Adjusted return on sales (EBIT) rose by 0.2 percentage points to 18.0 percent.

Adjusted earnings per preferred share grew by 1.9 percent from 1.55 euros to 1.58 euros. EPS growth was negatively impacted by currency effects of -5.8 percent. Excluding the impact of currency effects, adjusted earnings per preferred share increased by 7.7 percent.

With 6.3 percent, net working capital as a percentage of sales was above the level of the second quarter 2017 (5.2 percent).

Updated outlook for fiscal year 2018

Henkel has updated its guidance for fiscal 2018. The company confirms its expectation for organic sales growth of 2 to 4 percent for the Henkel Group. Henkel now expects organic sales growth in the Adhesive Technologies business unit of 4 to 5 percent from previously 2 to 4 percent. In the Laundry & Home Care business unit Henkel continues to expect growth in the range of 2 to 4 percent. In the Beauty Care business unit Henkel confirms its expectation of positive organic sales growth of 0 to 2 percent.

For adjusted return on sales (EBIT), Henkel now anticipates an increase year on year to around 18 percent from previously more than 17.5 percent. All three business units are expected to contribute to this positive performance. Reflecting the development of currencies and material prices, Henkel now expects an increase of between 3 and 6 percent in adjusted earnings per preferred share from previously between 5 and 8 percent.

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