CAMDEN, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Campbell Soup Company today reported its second-quarter results for fiscal 2016.
Second-Quarter Results
Sales decreased 1 percent to $2.201 billion driven by lower volume and the adverse impact of currency translation, partly offset by higher selling prices, the benefit from the acquisition of Garden Fresh Gourmet and lower promotional spending. Organic sales were comparable to the prior year with gains in Global Biscuits and Snacks offset by declines in Americas Simple Meals and Beverages.
Gross margin increased from 33.3 percent to 37.2 percent. Excluding items impacting comparability in the current year, adjusted gross margin improved 4 percentage points. The increase in adjusted gross margin was primarily driven by productivity improvements, higher selling prices, lower promotional spending and improved supply chain performance.
Marketing and selling expenses decreased 7 percent to $223 million. Excluding items impacting comparability in the current year, adjusted marketing and selling expenses decreased 5 percent to $226 million primarily due to the benefits from cost savings initiatives, partly offset by higher advertising and consumer promotion expenses. Administrative expenses increased 8 percent to $146 million. Excluding items impacting comparability in the current year, adjusted administrative expenses increased 6 percent to $143 million primarily due to higher incentive compensation costs compared to the prior year, partly offset by the benefits from cost savings initiatives.
EBIT increased 23 percent to $414 million. Excluding items impacting comparability in the current year, adjusted EBIT increased 26 percent to $423 million reflecting a higher adjusted gross margin percentage and the benefits from cost savings initiatives, partly offset by higher incentive compensation costs, the adverse impact of currency translation and volume declines.
Net interest expense increased $2 million to $27 million reflecting higher average interest rates on the debt portfolio. The tax rate increased 2.7 percentage points to 31.5 percent. Excluding items impacting comparability in the current year, the adjusted tax rate increased 2.8 percentage points to 31.6 percent primarily due to lapping the favorable resolution of an intercompany pricing agreement between the U.S. and Canada in the prior year. Full report.
