marketing functions; • Transition of operations, users, and customers onto our existing platforms; • Failure to obtain required approvals on a timely basis, if at all, from governmental authorities, or conditions placed upon approval that could, among other things, delay or prevent us from completing a transaction, or otherwise restrict our ability to realize the expected financial or strategic goals of a transaction; • In the case of foreign acquisitions, the need to integrate operations across different cultures and languages and to address the particular economic, currency, political, and regulatory risks associated with specific countries; • Cultural challenges associated with integrating employees from the acquired company into our organization, and retention of employees from the businesses we acquire; • Liability for activities of the acquired company before the acquisition, including patent and trademark infringement claims, data privacy and security issues, violations of laws, commercial disputes, tax liabilities, and other known and unknown liabilities; and • Litigation or other claims in connection with the acquired company, including claims from terminated colleagues, customers, former shareholders, or other third parties. 19 Our failure to address these risks or other problems encountered in connection with our past or future acquisitions and other strategic transactions could cause us to fail to realize their anticipated benefits, incur unanticipated liabilities, and harm our business generally.
Some of the areas where we face risks include: • Diversion of management time and focus from operating our business to challenges related to acquisitions and other strategic transactions; • Failure to successfully integrate and further develop the acquired business or technology; • Implementation or remediation of controls, procedures, and policies at the acquired company; • Integration of the acquired company’s accounting, human resource, and other administrative systems, and coordination of research and development, commercial and marketing functions; • Transition of operations, users, and customers onto our existing platforms; • Failure to obtain required approvals on a timely basis, if at all, from governmental authorities, or conditions placed upon approval that could, among other things, delay or prevent us from completing a transaction, or otherwise restrict our ability to realize the expected financial or strategic goals of a transaction; 19 • In the case of foreign acquisitions, the need to integrate operations across different cultures and languages and to address the particular economic, currency, political, and regulatory risks associated with specific countries; • Cultural challenges associated with integrating employees from the acquired company into our organization, and retention of employees from the businesses we acquire; • Liability for activities of the acquired company before the acquisition, including patent and trademark infringement claims, data privacy and security issues, violations of laws, commercial disputes, tax liabilities, and other known and unknown liabilities; and • Litigation or other claims in connection with the acquired company, including claims from terminated colleagues, customers, former shareholders, or other third parties.
Acquired companies or operations, joint ventures or investments may not be profitable or may not achieve sales levels and profitability and cash flow expectations.
Acquired companies or operations, joint ventures or investments may not be profitable or may not achieve sales, profitability or cash flow expectations.
Increased focus by governmental and non-governmental organizations, customers, consumers and shareholders on environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues, including those related to sustainability and climate change, may have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations and damage our reputation .
Increased focus by governmental and non-governmental organizations, customers, consumers and shareholders on sustainability issues, including those related to climate change, may have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations and damage our reputation .
We face intense competition from consumer product companies both in the U.S. and in global markets. Most of our products compete with other widely advertised, promoted and merchandised brands within each product category.
We face intense competition from consumer product companies both in the U.S. and in global markets. Most of our products compete with other widely advertised, promoted and merchandised brands as well as private label products within each product category.
Changes in the retail environment and consumer preferences could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Our sales have historically been largely concentrated in the traditional retail grocery, mass retail outlet, warehouse club and dollar store channels.
Changes in the retail environment and consumer preferences could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Our sales have historically been weighted toward the traditional retail grocery, mass retail outlet, warehouse club and dollar store channels.
Our ability to compete effectively is, and in the future could be, affected by a number of factors, including: • Certain of our competitors have substantially greater financial, marketing, research and development, and other resources and greater market share in certain segments than we do, which could provide them with greater scale and negotiating leverage with retailers and suppliers.
Our ability to compete effectively is, and in the future could be, affected by a number of factors, including: • Certain of our competitors have substantially greater financial, marketing, research and development, and other resources and greater market share in certain segments than we do, which could provide them with greater scale and negotiating leverage with retailers and suppliers and more willingness to accept a lower margin rate.
In addition, we may incur higher costs for transportation, workforce and distribution capability in order to maintain the surety of supplying product to our customers; ▪ Failure of third parties upon which we rely, including our suppliers, contract manufacturers, distributors, contractors and commercial banks, to meet their obligations to us in a timely manner; and ▪ Significant changes in the political and regulatory landscape in the markets in which we manufacture, sell or distribute our products, which may include, but are not limited to, restrictions on international trade, governmental or regulatory actions, closures or other restrictions that limit or suspend our or our third-party partners' or customers' operating and/or manufacturing capabilities, including operations necessary for the production, distribution, sale, and support of our products, which could adversely impact our results. 13 If we fail to protect our intellectual property rights, competitors may manufacture and market similar products, which could adversely affect our market share and results of operations.
In addition, we may incur higher costs for transportation, workforce and distribution capability in order to maintain the surety of supplying product to our customers; ▪ Failure of third parties upon which we rely, including our suppliers, contract manufacturers, distributors, contractors and commercial banks, to meet their obligations to us in a timely manner; and ▪ Significant changes in the political and regulatory landscape in the markets in which we manufacture, sell or distribute our products, which may include, but are not limited to, restrictions on international trade, governmental or regulatory actions, closures or other restrictions that limit or suspend our or our third-party partners' or customers' operating and/or manufacturing capabilities, including operations necessary for the production, distribution, sale, and support of our products, which could adversely impact our results.
These competitors may be able to spend more aggressively on advertising and promotional activities, introduce competing products more quickly and respond more effectively to changing business and economic conditions than we can. • Our competitors may have lower production, sales and distribution costs, and higher profit margins. • Our competitors have obtained, and may in the future be able to obtain, exclusivity or sole source at particular retailers or favorable in-store placement. 10 • We may lose market share to certain retailers, including club stores, grocery, dollar stores, mass merchandisers and internet-based retailers, which may offer private label brands that are typically sold at lower prices and compete with our products in certain categories.
These competitors may be able to spend more aggressively on advertising and promotional activities, introduce competing products more quickly, adopt new technology, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, more quickly and successfully and respond more effectively to changing business and economic conditions than we can. • Our competitors may have lower production, sales and distribution costs, and higher profit margins. • Our competitors have obtained, and may in the future be able to obtain, exclusivity or sole source at particular retailers or favorable in-store placement. • We may lose market share to certain retailers, including club stores, grocery, dollar stores, mass merchandisers and internet-based retailers, which may offer private label brands that are typically sold at lower prices and compete with our products in certain categories.
Any such impairment charges could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. See Note 11, Goodwill and intangible assets for further information related to goodwill and intangible assets, and the impairment charges recorded in the fiscal years ended September 30, 2024 and 2022.
Any such impairment charges could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. See Note 11, Goodwill and intangible assets for further information related to goodwill and the indefinite-lived intangible assets, and the indefinite-lived impairment charges recorded in the fiscal year ended September 30, 2024.
We are committed to our sustainability journey and have taken meaningful steps including conducting an extensive materiality assessment and publishing ESG goals.
We are committed to our sustainability journey and have taken meaningful steps including conducting an extensive materiality assessment and publishing goals within our Sustainability Report.
While we have taken steps to maintain and enhance cybersecurity and address these risks and uncertainties by implementing security technologies, internal controls, network and data center resiliency, redundancy and recovery processes, upgrading our remote work environment and by obtaining insurance coverage, these measures may be inadequate.
While we have taken steps to maintain and enhance cybersecurity and address these risks and uncertainties by implementing security technologies, internal controls, network and data center resiliency, redundancy and recovery processes, upgrading our remote work environment and obtaining insurance coverage, these measures may be inadequate due to the continuously evolving nature of cyber threats.
Alternative retail channels, including hard discounters, e-commerce retailers and subscription services, have become more prevalent, and retailers are increasingly selling consumer products through such channels. In addition, alternative sales channels and business models, such as private label and store brands, direct-to-consumer brands and channels and discounter channels continue to evolve.
Alternative retail channels, including hard discounters and the online channel, have become more prevalent, and retailers are increasingly selling consumer products through such channels. In addition, alternative sales channels and business models, such as private label and store brands, direct-to-consumer brands and channels and discounter channels continue to evolve.
As climate change, land use, water use, deforestation, plastic waste, recyclability or recoverability of packaging, including single-use and other plastic packaging, responsible sourcing, and other sustainability concerns become more prevalent, governmental and non-governmental organizations, customers, consumers and investors are increasingly focusing on these issues.
As climate change, land use, water use, deforestation, biodiversity, product recycling, plastic waste, recyclability or recoverability of packaging, including single-use and other plastic packaging, waste to landfill, responsible sourcing, labor, employment practices, human rights and other sustainability concerns become more prevalent, governmental and non-governmental organizations, customers, consumers and investors are increasingly focusing on these issues.
Our international operations are also subject to regulation in each of the foreign jurisdictions in which it manufactures, markets or distributes its products. There is also an increased risk of fraud or corruption in certain foreign jurisdictions and related difficulties in maintaining effective internal controls.
Our international operations are also subject to regulation in each of the foreign jurisdictions in which we manufacture, market or distribute our products. There is also an increased risk of fraud or corruption in certain foreign jurisdictions and related difficulties in maintaining effective internal controls.
We assumed pension plan liabilities related to our current and former employees in connection with the separation. Effective January 1, 2014, the pension benefit earned to date by active participants under the legacy U.S. pension plan was frozen and future retirement service benefits are no longer accrued under this retirement program; however, our pension plan obligations remain significant.
Effective January 1, 2014, the pension benefit earned to date by active participants under the legacy U.S. pension plan was frozen and future retirement service benefits are no longer accrued under this retirement program; however, our pension plan obligations remain significant.
We cannot be certain that we will be able to effectively utilize these intellectual property rights or that we can successfully assert or defend these rights. There is a risk that we will not be able to obtain, perfect, enforce or maintain our own intellectual property rights or, where appropriate, license intellectual property rights necessary to support new product introductions.
There is a risk that we will not be able to obtain, perfect, enforce or maintain our own intellectual property rights or, where appropriate, license intellectual property rights necessary to support new product introductions.
Our financial results depend on the successful execution of our business operating plans. To operate more efficiently and control costs, we have entered into, and may in the future enter into, restructuring and cost reduction plans (including Project Momentum, our previously announced profit recovery program).
To operate more efficiently and control costs, we have entered into, and may in the future enter into, restructuring and cost reduction plans (including Project Momentum, our previously announced profit recovery program).
FCPA; and • risks related to natural disasters, terrorism, social unrest and other events beyond our control. We are also exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risks with respect to our net sales, net earnings and cash flow driven by movements of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies.
We are also exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risks with respect to our net sales, net earnings and cash flow driven by movements of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies.
There can be no assurance that any credit ratings we receive will remain in effect for any given period of time or that a rating will not be lowered, suspended or withdrawn entirely by the applicable rating agencies if, in such rating agency’s judgments, circumstances so warrant. 18 We may experience losses or be subject to increased funding and expenses related to our pension plans.
There can be no assurance that any credit ratings we receive will remain in effect for any given period of time or that a rating will not be lowered, suspended or withdrawn entirely by the applicable rating agencies if, in such rating agency’s judgments, circumstances so warrant.
If we are found to be noncompliant with applicable laws and regulations in these or other areas, we could be subject to governmental or regulatory actions, including fines, import detentions, injunctions, product withdrawals or recalls or asset seizures, as well as potential criminal sanctions and damage to our reputation and brand image, or require the payment of monetary penalties, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Our efforts to comply with privacy, data protection and cybersecurity laws and regulations may result in additional costs and challenges that are likely to increase over time, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. 21 If we are found to be noncompliant with applicable laws and regulations in these or other areas, we could be subject to governmental or regulatory actions, including fines, import detentions, injunctions, product withdrawals or recalls or asset seizures, as well as potential criminal sanctions and damage to our reputation and brand image, or require the payment of monetary penalties, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Additionally, loss of or failure to obtain necessary permits and registrations, particularly with respect to our global auto care business, could delay or prevent us from meeting current product demand, introducing new products, building new facilities or acquiring new businesses and could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. 21 In addition, the legal, regulatory and ethical landscape around the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning is rapidly evolving.
Additionally, loss of or failure to obtain necessary permits and registrations, particularly with respect to our global auto care business, could delay or prevent us from meeting current product demand, introducing new products, building new facilities or acquiring new businesses and could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
Historically, sales for certain auto care products typically have peaked during the first six months of the calendar year due to customer seasonal purchasing patterns and the timing of promotional activities.
Historically, consumer sales for certain auto care products typically have peaked during our third and fourth fiscal quarters due to customer seasonal purchasing patterns and the timing of promotional activities, with our sales historically peaking during the first six months of the calendar year in advance of this selling season.
These provisions include, among others: • limitations on the ability of our shareholders to call a special meeting; • rules regarding how we may present proposals or nominate directors for election at shareholder meetings; • the right of our Board of Directors to issue preferred stock without shareholder approval; • a provision that our shareholders may only remove directors “for cause” and with the approval of the holders of two-thirds of our outstanding voting stock at a special meeting of shareholders called expressly for that purpose; and • the ability of our directors, and not shareholders, to fill vacancies on our Board of Directors.
These provisions include, among others: • limitations on the ability of our shareholders to call a special meeting; • rules regarding how we may present proposals or nominate directors for election at shareholder meetings; • the right of our Board of Directors to issue preferred stock without shareholder approval; • a provision that our shareholders may only remove directors “for cause” and with the approval of the holders of two-thirds of our outstanding voting stock at a special meeting of shareholders called expressly for that purpose; and • the ability of our directors, and not shareholders, to fill vacancies on our Board of Directors. 23 In addition, because we have not chosen to opt out of coverage of Section 351.459 of Missouri law, which we refer to as the “business combination statute,” these provisions could also deter or delay a change of control.
If any of these vendors are unable to fulfill its obligations, and we are unable to find replacement suppliers during the supply disruption, we could encounter supply shortages and/or increased costs to secure adequate supplies, either of which could materially harm our business.
If any of these vendors are unable to fulfill their obligations, and we are unable to find replacement suppliers during the supply disruption, we could encounter supply shortages and/or increased costs to secure adequate supplies, either of which could materially harm our business. 14 Our business is vulnerable to the availability of raw materials, as well as our ability to forecast customer demand and manage production capacity.
Our ability to adopt this emerging technology in an effective and ethical manner may impact our reputation and ability to compete, and this technology could be, among other things, false, biased, or inconsistent with our values and strategies.
In addition, the legal, regulatory and ethical landscape around the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning is rapidly evolving. Our ability to adopt this emerging technology in an effective and ethical manner may impact our reputation and ability to compete, and this technology could be, among other things, false, biased, or inconsistent with our values and strategies.
Because of the highly competitive environment in which we operate, our customers, including online retailers, frequently seek to obtain pricing concessions or better trade terms, resulting in either a reduction of our margins or the loss of distribution to lower-cost competitors. Competition in our product categories is based upon brand perceptions, innovation, product performance, customer service and price.
Because of the highly competitive environment in which we operate, our customers, including online retailers, frequently seek to obtain pricing concessions or better trade terms and are increasingly offering private label brands, resulting in either a reduction of our margins or the loss of distribution to lower-cost competitors.
If we are unable to respond or perceived to be inadequately responding to sustainability concerns, customers and consumers may choose to purchase products from another company or a competitor, and certain investors may divert from, or avoid investing in, our securities, which may hinder our access to capital.
If we are unable to respond or perceived to be inadequately responding to sustainability concerns, customers and consumers may choose to purchase products from another company or a competitor, and certain investors may divert from, or avoid investing in, our securities, which may hinder our access to capital. 22 We are subject to environmental laws and regulations that may expose us to significant liabilities and have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.
If we are unable to obtain materials from a qualified supplier, it can take up to a year to qualify a new supplier, assuming an alternative source of supply is available.
Many of our suppliers must undertake a time-consuming qualification process before we can incorporate their raw materials into our production process. If we are unable to obtain materials from a qualified supplier, it can take up to a year to qualify a new supplier, assuming an alternative source of supply is available.
If adverse weather conditions persist during the first six months of the calendar year (our second and third fiscal quarters) when demand for auto care products typically peaks, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected. 16 A failure of a key information technology system could adversely impact our ability to conduct business.
If adverse weather conditions persist during our third and fourth fiscal quarters when demand for auto care products typically peaks, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
In addition, some of our raw materials are obtained from a single supplier and we may experience supply shortages if the single-source supplier experiences quality issues, volume constraints, or shipping delays. Many of our suppliers must undertake a time-consuming qualification process before we can incorporate their raw materials into our production process.
Supply disruptions may also occur due to shortages of critical materials. In addition, some of our raw materials are obtained from a single supplier and we may experience supply shortages if the single-source supplier experiences quality issues, volume constraints, or shipping delays.
The vast majority of our total revenues are from products bearing proprietary trademarks. In addition, we own or license a number of patents, patent applications and other technology. We rely on trademark, trade secret, patent and copyright laws to protect our intellectual property rights and goodwill.
If we fail to protect our intellectual property rights, competitors may manufacture and market similar products, which could adversely affect our market share and results of operations. The vast majority of our total revenues are from products bearing proprietary trademarks. In addition, we own or license a number of patents, patent applications and other technology.
We maintain business interruption insurance to potentially mitigate the impact of business interruption, but such coverage may not be sufficient to offset the financial or reputational impact of an interruption. 15 Our future results may be affected by our operational execution, including our ability to achieve cost savings as a result of any current or future restructuring efforts.
Our future results may be affected by our operational execution, including our ability to achieve cost savings as a result of any current or future restructuring efforts. 15 Our financial results depend on the successful execution of our business operating plans.
From time to time, suppliers may extend lead times, limit the volumes supplied to us or increase prices due to capacity constraints or other factors. Supply disruptions may also occur due to shortages of critical materials.
Our ability to meet customer demand depends, in part, on our production capacity and on obtaining timely and adequate delivery of materials, parts and components from our suppliers. From time to time, suppliers may extend lead times, limit the volumes supplied to us or increase prices due to capacity constraints or other factors.
If a major disruption were to occur, it could result in delays in shipments of products to customers or suspension of operations.
If a major disruption were to occur, it could result in delays in shipments of products to customers or suspension of operations. We maintain business interruption insurance to potentially mitigate the impact of business interruption, but such coverage may not be sufficient to offset the financial or reputational impact of an interruption.
Our operating results could be adversely affected if any of our brands suffers damage to its reputation due to real or perceived issues.
Increased consumer engagement and the widespread use of social media and networking sites by consumers has greatly increased the accessibility and speed of dissemination of information (whether accurate or inaccurate). Our operating results could be adversely affected if any of our brands suffers damage to their reputation due to real or perceived issues.