Clorox's stock plummeted 5.11% in post-market trading following the release of its third-quarter earnings report.
The bleach maker cut its full-year adjusted earnings per share forecast to a range of $5.45 to $5.65, down from its previous guidance of $5.95 to $6.30. The company cited weaker demand for its cleaning products, with higher energy, fuel, and freight costs tied to the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran pressuring consumer spending on discretionary items like branded floor cleaners and disinfectant sprays.
Additionally, Clorox expects its annual gross margin to fall by 250 to 300 basis points, citing headwinds from the higher energy costs as well as costs related to its recent acquisition of Purell maker GOJO Industries. While third-quarter adjusted earnings of $1.64 per share beat estimates, the lowered outlook reflects a challenging consumer and cost environment.