Form 10-K
Table of Contents

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 


 

FORM 10-K

 

(Mark One)

[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008

 

OR

 

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the transition period from                      to                     

 

Commission file number 1-225

 


 

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware   39-0394230

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

P. O. Box 619100, Dallas, Texas   75261-9100
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (972) 281-1200

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class


 

Name of each exchange on which registered


Common Stock—$1.25 Par Value   New York Stock Exchange

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes  x.    No  ¨ .

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes  ¨.    No  x.

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  x.    No  ¨.

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.    x

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer  x    Accelerated filer  ¨
Non-accelerated filer   ¨ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)    Smaller reporting company  ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).    Yes  ¨.    No  x.

 

The aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates on June 30, 2008 (based on the closing stock price on the New York Stock Exchange) on such date was approximately $24.9 billion.

 

As of February 16, 2009, there were 413,810,555 shares of the Corporation’s common stock outstanding.

 

Documents Incorporated By Reference

 

Certain information contained in the definitive Proxy Statement for the Corporation’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on April 30, 2009 is incorporated by reference into Part III hereof.

 


 


Table of Contents

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

          Page

Part I

         

Item 1.

  

Business

   1

Item 1A.

  

Risk Factors

   4

Item 1B.

  

Unresolved Staff Comments

   8

Item 2.

  

Properties

   8

Item 3.

  

Legal Proceedings

   14

Item 4.

  

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

   14

Part II

         

Item 5.

  

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

   15

Item 6.

  

Selected Financial Data

   16

Item 7.

  

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

   17

Item 7A.

  

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

   36

Item 8.

  

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

   39

Item 9.

  

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

   85

Item 9A.

  

Controls and Procedures

   85

Item 9B.

  

Other Information

   88

Part III

         

Item 10.

  

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

   89

Item 11.

  

Executive Compensation

   91

Item 12.

  

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

   91

Item 13.

  

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

   91

Item 14.

  

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

   91

Part IV

         

Item 15.

  

Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

   92

Signatures

   95
      


Table of Contents

PART I

 

ITEM 1.    BUSINESS

 

Kimberly-Clark Corporation was incorporated in Delaware in 1928. The Corporation is a global health and hygiene company focused on product innovation and building its personal care, consumer tissue, K-C Professional & Other and health care brands. The Corporation is principally engaged in the manufacturing and marketing of a wide range of health and hygiene products around the world. Most of these products are made from natural or synthetic fibers using advanced technologies in fibers, nonwovens and absorbency. As used in Items 1, 1A, 2, 3, 6, 7, 7A, 8 and 9A of this Form 10-K, the term “Corporation” refers to Kimberly-Clark Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries. In the remainder of this Form 10-K, the terms “Kimberly-Clark” or “Corporation” refer only to Kimberly-Clark Corporation. For financial information by business segment and geographic area, and information about principal products and markets of the Corporation, reference is made to Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and to Item 8, Note 18 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Recent Developments

 

On July 23, 2007, the Corporation entered into an accelerated share repurchase agreement (the “ASR Agreement”) through which it purchased approximately 29.6 million shares of its common stock from Bank of America, N.A. (“Bank of America”), at an initial purchase price of $67.48 per share, or an aggregate of $2 billion. On July 30, 2007, the Corporation issued $2.1 billion of long-term notes and used a portion of the net proceeds from the sale of these notes to repay a short-term revolving credit agreement, under which the Corporation borrowed $2 billion on July 27, 2007 to fund the settlement of the ASR Agreement. In March 2008, the Corporation and Bank of America settled the ASR Agreement. See Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and Item 8, Notes 6 and 10 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of the ASR Agreement.

 

In July 2005, the Corporation authorized a multi-year plan to improve its competitive position by accelerating investments in targeted growth opportunities and strategic cost reductions aimed at streamlining manufacturing and administrative operations, primarily in North America and Europe. The strategic cost reductions were completed in 2008. See Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and Item 8, Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of the strategic cost reduction plan.

 

Description of the Corporation

 

The Corporation is organized into operating segments based on product groupings. These operating segments have been aggregated into four reportable global business segments: Personal Care; Consumer Tissue; K-C Professional & Other; and Health Care. The reportable segments were determined in accordance with how the Corporation’s executive managers develop and execute the Corporation’s global strategies to drive growth and profitability of the Corporation’s worldwide Personal Care, Consumer Tissue, K-C Professional & Other and Health Care operations. These strategies include global plans for branding and product positioning, technology, research and development programs, cost reductions including supply chain management, and capacity and capital investments for each of these businesses.

 

The principal sources of revenue in each of our global business segments are described below. Revenue, profit and total assets of each reportable segment are shown in Item 8, Note 18 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

The Personal Care segment manufactures and markets disposable diapers, training and youth pants, and swimpants; baby wipes; feminine and incontinence care products; and related products. Products in this segment are primarily for household use and are sold under a variety of brand names, including Huggies, Pull-Ups, Little Swimmers, GoodNites, Kotex, Lightdays, Depend, Poise and other brand names.

 

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The Consumer Tissue segment manufactures and markets facial and bathroom tissue, paper towels, napkins and related products for household use. Products in this segment are sold under the Kleenex, Scott, Cottonelle, Viva, Andrex, Scottex, Hakle, Page and other brand names.

 

The K-C Professional & Other segment manufactures and markets facial and bathroom tissue, paper towels, napkins, wipers and a range of safety products for the away-from-home marketplace. Products in this segment are sold under the Kimberly-Clark, Kleenex, Scott, WypAll, Kimtech, KleenGuard and Kimcare brand names.

 

The Health Care segment manufactures and markets disposable health care products such as surgical gowns, drapes, infection control products, sterilization wrap, face masks, exam gloves, respiratory products and other disposable medical products. Products in this segment are sold under the Kimberly-Clark, Ballard and other brand names.

 

Products for household use are sold directly, and through wholesalers, to supermarkets, mass merchandisers, drugstores, warehouse clubs, variety and department stores and other retail outlets. Products for away-from-home use are sold through distributors and directly to manufacturing, lodging, office building, food service, health care establishments and high volume public facilities. In addition, certain products are sold to converters.

 

Net sales to Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. were approximately 14 percent in 2008 and 2007, and approximately 13 percent in 2006.

 

Patents and Trademarks

 

The Corporation owns various patents and trademarks registered domestically and in many foreign countries. The Corporation considers the patents and trademarks which it owns and the trademarks under which it sells certain of its products to be material to its business. Consequently, the Corporation seeks patent and trademark protection by all available means, including registration.

 

Raw Materials

 

Cellulose fiber, in the form of kraft pulp or fiber recycled from recovered waste paper, is the primary raw material for the Corporation’s tissue products and is a component in disposable diapers, training pants, feminine pads and incontinence care products.

 

Superabsorbent materials are important components in disposable diapers, training and youth pants and incontinence care products. Polypropylene and other synthetics and chemicals are the primary raw materials for manufacturing nonwoven fabrics, which are used in disposable diapers, training and youth pants, wet wipes, feminine pads, incontinence and health care products, and away-from-home wipers.

 

Most recovered paper, synthetics, pulp and recycled fiber are purchased from third parties. The Corporation considers the supply of these raw materials to be adequate to meet the needs of its businesses. See Item 1A, “Risk Factors.”

 

Competition

 

The Corporation has several major competitors in most of its markets, some of which are larger and more diversified than the Corporation. The principal methods and elements of competition include brand recognition and loyalty, product innovation, quality and performance, price, and marketing and distribution capabilities. For additional discussion of the competitive environment in which the Corporation conducts its business, see Item 1A, “Risk Factors.”

 

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Research and Development

 

Research and development expenditures are directed toward new or improved personal care, tissue, wiping, and health care products and nonwoven materials. Consolidated research and development expense was $297 million in 2008, $277 million in 2007 and $301 million in 2006.

 

Foreign Market Risks

 

The Corporation operates and markets its products globally, and its business strategy includes targeted growth in the developing and emerging markets. See Item 1A, “Risk Factors” for a discussion of foreign market risks that may affect the Corporation’s financial results.

 

Environmental Matters

 

Total worldwide capital expenditures for voluntary environmental controls or controls necessary to comply with legal requirements relating to the protection of the environment at the Corporation’s facilities are expected to be approximately $39 million in 2009 and $12 million in 2010. Of these amounts, approximately $15 million in 2009 and $2 million in 2010 are expected to be spent at facilities in the U.S. For facilities outside of the U.S., capital expenditures for environmental controls are expected to be approximately $24 million in 2009 and $10 million in 2010.

 

Total worldwide operating expenses for environmental compliance are expected to be approximately $180 million in 2009 and $171 million in 2010. Operating expenses for environmental compliance with respect to U.S. facilities are expected to be approximately $93 million in 2009 and $83 million in 2010. Operating expenses for environmental compliance with respect to facilities outside the U.S. are expected to be approximately $87 million in 2009 and $88 million in 2010. Operating expenses include pollution control equipment operation and maintenance costs, governmental payments, and research and engineering costs.

 

Total environmental capital expenditures and operating expenses are not expected to have a material effect on the Corporation’s total capital and operating expenditures, consolidated earnings or competitive position. However, current environmental spending estimates could be modified as a result of changes in the Corporation’s plans, changes in legal requirements, including any requirements related to global climate change, or other factors.

 

Employees

 

In its worldwide consolidated operations, the Corporation had nearly 53,000 employees as of December 31, 2008.

 

Item 10 of this Form 10-K identifies executive officers of the Corporation and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Available Information

 

The Corporation makes available financial information, news releases and other information on the Corporation’s website at www.kimberly-clark.com. The Corporation’s annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 are available free of charge on this website as soon as reasonably practicable after the Corporation files such reports and amendments with, or

 

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(Continued)

 

 

furnishes them to, the Securities and Exchange Commission. Stockholders may also contact Stockholder Services, P.O. Box 612606, Dallas, Texas 75261-2606 or call 972-281-1522 to obtain a hard copy of these reports without charge.

 

ITEM 1A.    RISK FACTORS

 

The following factors, as well as factors described elsewhere in this Form 10-K, or in other filings by the Corporation with the Securities and Exchange Commission, could adversely affect the Corporation’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Other factors not presently known to us or that we presently believe are not material could also affect our business operations and financial results.

 

Global economic conditions could continue to adversely affect the Corporation’s business and financial results.

 

Unfavorable economic conditions, including the impact of recessions in the United States and throughout the world, may continue to negatively affect the Corporation’s business and financial results. These economic conditions could negatively impact (i) consumer demand for our products, including shifting consumer purchasing patterns to lower-cost options such as private label products, (ii) the mix of our products’ sales, (iii) our ability to collect accounts receivable on a timely basis from certain customers and (iv) the ability of certain suppliers to fill our orders for raw materials or other goods and services. A prolonged recession could result in decreased revenue, margins and earnings.

 

Significant increases in prices for raw materials, energy, transportation and other necessary supplies and services could adversely affect the Corporation’s financial results.

 

Increases in the cost of and availability of raw materials, including pulp and petroleum-based materials, the cost of energy, transportation and other necessary services, supplier constraints, an inability to maintain favorable supplier arrangements and relations or an inability to avoid disruptions in production output caused by events such as natural disasters, power outages, labor strikes, and the like could have an adverse effect on the Corporation’s financial results.

 

Cellulose fiber, in the form of kraft pulp or recycled fiber from recovered waste paper, is used extensively in the Corporation’s tissue products and is subject to significant price fluctuations due to the cyclical nature of these fiber markets. Recycled fiber accounts for approximately 32 percent of the Corporation and its equity companies’ overall fiber requirements.

 

Increases in pulp prices could adversely affect the Corporation’s earnings if selling prices for its finished products are not adjusted or if these adjustments significantly trail the increases in pulp prices. Derivative instruments have not been used to manage these risks. On a worldwide basis, the Corporation supplies approximately 8 percent of its virgin fiber needs from internal pulp manufacturing operations.

 

A number of the Corporation’s products, such as diapers, training and youth pants, incontinence care products, disposable wipes and various health care products, contain certain materials which are principally derived from petroleum. These materials are subject to price fluctuations based on changes in petroleum prices, availability and other factors. The Corporation purchases these materials from a number of suppliers. Significant increases in prices for these materials could adversely affect the Corporation’s earnings if selling prices for its finished products are not adjusted or if adjustments significantly trail the increases in prices for these materials. Derivative instruments have not been used to manage these risks.

 

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PART I

(Continued)

 

 

Although the Corporation believes that the supplies of raw materials needed to manufacture its products are adequate, global economic conditions, supplier capacity constraints and other factors could affect the availability of, or prices for, those raw materials.

 

The Corporation’s manufacturing operations utilize electricity, natural gas and petroleum-based fuels.

 

To ensure that it uses all forms of energy cost-effectively, the Corporation maintains ongoing energy efficiency improvement programs at all of its manufacturing sites. The Corporation’s contracts with energy suppliers vary as to price, payment terms, quantities and duration. The Corporation’s energy costs are also affected by various market factors including the availability of supplies of particular forms of energy, energy prices and local and national regulatory decisions. There can be no assurance that the Corporation will be fully protected against substantial changes in the price or availability of energy sources. Derivative instruments are used to hedge a substantial portion of natural gas price risk in accordance with the Corporation’s risk management policy.

 

Increased pricing pressure and intense competition for sales of the Corporation’s products could have an adverse effect on the Corporation’s financial results.

 

The Corporation competes in intensely competitive markets against well-known, branded products and private label products both domestically and internationally. Inherent risks in the Corporation’s competitive strategy include uncertainties concerning trade and consumer acceptance, the effects of consolidation within retailer and distribution channels, and competitive reaction. Some of the Corporation’s major competitors have undergone consolidation, which could result in increased competition and alter the dynamics of the industry. This consolidation may give competitors greater financial resources and greater market penetration and enable competitors to offer a wider variety of products and services at more competitive prices, which could adversely affect the Corporation’s financial results. It may be necessary for the Corporation to lower prices on its products and increase spending on advertising and promotions, each of which could adversely affect the Corporation’s financial results.

 

In addition, the Corporation incurs substantial development and marketing costs in introducing new and improved products and technologies. The introduction of a new consumer product (whether improved or newly developed) usually requires substantial expenditures for advertising and marketing to gain recognition in the marketplace. If a product gains consumer acceptance, it normally requires continued advertising and promotional support to maintain its relative market position. Some of the Corporation’s competitors are larger and have greater financial resources than the Corporation. 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 the Corporation can. The Corporation’s ability to develop new products is affected by whether it can develop and fund technological innovations, receive and maintain necessary patent and trademark protection and successfully anticipate consumer needs and preferences.

 

There is no guarantee that the Corporation will be successful in developing new and improved products and technologies necessary to compete successfully in the industry or that the Corporation will be successful in advertising, marketing and selling its products.

 

Changes in the policies of our retail trade customers and increasing dependence on key retailers in developed markets may adversely affect our business.

 

The Corporation’s products are sold in a highly competitive global marketplace, which is experiencing increased concentration and the growing presence of large-format retailers and discounters. With the

 

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PART I

(Continued)

 

 

consolidation of retail trade, especially in developed markets such as the U.S. and Europe, the Corporation is increasingly dependent on key retailers, and some of these retailers, including large-format retailers, may have greater bargaining power than does the Corporation. They may use this leverage to demand higher trade discounts or allowances which could lead to reduced profitability. The Corporation may also be negatively affected by changes in the policies of its retail trade customers, such as inventory de-stocking, limitations on access to shelf space, delisting of our products; additional requirements related to safety, environmental, social and other sustainability issues; and other conditions. If the Corporation loses a significant customer or if sales of its products to a significant customer materially decrease, the Corporation’s business, financial condition and results of operations may be materially adversely affected.

 

There is no guarantee that the Corporation’s efforts to reduce costs will be successful.

 

The Corporation continues to implement plans to improve its competitive position by accelerating cost reductions in its operations. In addition, the Corporation expects to obtain ongoing cost savings from its recently completed streamlining of manufacturing and administrative operations. The Corporation further anticipates cost savings to result from reducing material costs and manufacturing waste and realizing productivity gains and distribution efficiencies in each of its business segments. See Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” If the Corporation cannot successfully implement its cost savings plans, the Corporation may not realize all anticipated benefits. Any negative impact these plans have on the Corporation’s relationships with employees or customers or any failure to generate the anticipated efficiencies and savings could adversely affect the Corporation’s financial results.

 

The Corporation’s sales may not occur as estimated.

 

There is no guarantee that the Corporation will be able to anticipate consumer preferences, estimate sales of new products, estimate changes in population characteristics and the acceptance of the Corporation’s products in new markets and anticipate changes in technology and competitive responses. As a result, the Corporation may not be able to achieve anticipated sales.

 

The Corporation’s international operations are subject to foreign market risks, including foreign exchange risk and currency restrictions, which may adversely affect the Corporation’s financial results.

 

Because the Corporation and its equity companies have manufacturing facilities in 38 countries and their products are sold in more than 150 countries, the Corporation’s results may be substantially affected by foreign market risks. The Corporation is subject to the impact of economic and political instability in developing countries.

 

The Corporation faces increased risks in its international operations, including fluctuations in currency exchange rates, currency restrictions, adverse political and economic conditions, legal and regulatory constraints, tariffs and other trade barriers, difficulties in enforcing contractual and intellectual property rights, costs and difficulties in managing international operations and potentially adverse tax consequences. Each of these factors could adversely affect the Corporation’s financial results.

 

In addition, intense competition in European personal care and tissue markets, and the challenging economic, political and competitive environments in Latin America and developing and other countries in Eastern Europe and Asia may slow the Corporation’s sales growth and earnings potential. See Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” The Corporation’s success internationally also depends on its ability to acquire or to form successful business alliances, and there is no guarantee that the Corporation will be able to acquire or form these alliances. In addition, there can be no assurance that the Corporation’s products will be accepted in any particular market.

 

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PART I

(Continued)

 

 

The Corporation is subject to the movement of various currencies against each other and versus the U.S. dollar. A portion of the exposures, arising from transactions and commitments denominated in non-local currencies, is systematically hedged through foreign currency forward and swap contracts.

 

Translation exposure for the Corporation with respect to foreign operations generally is not hedged. Weaker foreign currency exchange rates reduce the potential benefit of forecasted declines in dollar-based input costs for operations outside the U.S. There can be no assurance that the Corporation will be fully protected against substantial foreign currency fluctuations.

 

The current credit market disruptions and recession in the United States and certain foreign countries may adversely affect our business.

 

During 2008, unprecedented volatility in global commodity, currency and financial markets resulted in a high level of uncertainty in the business environment, which is expected to continue into 2009. The Corporation relies on access to the credit markets, specifically the commercial paper and public bond markets, to provide supplemental funding for its operations. Although the Corporation has not experienced a disruption in its ability to access the credit markets, there is no assurance that the credit markets will not deteriorate further. It is possible that the Corporation may have difficulty accessing the credit markets in the future, which may disrupt its businesses or further increase the Corporation’s cost of funding its operations. Additionally, the current uncertainty in global economic conditions resulting from the recent disruptions in credit markets and other factors, including recession in the United States and recessions in various foreign markets where the Corporation operates, may adversely affect our sales and results of operations. If the current situation deteriorates significantly, our business could be further negatively impacted, including reduced demand for our products, or supplier, customer or creditor disruptions, resulting from tighter credit markets and other economic factors.

 

The Corporation may acquire new product lines or businesses and may have difficulties integrating future acquisitions or may not realize anticipated benefits of acquisitions.

 

The Corporation may pursue acquisitions of new product lines or businesses. Acquisitions involve numerous risks, including difficulties in the assimilation of the operations, technologies, services and products of the acquired product lines or businesses, personnel turnover and the diversion of management’s attention from other business concerns. We may be unable to identify suitable acquisition candidates or may be unable to successfully integrate and manage product lines or businesses that we may acquire in the future. In addition, we may be unable to achieve anticipated benefits or cost savings from future acquisitions in the timeframe we anticipate, or at all. Any inability by us to integrate and manage any acquired product lines or businesses in a timely and efficient manner, any inability to achieve anticipated cost savings or other anticipated benefits from these acquisitions in the time frame we anticipate or any unanticipated required increases in trade, promotional or capital spending could adversely affect our business, consolidated financial condition, results of operations or liquidity. Moreover, future acquisitions by us could result in our incurring substantial additional indebtedness, being exposed to contingent liabilities or incurring the impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets, all of which could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and liquidity.

 

Pending litigation, administrative actions and new legal requirements could have an adverse effect on the Corporation.

 

There is no guarantee that the Corporation will be successful in defending itself in legal and administrative actions or in asserting its rights under various laws, including intellectual property laws. In addition, the Corporation could incur substantial costs in defending itself or in asserting its rights in these actions or meeting new legal requirements. The costs and other effects of pending litigation and administrative actions against the

 

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Corporation and new legal requirements cannot be determined with certainty. Although management believes that no such proceedings will have a material adverse effect on the Corporation, there can be no assurance that the outcome of such proceedings will be as expected. See Item 3, “Legal Proceedings”.

 

The Corporation obtains certain manufactured products and administrative services from third parties. If the third-party providers fail to satisfactorily perform, our operations could be adversely impacted.

 

As part of the Corporation’s Global Business Plan, a number of administrative functions have been transferred to third-party service providers. Those functions include certain information technology; finance and accounting; sourcing and supply management; and human resources services. Although moving these administrative functions to third-party service providers is expected to improve certain capabilities and lower the Corporation’s cost of operations, the Corporation could experience disruptions in the quality and timeliness of the services. Additionally, third parties manufacture some of the Corporation’s products. Disruptions or delays at the third-party manufacturers or service providers due to regional economic, business, environmental, or political events, or information technology system failures or military actions, or the failure of these manufacturers or service providers to otherwise satisfactorily perform, could adversely impact the Corporation’s operations, sales, payments to the Corporation’s vendors, employees, and others, and the Corporation’s ability to report financial and management information on a timely and accurate basis.

 

ITEM 1B.    UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

 

None.

 

ITEM 2.    PROPERTIES

 

Management believes that the Corporation’s and its equity affiliates’ production facilities are suitable for their purpose and adequate to support their businesses. The extent of utilization of individual facilities varies, but they generally operate at or near capacity, except in certain instances such as when new products or technology are being introduced or when mills are being shut down.

 

The principal facilities of the Corporation (including the Corporation’s equity companies) and the products or groups of products made at these facilities are as follows:

 

World Headquarters Location

Dallas, Texas

 

Operating Segments and Geographic Headquarters

Roswell, Georgia

Neenah, Wisconsin

Milsons Point, Australia

Hong Kong, China

Reigate, United Kingdom

 

Administrative Centers

Knoxville, Tennessee

Brighton, United Kingdom

Belen, Costa Rica

 

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Worldwide Production and Service Facilities

 

United States

 

Alabama

Mobile—tissue products—(1) & (2)

 

Arizona

Tucson—health care products

 

Arkansas

Conway—feminine care and incontinence care products and nonwovens

Maumelle—wet wipes and nonwovens

 

California

Fullerton—tissue products—(1) & (2)

 

Connecticut

New Milford—tissue products—(1)

 

Georgia

LaGrange—nonwovens

 

Kentucky

Owensboro—tissue products—(2)

 

Mississippi

Corinth—nonwovens, wipers and towels

 

North Carolina

Hendersonville—nonwovens

Lexington—nonwovens

 

Oklahoma

Jenks—tissue products—(1)

 

Pennsylvania

Chester—tissue products—(1)

 

South Carolina

Beech Island—diapers, training pants, wet wipes and tissue products—(1)

 

Tennessee

Loudon—tissue products—(2)

 

 

(1) Consumer Tissue

 

(2) K-C Professional & Other

 

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Texas

Del Rio—health care products

Paris—diapers and training, youth and swim pants

San Antonio—personal cleansing products and systems

 

Utah

Ogden—diapers and training pants

 

Washington

Everett—tissue products, wipers and pulp—(1) & (2)

 

Wisconsin

Marinette—tissue products and wipers—(1) & (2)

Neenah—feminine care, incontinence care products and nonwovens

 

Outside the United States

 

Argentina

Bernal—tissue products—(1) & (2)

Pilar—feminine care and incontinence care products

San Luis—diapers

 

Australia

Albury—nonwovens

Ingleburn—diapers

Millicent—pulp and tissue products—(1) & (2)

Tantanoola—pulp

 

Bahrain

East Riffa—tissue products—(1), (2) & (3)

 

Bolivia

Santa Cruz—tissue products—(1) & (2)

 

Brazil

Correia Pinto—tissue products—(1)

Mogi das Cruzes—tissue products—(1) & (2)

Porto Alegre—feminine care products

Suzano—diapers, wet wipes and incontinence care products

 

Canada

Huntsville, Ontario—tissue products—(1)

 

 

(1) Consumer Tissue

 

(2) K-C Professional & Other

 

(3) Equity company production facility

 

 

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China

Beijing—feminine care and adult care products

Guangzhou—tissue products—(1) & (2)

Nanjing—feminine care products

Shanghai—tissue products—(1) & (2)

 

Colombia

Barbosa—wipers, tissue products, business and correspondence papers and notebooks—(2)

Puerto Tejada—tissue products—(1) & (2)

Tocancipa—diapers and feminine care products

Villa Rica—diapers and incontinence care products—(3)

 

Costa Rica

Belen—tissue products—(1) & (2)

Cartago—diapers and feminine care and incontinence care products

 

Czech Republic

Jaromer—diapers, youth and training pants and incontinence care products

Litovel—feminine care products

 

Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo—tissue products—(1)

 

Ecuador

Mapasingue—tissue products, diapers and feminine care products—(1) & (2)

 

El Salvador

Sitio del Niño—tissue products—(1) & (2)

 

France

Rouen—tissue products—(1)

Villey-Saint-Etienne—tissue products—(1) & (2)

 

Germany

Koblenz—tissue products—(2)

Reisholz—tissue products—(1)

Weinheim—health care products

 

Honduras

Villanueva—health care products

 

India

Pune—feminine care products, diapers and tissue products—(2) & (3)

 

Indonesia

Jakarta—feminine care and tissue products—(1) & (2)

 

 

(1) Consumer Tissue

 

(2) K-C Professional & Other

 

(3) Equity company production facility

 

 

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Israel

Afula—diapers and feminine care and incontinence care products

Hadera—tissue products—(1) & (2)

Nahariya—tissue products—(1) & (2)

 

Italy

Alanno—tissue products—(1)

Romagnano—tissue products—(1)

 

Korea

Anyang—feminine care products, diapers and tissue products—(1) & (2)

Kimcheon—tissue products and nonwovens—(1) & (2)

Taejon—feminine care products, diapers and nonwovens

 

Malaysia

Kluang—tissue and feminine care products—(1) & (2)

 

Mexico

Acuña—health care products

Bajio—tissue products—(1), (2) & (3)

Cuautitlan—feminine care products, diapers and nonwovens—(3)

Ecatepec—tissue products—(1), (2) & (3)

Magdalena—health care products

Morelia—tissue products—(1) & (3)

Nogales—health care products

Orizaba—tissue products—(1), (2) & (3)

Ramos Arizpe—tissue products and diapers—(1), (2) & (3)

Texmelucan—tissue products—(1), (2) & (3)

Tlaxcala—coform, diapers, nonwovens and wet wipes—(3)

 

Peru

Puente Piedra—tissue products—(1) & (2)

Santa Clara—diapers and feminine care and incontinence care products

 

Poland

Klucze—tissue products—(1)

 

Saudi Arabia

Al-Khobar—diapers, feminine care and tissue products—(1), (2) & (3)

 

Singapore

Tuas—diapers

 

South Africa

Cape Town—tissue and feminine care—(1) & (2)

Springs—tissue products and diapers—(1) & (2)

 

 

(1) Consumer Tissue

 

(2) K-C Professional & Other

 

(3) Equity company production facility

 

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Spain

Aranguren—tissue products—(2)

Arceniega—tissue products and personal cleansing products and systems—(2)

Calatayud—diapers

Salamanca—tissue products—(1)

Telde, Canary Islands—tissue products—(1)

 

Switzerland

Niederbipp—tissue products—(1)

 

Taiwan

Chung Li—tissue, feminine care products and diapers—(1) & (2)

Hsin-Ying—tissue products—(1) & (2)

Ta-Yuan—tissue products—(1) & (2)

 

Thailand

Hat Yai—health care products

Pathumthani—feminine care and tissue products—(1) & (2)

Samut Prakarn—tissue products—(1) & (2)

 

Trinidad & Tobago

San Juan—diapers

 

Turkey

Istanbul—diapers

 

United Kingdom

Barrow—tissue products—(1) & (2)

Barton-upon-Humber—diapers and nonwovens

Flint—wet wipes and tissue products—(2)

Northfleet—tissue products—(1)

 

Venezuela

Guaicaipuro—tissue products and diapers—(1) & (2)

 

Vietnam

Binh Duong—feminine care products

 

 

(1) Consumer Tissue

 

(2) K-C Professional & Other

 

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ITEM 3.    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

The Corporation is subject to federal, state and local environmental protection laws and regulations with respect to its business operations and is operating in compliance with, or taking action aimed at ensuring compliance with, these laws and regulations. The Corporation has been named a potentially responsible party under the provisions of the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, or analogous state statutes, at a number of waste disposal sites. In management’s opinion, none of the Corporation’s compliance obligations with environmental protection laws and regulations, individually or in the aggregate, is expected to have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

 

In May 2007, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Corporation was served a summons in Pennsylvania state court by the Delaware County Regional Water Quality Authority (“Delcora”). Also in May 2007, Delcora initiated an administrative action against the Corporation. Delcora is a public agency that operates a sewerage system and a wastewater treatment facility serving industrial and municipal customers, including Kimberly-Clark’s Chester Mill. Delcora also regulates the discharge of wastewater from the Chester Mill. Delcora has alleged in the summons and the administrative action that the Corporation underreported the quantity of effluent discharged to Delcora from the Chester Mill for several years due to an inaccurate effluent metering device and owes additional amounts. The Corporation’s action for declaratory judgment in the Federal District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania was dismissed in December 2007 on grounds of abstention. The Corporation appealed this dismissal to the Third Circuit Court of Appeals. The Third Circuit directed the parties to mediation, which during the third quarter of 2008 resulted in a procedural agreement to appoint a neutral and qualified hearing officer. As a result of this arrangement with Delcora, the Corporation has dismissed its appeal to the Third Circuit. The Corporation continues to believe that Delcora’s allegations lack merit and is vigorously defending against Delcora’s actions. In management’s opinion, this matter is not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

 

ITEM 4.    SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

 

No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter of 2008.

 

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ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

 

The dividend and market price data included in Item 8, Note 20 to the Consolidated Financial Statements is incorporated in this Item 5 by reference.

 

Quarterly dividends have been paid continually since 1935. Dividends have been paid on or about the second business day of January, April, July and October. The dividend reinvestment service of Computershare Investor Services is available to Kimberly-Clark stockholders of record. The service makes it possible for Kimberly-Clark stockholders of record to have their dividends automatically reinvested in common stock and to make additional cash investments.

 

Kimberly-Clark common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The ticker symbol is KMB.

 

As of February 16, 2009, the Corporation had 29,350 holders of record of its common stock.

 

For information relating to securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans, see Part III, Item 12 of this Form 10-K.

 

The Corporation repurchases shares of Kimberly-Clark common stock from time to time pursuant to publicly announced share repurchase programs. During 2008, the Corporation purchased $625 million worth of its common stock. The following table contains information for shares repurchased during the fourth quarter of 2008. None of the shares in this table were repurchased directly from any officer or director of the Corporation.

 

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

 

Period (2008)

   Total Number of
Shares Purchased(a)
   Average Price
Paid Per Share
   Total Number of
Shares Purchased
as Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
   Maximum Number
of Shares That
May Yet Be
Purchased Under
the Plans or
Programs

October 1 to 31

   1,134,600    $ 59.36    17,867,011    32,132,989

November 1 to 30

   133,400      56.89    18,000,411    31,999,589

December 1 to 31

   —        —      18,000,411    31,999,589
             

Total

   1,268,000         
             

 

(a) All share repurchases between October 1, 2008 and December 31, 2008 were made pursuant to a share repurchase program authorized by the Corporation’s Board of Directors on July 23, 2007, which allows for the repurchase of 50 million shares in an amount not to exceed $5.0 billion.

 

In addition, during October, November and December 2008, the Corporation purchased the following shares from current or former employees in connection with the exercise of employee stock options and other awards.

 

Month

   Shares    Amount

October

   633    $ 36,186

November

   —        —  

December

   2,941      163,355

 

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ITEM 6.    SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

 

      Year Ended December 31
     2008(a)     2007    2006     2005(c)     2004(d)
     (Millions of dollars, except per share amounts)

Net Sales

   $ 19,415     $ 18,266    $ 16,747     $ 15,903     $ 15,083

Gross Profit

     5,858       5,704      5,082       5,075       5,069

Operating Profit

     2,547       2,616      2,102       2,311       2,506

Share of Net Income of Equity Companies

     166       170      219 (b)     137       125

Income from:

           

Continuing operations

     1,698       1,823      1,500       1,581       1,770

Discontinued operations

     —         —        —         —         30

Cumulative effect of accounting change

     —         —        —         (13 )     —  

Extraordinary loss

     (8 )     —        —         —         —  

Net income

     1,690       1,823      1,500       1,568       1,800

Per share basis:

           

Basic

           

Continuing operations

     4.08       4.13      3.27       3.33       3.58

Discontinued operations

     —         —        —         —         .06

Cumulative effect of accounting change

     —         —        —         (.03 )     —  

Extraordinary loss

     (.02 )     —        —         —         —  

Net income

     4.06       4.13      3.27       3.30       3.64

Diluted

           

Continuing operations

     4.06       4.09      3.25       3.31       3.55

Discontinued operations

     —         —        —         —         .06

Cumulative effect of accounting change

     —         —        —         (.03 )     —  

Extraordinary loss

     (.02 )     —        —         —         —  

Net income

     4.04       4.09      3.25       3.28       3.61

Cash Dividends Per Share

           

Declared

     2.32       2.12      1.96       1.80       1.60

Paid

     2.27       2.08      1.92       1.75       1.54

Total Assets

   $ 18,089     $ 18,440    $ 17,067     $ 16,303     $ 17,018

Long-Term Debt

     4,882       4,394      2,276       2,595       2,298

Stockholders’ Equity

     3,878       5,224      6,097       5,558       6,630

 

(a) The Corporation recorded an extraordinary charge of $12 million ($8 million after tax) related to the consolidation of its monetization financing entities. See Item 8, Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

(b) The Corporation’s share of net income includes a gain of approximately $46 million from the sale by Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A.B. de C.V. of its pulp and paper business.

 

(c) In accordance with the requirements of Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation (“FIN”) 47, Accounting for Conditional Asset Retirement Obligations, the Corporation recorded a pretax asset retirement obligation of $24 million at December 31, 2005. The cumulative effect on income, net of related income tax effects, of recording the asset retirement obligation was $13 million, or $.03 per share.

 

(d) Income statement data present the results of Neenah Paper’s fine and technical papers businesses as discontinued operations since those businesses were spun-off in 2004.

 

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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Introduction

 

This management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations (“MD&A”) is intended to provide investors with an understanding of the Corporation’s past performance, its financial condition and its prospects. The following will be discussed and analyzed:

 

   

Overview of Business

 

   

Overview of 2008 Results

 

   

Results of Operations and Related Information

 

   

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

   

Variable Interest Entities

 

   

Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates

 

   

Legal Matters

 

   

New Accounting Standards

 

   

Business Outlook

 

   

Forward-Looking Statements

 

Overview of Business

 

The Corporation is a global health and hygiene company with manufacturing facilities in 35 countries and its products are sold in more than 150 countries. The Corporation’s products are sold under such well-known brands as Kleenex, Scott, Huggies, Pull-Ups, Kotex and Depend. The Corporation has four reportable global business segments: Personal Care; Consumer Tissue; K-C Professional & Other; and Health Care. These global business segments are described in greater detail in Item 8, Note 18 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

In managing its global business, the Corporation’s management believes that developing new and improved products, responding effectively to competitive challenges, obtaining and maintaining leading market shares, controlling costs, and managing currency and commodity risks are important to the long-term success of the Corporation. The discussion and analysis of results of operations and other related information will refer to these factors.

 

   

Product innovation—Past results and future prospects depend in large part on product innovation. The Corporation relies on its ability to develop and introduce new or improved products to drive sales and volume growth and to achieve and/or maintain category leadership. In order to introduce new or improved products, the technology to support those products must be acquired or developed. Research and development expenditures are directed towards new or improved personal care, tissue, industrial wipers, safety and health care products and nonwoven materials.

 

   

Competitive environment—Past results and future prospects are significantly affected by the competitive environment in which we operate. We experience intense competition for sales of our principal products in our major markets, both domestically and internationally. Our products compete with widely-advertised, well-known, branded products, as well as private label products, which are typically sold at lower prices. We have several major competitors in most of our markets, some of which

 

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are larger and more diversified. The principal methods and elements of competition include brand recognition and loyalty, product innovation, quality and performance, price, and marketing and distribution capabilities.

 

The Corporation increased promotional and strategic marketing spending in 2007 and 2008 to support new product introductions, further build brand equity and enable competitive pricing in order to protect the position of the Corporation’s products in the market. We expect competition to continue to be intense in 2009.

 

   

Market shares—Achieving leading market shares in our principal products has been an important part of our past performance. We hold number 1 or 2 share positions in more than 80 countries. Achieving and maintaining leading market shares is important because of ongoing consolidation of retailers and the trend of leading merchandisers seeking to stock only the top competitive brands.

 

   

Cost controls—To maintain or improve our competitive position, we must control our manufacturing, distribution and other costs. We have achieved cost savings from reducing material costs and manufacturing waste and realizing productivity gains and distribution efficiencies in our business segments. Our ability to control costs can be affected by changes in the price of pulp, oil and other commodities we consume in our manufacturing processes. Our strategic investments in information systems and partnering with third-party providers of administrative services should also allow further cost savings through streamlining administrative activities.

 

   

Foreign currency and commodity risks—As a multinational enterprise, we are exposed to changes in foreign currency exchange rates, and we are also exposed to changes in commodity prices. Our ability to effectively manage these risks can have a material impact on our results of operations.

 

   

Global economic environment—The Corporation’s business and financial results continue to be adversely affected by recessions in the United States and throughout the world and volatility in the global financial markets. Although it has become more challenging to predict our results in the near-term, we will continue to focus on executing our Global Business Plan strategies for the long-term health of our businesses.

 

Overview of 2008 Results

 

The Corporation continued to experience significant raw material cost inflation in 2008.

 

   

Net sales increased 6.3 percent because of higher net selling prices and sales volumes and favorable currency effects.

 

   

Operating profit declined 2.6 percent and net income and diluted earnings per share decreased 7.3 percent and 1.2 percent, respectively.

 

   

The benefits of top-line growth, along with cost savings of $171 million, were more than offset by inflation in key cost components totaling more than $725 million, an increase in strategic marketing spending of about $95 million and higher levels of selling and administrative expenses, mainly to support growth in developing and emerging markets.

 

   

Cash flow from operations was $2.5 billion, an increase of 3.6 percent.

 

Results of Operations and Related Information

 

This section contains a discussion and analysis of net sales, operating profit and other information relevant to an understanding of 2008 results of operations. This discussion and analysis compares 2008 results to 2007, and 2007 results to 2006.

 

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Analysis of Consolidated Net Sales

 

By Business Segment

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     2008     2007     2006  
     (Millions of dollars)  

Personal Care

   $ 8,272     $ 7,563     $ 6,741  

Consumer Tissue

     6,748       6,475       5,982  

K-C Professional & Other

     3,174       3,039       2,813  

Health Care

     1,224       1,207       1,237  

Corporate & Other

     79       41       33  

Intersegment sales

     (82 )     (59 )     (59 )
                        

Consolidated

   $ 19,415     $ 18,266     $ 16,747  
                        

 

By Geographic Area

 

     Year Ended December 31  
      2008     2007     2006  
     (Millions of dollars)  

United States

   $ 10,143     $ 9,876     $ 9,406  

Canada

     574       569       538  

Intergeographic sales

     (256 )     (253 )     (250 )
                        

Total North America

     10,461       10,192       9,694  

Europe

     3,679       3,469       3,153  

Asia, Latin America and other

     5,942       5,252       4,481  

Intergeographic sales

     (667 )     (647 )     (581 )
                        

Consolidated

   $ 19,415     $ 18,266     $ 16,747  
                        

 

Commentary:

 

2008 versus 2007

 

     Percent Change in Net Sales Versus Prior Year  
   Total
Change
   Changes Due To  
      Volume     Net
Price
    Currency    Mix/
Other
 

Consolidated

   6.3    1     4     1    —    

Personal Care

   9.4    5     3     1    —    

Consumer Tissue

   4.2    (4 )   6     1    1  

K-C Professional & Other

   4.4    (1 )   4     1    —    

Health Care

   1.4    4     (1 )   1    (3 )

 

   

Personal care net sales in North America increased about 5 percent due to more than 3 percent higher net selling prices and more than 1 percent higher sales volumes. The higher net selling prices resulted from increases implemented throughout 2008, net of increased promotional activity primarily for Huggies diapers to match competitive actions. Sales volume growth was dampened by the effects of the economic downturn in the fourth quarter of 2008 as customers adjusted inventory levels, child care category sales slowed and some consumers traded down to lower-priced product offerings.

 

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In Europe, personal care net sales were even with the prior year as favorable currency effects offset lower sales volumes and net selling prices. Sales volumes of Huggies diapers in the Corporation’s four core markets—the U.K., France, Italy and Spain—declined about 4 percent from the prior year.

 

In the developing and emerging markets, net sales increased almost 17 percent driven by a more than 10 percent increase in sales volumes. The growth in sales volumes was broad-based, with particular strength throughout Latin America and in South Korea, Russia, Turkey, and China. Increased net selling prices and favorable product mix added about 4 percent and 2 percent, respectively, to the net sales increase. Unfavorable currency effects in South Korea were offset by favorable effects in other countries, primarily in Brazil and Israel.

 

   

Consumer tissue net sales in North America were even with the prior year as increased net selling prices of more than 6 percent and improved product mix of nearly 1 percent were offset by a sales volume decline of about 7 percent. The higher net selling prices were primarily attributable to price increases for bathroom tissue and paper towels implemented during the first and third quarters in the U.S. List prices for facial tissue were raised late in the third quarter. Sales volumes were down mid-single digits in bathroom tissue and facial tissue and double-digits in paper towels, primarily as a result of the Corporation’s focus on improving revenue realization. A portion of the overall volume decline is also due to the Corporation’s decision in late 2007 to shed certain low-margin private label business.

 

In Europe, consumer tissue net sales increased almost 4 percent on nearly 3 percent higher net selling prices, a 1 percent improvement in product mix and more than 2 percent favorable currency effects, tempered by a decline in sales volumes of about 2 percent. The lower sales volumes were primarily due to reduced sales of Andrex and Scottex bathroom tissue and Kleenex facial tissue in response to higher net selling prices and a slowdown in category sales, particularly in the U.K.

 

Consumer tissue net sales in the developing and emerging markets increased nearly 13 percent. During 2008, the Corporation raised prices in most markets to recover higher raw materials costs and drove improvements in mix with more differentiated, value-added products, strategies that resulted in higher net selling prices of about 10 percent and better product mix of more than 2 percent. Sales volumes were even with last year. For the year, currency effects were neutral as favorable effects earlier in the year were offset by the dramatic changes in currency rates in the fourth quarter of 2008.

 

   

Economic weakness and rising unemployment levels in North America and Europe began to affect K-C Professional’s categories in the fourth quarter of 2008. For the year, net sales in North America increased nearly 3 percent as increased net selling prices of about 4 percent and improved product mix of over 1 percent were tempered by lower sales volumes. In Europe, net sales of KCP products advanced about 9 percent as increased net selling prices and higher sales volumes contributed nearly 3 percent and 2 percent, respectively, to the improvement. Currency effects were about 4 percent favorable versus the prior year.

 

   

The increased sales volumes for health care products were primarily due to mid-single digit growth outside North America and a similar advance for medical devices in North America. The price decline was mainly attributable to competitive conditions affecting surgical supplies in North America and Europe.

 

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Commentary:

 

2007 versus 2006

 

     Percent Change in Net Sales Versus Prior Year
     Total
Change
    Changes Due To
     Volume     Net
Price
   Currency    Mix/
Other

Consolidated

   9.1     4     1    3    1

Personal Care

   12.2     8        3    1

Consumer Tissue

   8.2     1     2    4    1

K-C Professional & Other

   8.0     3     1    3    1

Health Care

   (2.4 )   (5 )      1    1

 

   

In North America, net sales of personal care products increased nearly 8 percent primarily on the strength of increased sales volumes. Product innovations spurred volume growth, with a double-digit gain for Huggies baby wipes, high single-digit growth for Huggies diapers and mid single-digit increases for the Corporation’s child care and incontinence care brands. Child care sales volumes benefited from the late third quarter introduction of GoodNites Sleep Boxers and Sleep Shorts, a unique offering in the youth pants category. Meanwhile, sales volumes of Kotex feminine care products were below year-ago levels. Net selling prices increased about 1 percent.

 

Net sales of personal care products in Europe increased about 11 percent, principally due to favorable currency effects. Higher sales volumes of more than 2 percent were offset by lower net selling prices. The sales volume gains reflect higher sales of Huggies diapers and baby wipes across the region, including a more than 2 percent volume gain for Huggies diapers in the four core markets—United Kingdom, France, Italy and Spain. The lower net selling prices were due to meeting competitive promotional activity.

 

In the developing and emerging markets, net sales increased nearly 21 percent driven by a more than 13 percent increase in sales volumes. The growth in sales volumes was broad-based, with particular strength throughout most of Latin America and in South Korea, China and Russia. Favorable currency effects, primarily in Australia and Brazil, added about 6 percent to the higher net sales while net selling prices were about even with last year.

 

   

In North America, net sales of consumer tissue products rose more than 5 percent due to nearly 3 percent higher sales volumes and about 2 percent higher net selling prices. Sales volumes for bathroom tissue and paper towels increased 5 percent and 4 percent, respectively, on growth for Scott bathroom tissue and Viva paper towels reflecting product improvements for these brands. Net selling prices were impacted by promotional activity, late in the year, in support of product upgrades, including the Corporation’s improved Cottonelle bathroom tissue, as well as to support facial tissue in anticipation of a seasonal pick-up in sales volumes that had not yet occurred because of a weaker cold and flu season in the fourth quarter of 2007.

 

In Europe, net sales of consumer tissue products increased approximately 9 percent, principally due to favorable currency exchange rates. Improved product mix was negated by an overall sales volume decline of about 1 percent that resulted from the Corporation’s 2006 decision to shed low-margin business following the sale or closure of certain facilities in the region. Sales volume increases for Andrex bathroom tissue and Kleenex facial tissue were not sufficient to offset the withdrawal from the low-margin business. Net selling prices remained about the same as in the prior year.

 

In the developing and emerging markets, net sales increased more than 12 percent. About half of the increase was due to favorable currency effects. Improved product mix of nearly 3 percent was tempered

 

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by lower sales volumes of slightly more than 1 percent. Net selling prices increased almost 5 percent as selling prices were raised during the year in most developing and emerging markets in response to higher raw material costs.

 

   

Sales volumes for K-C Professional products increased more than 3 percent with double-digit growth in Latin America and 4 percent higher sales volumes in North America led by advances for Kleenex, Scott and Cottonelle washroom brands and Kimtech and WypAll wiper brands. Higher net selling prices added about 1 percent to the increase in net sales and favorable currency effects contributed over 3 percent.

 

   

The decrease in sales volumes of health care products was mainly attributable to a higher level of sales of face masks in 2006 primarily due to avian flu preparedness and the impact of the Corporation’s decision in the second half of 2006 to exit the latex exam glove business. During 2007, the Corporation made progress in transitioning customers and users from latex to its higher-margin, clinically-preferred nitrile gloves. Sales of exam gloves improved sequentially in the fourth quarter of 2007 versus the third quarter 2007 levels. Nevertheless, the growth in sales of nitrile gloves did not compensate for the drop-off in sales of latex gloves, due in part to supply constraints earlier in 2007 and competitive market conditions. In other areas of the business, sales of medical devices, particularly Ballard respiratory catheters, generated high single-digit improvement.

 

Analysis of Consolidated Operating Profit

 

By Business Segment

 

     Year Ended December 31  
   2008     2007     2006  
     (Millions of dollars)  

Personal Care

   $ 1,649     $ 1,562     $ 1,303  

Consumer Tissue

     601       702       773  

K-C Professional & Other

     428       478       472  

Health Care

     143       195       211  

Other income and (expense), net

     (20 )     18       (32 )

Corporate & Other

     (254 )     (339 )     (625 )
                        

Consolidated

   $ 2,547     $ 2,616     $ 2,102  
                        

 

By Geographic Area

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     2008     2007     2006  
     (Millions of dollars)  

United States

   $ 1,730     $ 1,853     $ 1,856  

Canada

     144       157       143  

Europe

     210       258       211  

Asia, Latin America and other

     737       669       549  

Other income and (expense), net

     (20 )     18       (32 )

Corporate & Other

     (254 )     (339 )     (625 )
                        

Consolidated

   $ 2,547     $ 2,616     $ 2,102  
                        

 

Note: Corporate & Other and Other income and (expense), net, include the following amounts of pre-tax charges for the strategic cost reductions. In 2007, Corporate & Other also includes the related implementation costs.

 

       2008         2007         2006    
     (Millions of dollars)  

Corporate & Other

   $ (72 )   $ (148 )   $ (476 )

Other income and (expense), net

     12       14       (8 )

 

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Commentary:

 

2008 versus 2007

 

     Percentage Change in Operating Profit Versus Prior Year  
   Total
Change
    Change Due To  
     Volume     Net
Price
    Raw
Materials
Cost
    Energy and
Distribution
Expense
    Currency     Other(a)  

Consolidated

   (2.6 )   3     29     (20 )   (8 )       (7 )(b)

Personal Care

   5.6     9     15     (14 )   (3 )       (1 )

Consumer Tissue

   (14.4 )   (9 )   60     (27 )   (18 )   (1 )   (19 )

K-C Professional & Other

   (10.5 )   (2 )   23     (18 )   (9 )   2     (6 )

Health Care

   (26.7 )   8     (8 )   (10 )       2     (19 )

 

(a) Includes higher marketing and general expenses net of the benefit of cost savings achieved.

 

(b) Charges for strategic cost reductions were $47 million lower in 2008 than in 2007.

 

Consolidated operating profit decreased $69 million or 2.6 percent from the prior year. Charges for the strategic cost reductions of $60 million for 2008 were $47 million lower than in the prior year. Charges for the strategic cost reductions, discussed later in this MD&A and in Item 8, Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, are not included in the results of the business segments. The effect of higher net sales, primarily due to increased net selling prices, plus approximately $171 million in cost savings were more than offset by significant inflation in key manufacturing cost inputs of more than $725 million, higher manufacturing costs, primarily related to production downtime, of nearly $100 million, increased strategic marketing spending of about $95 million and higher levels of selling and administrative expenses, mainly to support growth in developing and emerging markets. Operating profit as a percent of net sales decreased to 13.1 percent from 14.3 percent last year.

 

   

Operating profit for the personal care segment increased 5.6 percent as higher net sales and cost savings more than offset raw materials and other cost inflation. In North America, operating profit increased due to the higher net selling prices and cost savings, tempered by materials and other cost inflation, and increased marketing expenses. In Europe, operating profit declined as cost savings were more than offset by the lower net selling prices and materials inflation. Operating profit in the developing and emerging markets increased because the higher net selling prices and sales volumes more than offset increased marketing and general expenses.

 

   

Consumer tissue segment operating profit decreased 14.4 percent. Increased net selling prices and cost savings were more than offset by cost inflation, the lower sales volumes and higher manufacturing costs, including the effect of planned production downtime. Operating profit in North America decreased due to the same factors that affected the overall segment. In Europe, operating profit declined as higher net selling prices and cost savings were more than offset by cost inflation. Operating profit in the developing and emerging markets was even with the prior year as higher net selling prices were offset by cost inflation, and increased marketing and general expenses to support growth in these regions.

 

   

Operating profit for K-C Professional & Other products decreased 10.5 percent because higher net selling prices were more than offset by cost inflation for both wastepaper and virgin fiber and other materials and increased manufacturing costs, including higher maintenance spending.

 

   

Operating profit for the health care segment decreased 26.7 percent. The benefit of higher sales volumes was more than offset by the lower net selling prices and higher manufacturing cost. In addition to cost inflation, the segment absorbed manufacturing-related costs as part of a plan to reduce inventory and also experienced higher costs related to changes in its manufacturing footprint.

 

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Strategic Cost Reduction Plan

 

In July 2005, the Corporation authorized a multi-year plan to further improve its competitive position by accelerating investments in targeted growth opportunities and strategic cost reductions aimed at streamlining manufacturing and administrative operations, primarily in North America and Europe.

 

The strategic cost reductions commenced in the third quarter of 2005 and were completed by December 31, 2008. The strategic cost reductions resulted in cumulative charges of $880 million before tax or $610 million after tax.

 

Since the inception of the strategic cost reductions, a net workforce reduction of 5,800 has occurred. As of December 31, 2008, charges have been recorded related to the cost reduction initiatives for 23 facilities, including 3 facilities which have been closed and are being marketed for sale.

 

For the full year of 2008, year-over-year pretax savings of nearly $110 million were realized, bringing the cumulative annual total to approximately $335 million since the plan’s inception. Including projected year-over-year savings of about $50 million in 2009, total annual savings from the plan are now expected to reach $385 million.

 

See Item 8, Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for detail on costs incurred for the plan.

 

Other income and (expense), net

 

Other income and (expense), net for 2008 includes costs for a legal judgment and the refinancing of the dealer remarketable securities (see Item 8, Note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements) partially offset by favorable settlement of a value-added tax matter in Latin America. A gain of $16 million for the settlement of litigation related to prior years’ operations in Latin America is included in 2007. In addition, currency transaction losses included in this line item were about $5 million higher in 2008 than in 2007.

 

Commentary:

 

2007 versus 2006

 

     Percentage Change in Operating Profit Versus Prior Year  
   Total
Change
    Change Due To  
     Volume    Net
Price
    Raw
Materials
Cost
    Energy and
Distribution
Expense
    Currency    Other(a)  

Consolidated

   24.5     16    8     (16 )   (4 )   4    17 (b)

Personal Care

   19.9     19    1     (8 )   (2 )   3    7  

Consumer Tissue

   (9.2 )   6    16     (18 )   (7 )   2    (8 )

K-C Professional & Other

   1.3     8    6     (16 )   (1 )   2    2  

Health Care

   (7.6 )   1    (2 )   (6 )   (4 )   6    (3 )

 

(a) Includes the benefit of cost savings achieved, net of higher marketing and general expenses.

 

(b) Charges for strategic cost reductions were $377 million lower in 2007 than in 2006.

 

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Consolidated operating profit increased $514 million or 24.5 percent. Lower charges for the strategic cost reduction plan increased operating profit by $377 million. These charges are not included in the business segments. In addition, cost savings generated by the plan totaled approximately $105 million during 2007. Other factors affecting the comparison with 2006 were savings of nearly $160 million for the Corporation’s Focused On Reducing Costs Everywhere program, higher sales volumes and increased net selling prices. Partially offsetting these improvements were raw materials cost inflation of almost $350 million, increased strategic marketing expenses of about $50 million and higher general and administrative expenses. The increased general and administrative expenses were to a large extent in support of growth in the developing and emerging markets. Operating profit as a percent of net sales increased to 14.3 percent from 12.6 percent in 2006.

 

   

Operating profit for personal care products increased 19.9 percent. Cost savings and higher sales volumes more than offset raw materials cost inflation, the costs for product improvements and increased general and administrative expenses.

 

Operating profit in North America increased nearly 13 percent primarily on the strength of higher sales volumes. Cost savings and slightly higher net selling prices offset the effect of raw materials cost inflation. Increased operating profit in Europe was driven by cost savings and higher sales volumes, despite lower net selling prices. Operating profit in the developing and emerging markets increased more than 25 percent on sales volume growth and cost savings that more than offset increased marketing and general and administrative expenses.

 

   

Operating profit for consumer tissue products decreased 9.2 percent as higher net selling prices and cost savings were more than offset by raw materials cost inflation, the costs for product improvements and higher manufacturing costs.

 

In North America, operating profit declined more than 15 percent because higher net selling prices were more than offset by raw materials cost inflation, primarily pulp costs, the costs of product improvements and higher manufacturing costs. Operating profit in Europe increased due to cost savings and favorable currency effects tempered by raw materials cost inflation and higher marketing and general and administrative expenses. In the developing and emerging markets, operating profit declined slightly as net selling price gains were more than offset by increased pulp costs, higher manufacturing costs and increased general and administrative expenses.

 

   

Operating profit for K-C Professional & Other products increased 1.3 percent because higher sales volumes, increased net selling prices and cost savings were substantially negated by cost inflation for both virgin fiber and wastepaper.

 

   

Operating profit for health care products decreased 7.6 percent as the benefits of cost savings and favorable currency effects were more than offset by raw materials cost inflation, primarily for nonwovens, and increased distribution and selling expenses.

 

Other income and (expense), net

 

Other income and (expense), net for 2007 includes a gain of $16 million for the previously mentioned settlement of litigation in Latin America. Currency transaction losses included in this line item were about $10 million lower in 2007 than in 2006. In addition, gains on dispositions of facilities in 2007, as part of the strategic cost reduction plan, were about $14 million compared with costs of $8 million in 2006.

 

Additional Income Statement Commentary

 

Synthetic Fuel Partnerships

 

As described in Item 8, Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, the Corporation had minority interests in two synthetic fuel partnerships. Pretax losses from participation in these partnerships were reported as

 

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nonoperating expense in the Consolidated Income Statement. The partnerships were dissolved in 2008 at no cost to the Corporation. The Corporation’s income tax provision was reduced by $81 million in 2007, compared with $87 million in 2006 resulting from the income tax credits and tax benefits of these investments. Diluted earnings per share benefited by $.03 in 2007 compared with no benefit in 2008. The diluted earnings per share benefit in 2006 was $.04.

 

2008 versus 2007

 

   

Interest expense increased due to a higher average level of debt partially offset by lower average interest rates. See Item 8, Note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for detail on debt activity.

 

   

The Corporation’s effective income tax rate was 27.0 percent for 2008 compared with 23.2 percent for 2007. The increase was primarily due to: (a) the benefits from the previously mentioned synthetic fuel credits utilized in 2007 that were not available in 2008; (b) favorable settlements in 2007 of tax issues related to prior years; and (c) the reversal of valuation allowances in 2007 on deferred tax assets at certain majority-owned subsidiaries in Latin America based on a sustained improvement in the subsidiaries’ operating results, partially offset by higher foreign tax credit benefits in 2008.

 

   

The Corporation’s share of net income of equity companies declined by $4 million primarily due to lower net income at Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A.B. de C.V. (“KCM”). While KCM had higher net sales, its operating profit and net income were affected by currency transaction losses in the fourth quarter of 2008 on its more than $300 million of U.S. dollar-denominated liabilities as the Mexican peso weakened versus the U.S. dollar. The currency transaction losses reduced the Corporation’s share of KCM’s net income by approximately $23 million for 2008.

 

   

Minority owners’ share of subsidiaries’ net income increased $11 million versus the prior year. The increase was primarily due to higher returns payable on the redeemable preferred securities issued by the Corporation’s consolidated financing subsidiary.

 

   

As a result of the Corporation’s ongoing share repurchase program, including the Accelerated Share Repurchase (“ASR”) program, the average number of common shares outstanding declined, which benefited 2008 net income by about $.25 per share. This benefit was partially offset by the higher interest expense associated with the July 2007 debt issuances that funded the ASR program. See Item 8, Note 10 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for detail on the ASR program.

 

2007 versus 2006

 

   

Interest expense increased principally due to a higher average level of debt. See Item 8, Note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for detail on debt issued in the third quarter of 2007.

 

   

The Corporation’s effective income tax rate was 23.2 percent for 2007 compared with 25.4 percent in 2006. The decrease for 2007 was primarily due to the previously mentioned favorable settlements of tax issues related to prior years and the reversal of valuation allowances on deferred tax assets partially offset by lower foreign tax credit benefits in 2007.

 

   

The Corporation’s share of net income from equity companies decreased $49 million primarily due to lower net income at KCM. Included in 2006 results was a gain of $46 million from the sale by KCM of its pulp and paper business. The remainder of the decline was due to lower operating profit at KCM as net sales growth did not overcome the effect of higher raw materials costs.

 

   

Minority owners’ share of subsidiaries’ net income increased $33 million primarily due to the minority owners’ share of the above-mentioned tax benefits at majority-owned subsidiaries.

 

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As a result of the Corporation’s share repurchase program, including the ASR program, the average number of common shares outstanding declined, which benefited 2007 net income by $.14 per share. This benefit was mostly offset by the higher interest expense associated with the third quarter 2007 debt issuances that funded the ASR program.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

     Year Ended December 31  
         2008             2007      
     (Millions of dollars)  

Cash provided by operations

   $ 2,516     $ 2,429  

Capital spending

     906       989  

Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired

     98       16  

Ratio of total debt and redeemable preferred securities to capital(a)

     62.0 %     53.2 %

Pretax interest coverage—times

     7.3       8.2  

 

(a) Capital is total debt and redeemable preferred securities plus stockholders’ equity and minority owners’ interest in subsidiaries.

 

Cash Flow Commentary:

 

Cash provided by operations increased $87 million primarily due to lower tax payments in 2008 versus 2007.

 

Contractual Obligations:

 

The following table presents the Corporation’s total contractual obligations for which cash flows are fixed or determinable.

 

      Total    2009    2010    2011    2012    2013    2014+
     (Millions of dollars)

Contractual obligations

                    

Long-term debt

   $ 5,559    $ 677    $ 496    $ 16    $ 409    $ 505    $ 3,456

Interest payments on long-term debt

     3,615      374      305      297      296      272      2,071

Returns on redeemable preferred securities

     428      54      54      54      54      54      158

Operating leases

     688      142      114      98      80      65      189

Unconditional purchase obligations

     1,997      674      493      445      78      75      232

Open purchase orders

     1,385      1,385      —        —        —        —        —  
                                                

Total contractual obligations

   $ 13,672    $ 3,306    $ 1,462    $ 910    $ 917    $ 971    $ 6,106
                                                

 

Obligations Commentary:

 

   

Projected interest payments for variable-rate debt were calculated based on the outstanding principal amounts and prevailing market rates as of December 31, 2008.

 

   

Returns on redeemable preferred securities reflect required return payments through the next seven-year anniversary date by instrument class. See Item 8, Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

   

The unconditional purchase obligations are for the purchase of raw materials, primarily pulp and utilities. Although the Corporation is primarily liable for payments on the above operating leases and

 

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unconditional purchase obligations, based on historic operating performance and forecasted future cash flows, management believes the Corporation’s exposure to losses, if any, under these arrangements is not material.

 

   

The open purchase orders displayed in the table represent amounts the Corporation anticipates will become payable within the next year for goods and services it has negotiated for delivery.

 

The Corporation will fund its defined benefit pension plans to meet or exceed statutory requirements and currently expects to contribute $530 million to these plans in 2009. This amount is not included in the above table.

 

The above table does not include future payments that the Corporation will make for other postretirement benefit obligations. Those amounts are estimated using actuarial assumptions, including expected future service, to project the future obligations. Based upon those projections, the Corporation anticipates making annual payments for these obligations within a range from approximately $85 million in 2009 to more than $90 million by 2018.

 

As of December 31, 2008, the Corporation has accrued income tax liabilities for uncertain tax positions. These liabilities have not been presented in the table above due to uncertainty as to amounts and timing regarding future payments.

 

Deferred taxes, minority owners’ interests and payments for pension plan benefits are also not included in the table.

 

A consolidated financing subsidiary has issued two classes of redeemable preferred securities. The holder of the securities can elect to have the subsidiary redeem the first class in December 2011 and the second class in December 2014 and each seven-year anniversary thereafter. Management currently anticipates that these securities will not be redeemed at the next redemption dates, and therefore they are not included in the above table. In the event that the holder of the securities does elect to have its preferred securities redeemed at the next respective redemption dates, the Corporation would be required to pay approximately $500 million in 2011 and approximately $500 million in 2014. See Item 8, Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding these securities.

 

Investing Commentary:

 

   

During 2008, the Corporation’s capital spending of $906 million was within the targeted range of $850 to $950 million.

 

   

During 2008, the Corporation acquired a personal care business in Trinidad and Tobago; the remaining 50 percent interest in its South African subsidiary, Kimberly-Clark of South Africa (Pty.) Limited; and the remaining 40 percent interest in its Chilean subsidiary, Kimberly-Clark Chile, S.A. The cost of these acquisitions totaled approximately $98 million. See Item 8, Note 5 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional detail.

 

Financing Commentary:

 

   

At December 31, 2008, total debt and redeemable preferred securities was $7.0 billion compared with $6.5 billion last year end. The increase was primarily due to the consolidation of the financing entities described in Item 8, Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. At December 31, 2008, the related loans are classified as debt payable within one year on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The Corporation currently anticipates that these loans will be extended prior to their current maturity dates.

 

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In August 2008, Standard & Poor’s (“S&P”) lowered the Corporation’s long-term credit rating from A+ to A but reaffirmed the short-term commercial paper A1 rating. S&P also removed both the long- and short-term ratings from negative outlook and both ratings are now classified as stable. In August 2008, Moody’s Investor Services reaffirmed the Corporation’s long- and short-term ratings of A2 and P1, respectively, with an outlook of stable.

 

   

In November 2008, the Corporation issued $500 million 7.5% Notes due November 1, 2018. The Corporation used the net proceeds to reduce borrowings under its commercial paper program.

 

   

In the fourth quarter of 2008, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Corporation purchased $200 million of dealer remarketable securities that the Corporation had originally issued in the fourth quarter of 2006. The subsidiary issued commercial paper to fund the investment in these securities and intends to hold these securities until the next remarketing date in the fourth quarter of 2009. The investment in these securities by the subsidiary and the Corporation’s debt obligation for these securities are eliminated in consolidation. See Item 8, Note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional detail on these securities.

 

   

At December 31, 2008, the Corporation had a $1.33 billion revolving credit facility that is scheduled to expire in September 2012. This facility contains a feature that would allow for increasing it to $1.77 billion. The Corporation maintains the revolving credit facility to manage liquidity needs in the event its access to the commercial paper markets is constrained for any reason. The Corporation did not experience any difficulty in issuing commercial paper in 2008 despite the current constrained credit environment in the United States. The Corporation did not borrow any amounts under the revolving credit facility in 2008.

 

   

During 2008, the Corporation repurchased about 10 million shares of its common stock at a cost of $625 million which was in line with its updated target of $600 million to $650 million. In light of the Corporation’s estimated contribution of $530 million in 2009 to its defined benefit pension plans, the Corporation does not expect to repurchase any of its common stock in 2009. See the discussion under Critical Accounting Policies later in this MD&A for additional detail regarding Pension Benefits.

 

   

In 2003, the Venezuelan government enacted currency restrictions, which have affected the ability of the Corporation’s Venezuelan subsidiary (“K-C Venezuela”) to obtain foreign currency at the official rate of exchange to pay for imported finished goods. These exchange restrictions have negatively impacted K-C Venezuela because it has had to meet its foreign currency needs from non-government sources at exchange rates substantially unfavorable to the official rate. During 2008, the Corporation recorded its share of pre-tax losses of more than $10 million or about $.02 per share due to currency transactions at other than official exchange rates. At December 31, 2008, K-C Venezuela had cash denominated in bolivars of $94 million. In 2008, K-C Venezuela represented approximately 2 percent of consolidated net sales and consolidated operating profit.

 

Management believes that the Corporation’s ability to generate cash from operations and its capacity to issue short-term and long-term debt are adequate to fund working capital, capital spending, payment of dividends, pension plan contributions and other needs in the foreseeable future.

 

Variable Interest Entities

 

The Corporation has interests in the financing and real estate entities discussed in Item 8, Notes 2, 7 and 12 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, all of which are subject to the requirements of Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation No. 46 (Revised December 2003), Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities—an Interpretation of ARB 51 (“FIN 46(R)”). The entities described in Item 8, Notes 2 and 7 are consolidated

 

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pursuant to the requirements of FIN 46(R), as are certain of the real estate entities described in Note 12. The nonconsolidated real estate entities do not engage in any of the transactions subject to the disclosure requirements of FRR 67, Disclosure in Management’s Discussion and Analysis about Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements and Aggregate Contractual Obligations.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of net sales and expenses during the reporting period. The critical accounting policies used by management in the preparation of the Corporation’s Consolidated Financial Statements are those that are important both to the presentation of the Corporation’s financial condition and results of operations and require significant judgments by management with regard to estimates used. The critical judgments by management relate to consumer and trade promotion and rebate accruals, pension and other postretirement benefits, retained insurable risks, useful lives for depreciation and amortization, future cash flows associated with impairment testing for goodwill and long-lived assets, the qualitative and quantitative analyses of variability used to determine the primary beneficiary of variable interest entities, deferred income taxes and potential income tax assessments, and loss contingencies. The Corporation’s critical accounting policies have been reviewed with the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.

 

Promotion and Rebate Accruals

 

Among those factors affecting the accruals for promotions are estimates of the number of consumer coupons that will be redeemed and the type and number of activities within promotional programs between the Corporation and its trade customers. Rebate accruals are based on estimates of the quantity of products distributors have sold to specific customers. Generally, the estimates for consumer coupon costs are based on historical patterns of coupon redemption, influenced by judgments about current market conditions such as competitive activity in specific product categories. Estimates of trade promotion liabilities for promotional program costs incurred, but unpaid, are generally based on estimates of the quantity of customer sales, timing of promotional activities and forecasted costs for activities within the promotional programs. Settlement of these liabilities sometimes occurs in periods subsequent to the date of the promotion activity. Trade promotion programs include introductory marketing funds such as slotting fees, cooperative marketing programs, temporary price reductions, favorable end-of-aisle or in-store product displays and other activities conducted by the customers to promote the Corporation’s products. Promotion accruals as of December 31, 2008 and 2007 were $321 million and $348 million, respectively. Rebate accruals as of December 31, 2008 and 2007 were $261 million and $253 million, respectively.

 

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits

 

Pension Benefits

 

The Corporation and its subsidiaries in North America and the United Kingdom have defined benefit pension plans (the “Principal Plans”) and/or defined contribution retirement plans covering substantially all regular employees. Certain other subsidiaries have defined benefit pension plans or, in certain countries, termination pay plans covering substantially all regular employees. The funding policy for the qualified defined benefit plans in North America and the defined benefit plans in the United Kingdom is to contribute assets at least equal to regulatory minimum requirements. Funding for the remaining defined benefit plans outside the U.S. is based on legal requirements, tax considerations, investment opportunities, and customary business practices in such countries. Nonqualified U.S. plans providing pension benefits in excess of limitations imposed by the U.S. income tax code are not funded.

 

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Consolidated pension expense for defined benefit pension plans was $97 million in 2008 compared with $120 million for 2007. Pension expense included incremental costs of about $5 million and $8 million in 2008 and 2007, respectively, for special pension benefits related to the strategic cost reductions. Pension expense is calculated based upon a number of actuarial assumptions applied to each of the defined benefit plans. The weighted-average expected long-term rate of return on pension fund assets used to calculate pension expense was 8.23 percent in 2008 compared with 8.27 percent in 2007 and will be 8.17 percent in 2009. The expected long-term rate of return is evaluated on an annual basis. In setting this assumption, the Corporation considers a number of factors including projected future returns by asset class, current asset allocation and historical long-term market performance. As part of the factors related to historical market performance, the Corporation considered the range of compounded annual returns for 15 rolling 15-year and 20-year periods through 2008 relative to each plan’s current asset allocation.

 

The weighted-average expected long-term rate of return on pension fund assets used to calculate pension expense for the Principal Plans was 8.48 percent in 2008 compared with 8.50 percent in 2007 and will be 8.47 percent in 2009. The expected long-term rate of return on the assets in the Principal Plans is based on an asset allocation assumption of about 70 percent with equity managers, with expected long-term rates of return ranging from 9 to 10 percent, and about 30 percent with fixed income managers, with an expected long-term rate of return ranging from 6 to 7 percent. Actual asset allocation is regularly reviewed and it is periodically rebalanced to the targeted allocation when considered appropriate. Long-term rate of return assumptions continue to be evaluated at least annually and are adjusted as necessary.

 

Pension expense is determined using the fair value of assets rather than a calculated value that averages gains and losses (“Calculated Value”) over a period of years. Investment gains or losses represent the difference between the expected return calculated using the fair value of assets and the actual return based on the fair value of assets. The variance between actual and expected gains and losses on pension assets is recognized in pension expense more rapidly than it would be if a Calculated Value was used for plan assets. As of December 31, 2008, the Principal Plans had cumulative unrecognized investment losses and other actuarial losses of approximately $2.2 billion. These unrecognized net losses may increase future pension expense if not offset by (i) actual investment returns that exceed the assumed investment returns, or (ii) other factors, including reduced pension liabilities arising from higher discount rates used to calculate pension obligations, or (iii) other actuarial gains, including whether such accumulated actuarial losses at each measurement date exceed the “corridor” determined under SFAS No. 87, Employers’ Accounting for Pensions.

 

The discount (or settlement) rates used to determine the present values of the Corporation’s future U.S. and Canadian pension obligations at December 31, 2008 were based on yield curves constructed from a portfolio of high quality corporate debt securities with maturities ranging from 1 year to 30 years. Each year’s expected future benefit payments were discounted to their present value at the appropriate yield curve rate thereby generating the overall discount rates for the U.S. and Canadian pension obligations. For the U.K. plans, discount rates were established using the yield on a U.K. bond index comprised of high quality corporate debt securities, with the yield adjusted for duration differences between the index and the pension obligations and for securities in the index recently downgraded below high quality. The weighted-average discount rate for the Principal Plans increased to 6.47 percent at December 31, 2008 from 6.20 percent at December 31, 2007.

 

Consolidated pension expense for defined benefit pension plans is estimated to approximate $295 million in 2009. The increase in estimated pension expense for 2009 from $97 million incurred in 2008 reflects substantially lower plan assets at December 31, 2008 and the effect of actuarial losses. The 2009 estimate is based on an expected weighted-average long-term rate of return on assets in the Principal Plans of 8.47 percent, a weighted-average discount rate for the Principal Plans of 6.47 percent and various other assumptions. Pension

 

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expense beyond 2009 will depend on future investment performance, the Corporation’s contributions to the pension trusts, changes in discount rates and various other factors related to the covered employees in the plans.

 

If the expected long-term rates of return on assets for the Principal Plans were lowered by 0.25 percent, our annual pension expense would increase by approximately $7 million in 2009. If the discount rate assumptions for these same plans were reduced by 0.25 percent, annual pension expense would increase by approximately $11 million and the December 31, 2008 pension liability would increase by about $133 million.

 

The fair value of the assets in the Corporation’s defined benefit plans was $3.1 billion and $4.7 billion at December 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively. The projected benefit obligations of the defined benefit plans exceeded the fair value of plan assets by approximately $1.9 billion and $0.8 billion at December 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively. On a consolidated basis, the Corporation contributed about $129 million to its pension plans in 2008 compared with $98 million in 2007. In addition, the Corporation made direct benefit payments of $14 million in 2008 compared to $15 million in 2007. The Corporation currently anticipates contributing about $530 million to its pension plans in 2009.

 

The methodology for determining the discount rate used for each country’s pension obligation is the same as the methodology used to determine the discount rate used for that country’s other postretirement obligation. The discount rates displayed for the two types of obligations for the Corporation’s consolidated operations may appear different due to the weighting used in the calculation of the two weighted-average discount rates.

 

Other Postretirement Benefits

 

Substantially all U.S. retirees and employees are covered by unfunded health care and life insurance benefit plans. Certain benefits are based on years of service and/or age at retirement. The plans are principally noncontributory for employees who were eligible to retire before 1993 and contributory for most employees who retire after 1992, except that the Corporation provides no subsidized benefits to most employees hired after 2003.

 

The Corporation made benefit payments of $73 million in 2008 compared with $77 million in 2007. The determination of the discount rates used to calculate the benefit obligations of the plans is discussed in the pension benefit section above. If the discount rate assumptions for these plans were reduced by 0.25 percent, 2009 other postretirement benefit expense would increase by less than $1 million and the December 31, 2008 benefit liability would increase by about $16 million.

 

The health care cost trend rate is based on a combination of inputs including the Corporation’s recent claims history and insights from external advisers regarding recent developments in the health care marketplace, as well as projections of future trends in the marketplace. The annual increase in the consolidated weighted-average health care cost trend rate is expected to be 7.5 percent in 2009, 6.5 percent in 2010 and to gradually decline to 5.2 percent in 2012 and thereafter. See Item 8, Note 9 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for disclosure of the effect of a one percentage point change in the health care cost trend rate.

 

Retained Insurable Risks

 

Selected insurable risks are retained, primarily those related to property damage, workers’ compensation, and product, automobile and premises liability based upon historical loss patterns and management’s judgment of cost effective risk retention. Accrued liabilities for incurred but not reported events, principally related to workers’ compensation and automobile liability, are based upon undiscounted loss development factors.

 

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Property and Depreciation

 

Estimating the useful lives of property, plant and equipment requires the exercise of management judgment, and actual lives may differ from these estimates. Changes to these initial useful life estimates are made when appropriate. Property, plant and equipment are tested for impairment in accordance with SFAS No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of such long-lived assets may not be recoverable from future net pretax cash flows. Impairment testing requires significant management judgment including estimating the future success of product lines, future sales volumes, growth rates for selling prices and costs, alternative uses for the assets and estimated proceeds from disposal of the assets. Impairment testing is conducted at the lowest level where cash flows can be measured and are independent of cash flows of other assets. An asset impairment would be indicated if the sum of the expected future net pretax cash flows from the use of the asset (undiscounted and without interest charges) is less than the carrying amount of the asset. An impairment loss would be measured based on the difference between the fair value of the asset and its carrying amount. The determination of fair value is based on an expected present value technique in which multiple probability-weighted cash flow scenarios that reflect a range of possible outcomes and a risk-free rate of interest are used to estimate fair value.

 

The estimates and assumptions used in the impairment analysis are consistent with the business plans, including the strategic cost reduction plan, and estimates used to manage business operations and to make acquisition and divestiture decisions. The use of different assumptions would increase or decrease the estimated fair value of the asset and the impairment charge. Actual outcomes may differ from the estimates. For example, if the Corporation’s products fail to achieve volume and pricing estimates or if market conditions change or other significant estimates are not realized, then revenue and cost forecasts may not be achieved, and additional impairment charges may be recognized.

 

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

 

The carrying amount of goodwill is tested annually as of the beginning of the fourth quarter and whenever events or circumstances indicate that impairment may have occurred. Impairment testing is performed in accordance with SFAS No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. Impairment testing is conducted at the operating segment level of the Corporation’s businesses and is based on a discounted cash flow approach to determine the fair value of each operating segment. The determination of fair value requires significant management judgment including estimating future sales volumes, selling prices and costs, changes in working capital, investments in property and equipment and the selection of an appropriate discount rate. Sensitivities of these fair value estimates to changes in assumptions for sales volumes, selling prices and costs are also tested. If the carrying amount of an operating segment that contains goodwill exceeds fair value, a possible impairment would be indicated. If a possible impairment is indicated, the implied fair value of goodwill would be estimated by comparing the fair value of the net assets of the unit excluding goodwill to the total fair value of the unit. If the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, an impairment charge would be recorded. Judgment is used in assessing whether goodwill should be tested more frequently for impairment than annually. Factors such as unexpected adverse economic conditions, competition, product changes and other external events may require more frequent assessments. The Corporation’s annual goodwill impairment testing has been completed and it has been determined that its $2.7 billion of goodwill is not impaired.

 

The Corporation has no intangible assets with indefinite useful lives. At December 31, 2008, the Corporation has other intangible assets with a gross carrying amount of approximately $307 million and a net carrying amount of about $121 million. These intangibles are being amortized over their estimated useful lives and are tested for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that impairment may have occurred. If the carrying amount of an intangible asset is not recoverable based on estimated future undiscounted cash flows,

 

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an impairment loss would be indicated. The amount of the impairment loss to be recorded would be based on the excess of the carrying amount of the intangible asset over its fair value (based on discounted future cash flows). Judgment is used in assessing whether the carrying amount of intangible assets is not expected to be recoverable over their estimated remaining useful lives. The factors considered are similar to those outlined in the goodwill impairment discussion above.

 

Primary Beneficiary Determination of Variable Interest Entities (“VIE”)

 

The primary beneficiary of variable interest entities is required to be determined under FSP FIN 46(R)-6, Determining the Variability to Be Considered in Applying FASB Interpretation No. 46(R), using a qualitative analysis to identify the risks in the VIE that cause variability and then to determine the variability that the VIE is designed to create and pass along to its participants. The participant that absorbs the majority of the variability is the primary beneficiary and is required to consolidate the VIE in accordance with FIN 46(R). If the qualitative analysis is inconclusive, a quantitative analysis is required to estimate the probable future cash flows of the VIE using a computer simulation model and determining the variability of such cash flows and their present values; and the participant that is allocated the majority of the present value of the variability is the primary beneficiary. Both the qualitative analysis and the quantitative analysis require the exercise of significant management judgment.

 

Deferred Income Taxes and Potential Assessments

 

As of December 31, 2008, the Corporation had recorded deferred tax assets related to income tax loss carryforwards, income tax credit carryforwards and capital loss carryforwards totaling $725 million and had established valuation allowances against these deferred tax assets of $305 million, thereby resulting in a net deferred tax asset of $420 million. As of December 31, 2007, the net deferred tax asset was $414 million. These carryforwards are primarily in non-U.S. taxing jurisdictions and in certain states in the U.S. Foreign tax credits earned in the U.S. in current and prior years, which cannot be used currently, also give rise to net deferred tax assets. In determining the valuation allowances to establish against these deferred tax assets, the Corporation considers many factors, including the specific taxing jurisdiction, the carryforward period, income tax strategies and forecasted earnings for the entities in each jurisdiction. A valuation allowance is recognized if, based on the weight of available evidence, the Corporation concludes that it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.

 

As of December 31, 2008, in accordance with Accounting Principles Board (“APB”) Opinion No. 23, Accounting for Income Taxes, Special Areas, U.S. income taxes and foreign withholding taxes have not been provided on approximately $5.6 billion of unremitted earnings of subsidiaries operating outside the U.S. These earnings are considered by management to be invested indefinitely. However, they would be subject to income tax if they were remitted as dividends, were lent to the Corporation or a U.S. affiliate, or if the Corporation were to sell its stock in the subsidiaries. It is not practicable to determine the amount of unrecognized deferred U.S. income tax liability on these unremitted earnings. We periodically determine whether our non-U.S. subsidiaries will invest their undistributed earnings indefinitely and reassess this determination, as appropriate.

 

The Corporation accrues net liabilities for current income taxes for potential assessments, which at December 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007 were $332 million and $323 million, respectively. The accruals relate to uncertain tax positions in a variety of taxing jurisdictions and are based on what management believes will be the resolution of these positions, in accordance with the provisions of FIN 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, an interpretation of FASB Statement 109, Accounting for Income Taxes. These liabilities may be affected by changing interpretations of laws, rulings by tax authorities, or the expiration of the statute of limitations. The Corporation’s U.S. federal income tax returns have been audited through 2005. IRS assessments

 

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of additional taxes have been paid through 2001. Refund actions are pending with the IRS for the years 1999 through 2005. Management currently believes that the ultimate resolution of these matters, individually or in the aggregate, will not have a material effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

 

Loss Contingencies

 

The outcome of loss contingencies and legal proceedings and claims brought against the Corporation is subject to uncertainty. SFAS No. 5, Accounting for Contingencies, requires that an estimated loss contingency be accrued by a charge to earnings if it is probable that an asset has been impaired or a liability has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated. Disclosure of the contingency is required if there is at least a reasonable possibility that a loss has been incurred. Determination of whether to accrue a loss requires evaluation of the probability of an unfavorable outcome and the ability to make a reasonable estimate. Changes in these estimates could affect the timing and amount of accrual of loss contingencies.

 

Legal Matters

 

The Corporation has been named a potentially responsible party under the provisions of the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, or analogous state statutes, at a number of waste disposal sites, none of which, individually or in the aggregate, in management’s opinion, is likely to have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

 

New Accounting Standards

 

See Item 8, Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of new accounting standards and their anticipated effects on the Corporation’s financial statements.

 

Business Outlook

 

The unfavorable global economic environment continues to adversely affect the Corporation’s business and financial results, making it more challenging to predict results in the near-term. The Corporation believes that weakness in foreign currencies and higher pension expense, resulting from negative returns in global equity markets in 2008, will negatively affect the Corporation’s 2009 results. While commodity costs are anticipated to moderate as compared to 2008, expected weaker currency exchange rates would reduce the potential benefits of lower commodity costs. Based on anticipated economic and competitive conditions, the Corporation expects to generate sufficient improvement in other aspects of its business operations in 2009 to substantially offset the negative effects from the higher pension expense and currency transaction losses. In 2009, the Corporation intends to continue to focus on its marketing and innovation programs. The Corporation also intends to accelerate cost reductions in its operations to improve its competitive position and to continue to focus on its cash flow and financial condition.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

Certain matters discussed in this Form 10-K or related documents, a portion of which are incorporated herein by reference, concerning, among other things, the business outlook, including new product introductions, cost savings, anticipated benefits related to the strategic cost reduction plan, anticipated financial and operating results, strategies, contingencies and anticipated transactions of the Corporation, constitute forward-looking

 

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statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are based upon management’s expectations and beliefs concerning future events impacting the Corporation. There can be no assurance that these events will occur or that the Corporation’s results will be as estimated.

 

The assumptions used as a basis for the forward-looking statements include many estimates that, among other things, depend on the achievement of future cost savings and projected volume increases. In addition, many factors outside the control of the Corporation, including the prices and availability of the Corporation’s raw materials, potential competitive pressures on selling prices or advertising and promotion expenses for the Corporation’s products, energy costs, and fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, as well as general economic conditions in the markets in which the Corporation does business, could impact the realization of such estimates.

 

The factors described under Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in this Form 10-K, or in our other Securities and Exchange Commission filings, among others, could cause the Corporation’s future results to differ from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, the Corporation. Other factors not presently known to us or that we presently consider immaterial could also affect our business operations and financial results.

 

ITEM 7A.    QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

As a multinational enterprise, the Corporation is exposed to risks such as changes in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices. A variety of practices are employed to manage these risks, including operating and financing activities and, where deemed appropriate, the use of derivative instruments. Derivative instruments are used only for risk management purposes and not for speculation. All foreign currency derivative instruments are entered into with major financial institutions. The Corporation’s credit exposure under these arrangements is limited to agreements with a positive fair value at the reporting date. Credit risk with respect to the counterparties is actively monitored but is not considered significant since these transactions are executed with a diversified group of financial institutions.

 

Presented below is a description of the Corporation’s risks (foreign currency risk and interest rate risk) together with a sensitivity analysis, performed annually, of each of these risks based on selected changes in market rates and prices. These analyses reflect management’s view of changes which are reasonably possible to occur over a one-year period. Also included is a description of the Corporation’s commodity price risk.

 

Foreign Currency Risk

 

Foreign currency risk is managed by the systematic use of foreign currency forward and swap contracts for a portion of the Corporation’s exposure. The use of these instruments allows the management of transactional exposures to exchange rate fluctuations because the gains or losses incurred on the derivative instruments will offset, in whole or in part, losses or gains on the underlying foreign currency exposure.

 

Foreign currency contracts and transactional exposures are sensitive to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. An annual test is performed to quantify the effects that possible changes in foreign currency exchange rates would have on annual operating profit based on the foreign currency contracts and transactional exposures of the Corporation and its foreign affiliates at the current year-end. The balance sheet effect is calculated by multiplying each affiliate’s net monetary asset or liability position by a 10 percent change in the foreign currency exchange rate versus the U.S. dollar. The results of these sensitivity tests are presented in the following paragraphs.

 

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As of December 31, 2008, a 10 percent unfavorable change in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar against the prevailing market rates of foreign currencies involving balance sheet transactional exposures would have resulted in a net pretax loss of approximately $43 million. These hypothetical losses on transactional exposures are based on the difference between the December 31, 2008 rates and the assumed rates. In the view of management, the above hypothetical losses resulting from these assumed changes in foreign currency exchange rates are not material to the Corporation’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

The translation of the balance sheets of non-U.S. operations from local currencies into U.S. dollars is also sensitive to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Consequently, an annual test is performed to determine if changes in currency exchange rates would have a significant effect on the translation of the balance sheets of non-U.S. operations into U.S. dollars. These translation gains or losses are recorded as unrealized translation adjustments (“UTA”) within stockholders’ equity. The hypothetical change in UTA is calculated by multiplying the net assets of these non-U.S. operations by a 10 percent change in the currency exchange rates. The results of this sensitivity test are presented in the following paragraph.

 

As of December 31, 2008, a 10 percent unfavorable change in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar against the prevailing market rates of the Corporation’s foreign currency translation exposures would have reduced stockholders’ equity by approximately $462 million. These hypothetical adjustments in UTA are based on the difference between the December 31, 2008 exchange rates and the assumed rates. In the view of management, the above UTA adjustments resulting from these assumed changes in foreign currency exchange rates are not material to the Corporation’s consolidated financial position because they would not affect the Corporation’s cash flow.

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

Interest rate risk is managed through the maintenance of a portfolio of variable- and fixed-rate debt composed of short- and long-term instruments. The objective is to maintain a cost-effective mix that management deems appropriate. At December 31, 2008, the debt portfolio was composed of approximately 20 percent variable-rate debt and 80 percent fixed-rate debt.

 

Two separate tests are performed to determine whether changes in interest rates would have a significant effect on the Corporation’s financial position or future results of operations. Both tests are based on consolidated debt levels at the time of the test. The first test estimates the effect of interest rate changes on fixed-rate debt. Interest rate changes would result in gains or losses in the market value of fixed-rate debt due to differences between the current market interest rates and the rates governing these instruments. With respect to fixed-rate debt outstanding at December 31, 2008, a 10 percent decrease in interest rates would have increased the fair value of fixed-rate debt by about $200 million. The second test estimates the potential effect on future pretax income that would result from increased interest rates applied to the Corporation’s current level of variable-rate debt. With respect to commercial paper and other variable-rate debt, a 10 percent increase in interest rates would not have a material effect on the future results of operations or cash flows.

 

Commodity Price Risk

 

The Corporation is subject to commodity price risk, the most significant of which relates to the price of pulp. Selling prices of tissue products are influenced, in part, by the market price for pulp, which is determined by industry supply and demand. On a worldwide basis, the Corporation supplies approximately 8 percent of its virgin fiber needs from internal pulp manufacturing operations. As previously discussed under Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” increases in pulp prices could adversely affect earnings if selling prices are not adjusted or if such adjustments significantly trail the increases in pulp prices. Derivative instruments have not been used to manage these risks.

 

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The Corporation’s energy, manufacturing and transportation costs are affected by various market factors including the availability of supplies of particular forms of energy, energy prices and local and national regulatory decisions. As previously discussed under Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” there can be no assurance that the Corporation will be fully protected against substantial changes in the price or availability of energy sources. In addition, the Corporation is subject to price risk for utilities, primarily natural gas, which are used in its manufacturing operations. Derivative instruments are used to hedge a substantial portion of natural gas price risk in accordance with the Corporation’s risk management policy.

 

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ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

 

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     2008     2007     2006  
     (Millions of dollars, except per
share amounts)
 

Net Sales

   $ 19,415     $ 18,266     $ 16,747  

Cost of products sold

     13,557       12,562       11,665  
                        

Gross Profit

     5,858       5,704       5,082  

Marketing, research and general expenses

     3,291       3,106       2,948  

Other (income) and expense, net

     20       (18 )     32  
                        

Operating Profit

     2,547       2,616       2,102  

Nonoperating expense

     —         (67 )     (66 )

Interest income

     46       34       29  

Interest expense

     (304 )     (265 )     (220 )
                        

Income Before Income Taxes, Equity Interests and Extraordinary Loss

     2,289       2,318       1,845  

Provision for income taxes

     (618 )     (537 )     (469 )
                        

Income Before Equity Interests and Extraordinary Loss

     1,671       1,781       1,376  

Share of net income of equity companies

     166       170       219  

Minority owners’ share of subsidiaries’ net income

     (139 )     (128 )     (95 )
                        

Income Before Extraordinary Loss

     1,698       1,823       1,500  

Extraordinary loss, net of income taxes

     (8 )     —         —    
                        

Net Income

   $ 1,690     $ 1,823     $ 1,500  
                        

Per Share Basis

      

Basic

      

Before extraordinary loss

   $ 4.08     $ 4.13     $ 3.27  

Extraordinary loss

     (.02 )     —         —    
                        

Net income

   $ 4.06     $ 4.13     $ 3.27  
                        

Diluted

      

Before extraordinary loss

   $ 4.06     $ 4.09     $ 3.25  

Extraordinary loss

     (.02 )     —         —    
                        

Net income

   $ 4.04     $ 4.09     $ 3.25  
                        

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

 

     December 31  
     2008     2007  
     (Millions of dollars)  
ASSETS   

Current Assets

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 364     $ 473  

Accounts receivable, net

     2,492       2,561  

Inventories

     2,493       2,444  

Deferred income taxes

     131       217  

Time deposits

     141       271  

Other current assets

     192       131  
                

Total Current Assets

     5,813       6,097  

Property, Plant and Equipment, net

     7,667       8,094  

Investments in Equity Companies

     324       390  

Goodwill

     2,743       2,942  

Long-Term Notes Receivable

     603       —    

Other Assets

     939       917  
                
   $ 18,089     $ 18,440  
                
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY     
              

Current Liabilities

    

Debt payable within one year

   $ 1,083     $ 1,098  

Trade accounts payable

     1,422       1,449  

Other payables

     252       319  

Accrued expenses

     1,652       1,783  

Accrued income taxes

     103       56  

Dividends payable

     240       224  
                

Total Current Liabilities

     4,752       4,929  

Long-Term Debt

     4,882       4,394  

Noncurrent Employee Benefits

     2,593       1,559  

Long-Term Income Taxes Payable

     189       288  

Deferred Income Taxes

     193       370  

Other Liabilities

     187       187  

Minority Owners’ Interests in Subsidiaries

     404       484  

Redeemable Preferred Securities of Subsidiary

     1,011       1,005  

Stockholders’ Equity

    

Preferred stock—no par value—authorized 20.0 million shares, none issued

     —         —    

Common stock—$1.25 par value—authorized 1.2 billion shares; issued 478.6 million
shares at December 31, 2008 and 2007

     598       598  

Additional paid-in capital

     486       483  

Common stock held in treasury, at cost—65.0 million and 57.7 million shares at December 31, 2008 and 2007

     (4,285 )     (3,814 )

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

     (2,386 )     (791 )

Retained earnings

     9,465       8,748  
                

Total Stockholders’ Equity

     3,878       5,224  
                
   $ 18,089     $ 18,440  
                

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

     Common Stock
Issued
    Additional
Paid-in
Capital
    Treasury Stock     Unearned
Compensation
on Restricted
Stock
    Retained
Earnings
    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
    Comprehensive
Income
 
  Shares     Amount       Shares     Amount          
    (Dollars in millions, shares in thousands)  

Balance at December 31, 2005

  568,597     $ 711     $ 325     107,108     $ (6,376 )   $ (13 )   $ 12,581     $ (1,669 )  

Net income

  —         —         —       —         —         —         1,500       —       $ 1,500  

Other comprehensive income:

                 

Unrealized translation

  —         —         —       —         —         —         —         440       440  

Minimum pension liability

  —         —         —       —         —         —         —         203       203  

Other

  —         —         —       —         —         —         —         (11 )     (11 )
                       

Total comprehensive income

                  $ 2,132  
                       

Reclassifications upon adoption of SFAS 123(R)

  —         —         56     625       (32 )     13       —         —      

Stock-based awards exercised or vested and other

  —         —         (42 )   (6,800 )     374       —         (2 )     —      

Income tax benefits on stock-based compensation

  —         —         22     —         —         —         —         —      

Adjustment to initially apply

                 

SFAS 158, net of tax

  —         —         —       —         —         —         —         (395 )  

Shares repurchased

  —         —         —       12,045       (754 )     —         —         —      

Recognition of stock-based compensation

  —         —         67     —         —         —         —         —      

Retirement of treasury stock

  (90,000 )     (113 )     —       (90,000 )     5,396       —         (5,284 )     —      

Dividends declared

  —         —         —       —         —         —         (899 )     —      
                                                             

Balance at December 31, 2006

  478,597       598       428     22,978       (1,392 )     —         7,896       (1,432 )  

Net income

  —         —         —       —         —         —         1,823       —       $ 1,823  

Other comprehensive income:

                 

Unrealized translation

  —         —         —       —         —         —         —         365       365  

Employee postretirement benefits, net of tax

  —         —         —       —         —         —         —         266       266  

Other

  —         —         —       —         —         —         —         10       10  
                       

Total comprehensive income

                  $ 2,464  
                       

Stock-based awards exercised or vested and other

  —         —         (40 )   (6,646 )     389       —         (4 )     —      

Income tax benefits on stock-based compensation

  —         —         32     —         —         —         —         —      

Shares repurchased

  —         —         —       41,344       (2,811 )     —         —         —      

Recognition of stock-based compensation

  —         —         63     —         —         —         —         —      

Dividends declared

  —         —         —       —         —         —         (933 )     —      

Adoption of FIN 48

  —         —         —       —         —         —         (34 )     —      
                                                             

Balance at December 31, 2007

  478,597       598       483     57,676       (3,814 )     —         8,748       (791 )  

Net income

  —         —         —       —         —         —         1,690       —       $ 1,690  

Other comprehensive income:

                 

Unrealized translation

  —         —         —       —         —         —         —         (900 )     (900 )

Employee postretirement benefits, net of tax

  —         —         —       —         —         —         —         (687 )     (687 )

Other

  —         —         —       —         —         —         —         (8 )     (8 )
                       

Total comprehensive income

                  $ 95  
                       

Stock-based awards exercised or vested and other

  —         —         (59 )   (2,870 )     170       —         (7 )     —      

Income tax benefits on stock-based compensation

  —         —         10     —         —         —         —         —      

Shares repurchased

  —         —         5     10,232       (641 )     —         —         —      

Recognition of stock-based compensation

  —         —         47     —         —         —         —         —      

Dividends declared

  —         —         —       —         —         —         (966 )     —      
                                                             

Balance at December 31, 2008

  478,597     $ 598     $ 486     65,038     $ (4,285 )   $ —       $ 9,465     $ (2,386 )  
                                                             

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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PART II

(Continued)

 

 

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     2008     2007     2006  
     (Millions of dollars)  

Operating Activities

      

Net Income

   $ 1,690     $ 1,823     $ 1,500  

Extraordinary loss, net of income taxes

     8       —         —    

Depreciation and amortization

     775       807       933  

Stock-based compensation

     47       63       67  

Deferred income taxes

     151       (103 )     (208 )

Net losses on asset dispositions

     51       30       116  

Equity companies’ earnings (in excess of) less than dividends paid

     (34 )     (40 )     27  

Minority owners’ share of subsidiaries’ net income

     139       128       95  

(Increase) decrease in operating working capital

     (335 )     (330 )     5  

Postretirement benefits

     (38 )     14       34  

Other

     62       37       11  
                        

Cash Provided by Operations

     2,516       2,429       2,580  
                        

Investing Activities

      

Capital spending

     (906 )     (989 )     (972 )

Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired

     (98 )     (16 )     (100 )

Investments in marketable securities

     (9 )     (13 )     (21 )

Proceeds from sales of investments

     48       59       46  

Net decrease (increase) in time deposits

     76       (10 )     (35 )

Proceeds from dispositions of property

     28       97       44  

Other

     14       (26 )     2  
                        

Cash Used for Investing

     (847 )     (898 )     (1,036 )
                        

Financing Activities

      

Cash dividends paid

     (950 )     (933 )     (884 )

Net (decrease) increase in short-term debt

     (436 )     43       (391 )

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt

     551       2,128       262  

Repayments of long-term debt

     (274 )     (339 )     (104 )

Cash paid on redeemable preferred securities of subsidiary

     (47 )     —         —    

Proceeds from preferred securities of subsidiary

     —         172       —    

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

     113       349       331  

Acquisitions of common stock for the treasury

     (653 )     (2,813 )     (762 )

Other

     (51 )     (34 )     (3 )
                        

Cash Used for Financing

     (1,747 )     (1,427 )     (1,551 )
                        

Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash and Cash Equivalents

     (31 )     8       4  
                        

(Decrease) Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents

     (109 )     112       (3 )

Cash and Cash Equivalents, beginning of year

     473       361       364  
                        

Cash and Cash Equivalents, end of year

   $ 364     $ 473     $ 361  
                        

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Note 1.    Accounting Policies

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Kimberly-Clark Corporation and all subsidiaries in which it has a controlling financial interest (the “Corporation”). All significant intercompany transactions and accounts are eliminated in consolidation.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S.”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of net sales and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ from these estimates, and changes in these estimates are recorded when known. Estimates are used in accounting for, among other things, consumer and trade promotion and rebate accruals, pension and other post-employment benefits, retained insurable risks, useful lives for depreciation and amortization, future cash flows associated with impairment testing for goodwill and long-lived assets and for determination of the primary beneficiary of variable interest entities, deferred tax assets and potential income tax assessments, and loss contingencies.

 

Cash Equivalents

 

Cash equivalents are short-term investments with an original maturity date of three months or less.

 

Inventories and Distribution Costs

 

For financial reporting purposes, most U.S. inventories are valued at the lower of cost, using the Last-In, First-Out (LIFO) method, or market. The balance of the U.S. inventories and inventories of consolidated operations outside the U.S. are valued at the lower of cost, using either the First-In, First-Out (FIFO) or weighted-average cost methods, or market. Distribution costs are classified as cost of products sold.

 

Available-for-Sale Securities

 

Available-for-sale securities are exchange-traded equity funds and are carried at market value. At December 31, 2008, securities of $11 million that are not expected to be liquidated in the next 12 months were classified as other assets. Securities of $18 million at December 31, 2007, with maturity dates of one year or less were included in other current assets. There were no securities with maturities greater than one year at December 31, 2007. The securities are held by the Corporation’s consolidated foreign financing subsidiary described in Note 7. Unrealized holding gains or losses on these securities are recorded in other comprehensive income until realized. No significant gains or losses were recognized in income for any of the three years ended December 31, 2008.

 

Property and Depreciation

 

For financial reporting purposes, property, plant and equipment are stated at cost and are depreciated principally on the straight-line method. Buildings are depreciated over their estimated useful lives, primarily 40 years. Machinery and equipment are depreciated over their estimated useful lives, primarily ranging from 16 to 20 years. For income tax purposes, accelerated methods of depreciation are used. Purchases of computer software are capitalized. External costs and certain internal costs (including payroll and payroll-related costs of

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

employees) directly associated with developing significant computer software applications for internal use are capitalized. Training and data conversion costs are expensed as incurred. Computer software costs are amortized on the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the software, which generally does not exceed five years.

 

Estimated useful lives are periodically reviewed and, when warranted, changes are made to them. Long-lived assets, including computer software, are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss would be indicated when estimated undiscounted future cash flows from the use and eventual disposition of an asset group, which are identifiable and largely independent of the cash flows of other asset groups, are less than the carrying amount of the asset group. Measurement of an impairment loss would be based on the excess of the carrying amount of the asset over its fair value. Fair value is measured using discounted cash flows or independent appraisals, as appropriate. When property is sold or retired, the cost of the property and the related accumulated depreciation are removed from the Consolidated Balance Sheet and any gain or loss on the transaction is included in income.

 

The cost of major maintenance performed on manufacturing facilities, composed of labor, materials and other incremental costs, is charged to operations as incurred. Start-up costs for new or expanded facilities are expensed as incurred.

 

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

 

Goodwill represents costs in excess of fair values assigned to the underlying net assets of acquired businesses. Goodwill is not amortized, but rather is tested for impairment annually and whenever events and circumstances indicate that an impairment may have occurred. Impairment testing compares the carrying amount of the goodwill with its fair value. Fair value is estimated based on discounted cash flows. When the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its fair value, an impairment charge would be recorded. The Corporation has completed the required annual testing of goodwill for impairment and has determined that its goodwill is not impaired.

 

The Corporation has no intangible assets with indefinite useful lives. Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives and are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss would be indicated when estimated undiscounted future cash flows from the use of the asset are less than its carrying amount. An impairment loss would be measured as the difference between the fair value (based on discounted future cash flows) and the carrying amount of the asset.

 

Investments in Equity Companies

 

Investments in companies over which the Corporation has the ability to exercise significant influence and that, in general, are at least 20 percent-owned are stated at cost plus equity in undistributed net income. These investments are evaluated for impairment in accordance with the requirements of Accounting Principles Board (“APB”) Opinion No. 18, The Equity Method of Accounting for Investments in Common Stock. An impairment loss would be recorded whenever a decline in value of an equity investment below its carrying amount is determined to be other than temporary. In judging “other than temporary”, the Corporation would consider the length of time and extent to which the fair value of the equity company investment has been less than the carrying amount, the near-term and longer-term operating and financial prospects of the equity company, and its longer-term intent of retaining the investment in the equity company.

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Revenue Recognition

 

Sales revenue for the Corporation and its reportable business segments is recognized at the time of product shipment or delivery, depending on when title passes, to unaffiliated customers, and when all of the following have occurred: a firm sales agreement is in place, pricing is fixed or determinable, and collection is reasonably assured. Sales are reported net of returns, consumer and trade promotions, rebates and freight allowed. Taxes imposed by governmental authorities on the Corporation’s revenue-producing activities with customers, such as sales taxes and value-added taxes, are excluded from net sales.

 

Sales Incentives and Trade Promotion Allowances

 

The cost of promotion activities provided to customers is classified as a reduction in sales revenue. In addition, the estimated redemption value of consumer coupons is recorded at the time the coupons are issued and classified as a reduction in sales revenue.

 

Advertising Expense

 

Advertising costs are expensed in the year the related advertisement is first presented by the media. For interim reporting purposes, advertising expenses are charged to operations as a percentage of sales based on estimated sales and related advertising expense for the full year.

 

Research Expense

 

Research and development costs are charged to expense as incurred.

 

Environmental Expenditures

 

Environmental expenditures related to current operations that qualify as property, plant and equipment or which substantially increase the economic value or extend the useful life of an asset are capitalized, and all other environmental expenditures are expensed as incurred. Liabilities are recorded when environmental assessments and/or remedial efforts are probable and the costs can be reasonably estimated. Generally, the timing of these accruals coincides with completion of a feasibility study or a commitment to a formal plan of action. At environmental sites in which more than one potentially responsible party has been identified, a liability is recorded for the estimated allocable share of costs related to the Corporation’s involvement with the site as well as an estimated allocable share of costs related to the involvement of insolvent or unidentified parties. At environmental sites in which the Corporation is the only responsible party, a liability for the total estimated costs of remediation is recorded. Liabilities for future expenditures for environmental remediation obligations are not discounted and do not reflect any anticipated recoveries from insurers.

 

Foreign Currency Translation

 

The income statements of foreign operations, other than those in hyperinflationary economies, are translated into U.S. dollars at rates of exchange in effect each month. The balance sheets of these operations are translated at period-end exchange rates, and the differences from historical exchange rates are reflected in stockholders’ equity as unrealized translation adjustments.

 

The income statements and balance sheets of operations in hyperinflationary economies are translated into U.S. dollars using both current and historical rates of exchange. The effect of changes in exchange rates on monetary assets and liabilities is reflected in income. The Corporation presently has no operations in hyperinflationary economies.

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Derivative Instruments and Hedging

 

All derivative instruments are recorded as assets or liabilities on the balance sheet at fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivatives are either recorded in the income statement or other comprehensive income, as appropriate. The gain or loss on derivatives designated as fair value hedges and the offsetting loss or gain on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are included in income in the period that changes in fair value occur. The effective portion of the gain or loss on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges is included in other comprehensive income in the period that changes in fair value occur and is reclassified to income in the same period that the hedged item affects income. The remaining gain or loss in excess of the cumulative change in the present value of the cash flows of the hedged item, if any, is recognized in income. The gain or loss on derivatives designated as hedges of investments in foreign subsidiaries is recognized in other comprehensive income to offset the change in value of the net investments being hedged. Any ineffective portion of net investment hedges is immediately recognized in income. Certain foreign-currency derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments have been entered into to manage a portion of the Corporation’s foreign currency transactional exposures. The gain or loss on these derivatives is included in income in the period that changes in their fair values occur.

 

New Accounting Standards

 

Effective January 1, 2008, the Corporation adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 157, Fair Value Measurements (“SFAS 157”). See Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Effective December 31, 2008, the Corporation adopted FSP FAS 140-4 and FIN 46(R)-8, Disclosures by Public Entities (Enterprises) about Transfers of Financial Assets and Interests in Variable Interest Entities. The objectives of the disclosure requirements of FIN 46(R)-8 are to provide financial statement users with an understanding of:

 

   

the significant judgments and assumptions made in determining whether to consolidate a variable interest entity and/or disclose information about the company’s involvement with a variable interest entity,

 

   

the nature of restrictions on a consolidated variable interest entity’s assets reported in the statement of financial position, including the carrying amounts of such assets,

 

   

the nature of, and changes in, the risks associated with the company’s involvement with a variable interest entity, and

 

   

how the company’s involvement with a variable interest entity affects the company’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows.

 

These disclosures are contained in Notes 2, 7 and 12 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. The Corporation has no transactions subject to the accounting or disclosure requirements of FAS 140, Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities, a replacement of FASB Statement 125.

 

In February 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (“SFAS 159”). SFAS 159 allows entities to choose, at specified election dates, to measure financial instruments (financial assets and liabilities) at fair value (the “Fair Value Option”). The election is made on an instrument-by-instrument basis and is irrevocable. If the Fair Value Option is elected for an instrument, SFAS 159 specifies that all subsequent changes in fair value for that instrument be reported in earnings. SFAS 159 was effective as of the beginning of the first fiscal year that began after November 15, 2007. The Corporation has not applied the Fair Value Option to any of its existing financial assets or liabilities.

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141(R), Business Combinations (“SFAS 141(R)”). SFAS 141(R) requires the acquirer in a business combination to:

 

   

recognize 100 percent of the fair values of acquired assets, including goodwill, and assumed liabilities, with only limited exceptions, even if the acquirer has not acquired 100 percent of the target entity,

 

   

fair value contingent consideration arrangements at the acquisition date,

 

   

expense transaction costs as incurred rather than included as part of the fair value of an acquirer’s interest,

 

   

fair value certain pre-acquisition contingencies, such as environmental or legal issues,

 

   

limit accrual of the costs for a restructuring plan to pre-acquisition date restructuring obligations, and

 

   

capitalize the value of acquired research and development as an indefinite-lived intangible asset, subject to impairment accounting, rather than being expensed at the acquisition date.

 

SFAS 141(R) is effective for business combinations for which the acquisition date occurs during fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2008. Adoption is prospective, and early adoption is not permitted. Adoption of SFAS 141(R) is not expected to have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial statements.

 

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements, an amendment of ARB No. 51 (“SFAS 160”). SFAS 160 clarifies the classification of noncontrolling interests (i.e., minority owners’ interests in subsidiaries) in consolidated balance sheets and the accounting for and reporting of transactions between the reporting entity and holders of such noncontrolling interests. Under SFAS 160:

 

   

Noncontrolling interests are reported as an element of consolidated equity, thereby eliminating the current practice of classifying minority owners’ interests within a mezzanine section of the balance sheet.

 

   

The current practice of reporting minority owners’ share of subsidiaries’ net income will change. Reported net income will include the total income of all consolidated subsidiaries, with separate disclosure on the face of the income statement of the split of net income between the controlling and noncontrolling interests.

 

   

Increases and decreases in the noncontrolling ownership interest amount will be accounted for as equity transactions. If the controlling interest loses control and deconsolidates a subsidiary, full gain or loss on the transition will be recognized.

 

SFAS 160 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008. Early adoption is not permitted. Adoption is prospective, except for the following provisions, which are required to be adopted retrospectively:

 

   

Noncontrolling interests are required to be reclassified from the mezzanine to equity, separate from the parent’s shareholders’ equity, in the consolidated balance sheet.

 

   

Consolidated net income must be recast to include net income attributable to both controlling and noncontrolling interests.

 

Except for the reclassification of minority owners’ interests into equity and the inclusion of all of the income of less than 100 percent owned consolidated subsidiaries in net income, adoption of SFAS 160 is not expected to have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial statements.

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 (“SFAS 161”). SFAS 161 applies to all derivative instruments and related hedged items accounted for under SFAS No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities (“SFAS 133”). SFAS 161 requires enhanced disclosures about (a) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (b) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under SFAS 133 and its related interpretations, and (c) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

 

SFAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. Since SFAS 161 only requires additional disclosures, it will not have a financial impact on the Corporation’s financial statements.

 

In June 2008, the FASB issued Staff Position No. EITF 03-6-1 (“FSP”), Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities. The FSP specifies that certain share-based payment awards are participating securities, which must be included in the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share under the two-class method prescribed in SFAS No. 128, Earnings per Share. Under the two-class method, earnings per share is computed by allocating net income of an entity between common shareholders and participating securities.

 

The FSP is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is not permitted. The FSP requires that earnings per share presented for periods prior to adoption be recast. Adoption of the FSP is not expected to have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial statements.

 

In December 2008, the FASB issued FSP FAS 132(R)-1, Employers’ Disclosures about Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets. The FSP requires disclosure about the fair values of plan assets held in an employer’s defined benefit pension or other postretirement plan, including:

 

   

how investment allocation decisions are made,

 

   

major categories of plan assets,

 

   

inputs and valuation techniques used to measure fair value,

 

   

the effect of fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs on year-to-year changes in plan assets, and

 

   

significant concentrations of risk within plan assets.

 

The FSP is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2009. Since the FSP only requires additional disclosures, it will not have a financial impact on the Corporation’s financial statements.

 

Note 2.    Monetization Financing Entities

 

The Corporation has minority voting interests in two financing entities (the “Financing Entities”) used to monetize long-term notes (the “Notes”) received from the sale of certain nonstrategic timberlands and related assets to nonaffiliated buyers. The Notes have an aggregate face value of $617 million and are backed by irrevocable standby letters of credit issued by money center banks. The Notes and certain other assets were transferred to the Financing Entities in 1999 and 2000. A nonaffiliated financial institution (the “Third Party”) has made substantive capital investments in each of the Financing Entities and has majority voting control over them. The Third Party also made monetization loans aggregating $617 million to the Corporation, which were

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

assumed by the Financing Entities at the time they acquired the Notes. These monetization loans are secured by the Notes. The Corporation also contributed to the Financing Entities intercompany notes receivable aggregating $662 million and intercompany preferred stock of $50 million, which serve as secondary collateral for the monetization loans. The Corporation has provided no noncontractual financial or other support to the financing entities during their existence. Events of default would result in accelerating the repayment by the financing entities of the monetization loans. Events of default include (i) payment default by the financing entities on the monetization loans, (ii) payment default on the Notes by the issuer, (iii) events of default under the intercompany notes receivable and preferred stock contributed by Corporation as secondary collateral, including the Corporation’s credit rating of A being downgraded below BBB- or Baa3, and (iv) failure to maintain in place irrevocable standby letters of credit issued by banks which are rated AA- or above by Standard & Poor’s or Aa3 or above by Moody’s.

 

In 2003 upon adoption of FIN 46(R), Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, (“FIN 46(R)”), the Corporation determined that the Third Party was the primary beneficiary of the Financing Entities as a result of the interest rate variability allocated to it in accordance with FIN 46(R).

 

On June 30, 2008, the maturity dates of the lending arrangements with the Third Party were extended. FSP 46(R)-6, Determining the Variability to be Considered in Applying FASB Interpretation No. 46(R), (“FSP 46(R)”), which was issued in 2006, requires that certain interest rate variability no longer be considered in determining the primary beneficiary of variable interest entities. The exclusion of interest rate variability resulted in the Corporation absorbing the majority of the variability created in the financing entities arising from the credit default risk on the monetization loans and the standby letters of credit. As required by FIN 46(R) in connection with the extensions, the Corporation reconsidered the primary beneficiary determination and concluded, after excluding the interest rate variability as required by FSP 46(R), that it was now the primary beneficiary. Because the Corporation became the primary beneficiary of the Financing Entities on June 30, 2008, it began consolidating them. In accordance with FIN 46(R), the assets and liabilities of the Financing Entities were recorded at fair value as of June 30, 2008. Because the fair value of the monetization loans exceeded the fair value of the Notes, the Corporation recorded an extraordinary charge of $12 million ($8 million after tax) on its Consolidated Income Statement for the period ended June 30, 2008, as required by FIN 46(R). In accordance with FIN 46(R), prior period financial statements have not been adjusted to reflect the consolidation of the Financing Entities.

 

Notes totaling $603 million are included in long-term notes receivable and the monetization loans totaling $614 million are included in debt payable within one year on the Corporation’s Consolidated Balance Sheet. Interest income on the Notes of $14 million and interest expense of $15 million on the monetization loans have been reported on the Corporation’s 2008 Consolidated Income Statement. The Notes and monetization loans are being adjusted from their June 30, 2008 fair values to their face values through their respective maturity dates with the adjustment included in the above interest income and interest expense, respectively.

 

The Notes held by the Financing Entities have an aggregate fair value of $560 million and the monetization loans have an aggregate fair value of $610 million at December 31, 2008. These financial assets and liabilities are not traded in active markets. Accordingly, their fair values were calculated using a floating rate pricing model that compared the stated spread to the fair value spread to determine the price at which each of the financial instruments should trade. The model used the following inputs to calculate fair values: current LIBOR rate, fair value credit spread, stated spread, maturity date and interest payment dates. Because the Notes are backed by the irrevocable letters of credit the Corporation does not consider any unrealized losses on the Notes to be other than temporary at December 31, 2008.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Note 3.    Fair Value Information

 

Fair Value Measurements

 

Effective January 1, 2008, the Corporation adopted SFAS No. 157 for its financial assets and liabilities, as requiredIn February 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. 157-2 which deferred the effective date of SFAS 157 for nonfinancial assets and liabilities except for those recognized or disclosed on a recurring basis. SFAS 157 establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The three levels in the hierarchy used to measure fair value are:

 

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets accessible at the reporting date for identical assets and liabilities.

 

Level 2—Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets. Quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not considered active or financial instruments for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.

 

Level 3—Prices or valuations that require inputs that are significant to the valuation and are unobservable.

 

A financial instrument’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

 

Set forth below are the financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value as of December 31, 2008, together with the inputs used to develop those fair value measurements. The Corporation has no financial assets or liabilities for which fair value was measured on a recurring basis using Level 3 inputs.

 

     December 31    Fair Value Measurements
        Level 1        Level 2  
     (Millions of dollars)

Assets

        

Company-owned life insurance (“COLI”)

   $ 39    $ —      $ 39

Available-for-sale securities

     11      11      —  

Derivatives

     117      —        117
                    

Total

   $ 167    $ 11    $ 156
                    

Liabilities

        

Derivatives

   $ 51    $ —      $ 51
                    

 

The COLI policies are a source of funding primarily for the Corporation’s nonqualified employee benefits and are included in other assets. Available-for-sale securities are included in other assets. The derivative assets and liabilities are included in other current assets, other assets, accrued expenses and other liabilities, as appropriate.

 

Level 1 Fair Values—The fair values of available-for-sale securities are based on quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets.

 

Level 2 Fair Values—The fair value of the COLI policies is derived from investments in a mix of money market, fixed income and equity funds managed by unrelated fund managers. The fair values of derivatives used to manage interest rate risk and commodity price risk are based on LIBOR rates and the interest rate swap curves and NYMEX price quotations, respectively. The fair value of hedging instruments used to manage foreign currency risk is based on published quotations of spot currency rates and forward points, which are converted into implied forward currency rates.

 

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Fair Value Disclosures

 

As of December 31, 2008, the Consolidated Balance Sheet contains the following financial instruments, for which disclosure of fair value is required pursuant to SFAS No. 107, Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments.

 

      Carrying
Amount
   Estimated Fair
Value
   For Further
Information
See:
     (Millions of dollars)

Assets

        

Cash and cash equivalents(a)

   $ 364    $ 364   

Time deposits(b)

     141      141   

Long-term notes receivable

     603      560    Note 2

Liabilities and Redeemable Preferred Securities of Subsidiary

        

Short-term debt(c)

     406      406    Note 6

Monetization loans—current

     614      610    Notes 2 & 6

Long-term debt(d)

     4,945      5,250    Note 6

Redeemable preferred securities of subsidiary

     1,011      1,015    Note 7

 

(a) Cash equivalents are comprised of certificates of deposit, time deposits and other interest-bearing investments with original maturity dates of 90 days or less, all of which are recorded at cost, which approximates fair value.

 

(b) Time deposits are comprised of deposits with original maturities of more than 90 days but less than one year, all of which are recorded at cost, which approximates fair value.

 

(c) Short-term debt is comprised of U.S. commercial paper with original maturities up to 90 days and other similar short-term debt issued by non-U.S. subsidiaries, all of which is recorded at cost, which approximates fair value.

 

(d) Includes the current portion ($63 million) of these debt instruments.

 

Note 4.    Strategic Cost Reduction Plan

 

In July 2005, the Corporation authorized a multi-year plan to further improve its competitive position by accelerating investments in targeted growth opportunities and strategic cost reductions aimed at streamlining manufacturing and administrative operations, primarily in North America and Europe.

 

The strategic cost reductions commenced in the third quarter of 2005 and were completed by December 31, 2008. The strategic cost reductions resulted in cumulative charges of $880 million before tax or $610 million after tax.

 

Since the inception of the strategic cost reductions, a net workforce reduction of 5,800 has occurred. As of December 31, 2008, charges have been recorded related to the cost reduction initiatives for 23 facilities, including 3 facilities which have been closed and are being marketed for sale.

 

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The following pretax charges were incurred in connection with the strategic cost reductions:

 

     Year Ended December 31
     2008    2007    2006    2005    Total
     (Millions of dollars)

Noncash charges

   $ 16    $ 60    $ 265    $ 180    $ 521

Charges for workforce reductions

     14      9      162      36      221

Other cash charges

     25      30      44      11      110

Charges for special pension and other benefits

     5      8      13      2      28
                                  

Total pretax charges

   $ 60    $ 107    $ 484    $ 229    $ 880
                                  

 

The following table summarizes the noncash charges:

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     2008     2007     2006    2005    Total  
     (Millions of dollars)  

Incremental depreciation and amortization

   $ 14     $ 66     $ 208    $ 80    $ 368  

Asset impairments

     —         —         3      67      70  

Asset write-offs

     13       9       52      33      107  

Net (gain) loss on asset dispositions

     (11 )     (15 )     2      —        (24 )
                                      

Total noncash charges

   $ 16     $ 60     $ 265    $ 180    $ 521  
                                      

 

The following summarizes the cash charges recorded and reconciles such charges to accrued expenses at December 31:

 

      2008     2007     2006  
     (Millions of dollars)  

Accrued expenses—beginning of year

   $ 54     $ 111     $ 28  

Charges for workforce reductions

     14       9       162  

Other cash charges

     25       30       44  

Cash payments

     (75 )     (104 )     (128 )

Currency

     (2 )     8       5  
                        

Accrued expenses—end of year

   $ 16     $ 54     $ 111  
                        

 

Termination benefits related to workforce reductions were accrued in accordance with the requirements of SFAS No. 146, Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities (“SFAS 146”), SFAS No. 112, Employers’ Accounting for Postemployment Benefits, and SFAS No. 88, Employers’ Accounting for Settlements & Curtailments of Defined Benefit Pension Plans and for Termination Benefits, as appropriate. Retention bonuses related to workforce reductions were accrued in accordance with SFAS 146. The majority of the termination benefits and retention bonuses were paid within 12 months of accrual. The termination benefits were provided under: a special-benefit arrangement for affected employees in the U.S.; standard benefit practices in the United Kingdom (“U.K.”); applicable union agreements; or local statutory requirements, as appropriate. Incremental depreciation and amortization expenses were based on changes in useful lives and estimated residual values of assets that continued to be used, but were removed from service before the end of their originally assumed service period. Asset impairment charges have been recorded in accordance with SFAS No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, to reduce the carrying amount of long-lived

 

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assets that will be sold or disposed of to their estimated fair values. Charges for asset write-offs reduced the carrying amount of long-lived assets to their estimated salvage value in connection with the decision to dispose of such assets.

 

Costs of the initiatives have not been recorded at the business segment level, as the strategic cost reductions are corporate decisions. These charges are included in the following income statement captions:

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     2008     2007     2006     2005     Total  
     (Millions of dollars)  

Cost of products sold

   $ 43     $ 89     $ 342     $ 202     $ 676  

Marketing, research and general expenses

     29       32       134       27       222  

Other (income) and expense, net

     (12 )     (14 )     8       —         (18 )
                                        

Pretax charges

     60       107       484       229       880  

Provision for income taxes

     (24 )     (46 )     (138 )     (61 )     (269 )

Minority owners’ share of subsidiaries’ net income

     —         —         (1 )     —         (1 )
                                        

Total after-tax charges

   $ 36     $ 61     $ 345     $ 168     $ 610  
                                        

 

See Note 18 for additional information on the strategic cost reductions by business segment.

 

Actual pretax charges for the strategic cost reductions relate to activities in the following geographic areas for the years ended December 31:

 

     2008
     North
America
   Europe     Other     Total
     (Millions of dollars)

Incremental depreciation and amortization

   $ 8    $ 6     $ —       $ 14

Asset write-offs

     10      3       —         13

Charges for workforce reductions and special pension and other benefits

     11      8       —         19

Loss (gain) on asset disposal and other charges

     19      6       (11 )     14
                             

Total charges

   $ 48    $ 23     $ (11 )   $ 60
                             
     2007
     North
America
   Europe     Other     Total
     (Millions of dollars)

Incremental depreciation and amortization

   $ 40    $ 25     $ 1     $ 66

Asset write-offs

     6      3       —         9

Charges (credits) for workforce reductions and special pension and other benefits

     19      (8 )     6       17

Loss (gain) on asset disposal and other charges

     19      (4 )     —         15
                             

Total charges

   $ 84    $ 16     $ 7     $ 107
                             

 

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     2006
     North
America
   Europe    Other    Total
     (Millions of dollars)

Incremental depreciation and amortization

   $ 124    $ 60    $ 24    $ 208

Asset impairments

     —        3      —        3

Asset write-offs

     29      21      2      52

Charges for workforce reductions and special pension and other benefits

     57      107      11      175

Loss on asset disposal and other charges

     30      15      1      46
                           

Total charges

   $ 240    $ 206    $ 38    $ 484
                           
     2005
     North
America
   Europe    Other    Total
     (Millions of dollars)

Incremental depreciation and amortization

   $ 52    $ 21    $ 7    $ 80

Asset impairments

     —        67      —        67

Asset write-offs

     5      17      11      33

Charges for workforce reductions and special pension and other benefits

     18      7      13      38

Loss on asset disposal and other charges

     10      1      —        11
                           

Total charges

   $ 85    $ 113    $ 31    $ 229
                           

 

Note 5.    Acquisitions and Intangible Assets

 

Acquisitions

 

During the first quarter of 2008, the Corporation acquired a personal care business in Trinidad and Tobago. During the second quarter of 2008, the Corporation acquired the remaining 50 percent interest in its South African subsidiary, Kimberly-Clark of South Africa (Pty.) Limited. During third quarter 2008, the Corporation acquired the remaining 40 percent interest in its Chilean subsidiary, Kimberly-Clark Chile, S.A. The cost of these acquisitions totaled approximately $98 million. As of December 31, 2008, the preliminary allocation of the purchase price resulted in approximately $47 million being recorded in goodwill. The Corporation expects to complete the allocation of purchase price in 2009.

 

During the first quarter of 2007, the Corporation acquired the remaining 50 percent interest in its Indonesian subsidiary, P.T. Kimberly-Lever Indonesia for $16 million. The allocation of the purchase price to the fair value of assets and liabilities acquired was completed in 2007 and resulted in recognition of goodwill of $12 million.

 

These acquisitions are consistent with the Corporation’s strategy of investing for growth in rapidly growing countries, and are expected to better position the Corporation to leverage its scale and capabilities in customer development and product supply to drive growth and profitability across its businesses.

 

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Goodwill

 

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by business segment are as follows:

 

      Personal
Care
    Consumer
Tissue
    K-C
Professional
& Other
    Health
Care
    Total  
     (Millions of dollars)  

Balance at December 31, 2006

   $ 652     $ 651     $ 309     $ 1,249     $ 2,861  

Acquisitions

     8       2       2       —         12  

Currency and other

     49       (3 )     19       4       69  
                                        

Balance at December 31, 2007

     709       650       330       1,253       2,942  

Acquisitions

     35       8       4       —         47  

Currency and other

     (131 )     (81 )     (27 )     (7 )     (246 )
                                        

Balance at December 31, 2008

   $ 613     $ 577     $ 307     $ 1,246     $ 2,743  
                                        

 

Other Intangible Assets

 

Intangible assets subject to amortization are included in other assets and consist of the following at December 31:

 

     2008    2007
     Gross
Carrying
Amount
   Accumulated
Amortization
   Gross
Carrying
Amount
   Accumulated
Amortization
     (Millions of dollars)

Trademarks

   $ 219    $ 126    $ 222    $ 122

Patents

     52      41      54      39

Other

     36      19      32      15
                           

Total

   $ 307    $ 186    $ 308    $ 176
                           

 

Amortization expense for intangible assets was approximately $12 million in 2008, $14 million in 2007 and $39 million in 2006. Amortization expense is estimated to be approximately $10 million in 2009, $8 million in 2010, and $7 million in 2011, 2012 and 2013.

 

Note 6.    Debt

 

Long-term debt is comprised of the following:

 

     Weighted-
Average
Interest
Rate
   Maturities    December 31
         2008    2007
     (Millions of dollars)

Notes and debentures

   5.84%    2010 – 2038    $ 4,514    $ 3,959

Dealer remarketable securities

   —           —        200

Industrial development revenue bonds

   1.50%    2015 – 2037      280      280

Bank loans and other financings in various currencies

   5.01%    2009 – 2031      765      196
                   

Total long-term debt

           5,559      4,635

Less current portion

           677      241
                   

Long-term portion

         $ 4,882    $ 4,394
                   

 

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Fair value of total long-term debt at December 31, 2008 and 2007 was approximately $5.9 billion and $4.8 billion, respectively. Fair values were estimated based on quoted prices for financial instruments for which all significant inputs were observable, either directly or indirectly.

 

Scheduled maturities of long-term debt for the next five years are $677 million in 2009, $496 million in 2010, $16 million in 2011, $409 million in 2012 and $505 million in 2013.

 

During the fourth quarter of 2008, the Corporation issued $500 million 7.5% Notes due November 1, 2018. The Corporation used the net proceeds to reduce borrowings under its commercial paper program.

 

During the third quarter of 2007, the Corporation issued $450 million Floating Rate Notes due July 30, 2010; $950 million 6.125% Notes due August 1, 2017; and $700 million 6.625% Notes due August 1, 2037. The Corporation used the net proceeds from the issuance of these notes primarily to fund the accelerated share repurchase agreement (the “ASR Agreement”) discussed in Note 10. The balance of the net proceeds was used by the Corporation to repay a portion of the long-term debt that matured on August 1, 2007.

 

During the fourth quarter of 2006, the Corporation issued $200 million of dealer remarketable securities that have a final maturity in 2016 (the “securities”). Proceeds from the issuance of the securities in 2006 were used for general corporate purposes and for the reduction of existing short-term indebtedness. Under the terms of the securities, which pay interest at a rate of 4.17 percent plus a market-based credit spread, the remarketing dealer (the “dealer”) has the option to remarket the securities each year through final maturity. At the election of the dealer, the securities were remarketed to third party investors in 2007. The securities were classified as debt payable within one year because, by their terms, they must be remarketed each year to investors or be redeemed by the Corporation.

 

In the fourth quarter of 2008, the dealer exercised its option to remarket the securities for another year. Because of volatility in the credit markets and the unfavorable costs of having the securities remarketed to third party investors at that time, at the Corporation’s request, the dealer remarketed the securities to a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Corporation, which intends to hold them until the next remarketing date in the fourth quarter of 2009. The subsidiary issued commercial paper to fund the investment in these securities. The investment in these securities by the subsidiary and the Corporation’s debt obligation for these securities are eliminated in consolidation.

 

At December 31, 2008, the fair value of the dealer’s option to remarket the securities each year through 2016 is estimated to be $23 million. The Corporation would be obligated to pay the dealer the fair value of its option in the event the securities are not remarketed for any reason other than the dealer’s election not to remarket or the failure of the dealer to successfully remarket the securities if the conditions to a remarketing are satisfied. Management does not expect this contingency to materialize.

 

At December 31, 2008, the Corporation had a $1.33 billion revolving credit facility that is scheduled to expire in September 2012. This facility contains a feature that would allow for increasing it to $1.77 billion. The Corporation maintains the revolving credit facility to manage liquidity needs in the event its access to the commercial paper markets is constrained for any reason. The Corporation did not experience any difficulty in issuing commercial paper in 2008 despite the current constrained credit environment in the United States. The Corporation did not borrow any amounts under the revolving credit facility in 2008.

 

As a result of the consolidation of the Financing Entities discussed in Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, the Corporation recorded monetization loans, which at December 31, 2008 have a carrying amount of $614 million and an estimated fair value of $610 million. The loans mature during the third quarter of 2009, and bear interest at 3-month LIBOR plus 75 basis points, which is payable quarterly.

 

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Debt payable within one year is as follows:

 

     December 31
         2008            2007    
     (Millions of dollars)

Commercial paper

   $ 218    $ 644

Other short-term debt

     188      213
             

Total short-term debt

     406      857

Current portion of long-term debt—monetization loans

     614      —  

Current portion of other long-term debt

     63      241
             

Total

   $ 1,083    $ 1,098
             

 

At December 31, 2008 and 2007, the weighted-average interest rate for commercial paper was 0.5 percent and 4.5 percent, respectively.

 

Note 7.    Redeemable Preferred Securities of Subsidiary

 

In February 2001, the Corporation and a non-affiliated third party entity (the “Third Party”) formed a Luxembourg-based financing subsidiary, which is a variable interest entity. Since its inception, the Corporation has been the primary beneficiary of the entity and has consolidated the subsidiary in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

In December 2007, the contractual arrangements among the Corporation, the Third Party and the subsidiary were restructured. In conjunction with the restructuring, the Third Party invested an additional $172 million in the subsidiary. Following the restructuring, the Third Party has investments in two classes of voting-preferred securities issued by the subsidiary (the “Preferred Securities”). The two classes of Preferred Securities, Class A-1 and Class A-2, have a par value of $500 million each for an aggregate of $1 billion. The Preferred Securities represent 98 percent of the voting power of the subsidiary. The Class A-1 and Class A-2 Preferred Securities accrue a fixed annual rate of return of 5.074 percent and 5.417 percent, respectively, which is paid on a quarterly basis. Prior to the restructuring, the annual rate of return on preferred securities of the subsidiary held by the Third Party accrued but was not currently payable. The Class A-1 Preferred Securities are redeemable by the subsidiary in December 2011 and on each seven-year anniversary thereafter, at par value plus any accrued but unpaid return. The Class A-2 Preferred Securities are redeemable in December 2014 and on each seven-year anniversary thereafter, at par value plus any accrued but unpaid return. The Corporation has made no noncontractual financial or other support to the subsidiary during its existence.

 

The subsidiary also has issued voting-preferred and common securities to the Corporation for total cash proceeds of $500 million. These securities are entitled to a combined two percent vote, and the common securities are entitled to all of the residual equity after satisfaction of the preferred interests.

 

Approximately 98 percent of the total cash contributed to the entity has been loaned to the Corporation. These long-term loans bear fixed annual interest rates. The funds remaining in the financing subsidiary are invested in equity-based exchange-traded funds. In December 2007, in connection with the restructuring, the Corporation performed a new primary beneficiary analysis of the variable interest entity pursuant to the requirements of FIN 46(R). Under the structure of the entity, all variability arising from the investments in the equity-based exchange-traded funds is absorbed by the Corporation. The Corporation’s credit default risk on its borrowings from the subsidiary is absorbed by the third party. Because the Corporation absorbs the majority of the variability created in the subsidiary, the Corporation is the primary beneficiary of the subsidiary and,

 

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accordingly, consolidates the subsidiary in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements. The preferred and common securities of the subsidiary held by the Corporation and the intercompany loans have been eliminated in consolidation. The return on the Preferred Securities is included in minority owners’ share of subsidiaries’ net income in the Corporation’s Consolidated Income Statement. The increase in the balance of the redeemable preferred securities in 2007 is due to the additional Third Party investment mentioned above and the accrued 2007 return on the Third Party investment that was not paid in 2007. The Preferred Securities, which have a carrying amount of $1,011 million and an estimated fair value of $1,015 million at December 31, 2008, are shown as redeemable preferred securities of subsidiary on the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

 

The Redeemable Preferred Securities are not traded in active markets. Accordingly, their fair values were calculated using a pricing model that compares the stated spread to the fair value spread to determine the price at which each of the financial instruments should trade. The model uses the following inputs to calculate fair values: current benchmark rate, fair value spread, stated spread, maturity date and interest payment dates.

 

Neither the Third Party nor creditors of the subsidiary have recourse to the general credit of the Corporation. If the Corporation’s credit rating of A is downgraded below BBB- or Baa3, or if the Third Party elects to have its preferred securities redeemed on the specified redemption dates, then the loans to the Corporation would become payable to the financing subsidiary to the extent necessary to enable the financing subsidiary to pay the redemption value.

 

Note 8.    Stock-Based Compensation

 

The Corporation has a stock-based Equity Participation Plan and an Outside Directors’ Compensation Plan (the “Plans”), under which it can grant stock options, restricted shares and restricted share units to employees and outside directors. As of December 31, 2008, the number of shares of common stock available for grants under the Plans aggregated 17.6 million shares.

 

Stock options are granted at an exercise price equal to the market value of the Corporation’s common stock on the date of grant, and they have a term of 10 years. Stock options granted to employees in the U.S. are subject to graded vesting whereby options vest 30 percent at the end of each of the first two 12-month periods following the grant and 40 percent at the end of the third 12-month period. Options granted to certain non-U.S. employees cliff vest at the end of three or four years.

 

Restricted shares, time-based restricted share units and performance-based restricted share units granted to employees are valued at the closing market price of the Corporation’s common stock on the grant date and generally vest over three to five years. The number of performance-based share units that ultimately vest ranges from zero to 150 percent of the number granted, based on performance tied to return on invested capital (“ROIC”) and net sales during the three-year performance period. ROIC and net sales targets are set at the beginning of the performance period. Restricted share units granted to outside directors are valued at the closing market price of the Corporation’s common stock on the grant date and vest when they are granted. The restricted period begins on the date of grant and expires on the date the outside director retires from or otherwise terminates service on the Corporation’s Board.

 

At the time stock options are exercised or restricted shares and restricted share units become payable, common stock is issued from the Corporation’s accumulated treasury shares. Cash dividends are paid on restricted shares, and cash dividends or dividend equivalents are paid or credited on restricted share units, on the same date and at the same rate as dividends are paid on the Corporation’s common stock. These cash dividends and dividend equivalents, net of estimated forfeitures, are charged to retained earnings. Previously paid cash dividends on subsequently forfeited restricted share units are charged to compensation expense.

 

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Stock-based compensation costs of $47 million, $63 million and $67 million and related deferred income tax benefits of approximately $15 million, $20 million and $24 million were recognized for 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

 

The fair value of stock option awards was determined using a Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model utilizing a range of assumptions related to dividend yield, volatility, risk-free interest rate, and employee exercise behavior. Dividend yield is based on historical experience and expected future dividend actions. Expected volatility is based on a blend of historical volatility and implied volatility from traded options on the Corporation’s common stock. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. The Corporation estimates forfeitures based on historical data.

 

The weighted-average fair value of the options granted in 2008, 2007 and 2006 was estimated at $6.22, $11.21 and $10.10, respectively, per option on the date of grant based on the following assumptions:

 

     2008     2007     2006  

Dividend yield

   4.10 %   3.20 %   3.50 %

Volatility

   14.90 %   15.19 %   17.84 %

Risk-free interest rate

   3.19 %   4.62 %   5.04 %

Expected life—years

   6.4     6.4     6.0  

 

As of December 31, 2008, the total remaining unrecognized compensation costs and amortization period are as follows:

 

     Millions
of dollars
   Weighted-
Average
Service
Years

Nonvested stock options

   $ 28    0.8

Restricted shares and time-based restricted share units

   $ 22    1.1

Nonvested performance-based restricted share units

   $ 7    1.0

 

SFAS No. 123(R), Share-Based Payment, (“SFAS 123(R)”), requires the cash flow tax benefits resulting from tax deductions in excess of the compensation cost recognized (excess tax benefits) to be classified as financing cash flows. Excess tax benefits aggregating $8 million, $22 million and $26 million were classified as Other cash inflows under Financing Activities for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

 

The Corporation elected, for all stock option awards granted on or after January 1, 2006, to recognize compensation cost on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award as permitted by SFAS 123(R). For options granted prior to adoption of SFAS 123(R), which were unvested at December 31, 2005, compensation cost is recognized on an accelerated method as required by SFAS No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

A summary of stock-based compensation under the Plans as of December 31, 2008 and the activity during the year then ended is presented below:

 

Stock Options

   Shares
(000’s)
    Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
   Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
   Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
     (Millions of dollars)

Outstanding at January 1, 2008

   27,079     $ 60.98      

Granted

   3,163       63.98      

Exercised

   (2,019 )     54.85      

Forfeited or expired

   (1,309 )     67.20      
              

Outstanding at December 31, 2008

   26,914       61.49    5.2    $ 23
                  

Exercisable at December 31, 2008

   19,783       60.02    4.1    $ 23
                  

 

The following summarizes the effect of the exercises of stock options for each year presented:

 

      2008    2007    2006
     (Millions of dollars)

Cash received

   $ 113    $ 349    $ 331

Income tax benefit received

     11      30      22

Intrinsic value

     18      86      86

 

      Restricted Shares    Time-Based
Restricted Share
Units
   Performance-Based
Restricted Share

Units

Other Stock-Based Awards

   Shares
(000’s)
    Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
   Shares
(000’s)
    Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
   Shares
(000’s)
    Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value

Nonvested at January 1, 2008

   348     $ 50.30    1,192     $ 62.47    608     $ 64.05

Granted

   —         —      181       61.99    891       63.74

Vested

   (250 )     44.54    (318 )     57.48    (277 )     61.70

Forfeited

   (8 )     58.89    (38 )     62.39    (39 )     63.82
                          

Nonvested at December 31, 2008

   90       64.21    1,017       63.90    1,183       64.37
                          

 

The total fair value of restricted shares and restricted share units that became vested during 2008, 2007 and 2006 was $56 million, $30 million and $16 million, respectively.

 

Note 9.    Employee Postretirement Benefits

 

Pension Plans

 

Substantially all regular employees in North America and the U.K. are covered by defined benefit pension plans (the “Principal Plans”) and/or defined contribution retirement plans. Certain other subsidiaries have defined benefit pension plans or, in certain countries, termination pay plans covering substantially all regular employees. The funding policy for the qualified defined benefit plans in North America and the defined benefit plans in the

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

U.K. is to contribute assets at least equal in amount to regulatory minimum requirements. Nonqualified U.S. plans providing pension benefits in excess of limitations imposed by the U.S. income tax code are not funded. Funding for the remaining defined benefit plans outside the U.S. is based on legal requirements, tax considerations, investment opportunities, and customary business practices in these countries.

 

Other Postretirement Benefit Plans

 

Substantially all U.S. retirees and employees are covered by unfunded health care and life insurance benefit plans. Certain benefits are based on years of service and/or age at retirement. The plans are principally noncontributory for employees who were eligible to retire before 1993 and contributory for most employees who retire after 1992, except that the Corporation provides no subsidized benefits to most employees hired after 2003.

 

In the U.S., health care benefit costs are capped and indexed by 3 percent annually for certain employees retiring on or before April 1, 2004. The Corporation’s future cost for retiree health care benefits is limited to a defined fixed cost based on the years of service for certain employees retiring after April 1, 2004. The annual increase in the consolidated weighted-average health care cost trend rate is expected to be 7.5 percent in 2009, 6.5 percent in 2010 and to decline to 5.2 percent in 2012 and thereafter.

 

Summarized financial information about postretirement plans, excluding defined contribution retirement plans, is presented below:

 

     Pension Benefits     Other Benefits  
     Year Ended December 31  
     2008     2007     2008     2007  
     (Millions of dollars)  

Change in Benefit Obligation

        

Benefit obligation at beginning of year

   $ 5,459     $ 5,688     $ 858     $ 867  

Service cost

     73       81       15       15  

Interest cost

     324       315       49       50  

Actuarial (gain) loss

     (144 )     (339 )     (58 )     (16 )

Currency and other

     (391 )     66       4       19  

Benefit payments from plans

     (339 )     (337 )     —         —    

Direct benefit payments

     (14 )     (15 )     (73 )     (77 )
                                

Benefit obligation at end of year

     4,968       5,459       795       858  
                                

Change in Plan Assets

        

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

     4,706       4,605       —         —    

Actual (loss) gain on plan assets

     (1,090 )     294       —         —    

Employer contributions

     129       98       —         —    

Currency and other

     (305 )     46       —         —    

Benefit payments

     (339 )     (337 )     —         —    
                                

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

     3,101       4,706       —         —    
                                

Funded Status

   $ (1,867 )   $ (753 )   $ (795 )   $ (858 )
                                

Amounts Recognized in the Balance Sheet

        

Noncurrent asset—Prepaid benefit cost

   $ 3     $ 20     $ —       $ —    

Current liability—Accrued benefit cost

     (9 )     (8 )     (70 )     (76 )

Noncurrent liability—Accrued benefit cost

     (1,861 )     (765 )     (725 )     (782 )
                                

Net amount recognized

   $ (1,867 )   $ (753 )   $ (795 )   $ (858 )
                                

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

The Corporation uses December 31 as the measurement date for all of its postretirement plans.

 

Information for the Principal Plans and All Other Pension Plans

 

     Principal Plans    All Other
Pension Plans
   Total
     Year Ended December 31
     2008    2007    2008    2007    2008    2007
     (Millions of dollars)

Projected benefit obligation (“PBO”)

   $ 4,568    $ 5,025    $ 400    $ 434    $ 4,968    $ 5,459

ABO

     4,308      4,738      348      380      4,656      5,118

Fair value of plan assets

     2,817      4,359      284      347      3,101      4,706

 

Information for Pension Plans with an ABO in Excess of Plan Assets

 

     December 31
     2008    2007
     (Millions of dollars)

PBO

   $ 4,877    $ 5,055

ABO

     4,599      4,765

Fair value of plan assets

     3,013      4,304

 

Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost

 

     Pension Benefits     Other Benefits
     Year Ended December 31
     2008     2007     2006     2008     2007    2006
     (Millions of dollars)

Service cost

   $ 73     $ 81     $ 87     $ 15     $ 15    $ 16

Interest cost

     324       315       298       49       50      48

Expected return on plan assets(a)

     (370 )     (372 )     (337 )     —         —        —  

Amortization of prior service cost and transition amount

     6       7       8       2       2      2

Recognized net actuarial loss

     56       77       101       1       5      4

Other

     8       12       10       (1 )     —        3
                                             

Net periodic benefit cost

   $ 97     $ 120     $ 167     $ 66     $ 72    $ 73
                                             

 

(a) The expected return on plan assets is determined by multiplying the fair value of plan assets at the prior year-end (adjusted for estimated current year cash benefit payments and contributions) by the expected long-term rate of return.

 

Weighted-Average Assumptions used to determine Net Cost for years ended December 31

 

     Pension Benefits     Other Benefits  
     2008     2007     2006     2008     2007     2006  

Discount rate

   6.14 %   5.64 %   5.47 %   6.24 %   5.84 %   5.68 %

Expected long-term return on plan assets

   8.23 %   8.27 %   8.28 %   —       —       —    

Rate of compensation increase

   3.99 %   3.90 %   3.68 %   —       —       —    

 

Weighted-Average Assumptions used to determine Benefit Obligations at December 31

 

    

Pension Benefits

    Other Benefits  
     2008     2007     2008     2007  

Discount rate

   6.40 %   6.14 %   6.50 %   6.24 %

Rate of compensation increase

   3.94 %   3.99 %   —       —    

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Expected Long-Term Rate of Return and Investment Strategies for the Principal Plans

 

The expected long-term rate of return is evaluated on an annual basis. In setting this assumption, the Corporation considers a number of factors including projected future returns by asset class, current asset allocation and historical long-term market performance. As part of the factors related to historical market performance, the Corporation considered the range of compounded annual returns for 15 rolling 15-year and 20-year periods through 2008 relative to each plan’s current asset allocation.

 

The weighted-average expected long-term rate of return on pension fund assets used to calculate pension expense for the Principal Plans was 8.48 percent in 2008 compared with 8.50 percent in 2007 and will be 8.47 percent in 2009. The expected long-term rate of return on the assets in the Principal Plans is based on an asset allocation assumption of about 70 percent with equity managers, with expected long-term rates of return ranging from 9 to 10 percent, and about 30 percent with fixed income managers, with an expected long-term rate of return ranging from 6 to 7 percent. Actual asset allocation is regularly reviewed and it is periodically rebalanced to the targeted allocation when considered appropriate. Long-term rate of return assumptions continue to be evaluated at least annually and are adjusted as necessary.

 

Plan Assets

 

The Corporation’s pension plan asset allocations for its Principal Plans are as follows:

 

Asset Category

   Target
Allocation
2009
    Percentage of Plan
Assets
at December 31
 
     2008     2007  

Equity securities

   71 %   68 %   69 %

Debt securities

   29     32     31  
                  

Total

   100 %   100 %   100 %
                  

 

The plan assets did not include a significant amount of the Corporation’s common stock.

 

Cash Flows

 

The Corporation currently expects to contribute about $530 million to its pension plans in 2009.

 

Estimated Future Benefit Payments

 

Over the next ten years, the Corporation expects to make the following gross benefit payments and receive related Medicare Part D reimbursements:

 

      Pension Benefits    Other Benefits    Medicare Part D
Reimbursements
 
     (Millions of dollars)  

2009

   $ 330    $ 85    $ (4 )

2010

     332      85      (4 )

2011

     332      85      (4 )

2012

     337      83      (4 )

2013

     345      84      (4 )

2014 – 2018

     1,900      469      (24 )

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Health Care Cost Trends

 

Assumed health care cost trend rates affect the amounts reported for postretirement health care benefit plans. A one-percentage-point change in assumed health care trend rates would have the following effects on 2008 data:

 

     One-Percentage-Point
     Increase    Decrease
     (Millions of dollars)

Effect on total of service and interest cost components

   $ 3    $ 2

Effect on postretirement benefit obligation

     30      28

 

Defined Contribution Retirement Plans

 

Contributions to defined contribution retirement plans are primarily based on the age and compensation of covered employees. The Corporation’s contributions, all of which were charged to expense, were $61 million, $56 million, and $55 million in 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

 

Investment Plans

 

Voluntary contribution investment plans are provided to substantially all North American and most European employees. Under the plans, the Corporation matches a portion of employee contributions. Costs charged to expense under the plans were $33 million, $31 million and $30 million in 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

 

Note 10.    Stockholders’ Equity

 

On September 14, 2006, the Board of Directors authorized the retirement of 90 million shares of treasury stock, which became authorized but unissued shares.

 

On July 23, 2007, the Corporation entered into the ASR Agreement through which it purchased $2 billion of outstanding shares of its common stock. Under the ASR Agreement, the Corporation purchased approximately 29.6 million shares of its common stock from Bank of America, N.A. (“Bank of America”) at an initial purchase price of $67.48 per share. These repurchased shares were classified as treasury shares.

 

Bank of America was expected to repurchase an equivalent number of shares in the open market during the period from July 26, 2007 to June 20, 2008 (the “Repurchase Period”). The ASR Agreement included a provision that allowed Bank of America, at its discretion, to accelerate the program so that the Repurchase Period could end as early as March 10, 2008. The initial purchase price per share was subject to an adjustment based on the volume weighted average price per share of the Corporation’s shares of common stock during the Repurchase Period.

 

On March 10, 2008, Bank of America notified the Corporation of its election to exercise the option for early settlement of the ASR Agreement. As a result of this settlement, Bank of America paid the Corporation approximately $5 million, which reduced the overall cost to acquire the shares.

 

At December 31, 2008, unremitted net income of equity companies included in consolidated retained earnings was about $882 million.

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

 

The changes in the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are as follows:

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     2008     2007    2006  
     Pretax
Amount
    Tax
Effect
    Net
Amount
    Pretax
Amount
   Tax
Effect
    Net
Amount
   Pretax
Amount
    Tax
Effect
    Net
Amount
 
     (Millions of dollars)  

Unrealized translation

   $ (900 )   $ —       $ (900 )   $ 365    $ —       $ 365    $ 440     $ —       $ 440  

Minimum pension liability

     n/a       n/a       n/a       n/a      n/a       n/a      331       (128 )     203  

Unrecognized net actuarial

loss and transition amount:

                    

Pension benefits

     (1,141 )     429       (712 )     325      (107 )     218      n/a       n/a       n/a  

Other postretirement

benefits

     61       (46 )     15       20      20       40      n/a       n/a       n/a  

Unrecognized prior service cost:

                    

Pension benefits

     12       (3 )     9       11      (4 )     7      n/a       n/a       n/a  

Other postretirement

benefits

     2       (1 )     1       2      (1 )     1      n/a       n/a       n/a  

Deferred (losses) gains on

cash flow hedges

     6       (8 )     (2 )     6      4       10      (16 )     5       (11 )

Unrealized holding gains

(losses) on securities

     (7 )     1       (6 )     —        —         —        —         —         —    
                                                                      

Other comprehensive
income (loss)

   $ (1,967 )   $ 372     $ (1,595 )   $ 729    $ (88 )   $ 641    $ 755     $ (123 )   $ 632  
                                                                      

Adoption of SFAS 158(a)

     n/a       n/a       n/a       n/a      n/a       n/a      (618 )     223       (395 )
                                                                      

Change in accumulated other

comprehensive income (loss)

   $ (1,967 )   $ 372     $ (1,595 )   $ 729    $ (88 )   $ 641    $ 137     $ 100     $ 237  
                                                                      

 

n/a – not applicable

 

(a) Set forth below is detailed information concerning the adoption of SFAS 158:

 

     Year Ended
December 31, 2006
 
     Pretax
Amount
    Tax
Effect
    Net
Amount
 
     (Millions of dollars)  

Reversal of minimum pension liability

   $ 1,055     $ (370 )   $ 685  

Unrecognized net actuarial loss and transition amount:

      

Pension benefits

     (1,446 )     508       (938 )

Other postretirement benefits

     (149 )     56       (93 )

Unrecognized prior service cost:

      

Pension benefits

     (53 )     19       (34 )

Other postretirement benefits

     (25 )     10       (15 )
                        

Adoption of SFAS 158

   $ (618 )   $ 223     $ (395 )
                        

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Effective December 31, 2006, the Corporation adopted SFAS No. 158, Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans (“SFAS 158”). SFAS 158 required the Corporation to record a transition adjustment to recognize the funded status of postretirement defined benefit plans—measured as the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the benefit obligations—in its balance sheet after adjusting for derecognition of the Corporation’s minimum pension liability as of December 31, 2006.

 

The detailed statement of other comprehensive income (loss) for 2008 is presented below:

 

     Year Ended
December 31, 2008
 
     Pretax
Amount
    Tax
Effect
    Net
Amount
 
     (Millions of dollars)  

Unrealized translation

   $ (900 )   $ —       $ (900 )
                        

Defined benefit pension plans:

      

Unrecognized net actuarial loss and transition amount

      

Funded status recognition

     (1,292 )     478       (814 )

Amortization included in net periodic benefit cost

     56       (19 )     37  

Currency and other

     95       (30 )     65  
                        
     (1,141 )     429       (712 )
                        

Unrecognized prior service cost

      

Funded status recognition

     3       —         3  

Amortization included in net periodic benefit cost

     6       (3 )     3  

Currency and other

     3       —         3  
                        
     12       (3 )     9  
                        
     (1,129 )     426       (703 )
                        

Other postretirement defined benefit plans:

      

Unrecognized net actuarial loss and transition amount

      

Funded status recognition

     58       (26 )     32  

Amortization included in net periodic benefit cost

     1       (1 )     —    

Currency and other

     2       (19 )     (17 )
                        
     61       (46 )     15  
                        

Unrecognized prior service cost

      

Amortization included in net periodic benefit cost

     2       (1 )     1  
                        
     63       (47 )     16  
                        

Cash flow hedges and other:

      

Recognition of effective portion of hedges

     6       (7 )     (1 )

Amortization included in net income

     1       1       2  

Currency and other

     (8 )     (1 )     (9 )
                        
     (1 )     (7 )     (8 )
                        

Other comprehensive income (loss)

   $ (1,967 )   $ 372     $ (1,595 )
                        

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Accumulated balances of other comprehensive income (loss), net of applicable income taxes are as follows:

 

     December 31  
     2008     2007  
     (Millions of dollars)  

Unrealized translation

   $ (893 )   $ 7  

Unrecognized net actuarial loss and transition amount

     (1,470 )     (773 )

Unrecognized prior service cost

     (31 )     (41 )

Deferred gains on cash flow hedges

     14       16  

Unrealized holding losses on securities

     (6 )     —    
                

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

   $ (2,386 )   $ (791 )
                

 

Net unrealized currency gains or losses resulting from the translation of assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries, except those in highly inflationary economies, are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income. For these operations, changes in exchange rates generally do not affect cash flows; therefore, unrealized translation adjustments are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income rather than net income. Upon sale or substantially complete liquidation of any of these subsidiaries, the applicable unrealized translation adjustment would be removed from accumulated other comprehensive income and reported as part of the gain or loss on the sale or liquidation. The change in unrealized translation is primarily due to a strengthening of the U.S. dollar versus the Australian dollar, South Korean won, British pound and Brazilian real.

 

Also included in unrealized translation amounts are the effects of foreign exchange rate changes on intercompany balances of a long-term investment nature and transactions designated as hedges of net foreign investments.

 

Approximately $170 million and $8 million of unrecognized net actuarial loss and unrecognized prior service cost, respectively, is expected to be recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost in 2009.

 

Note 11.    Risk Management

 

As a multinational enterprise, the Corporation is exposed to risks such as changes in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices. The Corporation employs a variety of practices to manage these risks, including operating and financing activities and, where deemed appropriate, the use of derivative instruments. The Corporation’s policies allow the use of derivatives for risk management purposes and prohibit their use for speculation. The Corporation’s policies prohibit the use of any leveraged derivative instrument. Foreign currency derivative instruments, interest rate swaps and natural gas hedging contracts are entered into with major financial institutions. The Corporation’s credit exposure under these arrangements is limited to those agreements with a positive fair value at the reporting date. Credit risk with respect to the counterparties is actively monitored but is not considered significant since these transactions are executed with a diversified group of financial institutions.

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Set forth below is a summary of the fair values of the Corporation’s derivative instruments classified by the risks they are used to manage as of December 31, 2008.

 

     Assets    Liabilities
     2008    2007    2008    2007
     (Millions of dollars)

Foreign currency exchange risk

   $ 114    $ 21    $ 32    $ 23

Interest rate risk

     3      16      —        —  

Commodity price risk

     —        —        19      1
                           

Total

   $ 117    $ 37    $ 51    $ 24
                           

 

Foreign Currency Exchange Risk Management

 

Foreign currency exchange risk is managed by the systematic use of foreign currency forward and swap contracts for a portion of the Corporation’s exposures. The use of these instruments allows the management of transactional exposures to exchange rate fluctuations because the gains or losses incurred on the derivative instruments will offset, in whole or in part, losses or gains on the underlying foreign currency exposure.

 

Foreign Currency Translation Risk Management

 

Translation adjustments result from translating foreign entities’ financial statements to U.S. dollars from their functional currencies. Translation exposure, which results from changes in translation rates between functional currencies and the U.S. dollar, generally is not hedged. There are no net investment hedges in place at December 31, 2008. The risk to any particular entity’s net assets is minimized to the extent that the entity is financed with local currency borrowing.

 

Interest Rate Risk Management

 

Interest rate risk is managed using a portfolio of variable- and fixed-rate debt composed of short- and long-term instruments and interest rate swaps. The objective is to maintain a cost-effective mix that management deems appropriate.

 

Commodity Price Risk Management

 

The Corporation is subject to commodity price risk, the most significant of which relates to the prices of pulp, polypropylene, petroleum and natural gas.

 

Selling prices of tissue products are influenced, in part, by the market price for pulp, which is determined by industry supply and demand. On a worldwide basis, the Corporation sources approximately 8 percent of its virgin fiber needs from internal pulp manufacturing operations. Increases in pulp prices could adversely affect earnings if selling prices are not adjusted or if such adjustments significantly trail the increases in pulp prices. Derivative instruments have not been used to manage pulp price risk.

 

Polypropylene is subject to price fluctuations based on changes in petroleum prices, availability and other factors. A number of the Corporation’s products, such as diapers, training and youth pants, and incontinence care products contain certain polypropylene materials. The Corporation purchases these materials from a number of suppliers. Significant increases in prices for these materials could adversely affect the Corporation’s earnings if selling prices for its finished products are not adjusted or if adjustments significantly trail the increases in prices for these materials. Derivative instruments have not been used to manage these risks.

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

The Corporation’s distribution costs for its finished products are subject to fluctuations in petroleum prices and other factors. The Corporation utilizes a number of providers of transportation services. Significant increases in prices for these services could adversely affect the Corporation’s earnings if selling prices for its finished products are not adjusted or if adjustments significantly trail the increases in prices for these services. Derivative instruments have not been used to manage these risks.

 

The Corporation uses derivative financial instruments to offset a substantial portion of its exposure to market risk arising from changes in the price of natural gas. Hedging of this risk is accomplished by entering into forward swap contracts, which are designated as hedges of specific quantities of natural gas expected to be purchased in future months. These readily marketable swap contracts are recorded in the Corporation’s Consolidated Balance Sheet at fair value. On the date the derivative contract is entered into, the Corporation formally documents and designates the swap contract as a cash flow hedge, including how the effectiveness of the hedge will be measured. This process links the swap contract to specific forecasted transactions. Changes in their fair values are recorded in other comprehensive income, net of related income taxes, and recognized in income at the time the cost of the natural gas is recognized in income.

 

Effect of Derivative Instruments on Results of Operations and Other Comprehensive Income

 

Fair Value Hedges

 

The Corporation’s fair value hedges offset the effect of the hedged items in 2008, 2007 and 2006, resulting in no effect on income.

 

Cash Flow Hedges

 

The effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges is initially recorded in other comprehensive income and is subsequently recognized in income when the hedged exposure affects income. The Corporation’s cash flow hedges resulted in no significant ineffectiveness in 2008, 2007 and 2006 and consequently resulted in no significant effect on income. During the same period in which the hedged forecasted transactions affected earnings, the Corporation reclassified $2 million, $18 million and $14 million of after-tax losses in 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively, from accumulated other comprehensive income to earnings. At December 31, 2008, the Corporation expects to reclassify $16 million of after-tax losses from accumulated other comprehensive income primarily to cost of sales during the next twelve months, consistent with the timing of the underlying hedged transactions. The maximum maturity of cash flow derivatives in place at December 31, 2008 is December 2010.

 

Net Investment Hedges

 

In 2008 and 2007, the Corporation hedged a portion of its investment position in one of its equity affiliates. Under SFAS 133, changes in the fair value of the derivative instruments are recognized in other comprehensive income to offset the change in value of the net investment being hedged. The net investment hedges were closed out in December 2008 and 2007.

 

Note 12.    Real Estate Entities

 

The Corporation participates in the U.S. affordable housing and historic renovation real estate markets. Investments in these markets are encouraged by laws enacted by the U.S. Congress and related federal income tax rules and regulations. Accordingly, these investments generate income tax credits and tax losses that are used to reduce the Corporation’s income tax liabilities. The Corporation invested in these markets through

 

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(i) investments in wholly-owned or majority-owned entities, (ii) limited liability companies as a nonmanaging member and (iii) investments in various funds in which the Corporation is one of many noncontrolling investors. The entities borrow money from third parties generally on a nonrecourse basis and invest in and own various real estate projects.

 

Consolidated Variable Interest Entities

 

Certain of the real estate entities are variable interest entities, which under FIN 46(R) are required to be consolidated because the Corporation is the primary beneficiary of them. The assets of the variable interest entities are classified principally as property, plant and equipment and have a carrying amount aggregating $5 million at December 31, 2008. The assets serve as collateral for the obligations of these ventures. The carrying amount of these obligations aggregated $4 million, of which $1 million is included in debt payable within one year and $3 million is included in long-term debt. The fair value of these obligations is estimated at $3 million at December 31, 2008. The Corporation determined that it was the primary beneficiary of these variable interest entities based on quantitative analyses, which indicated that the Corporation had the majority of the cash flow variability in these entities.

 

Consolidated Voting Interest Entities

 

The Corporation also consolidates certain other real estate entities pursuant to SFAS No. 94, Consolidation of All Majority-Owned Subsidiaries. The assets of these entities are classified principally as property, plant and equipment and have a carrying amount aggregating $142 million at December 31, 2008. The assets serve as collateral for the obligations of these ventures. The carrying amount of these obligations aggregated $103 million of which $24 million is included in debt payable within one year and $79 million is included in long-term debt. The fair value of these obligations was $95 million at December 31, 2008.

 

Neither the creditors nor the other beneficial interest holders of these consolidated ventures have recourse to the general credit of the Corporation, except for $25 million of permanent financing debt, which is guaranteed by the Corporation. As of December 31, 2008, the Corporation has earned income tax credits totaling approximately $90 million on its consolidated real estate entities.

 

Nonconsolidated Variable Interest Entities

 

The Corporation has significant interests in other variable interest real estate entities. The Corporation determined that it was not the primary beneficiary of these entities based on both quantitative and qualitative analyses, as appropriate, which indicated that the Corporation did not have the majority of the cash flow variability in these entities. The Corporation has made noncontractual cash infusions to certain of the entities aggregating $7 million principally to protect tax credits from being recaptured. The Corporation accounts for its interests in its nonconsolidated real estate entities by the equity method of accounting or by the effective yield method, as appropriate, and has accounted for the related income tax credits and other tax benefits as a reduction in its income tax provision. As of December 31, 2008, the Corporation had net equity of $10 million in its nonconsolidated real estate entities. As of December 31, 2008, the Corporation has earned income tax credits totaling approximately $90 million on these nonconsolidated real estate entities. As of December 31, 2008, total permanent financing debt for the nonconsolidated entities was $259 million. A total of $22 million of the permanent financing debt is guaranteed by the Corporation and the remainder of this debt is secured solely by the properties and is nonrecourse to the Corporation. At December 31, 2008, the Corporation’s maximum loss exposure for its nonconsolidated real estate entities is estimated to be $51 million and is comprised of its net equity in these entities of $10 million, its permanent financing guarantees of $22 million, and income tax credit recapture risk of $19 million.

 

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If the Corporation’s investments in all of its real estate entities were to be disposed of at their carrying amounts, a portion of the tax credits may be recaptured and may result in a charge to earnings. As of December 31, 2008, this recapture risk is estimated to be $46 million. The Corporation has no current intention of disposing of these investments during the recapture period, nor does it anticipate the need to do so in the foreseeable future in order to satisfy any anticipated liquidity need. Accordingly, the recapture risk is considered to be remote.

 

Note 13.    Leases and Commitments

 

Leases

 

The Corporation has entered into operating leases for certain warehouse facilities, automobiles and equipment. The future minimum obligations under operating leases having a noncancelable term in excess of one year as of December 31, 2008 are as follows:

 

         Millions    

Year Ending December 31:

  

2009

   $ 142

2010

     114

2011

     98

2012

     80

2013

     65

Thereafter

     189
      

Future minimum obligations

   $ 688
      

 

Certain operating leases contain residual value guarantees, which provide that if the Corporation does not purchase the leased property from the lessor at the end of the lease term, the Corporation is liable to the lessor for the shortfall, if any, between the proceeds from the sale of the property and an agreed value. At December 31, 2008, the maximum amount of the residual value guarantee was approximately $18 million. Management expects the proceeds from the sale of the properties under the operating leases will exceed the agreed values.

 

Operating lease obligations have been reduced by approximately $3 million for rental income from noncancelable sublease agreements.

 

Consolidated rental expense under operating leases was $316 million, $271 million and $228 million in 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

 

Purchase Commitments

 

The Corporation has entered into long-term contracts for the purchase of pulp and utilities, principally electricity. Commitments under these contracts based on current prices are approximately $674 million in 2009, $493 million in 2010, $445 million in 2011, $78 million in 2012 and $75 million in 2013. Total commitments beyond the year 2013 are $232 million.

 

Although the Corporation is primarily liable for payments on the above-mentioned leases and purchase commitments, its exposure to losses, if any, under these arrangements is not material.

 

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Note 14.    Contingencies and Legal Matters

 

Litigation

 

The following is a brief description of certain legal and administrative proceedings to which the Corporation or its subsidiaries is a party or to which the Corporation’s or its subsidiaries’ properties are subject. In management’s opinion, none of the legal and administrative proceedings described below, individually or in the aggregate, is expected to have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

 

Contingency

 

One of the Corporation’s North American tissue mills has an agreement to provide its local utility company a specified amount of electric power for each of the next eight years. In the event that the mill was shut down, the Corporation would be required to continue to operate the power generation facility on behalf of its owner, the local utility company. The net present value of the cost to fulfill this agreement as of December 31, 2008 is estimated to be approximately $117 million. Management considers the probability of closure of this mill to be remote.

 

Environmental Matters

 

The Corporation has been named as a potentially responsible party under the provisions of the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, or analogous state statutes, at a number of waste disposal sites, none of which, individually or in the aggregate, in management’s opinion, is likely to have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

 

In May 2007, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Corporation was served a summons in Pennsylvania state court by the Delaware County Regional Water Quality Authority (“Delcora”). Also in May 2007, Delcora initiated an administrative action against the Corporation. Delcora is a public agency that operates a sewerage system and a wastewater treatment facility serving industrial and municipal customers, including Kimberly-Clark’s Chester Mill. Delcora also regulates the discharge of wastewater from the Chester Mill. Delcora has alleged in the summons and the administrative action that the Corporation underreported the quantity of effluent discharged to Delcora from the Chester Mill for several years due to an inaccurate effluent metering device and owes additional amounts. The Corporation’s action for declaratory judgment in the Federal District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania was dismissed in December 2007 on grounds of abstention. The Corporation appealed this dismissal to the Third Circuit Court of Appeals. The Third Circuit directed the parties to mediation, which during the third quarter of 2008 resulted in a procedural agreement to appoint a neutral and qualified hearing officer. As a result of this arrangement with Delcora, the Corporation has dismissed its appeal to the Third Circuit. The Corporation continues to believe that Delcora’s allegations lack merit and is vigorously defending against Delcora’s actions. In management’s opinion, this matter is not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

 

Note 15.    Synthetic Fuel Partnerships

 

The Corporation had minority interests in two synthetic fuel partnerships. Although these partnerships were variable interest entities that were subject to the requirements of FIN 46(R), the Corporation was not the primary beneficiary, and the entities were not consolidated. Synthetic fuel produced by the partnerships was eligible for synthetic fuel tax credits through 2007; the partnerships were dissolved in 2008 at no cost to the Corporation. In

 

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addition, there were tax deductions for pretax losses generated by the partnerships that were reported as nonoperating expense in the Corporation’s Consolidated Income Statement. Both the credits and tax deductions reduced the Corporation’s income tax expense. The effects of these credits and deductions are shown in the following table:

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     2007     2006  
     (Millions of dollars)  

Nonoperating expense

      $ (67 )      $ (66 )

Tax credits

   $ 60      $ 61   

Tax benefit of nonoperating expense

     21      81       26      87  
                              

Net synthetic fuel benefit

      $ 14        $ 21  
                      

Per share basis—diluted

      $ .03        $ .04  
                      

 

The effects of the credits are shown separately in the Corporation’s reconciliation of the U.S. statutory rate to its effective income tax rate in Note 16.

 

Note 16.    Income Taxes

 

An analysis of the provision for income taxes follows:

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     2008    2007     2006  
     (Millions of dollars)  

Current income taxes:

       

United States

   $ 150    $ 296     $ 348  

State

     16      50       33  

Other countries

     301      294       296  
                       

Total

     467      640       677  
                       

Deferred income taxes:

       

United States

     119      (73 )     (145 )

State

     17      9       (10 )

Other countries

     15      (39 )     (53 )
                       

Total

     151      (103 )     (208 )
                       

Total provision for income taxes

   $ 618    $ 537     $ 469  
                       

 

Income before income taxes is earned in the following tax jurisdictions:

 

     Year Ended December 31
     2008    2007    2006
     (Millions of dollars)

United States

   $ 1,261    $ 1,456    $ 1,360

Other countries

     1,028      862      485
                    

Total income before income taxes

   $ 2,289    $ 2,318    $ 1,845
                    

 

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Deferred income tax assets (liabilities) are composed of the following:

 

     December 31  
       2008         2007    
     (Millions of dollars)  

Net current deferred income tax asset attributable to:

    

Accrued expenses

   $ 126     $ 105  

Pension, postretirement and other employee benefits

     77       78  

Inventory

     (52 )     (21 )

Other

     13       63  

Valuation allowances

     (33 )     (8 )
                

Net current deferred income tax asset

   $ 131     $ 217  
                

Net current deferred income tax liability attributable to:

    

Other payables

   $ 1     $ (9 )

Other

     (15 )     (12 )
                

Net current deferred income tax liability

   $ (14 )   $ (21 )
                

Net noncurrent deferred income tax asset attributable to:

    

Income tax loss carryforwards

   $ 244     $ 289  

Foreign tax credits and loss carryforwards

     383       —    

State tax credits

     97       99  

Pension and other postretirement benefits

     835       98  

Accumulated depreciation

     (656 )     (24 )

Installment sales

     (189 )     —    

Other

     (3 )     38  

Valuation allowances

     (286 )     (227 )
                

Net noncurrent deferred income tax asset included in other assets

   $ 425     $ 273  
                

Net noncurrent deferred income tax liability attributable to:

    

Accumulated depreciation

   $ (255 )   $ (935 )

Pension, postretirement and other employee benefits

     73       535  

Foreign tax credits and loss carryforwards

     —         325  

Installment sales

     —         (186 )

Other

     (11 )     (25 )

Valuation allowances

     —         (84 )
                

Net noncurrent deferred income tax liability

   $ (193 )   $ (370 )
                

 

Classification of the components of noncurrent deferred tax assets and liabilities is determined by the Corporation’s net tax position by taxing jurisdiction. At December 31, 2008, the Corporation’s net noncurrent deferred tax position had changed to a net asset of $232 million from a net liability of $97 million at December 31, 2007. The change was primarily due to the recognition of noncurrent deferred tax assets related to the increase in the U.S. noncurrent pension liability of approximately $1.1 billion, which was primarily caused by investment losses on the U.S. defined benefit pension plan assets in 2008.

 

Valuation allowances were unchanged in 2008 and decreased by $52 million in 2007. Valuation allowances at the end of 2008 primarily relate to excess foreign tax credits in the U.S. and income tax loss carryforwards of $811 million, which potentially are not useable primarily in jurisdictions outside the U.S. If not utilized against taxable income, $169 million of the loss carryforwards will expire from 2009 through 2028. The remaining $642 million has no expiration date.

 

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Realization of income tax loss carryforwards is dependent on generating sufficient taxable income prior to expiration of these carryforwards. Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that all of the deferred tax assets, net of applicable valuation allowances, will be realized. The amount of the deferred tax assets considered realizable could be reduced or increased if estimates of future taxable income change during the carryforward period.

 

Presented below is a reconciliation of the income tax provision computed at the U.S. federal statutory tax rate to the provision for income taxes:

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     2008     2007     2006  
     Amount     Percent     Amount     Percent     Amount     Percent  
     (Millions of dollars)  

Income before income taxes

   $ 2,289       $ 2,318       $ 1,845    
                              

Tax at U.S. statutory rate applied to income before income taxes

   $ 801     35.0 %   $ 811     35.0 %   $ 646     35.0 %

State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit

     21     .9       38     1.6       15     .8  

Statutory rates other than U.S. statutory rate

     (56 )   (2.4 )     (46 )   (2.0 )     (20 )   (1.1 )

Net operating losses realized

     (6 )   (.3 )     (63 )   (2.7 )     (8 )   (.4 )

Synthetic fuel credits

     —       —         (60 )   (2.6 )     (61 )   (3.3 )

Recognition of additional prior year foreign tax credits

     —       —         —       —         (36 )   (1.9 )

Other—net(a)

     (142 )   (6.2 )     (143 )   (6.2 )     (67 )   (3.7 )
                                          

Provision for income taxes

   $ 618     27.0 %   $ 537     23.2 %   $ 469     25.4 %
                                          

 

(a) Other – net is comprised of numerous items, none of which is greater than 1.4 percent of income from continuing operations.

 

At December 31, 2008, U.S. income taxes have not been provided on approximately $5.6 billion of unremitted earnings of subsidiaries operating outside the U.S. These earnings, which are considered to be invested indefinitely, would become subject to income tax if they were remitted as dividends, were lent to the Corporation or a U.S. affiliate, or if the Corporation were to sell its stock in the subsidiaries. Determination of the amount of unrecognized deferred U.S. income tax liability on these unremitted earnings is not practicable because of the complexities associated with this hypothetical calculation.

 

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Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes

 

The Corporation adopted Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109, Accounting for Income Taxes (“FIN 48”), effective January 1, 2007. As a result, the Corporation recorded an increase in income tax liabilities for uncertain tax benefits and a decrease in retained earnings of $34 million resulting from a cumulative effect adjustment. As required by FIN 48, the Corporation has classified the amounts recorded for uncertain tax positions in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as other liabilities (non-current) to the extent that payment is not anticipated within one year. Prior year financial statements have not been restated. Presented below is a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of unrecognized income tax benefits:

 

          2008             2007      
     (Millions of dollars)  

Balance at January 1

   $ 438     $ 491  

Gross increases for tax positions of prior years

     62       35  

Gross decreases for tax positions of prior years

     (96 )     (23 )

Gross increases for tax positions of the current year

     68       40  

Settlements

     (15 )     (117 )

Lapse of statute of limitations

     (6 )     (1 )

Currency

     (13 )     13  
                

Balance at December 31

   $ 438     $ 438  
                

 

Approximately $356 million of the $438 million of unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2008, and $320 million of the $438 million of unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2007 would reduce the Corporation’s effective tax rate if recognized.

 

The Corporation recognizes accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. During the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006, the Corporation recognized net benefits of $8 million and $11 million and a net cost of $5 million, respectively, in interest and penalties. Total accrued penalties and net accrued interest was approximately $34 million and $24 million at December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

It is reasonably possible that a number of uncertainties could be settled within the next 12 months. The most significant uncertainties involve transfer pricing, which may be resolved by entering into a revised advance pricing agreement between the U.S. and the U.K., and uncertainties related to questions about certain financing structures. Various other uncertain tax positions related to federal taxes are also being discussed at the IRS Appeals level in the U.S. Other less significant uncertain tax positions also may be settled of which none are individually significant. Settlement of these matters is not expected to have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

 

As of December 31, 2008, the following tax years remain subject to examination for the major jurisdictions where the Corporation conducts business:

 

Jurisdiction

  

Years

United States

  

2006 to 2008

United Kingdom

  

2006 to 2008

Canada

  

2003 to 2008

Korea

  

2004 to 2008

Australia

  

2004 to 2008

 

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The Corporation’s U.S. federal income tax returns have been audited through 2005. However, the statute for potential adjustments for the years 2002 to 2003 remains open until June 30, 2009 and until December 31, 2009 for the years 2004 to 2005 pending refund actions with the IRS for these years.

 

State income tax returns are generally subject to examination for a period of 3 to 5 years after filing of the respective return. The state impact of any federal changes remains subject to examination by various states for a period of up to two years after formal notification to the states. The Corporation and its subsidiaries have various state income tax returns in the process of examination, administrative appeals or litigation.

 

Note 17.    Earnings Per Share

 

A reconciliation of the average number of common shares outstanding used in the basic and diluted EPS computations follows:

 

     Average Common Shares Outstanding
         2008            2007            2006    
     (Millions)

Basic

   416.7    441.3    458.5

Dilutive effect of:

        

Stock options

   .9    2.8    1.9

Restricted share awards

   1.0    1.3    1.2

ASR program

   —      .2    —  
              

Diluted

   418.6    445.6    461.6
              

 

Options outstanding that were not included in the computation of diluted EPS because their exercise price was greater than the average market price of the common shares are summarized below:

 

Description    2008    2007    2006

Average number of share equivalents (millions)

     15.6      2.8      8.6

Weighted-average exercise price

   $ 66.31    $ 72.00    $ 66.48

Expiration date of options

     2008 to 2018      2007 to 2017      2007 to 2015

Options outstanding at year-end (millions)

     16.0      3.9      8.2

 

The number of common shares outstanding as of December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 was 413.6 million, 420.9 million and 455.6 million, respectively.

 

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Note 18.    Business Segment and Geographic Data Information

 

The Corporation is organized into operating segments based on product groupings. These operating segments have been aggregated into four reportable global business segments: Personal Care; Consumer Tissue; K-C Professional & Other; and Health Care. The reportable segments were determined in accordance with how the Corporation’s executive managers develop and execute the Corporation’s global strategies to drive growth and profitability of the Corporation’s worldwide Personal Care, Consumer Tissue, K-C Professional & Other and Health Care operations. These strategies include global plans for branding and product positioning, technology, research and development programs, cost reductions including supply chain management, and capacity and capital investments for each of these businesses. Segment management is evaluated on several factors, including operating profit. Segment operating profit excludes other income and (expense), net; income and expense not associated with the business segments; and the costs of corporate decisions related to the strategic cost reductions described in Note 4. Corporate & Other Assets include the Corporation’s investments in equity affiliates, finance operations and real estate entities, and deferred tax assets. The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in Note 1.

 

The principal sources of revenue in each global business segment are described below:

 

   

The Personal Care segment manufactures and markets disposable diapers, training and youth pants and swimpants; baby wipes; feminine and incontinence care products; and related products. Products in this segment are primarily for household use and are sold under a variety of brand names, including Huggies, Pull-Ups, Little Swimmers, GoodNites, Kotex, Lightdays, Depend, Poise and other brand names.

 

   

The Consumer Tissue segment manufactures and markets facial and bathroom tissue, paper towels, napkins and related products for household use. Products in this segment are sold under the Kleenex, Scott, Cottonelle, Viva, Andrex, Scottex, Hakle, Page and other brand names.

 

   

The K-C Professional & Other segment manufactures and markets facial and bathroom tissue, paper towels, napkins, wipers and a range of safety products for the away-from-home marketplace. Products in this segment are sold under the Kimberly-Clark, Kleenex, Scott, WypAll, Kimtech, KleenGuard and Kimcare brand names.

 

   

The Health Care segment manufactures and markets disposable health care products such as surgical gowns, drapes, infection control products, sterilization wrap, face masks, exam gloves, respiratory products and other disposable medical products. Products in this segment are sold under the Kimberly-Clark, Ballard and other brand names.

 

Net sales to Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. were approximately 14 percent in 2008 and 2007, and approximately 13 percent in 2006, primarily in the personal care and consumer tissue businesses.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Information concerning consolidated operations by business segment and geographic area, as well as data for equity companies, is presented in the following tables:

 

Consolidated Operations by Business Segment

 

      Personal
Care
   Consumer
Tissue
   K-C
Professional
& Other
   Health
Care
   Inter-
segment
Sales
    Corporate
& Other
    Consolidated
Total
     (Millions of dollars)

Net Sales

                  

2008

   $ 8,272    $ 6,748    $ 3,174    $ 1,224    $ (82 )   $ 79     $ 19,415

2007

     7,563      6,475      3,039      1,207      (59 )     41       18,266

2006

     6,741      5,982      2,813      1,237      (59 )     33       16,747

Operating Profit(a)

                  

2008

     1,649      601      428      143      —         (274 )(b)     2,547

2007

     1,562      702      478      195      —         (321 )(b)     2,616

2006

     1,303      773      472      211      —         (657 )(b)     2,102

Depreciation and Amortization

                  

2008

     239      319      136      52      —         29       775

2007

     241      303      139      50      —         74       807

2006

     266      274      126      40      —         227       933

Assets

                  

2008

     5,480      5,809      2,710      2,139      —         1,951 (c)     18,089

2007

     5,776      6,276      2,877      2,238      —         1,273       18,440

2006

     5,027      6,032      2,593      2,170      —         1,245       17,067

Capital Spending

                  

2008

     375      351      130      49      —         1       906

2007

     388      407      132      55      —         7       989

2006

     345      456      131      40      —         —         972

 

(a) Segment operating profit excludes other income and (expense), net and income and expenses not associated with the business segments.

 

(b) Corporate & Other includes expenses not associated with the business segments, including the following amounts of pretax charges for the strategic cost reductions and the related implementation costs in 2007 of $27 million.

 

      Personal
Care
    Consumer
Tissue
    K-C
Professional
& Other
    Health
Care
    Total  
     (Millions of dollars)  

Corporate & Other

          

2008

   $ (34 )   $ (15 )   $ (5 )   $ (18 )   $ (72 )

2007

     (89 )     (22 )     (16 )     (21 )     (148 )

2006

     (245 )     (139 )     (41 )     (51 )     (476 )

 

   Additional information concerning these costs is contained in Note 4.

 

(c) Corporate & Other reflects the consolidation of the Monetization Financing Entities, see Note 2.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Sales of Principal Products

 

          2008            2007            2006    
     (Billions of dollars)

Consumer tissue products

   $ 6.6    $ 6.4    $ 5.9

Diapers

     4.6      4.2      3.6

Away-from-home professional products

     3.0      2.9      2.6

All other

     5.2      4.8      4.6
                    

Consolidated

   $ 19.4    $ 18.3    $ 16.7
                    

 

Consolidated Operations by Geographic Area

 

     United
States
  Canada   Inter-
geographic
Items(a)
    Total
North
America
  Europe   Asia,
Latin
America
& Other
  Inter-
geographic
Items
    Corporate
& Other
    Consolidated
Total
    (Millions of dollars)

Net Sales

                 

2008

  $ 10,143   $ 574   $ (256 )   $ 10,461   $ 3,679   $ 5,942   $ (667 )   $ —       $ 19,415

2007

    9,876     569     (253 )     10,192     3,469     5,252     (647 )     —         18,266

2006

    9,406     538     (250 )     9,694     3,153     4,481     (581 )     —         16,747

Operating Profit(b)

                 

2008

    1,730     144     —         1,874     210     737     —         (274 )(c)     2,547

2007

    1,853     157     —         2,010     258     669     —         (321 )(c)     2,616

2006

    1,856     143     —         1,999     211     549     —         (657 )(c)     2,102

Net Property

                 

2008

    4,266     29     —         4,295     1,406     1,966     —         —         7,667

2007

    4,239     36     —         4,275     1,636     2,183     —         —         8,094

2006

    4,133     34     —         4,167     1,591     1,927     —         —         7,685

 

(a) Intergeographic net sales include $13 million, $29 million and $48 million by operations in Canada to the U.S. in 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

 

(b) Geographic operating profit excludes other income and (expense), net and income and expenses not associated with geographic areas.

 

(c) Corporate & Other includes expenses not associated with geographic areas, including the following amounts of pretax charges for the strategic cost reductions and the related implementation costs in 2007 of $27 million.

 

      United
States
    Canada     Europe     Asia, Latin
America &
Other
    Total  
     (Millions of dollars)  

Corporate & Other

          

2008

   $ (47 )   $ —       $ (22 )   $ (3 )   $ (72 )

2007

     (108 )     —         (32 )     (8 )     (148 )

2006

     (227 )     (17 )     (196 )     (36 )     (476 )

 

   Additional information concerning these costs is contained in Note 4.

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Equity Companies’ Data

 

      Net
Sales
   Gross
Profit
   Operating
Profit
   Net
Income
   Corporation’s
Share of Net
Income
 
     (Millions of dollars)  

2008

   $ 2,286    $ 812    $ 464    $ 349    $ 166  

2007

     2,108      768      506      357      170  

2006

     2,275      815      668      456      219 (a)

 

(a) The Corporation’s share of net income includes a gain from the sale of Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A.B. de C.V.’s pulp and paper business of approximately $46 million.

 

      Current
Assets
   Non-
Current
Assets
   Current
Liabilities
   Non-
Current
Liabilities
   Stockholders’
Equity
     (Millions of dollars)

2008

   $ 815    $ 819    $ 705    $ 410    $ 519

2007

     878      996      493      724      657

2006

     880      905      667      466      652

 

Equity companies, primarily in Latin America, are principally engaged in operations in the Personal Care and Consumer Tissue businesses.

 

At December 31, 2008, the Corporation’s equity companies and ownership interest were as follows: Kimberly-Clark Lever Private Limited (India) (50%), Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A.B. de C.V. and subsidiaries (47.9%), Olayan Kimberly-Clark Arabia (49%), Olayan Kimberly-Clark (Bahrain) WLL (49%) and Tecnosur S.A. (Colombia) (34.3%).

 

Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A.B. de C.V. is partially owned by the public and its stock is publicly traded in Mexico. At December 31, 2008, the Corporation’s investment in this equity company was $252 million, and the estimated fair value of the investment was $1.7 billion based on the market price of publicly traded shares.

 

Note 19.    Supplemental Data (Millions of dollars)

 

     December 31

Supplemental Income Statement Data

   2008    2007    2006

Advertising expense

   $ 512    $ 468    $ 438

Research expense

     297      277      301

Foreign currency transaction (gains) losses, net

     18      13      23

 

Supplemental Balance Sheet Data

 

     December 31  

Summary of Accounts Receivable, net

   2008     2007  

Accounts Receivable:

    

From customers

   $ 2,203     $ 2,326  

Other

     347       308  

Less allowance for doubtful accounts and sales discounts

     (73 )     (73 )
                

Total

   $ 2,477     $ 2,561  
                

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

     December 31  
     2008     2007  

Summary of Inventories

   LIFO     Non-
LIFO
   Total     LIFO     Non-
LIFO
   Total  

Inventories by Major Class:

              

At the lower of cost determined on the FIFO or weighted-average cost methods or market:

              

Raw materials

   $ 150     $ 367    $ 517     $ 160     $ 316    $ 476  

Work in process

     246       133      379       231       126      357  

Finished goods

     758       832      1,590       812       752      1,564  

Supplies and other

     —         262      262       —         262      262  
                                              
     1,154       1,594      2,748       1,203       1,456      2,659  

Excess of FIFO or weighted-average cost over LIFO cost

   $ (255 )     —        (255 )     (215 )     —        (215 )
                                              

Total

   $ 899     $ 1,594    $ 2,493     $ 988     $ 1,456    $ 2,444  
                                              

 

     December 31  

Summary of Property, Plant and Equipment, net

   2008     2007  

Property, Plant and Equipment

    

Land

   $ 195     $ 222  

Buildings

     2,486       2,604  

Machinery and equipment

     12,509       12,872  

Construction in progress

     533       545  
                
     15,723       16,243  

Less accumulated depreciation

     (8,056 )     (8,149 )
                

Total

   $ 7,667     $ 8,094  
                

 

     December 31

Summary of Accrued Expenses

   2008    2007

Accrued advertising and promotion

   $ 351    $ 384

Accrued salaries and wages

     354      403

Accrued expenses—strategic cost reductions

     16      54

Other

     931      942
             

Total

   $ 1,652    $ 1,783
             

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Supplemental Cash Flow Statement Data

 

Summary of Cash Flow Effects of Decrease (Increase) in

Operating Working Capital(a)

   Year Ended December 31  
   2008     2007     2006  

Accounts receivable

   $ 148     $ (192 )   $ (231 )

Inventories

     (45 )     (439 )     (252 )

Prepaid expenses

     13       (35 )     20  

Trade accounts payable

     (26 )     244       150  

Other payables

     (60 )     (91 )     29  

Accrued expenses

     (142 )     184       268  

Accrued income taxes

     (96 )     (57 )     (65 )

Derivatives

     (65 )     9       (1 )

Currency

     (62 )     47       87  
                        

Decrease (increase) in operating working capital

   $ (335 )   $ (330 )   $ 5  
                        
     Year Ended December 31  

Other Cash Flow Data

   2008     2007     2006  

Interest paid

   $ 319     $ 239     $ 235  

Income taxes paid

     538       674       709  
     Year Ended December 31  

Interest Expense

   2008     2007     2006  

Gross interest cost

   $ 318     $ 283     $ 235  

Capitalized interest on major construction projects

     (14 )     (18 )     (15 )
                        

Interest expense

   $ 304     $ 265     $ 220  
                        

 

(a) Excludes the effects of acquisitions and dispositions.

 

Note 20.    Unaudited Quarterly Data

 

      2008    2007
     Fourth    Third    Second    First    Fourth    Third    Second    First
     (Millions of dollars, except per share amounts)

Net sales

   $ 4,598    $ 4,998    $ 5,006    $ 4,813    $ 4,758    $ 4,621    $ 4,502    $ 4,385

Gross profit

     1,455      1,463      1,484      1,456      1,462      1,444      1,446      1,352

Operating profit

     623      610      650      664      668      683      649      616

Net income

     419      413      417      441      456      453      462      452

Per share basis:

                       

Basic

     1.01      1.00      1.00      1.05      1.08      1.05      1.01      .99

Diluted

     1.01      .99      .99      1.04      1.07      1.04      1.00      .98

Cash dividends declared per share

     .58      .58      .58      .58      .53      .53      .53      .53

Market price per share:

                       

High

     66.37      66.66      65.88      69.69      71.16      70.78      72.79      70.28

Low

     50.27      50.42      59.53      62.16      67.01      63.79      66.05      65.99

Close

     52.74      64.84      59.78      64.55      69.34      70.26      66.89      68.49

 

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(Continued)

 

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of

Kimberly-Clark Corporation:

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Kimberly-Clark Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Corporation”) as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2008. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15. These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Corporation’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Kimberly-Clark Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2008, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

 

As discussed in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements, on January 1, 2008, the Corporation adopted the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, Fair Value Measurements, for its financial assets and liabilities. Also, as discussed in Note 16 to the consolidated financial statements, on January 1, 2007, the Corporation adopted the provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109.

 

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission, and our report dated February 26, 2009, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

 

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP  
Deloitte & Touche LLP
Dallas, Texas
February 26, 2009

 

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ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

 

None.

 

ITEM 9A.    CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

As of December 31, 2008, an evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of the Corporation’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Corporation’s disclosure controls and procedures. Based on that evaluation, the Corporation’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that the Corporation’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2008.

 

Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

Management’s Report on the Financial Statements

 

Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s management is responsible for all aspects of the business, including the preparation of the consolidated financial statements in this annual report. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared using generally accepted accounting principles considered appropriate in the circumstances to present fairly the Corporation’s consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows on a consistent basis. Management also has prepared the other information in this annual report and is responsible for its accuracy and consistency with the consolidated financial statements.

 

As can be expected in a complex and dynamic business environment, some financial statement amounts are based on estimates and judgments. Even though estimates and judgments are used, measures have been taken to provide reasonable assurance of the integrity and reliability of the financial information contained in this annual report. These measures include an effective control-oriented environment in which the internal audit function plays an important role and an Audit Committee of the Board of Directors that oversees the financial reporting process. The consolidated financial statements have been audited by the independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP. During its audits, Deloitte & Touche LLP was given unrestricted access to all financial records, including minutes of all meetings of stockholders and the Board of Directors and all committees of the Board. Management believes that all representations made to the independent registered public accountants during their audits were valid and appropriate.

 

Audit Committee Oversight and the Corporation’s Code of Conduct

 

The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors, which is composed solely of independent directors, assists the Board in fulfilling its responsibility for oversight of the quality and integrity of the accounting, auditing and financial reporting practices of the Corporation; the audits of its consolidated financial statements; and internal control over financial reporting. The Audit Committee reviews with the auditors any relationships that may affect their objectivity and independence. The Audit Committee also reviews with management, the internal auditors and the independent registered public accounting firm the quality and adequacy of the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting, including compliance matters related to the Corporation’s code of conduct, and the results of the internal and external audits. The Audit Committee has reviewed and recommended that the audited consolidated financial statements included in this report be included in the Form 10-K for filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

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(Continued)

 

 

The Corporation’s code of conduct, among other things, contains policies for conducting business affairs in a lawful and ethical manner everywhere it does business, for avoiding potential conflicts of interest and for preserving confidentiality of information and business ideas. Internal controls have been implemented to provide reasonable assurance that the code of conduct is followed.

 

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining an adequate system of internal control over financial reporting, including safeguarding of assets against unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition. This system is designed to provide reasonable assurance to management and the Board of Directors regarding preparation of reliable published financial statements and safeguarding of the Corporation’s assets. This system is supported with written policies and procedures, contains self-monitoring mechanisms and is audited by the internal audit function. Appropriate actions are taken by management to correct deficiencies as they are identified. All internal control systems have inherent limitations, including the possibility of circumvention and overriding of controls, and, therefore, can provide only reasonable assurance as to the reliability of financial statement preparation and such asset safeguarding.

 

The Corporation has assessed the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008. In making this assessment, it used the criteria described in “Internal Control—Integrated Framework” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on this assessment, management believes that, as of December 31, 2008, the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting is effective.

 

Deloitte & Touche LLP has issued its attestation report on the effectiveness of the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting. That attestation report appears below.

 

 

/s/ Thomas J. Falk

   

/s/ Mark A. Buthman

 
  Thomas J. Falk     Mark A. Buthman  
  Chairman of the Board and     Senior Vice President and  
  Chief Executive Officer     Chief Financial Officer  
 

February 26, 2009

     

 

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

There have been no changes in the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation described above in “Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting” that occurred during the Corporation’s fourth fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

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(Continued)

 

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of

Kimberly-Clark Corporation:

 

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Kimberly-Clark Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Corporation”) as of December 31, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Corporation’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company’s board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

In our opinion, the Corporation maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, based on the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

 

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule of the Corporation as of and for the year ended December 31, 2008, and our report dated February 26, 2009, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial statement schedule and included an explanatory paragraph

 

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(Continued)

 

 

regarding the adoption of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, Fair Value Measurements, on January 1, 2008, and the adoption of Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109, on January 1, 2007.

 

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP    

Deloitte & Touche LLP
Dallas, Texas
February 26, 2009

 

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION

 

None.

 

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PART III

 

 

ITEM 10.    DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

 

The following sections of the Corporation’s 2009 Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “2009 Proxy Statement”) are incorporated in this Item 10 by reference:

 

   

“Certain Information Regarding Directors and Nominees” under “Proposal 1. Election of Directors,” which identifies members of the Board of Directors of the Corporation and nominees.

 

   

“Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance.”

 

   

“Corporate Governance Information—Other Corporate Governance Matters—Code of Conduct,” which describes the Corporation’s Code of Conduct and identifies how stockholders may obtain a copy of the Corporation’s Code of Conduct without charge.

 

   

“Corporate Governance Information—Stockholder Nominations for Directors,” which describes the procedures by which stockholders may nominate candidates for election to the Board of Directors, including a discussion of the requirements for the notice of nomination that were modified on November 12, 2008.

 

   

“Corporate Governance Information—Audit Committee,” which identifies members of the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors and an audit committee financial expert.

 

The names and ages of the executive officers of the Corporation as of February 27, 2009, together with certain biographical information, are as follows:

 

Robert E. Abernathy, 54, was elected Group President—North Atlantic Consumer Products in March 2008. He is responsible for the Corporation’s consumer business in North America and Europe and the related customer development and supply chain organizations. Mr. Abernathy joined the Corporation in 1982. His past responsibilities in the Corporation have included overseeing its businesses in Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa, as well as operations and major project management in North America. He was appointed Vice President—North American Diaper Operations in 1992; Managing Director of Kimberly-Clark Australia Pty. Limited in 1994; Group President of the Corporation’s Business-to-Business segment in 1998 and Group President—Developing and Emerging Markets in 2004. He is a director of The Lubrizol Corporation.

 

Joanne B. Bauer, 53, was elected President—Global Health Care in 2006. She is responsible for the Corporation’s global health care business, which includes a variety of medical supplies and devices. Ms. Bauer joined the Corporation in 1981. Her past responsibilities have included various marketing and management positions in the Adult Care and Health Care businesses. She was appointed Vice President of KimFibers, Ltd. in 1996; Vice President of Global Marketing for Health Care in 1998; and President of Health Care in 2001.

 

Robert W. Black, 49, was elected Group President—Developing and Emerging Markets in March 2008. He is responsible for the Corporation’s businesses in Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa. His past responsibilities have included overseeing the Corporation’s strategy, mergers and acquisitions, global competitiveness and innovation efforts. Prior to joining the Corporation in 2006 as Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer, Mr. Black served as Chief Operating Officer of Sammons Enterprises, a multi-faceted conglomerate, from 2004 to 2005. From 1994 to 2004, Mr. Black held various senior leadership positions in marketing, strategy, corporate development and international management with Steelcase, Inc., a leading office furniture products and related services company. As President of Steelcase International from 2000 to 2004, he led operations in more than 130 countries.

 

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Christian A. Brickman, 44, was elected Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer in September 2008. He is responsible for leading the development and monitoring of the Corporation’s strategic plans and processes to enhance the Corporation’s enterprise growth initiatives. Prior to joining the Corporation in 2008, Mr. Brickman served as a Principal of McKinsey & Company, Inc., a management consulting firm, from 2003 to 2008, and as an Associate Principal from 2001 to 2003.

 

Mark A. Buthman, 48, was elected Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in 2003. Mr. Buthman joined the Corporation in 1982. He has held various positions of increasing responsibility in the operations, finance and strategic planning areas of the Corporation. Mr. Buthman was appointed Vice President of Strategic Planning and Analysis in 1997 and Vice President of Finance in 2002.

 

Thomas J. Falk, 50, was elected Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer in 2003 and President and Chief Executive Officer in 2002. Prior to that, he served as President and Chief Operating Officer since 1999. Mr. Falk previously had been elected Group President—Global Tissue, Pulp and Paper in 1998, where he was responsible for the Corporation’s global tissue businesses. Earlier in his career, Mr. Falk had responsibility for the Corporation’s North American Infant Care, Child Care and Wet Wipes businesses. Mr. Falk joined the Corporation in 1983 and has held other senior management positions in the Corporation. He has been a director of the Corporation since 1999. He also serves on the board of directors of Catalyst Inc., Centex Corporation and the University of Wisconsin Foundation, and serves as a governor of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

 

Lizanne C. Gottung, age 52, was elected Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer in 2002. She is responsible for leading the design and implementation of all human capital strategies to the Corporation, including global compensation and benefits, talent management, diversity and inclusion, organizational effectiveness and corporate health services. Ms. Gottung joined the Corporation in 1981. She has held a variety of human resources, manufacturing and operational roles of increasing responsibility with the Corporation, including Vice President of Human Resources from 2001 to 2002. She is a director of Louisiana Pacific Corporation.

 

Thomas J. Mielke, 50, was elected Senior Vice President—Law and Government Affairs and Chief Compliance Officer in 2007. His responsibilities include the Corporation’s legal affairs, internal audit and government relations activities. Mr. Mielke joined the Corporation in 1988. He held various positions within the legal function and was appointed Vice President and Chief Patent Counsel in 2000, and Vice President and Chief Counsel—North Atlantic Consumer Products in 2004.

 

Anthony J. Palmer, 49, was elected Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer in 2006. He also assumed leadership of the Corporation’s innovation organization in March 2008. He is responsible for leading the growth of enterprise-wide strategic marketing capabilities and the development of high-return marketing programs to support the Corporation’s business initiatives. Prior to joining the Corporation in 2006, he served in a number of senior marketing and general management roles at the Kellogg Company, a producer of cereal and convenience foods, from 2001 to 2006, where he was most recently managing director of Kellogg’s U.K. business.

 

Jan B. Spencer, 53, was elected President—Global K-C Professional in 2006. He is responsible for the Corporation’s global professional business, which includes commercial tissue and wipers, and skin care, safety and Do-It-Yourself products. Mr. Spencer joined the Corporation in 1979. His past responsibilities have included various sales and management positions in Europe and the U.S. He was appointed Vice President Research, Development & Engineering in the Away From Home sector in 1996; Vice President, Wiper Business in 1998; Vice President, European Operations, Engineering, Supply Chain in the K-C Professional sector in 2000; President, KCP Europe in 2002; President, KCP North America in 2003; and President—K-C Professional North Atlantic in 2004.

 

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PART III

(Continued)

 

 

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

 

The information in the sections of the 2009 Proxy Statement captioned “Executive Compensation,” “Compensation of Directors” under “Proposal 1. Election of Directors” and “Corporate Governance Information—Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” is incorporated in this Item 11 by reference.

 

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

 

The information in the sections of the 2009 Proxy Statement captioned “Security Ownership of Management” and “Equity Compensation Plan Information” under “Proposal 4. Reapproval of Performance Goals Under the 2001 Equity Participation Plan” is incorporated in this Item 12 by reference.

 

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

 

The information in the sections of the 2009 Proxy Statement captioned “Transactions with Related Persons” and “Corporate Governance Information—Director Independence” is incorporated in this Item 13 by reference.

 

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

 

The information in the sections of the 2009 Proxy Statement captioned “Principal Accounting Firm Fees” and “Audit Committee Approval of Audit and Non-Audit Services” under “Proposal 2. Ratification of Auditors” is incorporated in this Item 14 by reference.

 

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PART IV

 

 

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

 

(a) Documents filed as part of this report.

 

1. Financial statements.

 

The financial statements are set forth under Item 8 of this report on Form 10-K.

 

2. Financial statement schedules.

 

The following information is filed as part of this Form 10-K and should be read in conjunction with the financial statements contained in Item 8:

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

Schedule for Kimberly-Clark Corporation and Subsidiaries:

 

Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

 

All other schedules have been omitted because they were not applicable or because the required information has been included in the financial statements or notes thereto.

 

3. Exhibits.

 

Exhibit No. (3)a. Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, dated April 17, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (3)a of the Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2008.

 

Exhibit No. (3)b. By-Laws, as amended November 12, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (3)b of the Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 14, 2008.

 

Exhibit No. (4). Copies of instruments defining the rights of holders of long-term debt will be furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission on request.

 

Exhibit No. (10)a. Management Achievement Award Program, as amended and restated November 13, 2008, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (10)b. Executive Severance Plan, as amended and restated November 13, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)b of the Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 14, 2008.

 

Exhibit No. (10)c. Seventh Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors, effective January 1, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)c of the Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2008.

 

Exhibit No. (10)d. Executive Officer Achievement Award Program, as amended November 12, 2008, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (10)e. 1992 Equity Participation Plan, as amended, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)e of the Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000.

 

Exhibit No. (10)f. Deferred Compensation Plan, as amended and restated, dated December 31, 2005, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)f of the Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005.

 

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PART IV

(Continued)

 

 

Exhibit No. (10)g. Outside Directors’ Stock Compensation Plan, as amended, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)g of the Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002.

 

Exhibit No. (10)h. Supplemental Benefit Plan to the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Pension Plan, as amended, dated December 31, 2008, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (10)i. Second Supplemental Benefit Plan to the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Pension Plan, as amended and restated, dated December 31, 2008, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (10)j. Retirement Contribution Excess Benefit Program, as amended and restated, dated December 31, 2008, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (10)k. 1999 Restricted Stock Plan, as amended, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)k of the Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000.

 

Exhibit No. (10)l. Outside Directors’ Compensation Plan, as amended, dated November 13, 2007, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)l of the Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.

 

Exhibit No. (10)m. 2001 Equity Participation Plan, as amended April 16, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)m of the Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2008.

 

Exhibit No. (10)n. Form of Award Agreements under 2001 Equity Participation Plan, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (10)o. Summary of Outside Directors’ Compensation pursuant to the Outside Directors’ Compensation Plan, effective January 1, 2009, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (10)p. Severance Pay Plan, amended and restated as of January 1, 2009, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)p of the Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 14, 2008.

 

Exhibit No. (10)q. Letter Agreement between Kimberly-Clark Corporation and Robert W. Black, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)q of the Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated April 10, 2006.

 

Exhibit No. (10)r. Letter Agreement between Kimberly-Clark Corporation and Tony Palmer, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)r of the Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2008.

 

Exhibit No. (10)s. Letter Agreement between Kimberly-Clark Corporation and Christian A. Brickman, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)s of the Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2008.

 

Exhibit No. (10)t. Summary of Financial Counseling Program for Kimberly-Clark Corporation Executives, dated November 12, 2008, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (12). Computation of ratio of earnings to fixed charges for the five years ended December 31, 2008, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (21). Subsidiaries of the Corporation, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (23). Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (24). Powers of Attorney, filed herewith.

 

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PART IV

(Continued)

 

 

Exhibit No. (31)a. Certification of Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (31)b. Certification of Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Exchange Act, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (32)a. Certification of Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) of the Exchange Act and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code, furnished herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (32)b. Certification of Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) of the Exchange Act and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code, furnished herewith.

 

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SIGNATURES

 

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

   

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION

February 27, 2009

  By:  

/s/    MARK A. BUTHMAN        

      Mark A. Buthman
      Senior Vice President and
      Chief Financial Officer

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

/s/    THOMAS J. FALK        

Thomas J. Falk

  

Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer and Director

(principal executive officer)

  February 27, 2009

/s/    MARK A. BUTHMAN        

Mark A. Buthman

  

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(principal financial officer)

  February 27, 2009

/s/    RANDY J. VEST        

Randy J. Vest

  

Vice President and Controller

(principal accounting officer)

  February 27, 2009

 

Directors

 

   John R. Alm       James M. Jenness   
   Dennis R. Beresford       Ian C. Read   
   John F. Bergstrom       Linda Johnson Rice   
   Abelardo E. Bru       Marc J. Shapiro   
   Robert W. Decherd       G. Craig Sullivan   
   Mae C. Jemison         

 

By:

 

/s/    THOMAS J. MIELKE        

      February 27, 2009        
 

Thomas J. Mielke,

Attorney-in-Fact

     

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

SCHEDULE II

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2008, 2007 AND 2006

(Millions of dollars)

 

          Additions     Deductions      

Description

   Balance at
Beginning
Of Period
   Charged to
Costs and
Expenses
   Charged to
Other
Accounts(a)
    Write-Offs
and
Reclassifications
    Balance at
End of
Period

December 31, 2008

            

Allowances deducted from assets to which they apply

            

Allowance for doubtful accounts

   $ 51    $ 16    $ (7 )   $ 8 (b)   $ 52

Allowances for sales discounts

     22      269      (1 )     269 (c)     21

December 31, 2007

            

Allowances deducted from assets to which they apply

            

Allowance for doubtful accounts

   $ 39    $ 15    $ 4     $ 7 (b)   $ 51

Allowances for sales discounts

     20      252      1       251 (c)     22

December 31, 2006

            

Allowances deducted from assets to which they apply

            

Allowance for doubtful accounts

   $ 36    $ 12    $ 3     $ 12 (b)   $ 39

Allowances for sales discounts

     22      275      1       278 (c)     20

 

(a) Includes bad debt recoveries and the effects of changes in foreign currency exchange rates.

 

(b) Primarily uncollectible receivables written off.

 

(c) Sales discounts allowed.

 

          Additions           

Description

   Balance at
Beginning
of Period
   Charged to
Costs and
Expenses
    Charged to
Other
Accounts
   Deductions(a)     Balance at
End of
Period

December 31, 2008

            

Deferred Taxes

            

Valuation Allowance

   $ 319    $ 13     $ —      $ 13     $ 319

December 31, 2007

            

Deferred Taxes

            

Valuation Allowance

   $ 371    $ (63 )   $ —      $ (11 )   $ 319

December 31, 2006

            

Deferred Taxes

            

Valuation Allowance

   $ 474    $ (105 )   $ —      $ (2 )   $ 371

 

(a) Includes the net currency effects of translating valuation allowances at current rates under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 52, Foreign Currency Translation, of $13 million in 2008, $(12) million in 2007, and $(2) million in 2006.

 

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EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit No. (3)a. Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, dated April 17, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (3)a of the Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2008.

 

Exhibit No. (3)b. By-Laws, as amended November 12, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (3)b of the Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 14, 2008.

 

Exhibit No. (4). Copies of instruments defining the rights of holders of long-term debt will be furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission on request.

 

Exhibit No. (10)a. Management Achievement Award Program, as amended and restated November 13, 2008, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (10)b. Executive Severance Plan, as amended and restated November 13, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)b of the Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 14, 2008.

 

Exhibit No. (10)c. Seventh Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors, effective January 1, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)c of the Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2008.

 

Exhibit No. (10)d. Executive Officer Achievement Award Program, as amended November 12, 2008, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (10)e. 1992 Equity Participation Plan, as amended, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)e of the Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000.

 

Exhibit No. (10)f. Deferred Compensation Plan, as amended and restated, dated December 31, 2005, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)f of the Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005.

 

Exhibit No. (10)g. Outside Directors’ Stock Compensation Plan, as amended, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)g of the Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002.

 

Exhibit No. (10)h. Supplemental Benefit Plan to the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Pension Plan, as amended, dated December 31, 2008, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (10)i. Second Supplemental Benefit Plan to the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Pension Plan, as amended and restated, dated December 31, 2008, filed herewith.


Table of Contents
Exhibit No. (10)j. Retirement Contribution Excess Benefit Program, as amended and restated, dated December 31, 2008, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (10)k. 1999 Restricted Stock Plan, as amended, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)k of the Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000.

 

Exhibit No. (10)l. Outside Directors’ Compensation Plan, as amended, dated November 13, 2007, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)l of the Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.

 

Exhibit No. (10)m. 2001 Equity Participation Plan, as amended April 16, 2008, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)m of the Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2008.

 

Exhibit No. (10)n. Form of Award Agreements under 2001 Equity Participation Plan, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (10)o. Summary of Outside Directors’ Compensation pursuant to the Outside Directors’ Compensation Plan, effective January 1, 2009, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (10)p. Severance Pay Plan, amended and restated as of January 1, 2009, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)p of the Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 14, 2008.

 

Exhibit No. (10)q. Letter Agreement between Kimberly-Clark Corporation and Robert W. Black, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)q of the Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated April 10, 2006.

 

Exhibit No. (10)r. Letter Agreement between Kimberly-Clark Corporation and Tony Palmer, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)r of the Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2008.

 

Exhibit No. (10)s. Letter Agreement between Kimberly-Clark Corporation and Christian A. Brickman, incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (10)s of the Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2008.

 

Exhibit No. (10)t. Summary of Financial Counseling Program for Kimberly-Clark Corporation Executives, dated November 12, 2008, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (12). Computation of ratio of earnings to fixed charges for the five years ended December 31, 2008, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (21). Subsidiaries of the Corporation, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (23). Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (24). Powers of Attorney, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (31)a. Certification of Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (31)b. Certification of Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Exchange Act, filed herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (32)a. Certification of Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) of the Exchange Act and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code, furnished herewith.

 

Exhibit No. (32)b. Certification of Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) of the Exchange Act and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code, furnished herewith.
Management Achievement Award Program

Exhibit No. (10)a

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION

MANAGEMENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARD PROGRAM

As Amended and Restated as of November 13, 2008


MANAGEMENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARD PROGRAM

As Amended and Restated as of November 13, 2008

 

1. PURPOSE

This Management Achievement Award Program (“MAAP” or the “Plan”) is amended and restated as of November 13, 2008. The purpose of MAAP is to further unite the interests of the stockholders of the Kimberly-Clark Corporation (the “Company”) and its key executives through:

 

(a) the annual establishment of Company objectives and the maintenance of a dividend level which are deemed by the Company’s Management Development and Compensation Committee (the “Compensation Committee”) of the Board of Directors (the “Board”) to be in the best short- and long-range interests of the Company, and

 

(b) the annual payment, or provision for future payment, of incentive compensation to each eligible participating key executive in the form of a cash award which is in an amount significantly above competitive base salary, provided his or her performance has meaningfully contributed to the attainment of Company objectives.

 

2. ELIGIBILITY

Employees eligible to participate in MAAP (the “Participant”) shall include any employee of the Company or any Subsidiary whose position is evaluated under the Company’s Exempt Salary Administration Program (the “Salary Program”) at 994 or more total Hay points. Notwithstanding the above, the Chief Executive Officer (the “CEO”) of the Company or the Compensation Committee may, in their sole discretion, determine that an employee of the Company or any Subsidiary is to be eligible to participate in MAAP, or exclude any employee who is otherwise determined to be eligible.

 

3. OBJECTIVE AREAS AND PERFORMANCE LEVELS

Prior to the beginning of each calendar year, or as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable, performance objectives (the “Objective(s)”) shall be established for each Participant in one or more of the three objective areas (“Objective Areas”), i.e. Corporate, Business Unit or Individual.

The Compensation Committee shall establish the Objective(s) and any Control Measures (as defined in section 6 below) in the Corporate Objective Area. The CEO, or his delegate, shall establish the Objectives and any Control Measures in all Business Unit and Individual Objective Areas for all Participants, except as otherwise determined by the Compensation Committee.

For each Objective there may be established performance levels (“Performance Level(s)”) which shall consist of successively better standards or ranges taking into consideration actual progress in the calendar year in accomplishing the Objective(s). For each Objective

 

1


there may be established Performance Levels under which the percentage of the incentive payout shall be determined by taking into consideration actual progress in the calendar year in achieving the Objective. A payment range, with a minimum and maximum payment, may be established for the Objective.

From time to time, it may be desirable to establish the Objective(s) in such a manner that specific Performance Levels cannot be defined. In such cases, the specific Performance Level(s) will be determined pursuant to section 7 of this Plan.

The Objective(s) in the Individual Objective Area for a Participant may be defined to include specific target areas on which such Participant should focus during the year.

The original definition of any and all Objectives, Objective Areas, Performance Levels, Percentage Weightings (as defined in section 4 below), and Control Measures shall not be changed during the course of a calendar year, except by the approval of the individual or body who originally approved the same. When mid-calendar year changes in the Company’s accounting or internal reporting policies have the effect of making the financial results between two periods not fairly comparable for the purpose of properly measuring performance where Objectives are stated in financial terms, such results may be adjusted in such manner as shall be deemed fair and appropriate by the individual or body who originally approved the Objective.

 

4. OBJECTIVE AREA WEIGHTINGS

Coincident with the establishment of Objective Areas, Objectives, and Performance Levels, the CEO, or his delegate, or the Compensation Committee in the case of employees who are either directors of the Company or officers of the Company who are elected by the Board, shall establish a percentage weighting (“Percentage Weighting”) applicable to each Objective Area, or, where applicable, to each Objective within an Objective Area. The total of all Percentage Weightings in all Objective Areas for each Participant shall be 100 percent.

 

5. TARGET AWARD LEVEL

Prior to the beginning of each calendar year, or as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable, the Compensation Committee shall establish the Target Award Level, and a maximum payout stated as a percentage of such Target Award Level, that shall apply for each elected officer of the Company. The Chief Executive Officer shall establish Target Award Levels and maximum payouts for each participant in the MAAP who is not an elected officer of the Company. Such Target Award Levels and maximum payouts shall at all times take into account the basic purposes of MAAP, and shall in no event result in the potential obligation to pay incentive compensation which, in the Compensation Committee’s opinion, is not in the best short- and long-range interests of the Company.

 

6. CONTROL MEASURES

At the time the Objectives are established, there may also be established certain conditions known as control measures (“Control Measures”) which are either personal as to one individual, or general as to a group of individuals. Failure to fulfill a Control Measure may

 

2


partially or totally deprive the individual to whom the Control Measure applies of the right to receive an award, notwithstanding the level of performance attained on any or all Objectives, or in any or all Objective Areas.

In the event that the Company’s dividend rate is reduced, other than by reason of stock splits or other similar events having no effect on the actual amount paid out in dividends, no award shall be paid under MAAP for performance during the calendar year in which such a reduction occurs. This shall be a Control Measure and shall apply in each calendar year during which the Plan is in effect.

 

7. ASCERTAINMENT OF PERFORMANCE LEVELS

The Performance Level actually attained with respect to any Objective will be stated as a percentage of the Target Award Level.

The Performance level actually attained with respect to any Objective or Control Measure stated in financial terms, and the payment with respect thereto, shall be determined upon the completion of audited results of the Company and its subsidiaries.

When specific Performance Levels in the Corporate Objective Area have not been defined under section 3 of this Plan, the Compensation Committee will determine the Performance Level attained following the end of the calendar year.

The Performance Level attained with respect to any Group or Sector Objective or Control Measure stated in nonfinancial terms shall be determined and approved by all levels in the chain of command which originally approved or defined such Objective or Control Measure following the end of the calendar year.

Performance in the Individual Objective Area will be determined by the CEO, or his delegate, following the end of the calendar year, based upon the Participant’s performance with respect to the specified target areas.

Notwithstanding the above, the Compensation Committee may, in its sole discretion, authorize that such determinations of the Performance Levels attained be made prior to the end of the calendar year, and that the payment of awards be made pursuant to section 10 of this Plan.

 

8. AMOUNT OF INCENTIVE COMPENSATION

The amount of incentive compensation an employee is eligible to receive depends upon:

 

(a) the Percentage Weighting applicable to that Objective Area,

 

(b) the Target Award Level which applies to the Participant,

 

(c) the percentage payout of the Target Award Level as a consequence of the Performance Level attained in that Objective Area, and

 

(d) the Participant’s annual base salary determined as of December 31 of the calendar year for which the Objectives were established.

 

3


Performance in each Objective Area shall be valued by multiplying (a) times (b) times (c) times (d).

Except as otherwise hereinafter provided, the total award a Participant is eligible to receive is the sum of the values attributable to performance actually attained in each Objective Area, as determined by the preceding paragraph.

 

9. ADJUSTMENT OF AWARD

Except as otherwise determined by the Compensation Committee, in its sole and absolute discretion, the amount of an award may be adjusted by the CEO, in his sole discretion, to more accurately reflect an individual Participant’s performance during the calendar year.

The amount of the award, in the event of transfers to, from, or between MAAP eligible positions may be reviewed, and may be adjusted and prorated, on such basis as shall be determined fair and equitable by the CEO, or his delegate.

Adjustments may be made in the amount of an award after the potential thereof has been authorized, if the applicable position is reevaluated under the Salary Program during the calendar year, on such basis as shall be determined fair and equitable by the CEO, or his delegate.

A Separation from Service for any reason other than death, retirement, or total and permanent disability prior to the payment of MAAP shall result in a forfeiture of the MAAP award. A Participant’s death, retirement, or total and permanent disability may result in the pro rata or other adjustment to the amount of the award on such basis as shall be determined fair and equitable by the CEO, or his delegate. A Separation from Service means a termination of employment with the Company or any Subsidiary. A Separation from Service with the Corporation or a Subsidiary to accept immediate reemployment with the Corporation or a Subsidiary likewise shall not be deemed to be a Separation from Service for purposes of the Plan. A Separation from Service will also be deemed to have occurred if the Employee’s services with the Company or any Subsidiary is reduced to an annual rate that is 20 percent or less of the services rendered, on average, during the immediately preceding three years of employment (or if employed less than three years, such lesser period). Subsidiary means any domestic or foreign corporation at least twenty percent (20%) of whose shares normally entitled to vote in electing directors is owned directly or indirectly by the Corporation or by other Subsidiaries, provided, however, that “at least fifty percent (50%)” shall replace “at least twenty percent (20%)” where there is not a legitimate business criteria for using such lower percentage.

Notwithstanding any provision of MAAP, no award shall be paid to any individual who, in any calendar year, has discharged his principal accountabilities in a manner deemed unacceptable under the Salary Program.

 

4


10. PAYMENT OF AWARDS

Awards shall be paid in one lump sum in cash no later than 60 days following the calendar year for which the Objectives were established, provided the Participant has not had a Separation from Service from the Company or a Subsidiary on the Award payment date. Should any payments under this Plan be delayed no interest will be owed to the Participant with respect to such late payment. Notwithstanding the above, the Compensation Committee may make payments at such earlier times as it may, in its sole discretion, determine, and the Compensation Committee, or the CEO, in their sole discretion, will make such determinations as to performance, and establish procedures (including repayment of any overpayment which is determined after the completion of the final audit), implementing such early payment.

 

11. ADMINISTRATION AND INTERPRETATION

Except as otherwise provided by this Plan, the Compensation Committee has discretionary authority to construe and interpret the Plan and to resolve all questions arising thereunder, and such action shall be final and conclusive as to all individuals affected thereby.

Except as provided in this Plan, no right of any Participant shall be subject in any manner to anticipation, alienation, sale, transfer, assignment, pledge, encumbrance, charge, attachment, garnishment, execution, levy, bankruptcy, or any other disposition of any kind, whether voluntary or involuntary, prior to actual payment of an award. No Participant, or any other person, shall have any interest in any fund, or in any specific asset or assets of the Company, by reason of an award that has been made but has not been paid or distributed.

Nothing contained in MAAP shall be construed as a contract of employment or as a right of any Participant to be continued in the employment of the Company, or as a limitation on the right of the Company to discharge any Participant with or without cause.

This Plan is intended to be compliant with Section 409A of the Code and the guidance promulgated thereunder. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Plan, the Corporation and the Compensation Committee shall administer and interpret the Plan, and exercise all authority and discretion under the Plan, to satisfy the requirements of Code Section 409A and the guidance promulgated thereunder and any noncompliant provisions of this Plan will either be void or deemed amended to comply with Section 409A of the Code and the guidance promulgated thereunder.

The Compensation Committee may, at any time, amend this Plan, order the temporary suspension of its application, or terminate it in its entirety, provided, however, that no such action shall adversely affect the rights or interests of Participants theretofore vested hereunder.

MAAP is hereby amended and restated effective as of November 13, 2008.

 

5

Executive Officer Achievement Award Program

Exhibit No. (10)d

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION

EXECUTIVE OFFICER ACHIEVEMENT AWARD PROGRAM

(as amended effective November 12, 2008)

 

1. PURPOSE

This Executive Officer Achievement Award Program (“EOAAP” or the “Plan”) is amended effective November 12, 2008. The purpose of EOAAP is to further unite the interests of the stockholders of Kimberly-Clark Corporation (the “Company”) and its executive officers through the annual payment of performance-based incentive compensation to each participating executive in the form of a cash award.

 

2. ELIGIBILITY

Employees eligible to participate in EOAAP (the “Participants”) shall be limited to the Chief Executive Officer and other executive officers of the Company (within the meaning of Rule 3b-7 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as amended from time to time) as of March 30 of each calendar year (“performance year”) who shall receive awards under the Plan for such performance year. An individual who becomes an executive officer after March 30 and on or before October 1 of a calendar year shall receive an award as provided in Section 3.

 

3. AWARDS

Subject to the Compensation Committee’s discretion to reduce such awards, each Participant shall be entitled to an award for each performance year equal to 0.3 percent of the Company’s earnings before unusual items. The Company’s independent auditors will review the Company’s calculation of the award amount and confirm its mathematical accuracy to the Compensation Committee.

An individual who becomes a Participant after March 30 and on or before October 1 of a performance year shall receive an award for that performance year based on the earnings before unusual items of the Company for each calendar quarter following the quarter in which the individual becomes an executive officer.

 

4. PAYMENT OF AWARDS; COMPENSATION COMMITTEE DISCRETION TO REDUCE

As soon as practicable after the end of each performance year, the Company’s independent auditors shall report to the Compensation Committee the Company’s earnings before unusual items and the Compensation Committee shall certify the amount of each award for that year under the provisions of this Plan.

The Compensation Committee, in its sole discretion, based on any factors the Compensation Committee deems appropriate, may reduce the award to a Participant in any year (including reduction to zero if the Compensation Committee so determines). The Compensation Committee shall make a determination of whether and to what extent to reduce awards under the Plan for each year at such time or times as the Compensation Committee shall deem appropriate. The reduction in the amount of an award to a Participant for a performance year shall have no effect on the amount of the award to any other Participant for such year.

Payments of awards to Participants who are employees of subsidiaries of the Company shall be paid directly by such subsidiaries.


A Separation from Service for any reason prior to the payment of the award may result in a pro rata or other reduction to the amount of the award that would otherwise be payable on such basis as shall be determined fair and equitable by the Compensation Committee in its discretion and any such award shall be paid no later than 60 days following the end of the performance year. A Separation from Service means a termination of employment with the Company or any Subsidiary. A Separation from Service with the Corporation or a Subsidiary to accept immediate reemployment with the Corporation or a Subsidiary likewise shall not be deemed to be a Separation from Service for purposes of the Plan. A Separation from Service will also be deemed to have occurred if the Employee’s services with the Company or any Subsidiary is reduced to an annual rate that is 20 percent or less of the services rendered, on average, during the immediately preceding three years of employment (or if employed less than three years, such lesser period). Subsidiary means any domestic or foreign corporation at least twenty percent (20%) of whose shares normally entitled to vote in electing directors is owned directly or indirectly by the Corporation or by other Subsidiaries, provided, however, that “at least fifty percent (50%)” shall replace “at least twenty percent (20%)” where there is not a legitimate business criteria for using such lower percentage.

Notwithstanding any provision of EOAAP, no award shall be paid to a Participant who, in any calendar year, has discharged his principal accountabilities in a manner deemed unacceptable by the Chief Executive Officer. Participants under the EOAAP will be ineligible for awards relating to the same calendar quarter under the Company’s Management Achievement Award Program.

Awards shall be paid in cash no later than 60 days following the end of the performance year, provided, however, should any payments under this Plan be delayed no interest will be owed to the Participant with respect to such late payment.

 

5. GENERAL PROVISIONS

The Plan shall be administered by the Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee, in its sole discretion, shall have the power to interpret and construe the Plan; provided, however, that no such action or determination may increase the amount of compensation payable that would otherwise be due in a manner that would result in the disallowance of a deduction to the Company under Section 162(m) of the Code or any successor section. Any interpretation or construction of any provisions of the Plan by the Compensation Committee shall be final and conclusive upon all persons. No member of the Board or the Compensation Committee shall be liable for any action or determination made in good faith.

This Plan is intended to be compliant with Section 409A of the Code and the guidance promulgated thereunder. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Plan, the Company and the Compensation Committee shall administer and interpret the Plan, and exercise all authority and discretion under the Plan, to satisfy the requirements of Code Section 409A and the guidance promulgated thereunder and any noncompliant provisions of this Plan will either be void or deemed amended to comply with Section 409A of the Code and the guidance promulgated thereunder.

“Compensation Committee” means the Management Development and Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company, provided that if the requisite number of members of the Compensation Committee are not Disinterested Persons, the Plan shall be administered by a committee, all of whom are Disinterested Persons, appointed by the Board and consisting of two or more directors with full authority to act in the matter.

Except as provided in this Plan, no right of any Participant shall be subject in any manner to anticipation, alienation, sale, transfer, assignment, pledge, encumbrance, charge, attachment, garnishment, execution, levy, bankruptcy, or any other disposition of any kind, whether voluntary or involuntary, prior to actual

 

2


payment of an award. No Participant, or any other person, shall have any interest in any fund, or in any specific asset or assets of the Company, by reason of an award that has been made but has not been paid or distributed.

Nothing contained in the EOAAP shall be construed as a contract of employment or as a right of any Participant to be continued in the employment of the Company, or as a limitation on the right of the Company to discharge any Participant with or without cause.

The Compensation Committee may at any time amend, suspend, or discontinue the Plan or alter or amend any or all awards under the Plan to the extent (1) permitted by law and (2) that such action would not result in the disallowance of a deduction to the Company under Section 162(m) of the Code or any successor section (including the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder); provided, however, that if any of the foregoing requires the approval by stockholders of any such amendment, suspension or discontinuance, then the Compensation Committee may take such action subject to the approval of the stockholders. No such amendment, suspension, or discontinuance of the Plan shall, without the consent of the Participant, adversely alter or change any of the rights or obligations under any awards previously granted the Participant. In the case of a Participant employed outside the United States, the Compensation Committee may vary the provisions of the Plan as it may deem appropriate to conform to local laws, practices and procedures. Further, unless the stockholders of the Company shall have first approved thereof, no amendments shall be made which shall increase the maximum amount of any award above the amount determined by the formula described in Section 3 in any year.

 

3

Supplemental Benefit Plan

Exhibit No. (10)h

SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFIT PLAN

TO THE

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION

PENSION PLAN

Amended and Restated Effective as of December 31, 2008

This Supplemental Benefit Plan to the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Pension Plan (the “Plan”) is intended to be an unfunded “excess benefit plan” within the meaning of Section 3(36) and 4(b)(5) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. As such, the purpose of this Plan is solely to provide benefits to participants in the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Pension Plan as amended and restated from time to time (the “Retirement Plan”), which exceed the limitation on benefits imposed by Section 415 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, or any comparable provision of any future legislation which amends, supplements or supersedes that Section (“Section 415 of the Code”).

The terms and provisions of this Plan are as follows:

 

  1. Each term which is used in this Plan and also used in the Retirement Plan shall have the same meaning herein as under the Retirement Plan.

Notwithstanding the above, for purposes of this Plan, where the following words and phrases appear in this Plan they shall have the respective meanings set forth below unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

 

  (a) Benefit: A benefit payable pursuant to, and determined in accordance with the provisions of this Plan.

 

  (b) Change of Control: A Change of Control shall be deemed to have taken place if: (i) a third person, including a “group” as defined in Section 13(d)(3) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, acquires shares of the Corporation having 20 percent or more of the total number of votes that may be cast for the election of Directors of the Corporation, or (ii) as the result of any cash tender or exchange offer, merger or other business combination, sale of assets or contested election, or any combination of the foregoing transactions, the persons who were directors of the Corporation before the transaction shall cease to constitute a majority of the Board of Directors of the Corporation or any successor to the Corporation.

 

  (c) “Grandfathered Benefit” shall mean the portion of the Benefit considered deferred under this Plan on or before December 31, 2004 as determined in accordance with Section 409A of the Code and the guidance promulgated thereunder.

 

  (d) Investment Grade: A bond rating of BBB minus, or its equivalent, by one of the nationally recognized rating agencies.


  (e) Lump Sum Payment: A form of benefit payable as a lump sum cash payment, actuarially determined based on the rate of interest equivalent to the yield on a 30-year Treasury Bond as published in the Federal Reserve Statistical Release for the week that contains the first business day of the month prior to the date such Lump Sum payment is payable under this Plan, or such other rate as determined pursuant to uniform Committee rules, and the mortality table set forth for determining actuarial equivalent benefits under Section 10.1(a) of the Retirement Plan, and (i) in the case of a lump sum payment pursuant to Section 4(a) or (b) of this Plan, based on the Participant's Benefit payable from this plan and his age at the date of such lump sum payment, and (ii) in the case of a lump sum payment pursuant to Section 4(c) or 4(d) of this Plan, based on the Participant's Benefit payable under this Plan, the earliest age at which his Benefit from the Retirement Plan could commence if he terminated employment, and the early retirement reduction factor applicable at such age of commencement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the 30-year Treasury Bond yield shall be used in determining a lump sum cash payment so long as such rate is published by the Federal Reserve. In the event that the Federal Reserve ceases to publish the 30-year Treasury Bond rate, a lump sum cash payment will be actuarially determined based on the rate of interest equivalent to the yield on the longest term Treasury Bond published in the Federal Reserve Statistical Release which is no more than 30-years but not less than for a 10-year term.

 

  (f) Participant: A participant in the Retirement Plan who (i) is a “managerial or highly compensated employee” of an Employer, within the meaning of Title I of ERISA, and (ii) is eligible to receive a Benefit upon his termination of employment.

 

  (g) “Timely Elected” shall mean as follows:

 

  (i) For payments which commence under the Retirement Plan prior to January 1, 1996, the Participant has elected to receive such Lump Sum Payment either (aa) in the calendar year prior to the year in which the payments are eligible to commence under the Retirement Plan or (bb) at least 90 days prior to the date such Lump Sum payment is payable under this Supplemental Benefit Plan;

 

  (ii) For payments which commence under the Retirement Plan on or after January 1, 1996 and prior to February 18, 2002, the Participant has elected to receive such Lump Sum Payment no later than the earlier of (aa) the calendar year prior to the year in which the payments are eligible to commence under the Retirement Plan, (bb) at least 90 days prior to the date such Lump Sum payment is payable under this Supplemental Benefit Plan or (cc) for Participants who terminate employment prior to having attained age 55, the calendar year in which the Participant attained age 54.

 

2


  (iii) For payments which commence under the Retirement Plan on or after February 18, 2002 the Participant has elected to receive such Lump Sum Payment no later than the calendar year prior to the year in which the payments are eligible to commence under the Retirement Plan.

 

  (iv) In the event of the death of the Participant who has not commenced payments under this Supplemental Benefit Plan, the Participant's surviving spouse or designated beneficiary, as the case may be may, with the consent of the Retirement Trust Committee, elect a Lump Sum Payment in writing no later than thirty (30) days after the Participant's date of death.

 

  (v) In the event that a Participant terminates service due to a Disability as described in Section 4.5, the Participant may, with the consent of the Retirement Trust Committee, elect a Lump Sum Payment in writing no later than thirty (30) days after the date the Participant is determined to be disabled by the Committee for the Pension Plan.

 

  (h) “Termination of employment” and “terminates service” with respect to a Benefit that is not a Grandfathered Benefit under this Plan means Separation from Service with the Corporation or a Subsidiary. A Separation from Service will be deemed to have occurred if the Participant’s services with the Corporation or a Subsidiary is reduced to an annual rate that is 20 percent or less of the services rendered, on average, during the immediately preceding three years of employment (or if employed less than three years, such lesser period). Subsidiary for this subsection means any domestic or foreign corporation at least twenty percent (20%) of whose shares normally entitled to vote in electing directors is owned directly or indirectly by the Corporation or by other Subsidiaries, provided, however, that “at least fifty percent (50%)” shall replace “at least twenty percent (20%)” where there is not a legitimate business criteria for using such lower percentage.

 

  2.

So long as a Pensioner (or the spouse or designated beneficiary, as the case may be of a former Employee) shall be entitled to receive benefits under the Retirement Plan, there shall be paid under this Plan to such Pensioner (or such spouse or designated beneficiary, as the case may be) such amounts of Disability Benefit, Basic Benefit, Optional Joint and Survivor Benefit, Pensioners Benefit, Survivors Benefit, Optional Years Certain and Life Benefit, Deferred Benefit, Automatic Survivor's Benefit, and any other benefits including benefits distributed upon termination of the Plan (as the case may be) as would have been paid to such person under the Retirement Plan without regard to the limitation on benefits imposed by Section 415 of the Code, but only to the extent that the amount of such benefits exceeds such limitation. Except as provided in Section 4, such amounts relating to Grandfathered Benefits shall be paid to such

 

3


 

person on the same terms and conditions, at the same times, and pursuant to the same elections made by the Employee, as they would have been if paid under the Retirement Plan, were it not for such limitation on benefits. Any portion of a Participant’s Benefit which is not a Grandfathered Benefit shall be paid as a Lump Sum Payment pursuant to Section 4.

 

  3. The Employer may enter into a contract with any Employee who it is projected will be entitled to receive benefits under this Plan, or with any Pensioner (or any spouse or designated beneficiary) who is entitled to receive benefits under this Plan, stipulating the terms and manner of payments to be made under this Plan, but the entitlement of a Pensioner (or spouse or designated beneficiary) to receive benefits under this Plan shall not be conditioned upon the entering into of such a contract prior to the entitlement to benefits under this Plan.

 

  4. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Retirement Plan, a Participant (or surviving spouse or designated beneficiary, as the case may be) shall be entitled to elect to receive his Grandfathered Benefit payable under Section 2 as a Lump Sum Payment (subject to any applicable payroll or other taxes required to be withheld) under the following circumstances:

 

  (a) The Participant (or surviving spouse or designated beneficiary, as the case may be) has Timely Elected to receive such Lump Sum Payment;

 

  (b) the Corporation experiences a Change in Control; or

 

  (c) the Corporation’s long-term credit rating falls below Investment Grade.

If a Participant (or surviving spouse or designated beneficiary, as the case may be) elects a Lump Sum Payment pursuant to subsection 4(a) above, such election is subject to approval by the Retirement Trust Committee in its sole discretion. In addition, the Lump Sum Payment shall be payable at the same time as the payments are eligible to commence under the Retirement Plan.

If a Participant (or surviving spouse or designated beneficiary, as the case may be) elects a Lump Sum Payment pursuant to subsections 4(b) or 4(c) above, the Lump Sum Payment shall be reduced for active Employees by a penalty equal to ten percent (10%) of the Grandfathered Benefit otherwise payable and for former Employees (or spouses or designated beneficiaries) by a penalty equal to five percent (5%) of the Grandfathered Benefit otherwise payable. Such penalty shall be permanently forfeited and shall not be paid to, or in respect of, the Employee, former Employee, or spouse or designated beneficiary. In addition, such election must be made within two years after a Change in Control or within 90 days after the date the Corporation’s long-term credit rating falls below Investment Grade. Such Lump Sum Payment shall be paid within thirty days of the date of election.

Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Plan to the contrary, except where waived by the Participant’s spouse as required under the provisions of the Retirement Plan, all Grandfathered Benefits payable to a Participant shall be

 

4


paid in the same form as the benefits would be payable under the Retirement Plan. Provided, however, for each Participant whose employment terminates after February 18, 2002, if the amount of the Lump Sum Distribution, calculated as if such Participant (or surviving spouse or designated beneficiary, as the case may be) had made an election to receive a Lump Sum Distribution at the earliest time that such person could have made an election under subsection 4(a), does not exceed $25,000, then such Lump Sum Distribution shall be paid at the earliest time such person could have made an election under subsection 4(a).

Notwithstanding any other provision in this Plan, any portion of a Participant’s Benefit which is not a Grandfathered Benefit shall automatically be paid as a Lump Sum Payment. Such payment shall be made following the date which is six months after the Participant’s separation from service (or, if earlier the date of death of the Participant).

Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Supplemental Benefit Plan to the contrary, (i) in the event that a portion of the Lump Sum Payment of a Grandfathered Benefit due a Participant pursuant to this Section 4 would not be deductible by the Company pursuant to Section 162(m) of the Code, the Company, at its discretion, may postpone payment of such amounts to the Participant until such time that the payments would be deductible by the Company, (ii) in the event that a portion of the Lump Sum Payment of a Participant’s Benefit which is not a Grandfathered Benefit due a Participant pursuant to this Section 4 would not be deductible by the Company pursuant to Section 162(m) of the Code, the payment will be delayed where the Company reasonably anticipates that the Company’s deduction with respect to such payment otherwise would be limited or eliminated by application of section 162(m); provided that the payment shall be made either at the earliest date at which the Company reasonably anticipates that the deduction of the payment of the amount will not be limited or eliminated by application of section 162(m). Provided, however, that no payment postponed pursuant to this subsection 4 shall be postponed beyond the first anniversary of the date such Participant terminated employment. Any Lump Sum Payment postponed pursuant to this subsection 4 shall include interest for the period such Lump Sum Payment is postponed at a per annum rate equal to the six-month U.S. Treasury Bill secondary market rate as published by the Federal Reserve Board for the calendar week ending prior to January 1 (for terminations of employment in either of the two subsequent fiscal quarters ending March 31 or June 30) or prior to July 1 (for terminations of employment in either of the two subsequent fiscal quarters ending on September 30 or December 31), or such other rate as determined pursuant to uniform Committee rules.

 

  5. If a Participant has received a Lump Sum Payment pursuant to Section 4 above, such Participant may accrue an additional Benefit under this Plan after the date of such Lump Sum Payment, provided, however, that such future participation shall not result in duplication of benefits. Accordingly, if he has received a distribution of a Benefit under the Plan by reason of prior participation, his Benefit shall be reduced by the actuarial equivalent (at the date of the later distribution) of the present value of the Benefit previously paid hereunder.

 

5


  6. This Plan shall not be a funded plan, and the Corporation shall be under no obligation to set aside any funds for the purpose of making payments under this Plan. Any payments hereunder shall be made out of the general assets of the Employer.

 

  7. The Corporation by action of the Board of Directors, shall have the right at any time to amend this Plan in any respect, or to terminate this Plan; provided, however, that no such amendment or termination shall be effective to the extent it eliminates or reduces any “Section 411(d)(6) protected benefit” or adds or modifies conditions relating to “Section 411(d)(6) protected benefits” the result of which is a further restriction on such benefit unless such protected benefits are preserved with respect to benefits accrued as of the later of the adoption date or effective date of the amendment. “Section 411(d)(6) protected benefits” are benefits described in Section 411(d)(6)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, early retirement benefits and retirement-type subsidies, and optional forms of benefit.

 

  8. The Committee under the Retirement Plan, as constituted from time to time, shall administer this Plan and shall have the same powers and duties, and shall be subject to the same limitations as are set forth in the Retirement Plan.

 

  9. Subject to the provisions of Section 5, this Plan shall terminate when the Retirement Plan terminates.

 

6

Second Supplemental Benefit Plan

Exhibit No. (10)i

SECOND SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFIT PLAN

TO THE

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION

PENSION PLAN

Amended and Restated Effective as of December 31, 2008

 

1. Use of Defined Terms. Capitalized terms used herein have the respective meanings ascribed to such terms as set forth in Section 6 below.

 

2. Purpose. The Second Supplemental Benefit Plan is for the purpose of providing Participants and their Beneficiaries with such benefits, in addition to the Retirement Plan and the Supplemental Plan, as are necessary to fulfill the intent of the Retirement Plan without regard to Section 415 of the Code or any dollar limit imposed by the Code on the amount of compensation considered under the Retirement Plan. It is intended that the Second Supplemental Benefit Plan constitute an unfunded plan of deferred compensation for a select group of management or highly compensated employees, within the meaning of Title I of ERISA.

 

3. Benefit. The Benefit of a Participant or a Survivor under the Second Supplemental Benefit Plan shall be the difference between:

 

  (a) the monthly amount payable under the Retirement Plan, which monthly amount shall be calculated (i) without regard to Article XI of the Retirement Plan and (ii) using the term Earnings defined as set forth in Section 6(f) of the Second Supplemental Benefit Plan below; less

 

  (b) the sum of (i) the monthly amount payable under the Retirement Plan and (ii) the monthly amount payable under the Supplemental Plan.

 

4. Lump Sum Payments.

 

  (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of the Retirement Plan, a Participant (or surviving spouse or designated beneficiary, as the case may be) shall be entitled to elect to receive his Grandfathered Benefit payable under Section 3 as a Lump Sum Payment (subject to any applicable payroll or other taxes required to be withheld) under the following circumstances:

(i) The Participant (or surviving spouse or designated beneficiary, as the case may be) has Timely Elected to receive such Lump Sum Payment;

(ii) the Corporation experiences a Change of Control; or

(iii) the Corporation’s long-term credit rating falls below Investment Grade.

 

  (b)

If a Participant (or surviving spouse or designated beneficiary, as the case may be) elects a Lump Sum Payment pursuant to subsection 4(a)(i) above, such


Page 2

 

 

election is subject to approval by the Retirement Trust Committee in its sole discretion. In addition, the Lump Sum Payment shall be payable at the same time as the payments are eligible to commence under the Retirement Plan.

 

  (c) If a Participant (or surviving spouse or designated beneficiary, as the case may be) elects a Lump Sum Payment pursuant to subsections 4(a)(ii) or 4(a)(iii) above, the Lump Sum Payment shall be reduced for active employee Participants by a penalty equal to ten percent (10%) of the Benefit otherwise payable and for a former employee, or a surviving spouse or designated beneficiary, by a penalty equal to five percent (5%) of the Grandfathered Benefit otherwise payable. Such penalty shall be permanently forfeited and shall not be paid to or in respect of, the Participant or surviving spouse or designated beneficiary. In addition, such election must be made within two years after a Change of Control or within 90 days after the date the Corporation’s long-term credit rating falls below Investment Grade. Such Lump Sum Payment shall be made within thirty days of the date of election.

 

  (d) Notwithstanding any other provision in this Plan, any portion of a Participant’s Benefit which is not a Grandfathered Benefit shall automatically be paid as a Lump Sum Payment. Such payment shall be made following the date which is six months after the Participant’s separation from service (or, if earlier the date of death of the Participant).

 

  (e) If a Participant has received a Lump Sum Payment pursuant to this Section 4, such Participant may accrue an additional Benefit under this Plan after the date of such Lump Sum Payment, provided, however, that such future participation shall not result in duplication of benefits. Accordingly, if he has received a distribution of a Benefit under the Plan by reason of prior participation, his Benefit shall be reduced by the actuarial equivalent (at the date of the later distribution) of the present value of the Benefit previously paid hereunder.

 

  (f)

Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Second Supplemental Benefit Plan to the contrary, (i) in the event that a portion of the Lump Sum Payment of a Grandfathered Benefit due a Participant pursuant to this Section 4 would not be deductible by the Company pursuant to Section 162(m) of the Code, the Company, at its discretion, may postpone payment of such amounts to the Participant until such time that the payments would be deductible by the Company, (ii) in the event that a portion of the Lump Sum Payment of a Participant’s Benefit which is not a Grandfathered Benefit due a Participant pursuant to this Section 4 would not be deductible by the Company pursuant to Section 162(m) of the Code, the payment will be delayed where the Company reasonably anticipates that the Company’s deduction with respect to such payment otherwise would be limited or eliminated by application of section 162(m); provided that the payment shall be made either at the earliest date at which the Company reasonably anticipates that the deduction of the payment of the amount will not be limited or eliminated by application of section 162(m).


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Provided, however, that no payment postponed pursuant to this subsection 4(f) shall be postponed beyond the first anniversary of the date such Participant terminated employment. Any Lump Sum Payment postponed pursuant to subsection 4(d) or 4(f) shall include interest for the period such Lump Sum Payment is postponed at a per annum rate equal to the six-month U.S. Treasury Bill secondary market rate as published by the Federal Reserve Board for the calendar week ending prior to January 1 (for terminations of employment in either of the two subsequent fiscal quarters ending March 31 or June 30) or prior to July 1 (for terminations of employment in either of the subsequent fiscal quarters ending on September 30 or December 31), or such other rate as determined pursuant to uniform Committee rules.

 

  (g) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Plan to the contrary, except where waived by the Participant’s spouse as required under the provisions of the Retirement Plan, all Grandfathered Benefits payable to a Participant shall be paid in the same form as the benefits would be payable under the Retirement Plan. Provided, however, for each Participant whose employment terminates after February 18, 2002, if the amount of the Lump Sum Distribution, calculated as if such Participant (or surviving spouse or designated beneficiary, as the case may be) had made an election to receive a Lump Sum Distribution at the earliest time that such person could have made an election under subsection 4(a)(i), does not exceed $25,000, then such Lump Sum Distribution shall be paid at the earliest time such person could have made an election under subsection 4(a)(i).

 

5. Amendment and Termination. The Corporation, by action of its Board of Directors, may amend the Second Supplemental Benefit Plan in any respect, or terminate the Second Supplemental Benefit Plan; provided, however, that no such amendment or termination shall be effective to the extent it eliminates or reduces any “Section 411(d)(6) protected benefit” or adds or modifies conditions relating to “Section 411(d)(6) protected benefits” the result of which is a further restriction on such benefit unless such protected benefits are preserved with respect to benefits accrued as of the later of the adoption date or effective date of the amendment. “Section 411(d)(6) protected benefits” are benefits described in Section 411(d)(6)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, early retirement benefits and retirement-type subsidies, and optional forms of benefit.

 

6. Definitions. The following capitalized terms shall have the respective meanings set forth below:

 

  (a) “Benefit” shall mean a benefit payable pursuant to, and determined in accordance with the provisions of the Second Supplemental Benefit Plan.

 

  (b)

“Change of Control” shall mean that: (i) a third person, including a “group” as defined in Section 13(d)(3) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, has acquired shares of the Corporation having 20 percent or more of the total number of votes that may be cast for the election of Directors of the Corporation, or (ii) as the result of any cash tender or exchange offer, merger or other business


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combination, sale of assets or contested election, or any combination of the foregoing transactions, the persons who were directors of the Corporation before the transaction have ceased to constitute a majority of the Board of Directors of the Corporation or any successor to the Corporation.

 

  (c) “Code” shall mean the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

  (d) “Corporation” shall mean Kimberly-Clark Corporation, and any successor corporation.

 

  (e) “Committee” shall mean the Committee named under the Retirement Plan.

 

  (f) “Earnings” shall mean compensation paid by one or more of the designated affiliated companies shown in Appendix B of the Retirement Plan for personal services rendered to one or more of such companies (before any withholding required by law or authorized by the person to whom such compensation is payable), including overtime, bonuses, incentive compensation, Regular Deferred Deposits and special Deferred Deposits under the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Salaried Employees’ Incentive Investment Plan, and any salary or bonus, or both, deferred under the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan, but excluding any payments in lieu of vacation, severance payments, compensation paid in a form other than cash (such as goods, services, and, except as otherwise provided herein, contributions to employee benefit programs), service or suggestion awards, and all other special or unusual compensation of any kind.

Notwithstanding the above, for Plan Years of the Retirement Plan beginning on or after January 1, 1980, in the case of a Participant on foreign assignment, as determined by the Employer pursuant to rules adopted by the Committee, earnings shall be base salary, as determined by the Participant’s Employer pursuant to rules adopted by the committee (without regard to any limitation under Section 401(a)(17) of the Code) plus overtime, bonuses, incentive compensation, and Regular Deferred Deposits and Special Deferred Deposits under the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Salaried Employees’ Incentive Investment Plan, and any salary or bonus, or both, deferred under the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan, but shall exclude foreign service premium, cost of living adjustments, housing payments, tax equalization payments, payments in lieu of vacation, severance payments, compensation in a form other than cash (such as goods, services, and, except as otherwise provided herein, contributions to employee benefit programs), service or suggestion award and all other special or unusual compensation of any kind.

 

  (g) “Employer” shall mean a participating employer shown in Appendix A of the Retirement Plan.


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  (h) “ERISA” shall mean the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended.

 

  (i) “Grandfathered Benefit” shall mean the portion of the Benefit considered deferred under this Plan on or before December 31, 2004 as determined in accordance with Section 409A of the Code and the guidance promulgated thereunder.

 

  (j) “Investment Grade” shall mean a bond rating of BBB minus, or its equivalent, by one of the nationally recognized rating agencies.

 

  (k) “Lump Sum Payment” shall mean a form of benefit payable as a lump sum cash payment, actuarially determined based on the rate of interest equivalent to the yield on a 30-year Treasury Bond as published in the Federal Reserve Statistical Release for the week that contains the first business day of the month prior to the date such Lump Sum payment is payable under this Second Supplemental Benefit Plan, or such other rate as determined pursuant to uniform Committee rules, and the mortality table set forth for determining actuarial equivalent benefits under Section 10.1(a) of the Retirement Plan, and (i) in the case of a lump sum payment pursuant to subsection 4(a)(i) of this Plan, based on the Participant’s Benefit payable from this Plan and his age at the date of such lump sum payment, and (ii) in the case of a lump sum payment pursuant to subsections 4(a)(ii) or 4(a)(iii) of this Plan, based on the Participant’s Benefit payable under this plan, the earliest age at which his Benefit from the Retirement Plan could commence if he terminated employment, and the early retirement reduction factor applicable at such age of commencement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the 30-year Treasury Bond yield shall be used in determining a lump sum cash payment so long as such rate is published by the Federal Reserve. In the event that the Federal Reserve ceases to publish the 30-year Treasury Bond rate, a lump sum cash payment will be actuarially determined based on the rate of interest equivalent to the yield on the longest term Treasury Bond published in the Federal Reserve Statistical Release which is no more than 30-years but not less than for a 10-year term.

 

  (l) “Participant” shall mean a participant in the Retirement Plan who (i) is a “managerial or highly compensated employee” of an Employer, within the meaning of Title I of ERISA, and (ii) has earnings in excess of the limit provided under Section 401(a)(17) of the Code for any calendar year in which the Participant participates in the Retirement Plan, except that no individual shall be a participant herein to the extent that such participation is precluded by an agreement between the Corporation and such individual or such individual is subject to a separate agreement regarding deferred compensation which provides for similar benefits.

 

  (m) “Retirement Plan” shall mean the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Pension Plan, or any successor defined benefit pension plan.


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  (n) “Second Supplemental Benefit Plan” shall mean the Second Supplemental Benefit Plan to the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Pension Plan.

 

  (o) “Supplemental Plan” shall mean the Supplemental Benefit Plan to the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Pension Plan, or any successor to such plan.

 

  (p) “Survivor” shall refer to any of a Designated Beneficiary, surviving spouse or Surviving Minor Children of a Participant, within the meaning of the Retirement Plan.

 

  (q) “Terminations of employment”, “terminated employment”, “terminates service” and “separation from service” with respect to a Benefit that is not a Grandfathered Benefit under this Plan means Separation from Service with the Corporation or a Subsidiary. A Separation from Service will be deemed to have occurred if the Participant’s services with the Corporation or a Subsidiary is reduced to an annual rate that is 20 percent or less of the services rendered, on average, during the immediately preceding three years of employment (or if employed less than three years, such lesser period). Subsidiary for this subsection means any domestic or foreign corporation at least twenty percent (20%) of whose shares normally entitled to vote in electing directors is owned directly or indirectly by the Corporation or by other Subsidiaries, provided, however, that “at least fifty percent (50%)” shall replace “at least twenty percent (20%)” where there is not a legitimate business criteria for using such lower percentage.

 

  (r) “Timely Elected” shall mean as follows:

 

  (i) For payments which commence under the Retirement Plan prior to January 1, 1996, the Participant has elected to receive such Lump Sum Payment either (aa) in the calendar year prior to the year in which the payments are eligible to commence under the Retirement Plan or (bb) at least 90 days prior to the date such Lump Sum payment is payable under this Second Supplemental Benefit Plan;

 

  (ii) For payments which commence under the Retirement Plan on or after January 1, 1996 and prior to February 18, 2002 the Participant has elected to receive such Lump Sum Payment no later than the earlier of (aa) the calendar year prior to the year in which the payments are eligible to commence under the Retirement Plan, (bb) at least 90 days prior to the date such Lump Sum payment is payable under this Second Supplemental Benefit Plan or (cc) for Participants who terminate employment prior to having attained age 55, the calendar year in which the Participant attained age 54.


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  (iii) For payments which commence under the Retirement Plan on or after February 18, 2002 the Participant has elected to receive such Lump Sum Payment no later than the calendar year prior to the year in which the payments are eligible to commence under the Retirement Plan.

 

  (iv) In the event of the death of the Participant who has not commenced payments under this Second Supplemental Benefit Plan, the Participant’s surviving spouse or designated beneficiary, as the case may be may, with the consent of the Retirement Trust Committee, elect a Lump Sum Payment in writing no later than thirty (30) days after the Participant’s date of death.

 

  (v) In the event that a Participant terminates service due to a Disability as described in Section 4.5 of the Retirement Plan, the Participant may, with the consent of the Retirement Trust Committee, elect a Lump Sum Payment in writing no later than thirty (30) days after the date the Participant is determined to be disabled by the Committee for the Pension Plan.

 

7. Miscellaneous.

 

  (a) The Corporation is the Plan Sponsor and Named Fiduciary of the Second Supplemental Benefit Plan, within the meaning of ERISA.

 

  (b) The Committee shall administer the Second Supplemental Benefit Plan and shall have the same power and duties, and shall be subject to the same limitations, as are set forth in the Retirement Plan.

 

  (c) An application or claim for a benefit under the Retirement Plan, or an election to receive his benefit in a Lump Sum Payment, shall constitute a claim for a Benefit under the Second Supplemental Benefit Plan.
Retirement Contribution Excess Benefit Program

Exhibit No. (10)j

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION

RETIREMENT CONTRIBUTION EXCESS BENEFIT PROGRAM

Amended and Restated effective December 31, 2008

In recognition of the valuable services provided to Kimberly-Clark Corporation (the “Corporation”), and its subsidiaries, by its employees, the Board of Directors of the Corporation (the “Board”) wishes to provide additional retirement benefits to those individuals whose benefits under the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Retirement Contribution Plan (the “RCP”) are restricted by the operation of the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. It is the intent of the Corporation to provide these benefits under the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth. This Program is intended to encompass two plans, (i) an “excess benefit plan” within the meaning of Section 3(36) of Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ERISA”), and, as such, to be exempt from all of the provisions of ERISA pursuant to Section 4(b)(5) thereof and (ii) a non-qualified supplemental retirement plan which is unfunded and maintained primarily for the purpose of providing deferred compensation for a select group of management or highly compensated employees of the Corporation, pursuant to Sections 201, 301 and 401 of ERISA and, as such, exempt from the provisions of Parts II, III and IV of Title I of ERISA.

ARTICLE 1

Definitions

Each term which is used in this Program and also used in the RCP shall have the same meaning herein as the RCP.

Notwithstanding the above, for purposes of this Program, where the following words and phrases appear in this Program they shall have the respective meanings set forth below unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

1.1 “Beneficiary” means the person or persons who under this Program becomes entitled to receive a Participant’s interest in the event of the Participant’s death. The Beneficiary need not be the same as the beneficiary under the RCP.

1.2 A “Change of Control” of the Corporation shall be deemed to have taken place if: (i) a third person, including a “group” as defined in Section 13(d)(3) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, acquires shares of the Corporation having 20% or more of the total number of votes that may be cast for the election of Directors of the Corporation; or (ii) as the result of any cash tender or exchange offer, merger or other business combination, sale of assets or contested election, or any combination of the foregoing transactions (a “Transaction”), the persons who were directors of the Corporation before the Transaction shall cease to constitute a majority of the Board of Directors of the Corporation or any successor to the Corporation.

 

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1.3 “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code for 1986, as amended and any lawful regulations or other pronouncements promulgated thereunder.

1.4 “Committee” means the Benefits Administration Committee named under the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Incentive Investment Plan and the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Retirement Contribution Plan.

1.5 “Earnings” means remuneration when paid, or would have been paid but for an Employee’s deferral election, to a Participant from a Participating Unit for personal services rendered to such Participating Unit (before any withholding required by law or authorized by the person to whom such remuneration is payable), including overtime, bonuses, incentive compensation, vacation pay, deducted military pay, state disability payments received, workers compensation payments received and, to the extent such deductions decrease the individual’s base pay, Before-Tax deferrals under the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Salaried Employee Incentive Investment Plan, contributions under the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Flexible Benefits Plan or any other plan described under Section 125 of the Code, and deferrals under the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan. Earnings shall exclude any severance payments (except as provided in Section 4.3 of the RCP), payments made under the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Equity Participation Plans, pay in lieu of vacation, compensation paid in a form other than cash (such as goods, services and, except as otherwise provided herein, contributions to employee benefit programs), service or suggestion awards, and all other special or unusual compensation of any kind; provided, however that the limitations on Earnings provided for pursuant to Code Sections 401(a)(17) shall not apply under this Program. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Earnings shall not include any remuneration paid to a Participant after payment of such individual’s Individual Account commences in accordance with Section 4.9 following the Participant’s Termination of Service.

1.6 “Effective Date” means January 1, 1997.

1.7 “Excess Plan” means the plan established as part of the Program for Participants whose Retirement Contributions to the RCP are limited solely by Code Section 415.

1.8 “Grandfathered Benefit” means the vested amount of the Participant’s Individual Account as of December 31, 2004, including earnings on such amount thereafter. Such amount shall be determined in accordance with Code Section 409A and any guidance promulgated thereunder.

1.9 “Individual Account” means the account established pursuant to Section 3.

1.10 “Investment Funds” means the phantom investment funds established under this Program which will accrue earnings as if the Participant’s Individual Account held actual assets which were invested in the appropriate Investment Fund as defined under the RCP.

1.11 “Participant” means any Employee who satisfies the eligibility requirements set forth in Section 2. In the event of the death or incompetency of a Participant, the term shall mean the Participant’s personal representative or guardian.

1.12 “Program” means the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Retirement Contribution Excess Benefit Program as set forth herein and as the same may be amended from time to time; provided, however, that the term “Excess Plan” or “SRP” may be used to refer to only one of the two plans encompassed within the Program.

 

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1.13 “Retirement Date” means the date of Termination of Service of the Participant on or after he attains age 55 and has 5 Years of Service with the Corporation.

1.14 “RCP” means the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Retirement Contribution Plan, as in effect from time to time.

1.15 “SRP” means the plan established as part of the Program for Participants whose Retirement Contributions to the RCP are limited by the application of the rules, or regulations, of Code Section 401(a)(4) or the limitations of Code Section 401(a)(17), in either case alone or in conjunction with the limitations of Code Section 415 or whose Earnings are not fully taken into account in determining the Employee’s Retirement Contributions to the RCP.

1.16 (a) “Termination of Service” with respect to a Grandfathered Benefit under this Program means the Participant’s cessation of his service with the Corporation for any reason whatsoever, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, including by reasons of retirement or death.

(b) “Termination of Service” with respect to any amount that is not a Grandfathered Benefit under this Program means Separation from Service with the Corporation or a Subsidiary. A Separation from Service will be deemed to have occurred if the Participant’s services with the Corporation or a Subsidiary is reduced to an annual rate that is 20 percent or less of the services rendered, on average, during the immediately preceding three years of employment (or if employed less than three years, such lesser period). Subsidiary for this subsection means any domestic or foreign corporation at least twenty percent (20%) of whose shares normally entitled to vote in electing directors is owned directly or indirectly by the Corporation or by other Subsidiaries, provided, however, that “at least fifty percent (50%)” shall replace “at least twenty percent (20%)” where there is not a legitimate business criteria for using such lower percentage.

ARTICLE 2

Eligibility

2.1 Any Employee who is a Participant in the RCP on or after the Effective Date and whose Retirement Contributions to the RCP are limited solely by Code Section 415 shall participate in the Excess Plan. Any other Employee who is a Participant in the RCP on or after the Effective Date and whose Retirement Contributions to the RCP are limited by the application of the rules, or regulations, of Code Section 401(a)(4) or the limitations of Code Section 401(a)(17), in either case alone or in conjunction with the limitations of Code Section 415 or whose Earnings are not fully taken into account in determining the Employee’s Retirement Contributions to the RCP shall participate in the SRP; provided, however, that no Employee shall become a Participant in the SRP unless such Employee is a member of a select group of management or highly compensated Employees of the Corporation so that the SRP is maintained as a plan described in Section 201(2) of ERISA.

 

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2.2 Notwithstanding any of the foregoing provisions of Article 2 to the contrary, any Employee who on the Effective Date is both an active employee of the Corporation or its subsidiaries and is a Participant in the Kimberly-Clark Tissue Company Defined Contribution Excess Benefit Program (the “KCTC Plan”) must elect to participate in this Program and shall, pursuant to this election, as of the Effective Date, have the amount credited to the Participant’s Individual Account under the KCTC Plan transferred to this Program. “Active employee” shall not include employees who are in transition assignments or who are on Limited Service as defined under the Scott Paper Company Termination Pay Plan for Salaried Employees.

ARTICLE 3

Individual Account

3.1 The Corporation shall create and maintain an unfunded Individual Account under the Excess Plan or the SRP, as applicable, for each Participant to which it shall credit the amounts described in this Article 3. Participants entitled to receive Retirement Contributions under the RCP shall receive Retirement Contributions under the Excess Plan in an amount as would have been contributed for such Participant under the RCP without regard to the limitation on benefits imposed by Section 415 of the Code, and calculated using Earnings as defined in this Program, but only to the extent that such amount exceeds such limitations. In addition, each Participant shall receive Retirement Contributions under the SRP as would have been contributed for such Participant under the RCP without regard to the limitations on benefits imposed by Sections 401(a)(17) and 401(a)(4) of the Code, and calculated using Earnings as defined in this Program, but only to the extent that such amount exceeds the Retirement Contributions under the RCP. Such Retirement Contributions shall be made for each Participant on the same terms and conditions, at the same times, and pursuant to the same elections made by the Participant as they would have been if paid under the RCP, were not for such limitations on benefits or Earnings.

3.2 For the period prior to July 1, 1997, as of the last day of each calendar month, the Corporation shall credit each Participant’s Individual Account with deemed interest with respect to the then balance of the Participant’s Individual Account equal to 1% plus the rate shown for U.S. Treasury Notes with a remaining maturity closest to, but not exceeded, 7 years, in the “representative mid-afternoon over the counter quotations supplied by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York City, based on transactions of $1 million or more,” as reported in The Wall Street Journal published on the last business day of each calendar month; provided, however, the Committee may change this crediting rating at any time for deemed interest not yet credited to an Individual Account.

3.3 After June 30, 1997 and prior to June 29, 2000, each Participant’s Retirement Contributions under this Program shall be considered allocated to the Investment Funds in the same proportion as the Participant has elected under the RCP pursuant to Section 6.1 thereof. Effective June 29, 2000, each Participant’s Retirement Contributions under this Program shall be considered allocated to the Investment Funds according to the Participant’s elections under this Program, independent of the Participant’s elections under the RCP, provided that (i) such Participant’s elections under this Program shall be made in the same or similar manner prescribed by the Committee for the RCP, and (ii) such Participant’s elections under the RCP as of June 29, 2000 shall be carried over to this Program until such time as the Participant changes them hereunder.

 

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On or after January 1, 2008, a Participant may not allocate initial Retirement Contributions to the K-C Stock Fund, except as a transfer or reallocation under Section 7.3 of the RCP.

3.4 After June 30, 1997 and prior to June 29, 2000, reallocations between Investment Funds shall be considered made at the same time, in the same proportionate amount, and to and from the same Investment Funds under this Program as those made by the Participant under Section 6.3 of the RCP; provided, however, that if such Participant has no account balance under the RCP, the Participant may make separate reallocation elections hereunder in a manner prescribed by the Committee. Effective June 29, 2000, reallocations between Investment Funds shall be considered made according to the Participant’s elections under this Program, independent of the Participant’s elections under the RCP, provided that (i) such Participant’s elections under this Program shall be made in the same or similar manner prescribed by the Committee for the RCP, and (ii) such Participant’s elections under the RCP as of June 29, 2000 shall be carried over to this Program until such time as the Participant changes them hereunder.

3.5 After June 30, 1997 and before June 29, 2000, the Corporation shall credit each Participant’s Individual Account with earnings, gains and losses as if such accounts held actual assets and such assets were invested among such Investment Funds, in the same proportion as the Participant has invested in the RCP; provided, however, that if such Participant has no account balance under the RCP, the Participant may make separate investment elections hereunder in the manner prescribed by the Committee. Effective June 29, 2000, the Corporation shall credit each Participant’s Individual Account with earnings, gains and losses as if such accounts were invested among the Investment Funds according to the Participant’s elections under this Program, independent of the Participant’s elections under the RCP, provided that (i) such Participant’s elections under this Program shall be made in the same or similar manner prescribed by the Committee for the RCP, and (ii) such Participant’s elections under the RCP as of June 29, 2000 shall be carried over to this Program until such time as the Participant changes them hereunder.

ARTICLE 4

Distributions of Benefit Supplement

4.1 Retirement Benefit. Subject to Section 4.5 below, upon a Participant’s Retirement Date, he shall be entitled to receive the amount of his Individual Account. The form of benefit payment, and the time of commencement of such benefit, shall be as provided in Section 4.4.

4.2 Termination Benefit. Upon the Termination of Service of a Participant prior to his Retirement Date, for reasons other than death, the Corporation shall pay to the Participant, a benefit equal to his Individual Account.

Unless otherwise directed by the Committee, the termination benefit shall be payable in a lump sum as set forth in Section 4.9 following the Participant’s Termination of Service. Upon payment following a Termination of Service, the Participant shall immediately cease to be eligible for any other benefit provided under this Program.

 

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4.3 Death Benefits. Upon the death of a Participant or a retired Participant, the Beneficiary of such Participant shall receive the Participant’s remaining Individual Account. Payment of a Participant’s remaining Individual Account shall be made in accordance with Section 4.4.

4.4 Form of Benefit Payment. Upon the happening of an event described in Sections 4.1, 4.2 or 4.3, the Corporation shall pay to the Participant the amount specified therein in a lump sum.

4.5 Limitations on the Annual Amount Paid to a Participant. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Program to the contrary, in the event that a portion of the payments due a Participant pursuant to Sections 4.1, 4.2, 4.3 or 4.4 would not be deductible by the Corporation pursuant to Section 162(m) of the Code, the Corporation, (a) with respect to the portion of the payment that is a Grandfathered Benefit, at its discretion, may postpone payment of such amounts to the Participant until such time that the payments would be deductible by the Corporation and (b) with respect to the portion of the payment that is not a Grandfathered Benefit, shall postpone payment of such amounts to the Participant until such time that the payments would be deductible by the Corporation. Provided, however, that no payment postponed pursuant to this Section 4.5 shall be postponed beyond the first anniversary of such Participant’s Termination of Service.

4.6 Change of Control and Lump Sum Payments

(a) If there is a Change of Control, notwithstanding any other provision of this Program, any Participant who has a Grandfathered Benefit hereunder may, at any time during a twenty-four (24) month period immediately following a Change of Control, elect to receive an immediate lump sum payment of the balance of his Grandfathered Benefit, reduced by a penalty equal to ten percent (10%) of the Participant’s Grandfathered Benefit as of the last business day of the month preceding the date of the election. The ten percent (10%) penalty shall be permanently forfeited and shall not be paid to, or in respect of, the Participant.

(b) If there is a Change of Control, notwithstanding any other provision of this Program, any retired Participant, or Beneficiary, who has a Grandfathered Benefit hereunder may, at any time during a twenty-four (24) month period immediately following a Change of Control, elect to receive an immediate lump sum payment of the balance of his Grandfathered Benefit, reduced by a penalty equal to five percent (5%) of the Participant’s Grandfathered Benefit as of the last business day of the month preceding the date of the election. The five percent (5%) penalty of the retired Participant’s or Beneficiary’s Grandfathered Benefit shall be permanently forfeited and shall not be paid to, or in respect of, the retired Participant or Beneficiary.

(c) In the event no such request is made by a Participant, a retired Participant or Beneficiary, the Program shall remain in full force and effect.

4.7 Change in Credit Rating and Lump Sum Payments.

In the event the Corporation’s financial rating falls below Investment Grade, a Participant, retired Participant, or Beneficiary may at any time during a six (6) month period following the reduction in the Corporation’s financial rating, elect to receive an immediate lump sum payment

 

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of the balance of his Grandfathered Benefit reduced by a penalty equal to ten percent (10%) of the Participant’s Grandfathered Benefit or five percent (5%) of the retired Participant’s or Beneficiary’s Grandfathered Benefit as of the last business day of the month preceding the election. The penalties accrued hereunder shall be permanently forfeited and shall not be paid to, or in respect of, the Participant, retired Participant or Beneficiary.

In the event no such request is made by a Participant, retired Participant or Beneficiary, the Program shall remain in full force and effect.

4.8 Tax Withholding. To the extent required by law, the Corporation shall withhold any taxes required to be withheld by any Federal, State or local government.

4.9 Commencement of Payments. Unless otherwise provided, commencement of payments under Section 4.6 or 4.7 of this Program shall be as soon as administratively feasible on or after the last business day of the month following receipt of notice and approval by the Committee of an event which entitles a Participant or a Beneficiary to payments under this Program. Unless otherwise provided, commencement of payments of a Grandfathered Benefit under Section 4.1, 4.2 or 4.3 of this Program shall be payable in the first calendar quarter of the year following the Plan year in which the Participant terminates employment from the Corporation for any reason; provided, however, that such a termination shall not be deemed to occur until immediately following the receipt of all payments due to the Employee under the Scott Paper Company Termination Pay Plan for Salaried Employees. Unless otherwise provided, commencement of payments of the portion of a Participant’s Individual Account which is not a Grandfathered Benefit, under Section 4.1, 4.2 or 4.3 of this Program shall be paid as of the later of (i) March 14 of the year following the Plan year of the Participant’s Separation from Service from the Corporation for any reason, or (ii) the date which is six months following the Participant’s Separation from Service from the Corporation for any reason (or, if earlier the date of death of the Participant).

4.10 Recipients of Payments; Designation of Beneficiary. All payments to be made by the Corporation under the Program shall be made to the Participant during his lifetime, provided that if the Participant dies prior to the completion of such payments, then all subsequent payments under the Program shall be made by the Corporation to the Beneficiary determined in accordance with this Section. The Participant may designate a Beneficiary by filing a written notice of such designation with the Committee in such form as the Committee requires and may include contingent Beneficiaries. The Participant may from time-to-time change the designated Beneficiary by filing a new designation in writing with the Committee. If a married Participant designates a Beneficiary or Beneficiaries other than his spouse at the time of such designation, such designation shall not be effective (and the Participant’s spouse shall be the Beneficiary) unless:

 

  (a) the spouse consents in writing to such designation;

 

  (b) the spouse’s consent acknowledges the effect of such designation, which consent shall be irrevocable; and

 

  (c) the spouse executes the consent in the presence of either a Plan representative designated by the Committee or a notary public.

 

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Notwithstanding the foregoing, such consent shall not be required if the Participant establishes to the satisfaction of the Committee that such consent cannot be obtained because (i) there is no spouse; (ii) the spouse cannot be located after reasonable efforts have been made; or (iii) other circumstances exist to excuse spousal consent as determined by the Committee. If no designation is in effect at the time when any benefits payable under this Plan shall become due, the Beneficiary shall be the spouse of the Participant, or if no spouse is then living, the representatives of the Participant’s estate.

 

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ARTICLE 5

Vesting

5.1 The balance of a Participant’s Individual Account shall be 100% vested at the same time as if the amounts had been credited to the Participant’s Account under the RCP.

5.2 K-C Aviation Benefit. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan, a Participant shall be fully vested in his Individual Account as of the date on which he ceases to be an Eligible Employee under the Program, if such Participant meets all of the following conditions:

 

  (a) immediately prior to the Closing Date, as defined in the Agreement of Purchase and Sale dated as of July 23, 1998 by and between the Corporation and Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation (the “Agreement”), he must have been an Employee employed by the Corporation or K-C Aviation Inc.; and

 

  (b) as of the Closing Date, as defined in the Agreement, he must have ceased to be an Eligible Employee solely on account of the sale of the stock of K-C Aviation Inc. pursuant to the Agreement, and he must either (i) be employed by the Buyer, as defined in the Agreement, immediately after he ceases to be an Eligible Employee hereunder, or (ii) have been on a long-term disability leave of absence from K-C Aviation Inc. as of the Closing Date, as defined in the Agreement.

ARTICLE 6

Funding

6.1 The Board may, but shall not be required to, authorize the establishment of a trust by the Corporation to serve as the funding vehicle for the benefits described herein. In any event, the Corporation’s obligations hereunder shall constitute a general, unsecured obligation, payable solely out of its general assets, and no Participant shall have any right to any specific assets of the Corporation.

ARTICLE 7

Administration

7.1 The Committee shall administer this Program and shall have the same powers and duties, and shall be subject to the same limitations as are set forth in the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Incentive Investment Plan and the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Retirement Contribution Plan.

ARTICLE 8

Amendment and Termination

8.1 The Corporation, by action of the Board, or a Committee of the Board, shall have the right at any time to amend this Program in any respect, or to terminate this Program; provided,

 

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however, that no such amendment or termination shall operate to reduce the benefit that has accrued for any Participant who is participating in the Program nor the payment due to a terminated Participant at the time the amendment or termination is adopted. Continuance of the Program is completely voluntary and is not assumed as a contractual obligation of the Corporation. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Program shall terminate when the RCP terminates.

Any action permitted to be taken by the Board, or a Committee of the Board, under the foregoing provision regarding the modification, alteration or amendment of the Program may be taken by the Chief Human Resources Officer of the Corporation, if such action

(a) is required by law, or

(b) is estimated not to increase the annual cost of the Program by more than $5,000,000 or

(c) is estimated not to increase the annual cost of the Program by more than $25,000, provided such action is approved and duly executed by the Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation.

Any action taken by the Board, a Committee of the Board, or Chief Human Resources Officer shall be made by or pursuant to a resolution duly adopted by the Board, a Committee of the Board, or Chief Human Resources Officer and shall be evidenced by such resolution or by a written instrument executed by such persons as the Board, a Committee of the Board, or Chief Human Resources Officer shall authorize for such purpose.

Any action which is required or permitted to be taken by the Board under the provisions of this Plan may be taken by the Management and Development Compensation Committee of the Board or any other duly authorized committee of the Board designated under the By-Laws of the Corporation.

The Board, the Management and Development Compensation Committee of the Board or any duly authorized committee of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer or the Chief Human Resources Officer may authorize persons to carry out its policies and directives subject to the limitations and guidelines set by it, and may delegate its authority under the Plan.

The Chief Human Resources Officer shall report to the Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation before January 31 of each year all action taken by such position hereunder during the preceding calendar year.

The Chief Executive Officer shall report to the Board before January 31 of each year all action taken by such position hereunder during the preceding calendar year.

 

10


ARTICLE 9

Miscellaneous

9.1 Nothing contained herein (a) shall be deemed to exclude a Participant from any compensation, bonus, pension, insurance, termination pay or other benefit to which he otherwise is or might become entitled to as an Employee or (b) shall be construed as conferring upon an Employee the right to continue in the employ of the Corporation as an executive or in any other capacity; provided, however, that if, at the time payments are to be made hereunder, the Participant or the Beneficiary are indebted or obligated to the Corporation, then the payments remaining to be made to the Participant or the Beneficiary may, at the discretion of the Corporation, be reduced by the amount of such indebtedness or obligation, provided, however, that an election by the Corporation not to reduce any such payment or payments shall not constitute a waiver of its claim for such indebtedness or obligation.

9.2 Any amounts payable by the Corporation hereunder shall not be deemed salary or other compensation to a Participant for the purposes of computing benefits to which the Participant may be entitled under any other arrangement established by the Corporation for the benefit of its Employees.

9.3 The rights and obligations created hereunder shall be binding on a Participant’s heirs, executors and administrators and on the successors and assigns of the Corporation.

9.4 The Program shall be construed and governed by the laws of the State of Wisconsin.

9.5 The rights of any Participant under this Program are personal and may not be assigned, transferred, pledged or encumbered. Any attempt to do so shall be void.

9.6 Neither the Corporation, its Employees, agents, any member of the Board, the Plan Administrator nor the Committee shall be responsible or liable in any manner to any Participant, Beneficiary, or any person claiming through them for any benefit or action taken or omitted in connection with the granting of benefits, the continuation of benefits or the interpretation and administration of this Program.

9.7 An application or claim for a benefit under the RCP shall constitute a claim for a benefit under this Program.

9.8 The Corporation is the plan sponsor. All actions shall be taken by the Corporation in its sole discretion, not as a fiduciary, and need not be applied uniformly to similarly situated individuals.

 

11

Form of Award Agreements under 2001 Equity Participation Plan

Exhibit No. (10)n

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION

NONQUALIFIED STOCK OPTION

AWARD AGREEMENT

This Award, granted on the date approved by the Committee or the Chief Executive Officer, as the case may be, and as reflected on the Merrill Lynch Benefits OnLine site, or any successor system, via the Grant Summary screen as the Grant Date, by Kimberly-Clark Corporation, a Delaware corporation (hereinafter called the “Corporation”), is subject to the terms and conditions of the 2001 Equity Participation Plan (the “Plan”) and this Award Agreement, including any country-specific terms and conditions contained in Appendix A to this Award Agreement.

W I T N E S S E T H:

WHEREAS, the Corporation has adopted the 2001 Equity Participation Plan (the “Plan”) to encourage those employees who materially contribute, by managerial, scientific or other innovative means, to the success of the Corporation or of an Affiliate, to acquire an ownership interest in the Corporation, thereby increasing their motivation for and interest in the Corporation’s or the Affiliate’s long-term success;

NOW, THEREFORE, it is agreed as follows:

 

1. Number of Shares Optioned; Option Price. The Corporation grants to the Employee the right and option to purchase in his own name, on the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth, all or any part of an aggregate of the number of shares of the $1.25 par value common stock of the Corporation, and at the purchase price per share, as granted on the date set forth above and as reflected on the Merrill Lynch Benefits OnLine site, or any successor system, via the Grant Summary screen as the Options Granted and the Grant Price. This option shall not be an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”).

 

2. Exercise of Option.

 

  (a)

Limitations on Exercise. This option shall be subject to forfeiture until the Employee becomes vested in such Awards according to the schedule set forth


 

in the Award Agreement. This option shall not be exercisable until at least one year has expired after the granting of this option, during which time the Employee shall have been in the continuous employ of the Corporation or an Affiliate; provided, however, that the option shall become exercisable immediately in the event of a Qualified Termination of Employment of a Participant, without regard to the limitations set forth below in this subsection. At any time during the period of this option after the end of the first year, the Employee may purchase up to 30 percent of the shares covered by this option; after the end of the second year, an additional 30 percent; and after the end of the third year, the remaining 40 percent of the total number of shares covered by the option, so that, upon the expiration of the third year, the Employee will have become entitled to purchase all shares subject to this option; provided, however, that if the Employee’s employment is terminated for any reason other than death, Retirement, or Total and Permanent Disability, this option shall only be exercisable for three months following such termination and only for the number of shares which were exercisable on the date of such termination. In no event, however, may this option be exercised more than ten (10) years after the date of its grant.

The above provisions of Section 2(a) notwithstanding, to the extent provided by rules of the Committee referred to in the Plan (hereinafter referred to as the “Committee”), this option is not exercisable during any period during which the Employee’s right to make deposits to the Kimberly-Clark Corporation Salaried Employees Incentive Investment Plan is suspended pursuant to a provision of such plan or rules adopted thereunder to comply with regulations regarding hardship withdrawals promulgated by the Internal Revenue Service.

A termination of employment shall not be deemed to have occurred while an Employee is on military leave or other bona fide leave of absence if the period of such leave does not exceed six months, or if longer, so long as the Employee retains a right to reemployment with the Corporation or an Affiliate under an applicable statute or by contract. For purposes of this subparagraph, a leave of absence constitutes a bona fide leave of absence only if there is a reasonable expectation that the Employee will return to perform services for the Corporation or an Affiliate. If the period of leave exceeds six months and the Employee does not retain a right to reemployment under an applicable statute or by contract, the employment relationship is deemed to terminate on the first date immediately following such six-month period. Notwithstanding the foregoing sentence, where a leave of absence is due to any medically determinable physical or mental impairment that can be expected to result in death or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than six months, where such impairment causes the Employee to be unable to perform the duties of his or her position of employment or any substantially similar position of employment, a 29-month period of absence is substituted for such six-month period in determining whether a termination of employment shall be deemed to have occurred. A termination of employment with the Corporation or an Affiliate to accept immediate reemployment with the Corporation or an Affiliate likewise shall not be deemed to be a termination of employment for

 

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purposes of the Plan. An Employee who is classified as an intermittent employee shall be deemed to have a termination of employment for purposes of the Plan.

 

  (b) Exercise after Death, Retirement, or Disability. If the Employee dies, Retires or becomes Totally and Permanently Disabled without having exercised this option in full, the remaining portion of this option, determined without regard to the limitations in subsection 2(a), may be exercised within the earlier of (i) three years from the date of death or Total and Permanent Disability or five years from the date of Retirement, as the case may be, or (ii) the remaining period of this option. In the case of an Employee who dies, this option may be exercised by the person or persons to whom the Employee’s rights under this option shall pass by will or by applicable law or, if no such person has such rights, by his executor or administrator.

 

  (c) Method of Exercise. This option shall be exercised by delivering to Merrill Lynch, or other authorized agent of the Corporation, as set forth in their terms and conditions of exercise, written notice of the number of shares with respect to which option rights are being exercised and by paying in full the option price of the shares at the time being acquired. Payment may be made in cash or in shares of the Corporation’s common stock as set forth in the terms and conditions of exercise. The date of exercise shall be deemed to be the date of receipt of the written notice and payment for the shares being purchased. The Employee shall have none of the rights of a stockholder with respect to shares covered by such options until the Employee becomes record holder of such shares.

 

  (d) Payment of Withholding Taxes. No shares of common stock may be purchased under this option, unless prior to or simultaneously with such purchase, (i) the Participant, (ii) in the event of his death, the person succeeding to his rights hereunder or, (iii) in the event of a transfer of an option under Section 8 hereof, either the Participant, the Immediate Family Members or the entity succeeding to his rights hereunder, shall pay to the Corporation such amount as the Corporation advises is required under applicable federal, state or local laws to withhold and pay over to governmental taxing authorities by reason of the purchase of such shares of common stock pursuant to this option. Other than a purchase of shares pursuant to an option which had previously been transferred under Section 8 hereof, payment of required withholding taxes may be made with shares of the Corporation’s common stock which otherwise would be distributable upon exercise of the option, pursuant to the rules of the Committee.

 

3. Nontransferability. Except as may otherwise be provided by the Committee, this option shall be transferable only by will or by the laws of descent and distribution, and during the Employee’s lifetime shall be exercisable only by him.

 

4.

Compliance with Law. No shares of common stock may be purchased under this option, unless prior to the purchase thereof, the Corporation shall have received an

 

Page 3 of 17


 

opinion of counsel to the effect that the issuance and sale of such shares by the Corporation to the Employee will not constitute a violation of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. As a condition of exercise, the Employee shall, if requested by the Corporation, submit a written statement in form satisfactory to counsel for the Corporation, to the effect that any shares of common stock purchased upon exercise of this option will be purchased for investment and not with a view to the distribution thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Corporation shall have the right, in its discretion, to cause the certificates representing shares of common stock purchased hereunder to be appropriately legended to refer to such undertaking or to any legal restrictions imposed upon the transferability thereof by reason of such undertaking.

The option granted hereby is subject to the condition that if the listing, registration or qualification of the shares subject hereto on any securities exchange or under any state or federal law, or if the consent or approval of any regulatory body shall be necessary as a condition of, or in connection with, the granting of the option or the delivery or purchase of shares thereunder, such option may not be exercised in whole or in part unless and until such listing, registration, qualification, consent or approval shall have been effected or obtained. The Corporation agrees to use its best efforts to obtain any such requisite listing, registration, qualification, consent or approval.

 

5. No Right of Continued Employment. The granting of this option does not confer upon the Employee any legal right to be continued in the employ of the Corporation or its Affiliates, and the Corporation and its Affiliates reserve the right to discharge the Employee whenever the interest of the Corporation or its Affiliates may so require without liability to the Corporation or its Affiliates, the Board of Directors of the Corporation or its Affiliates, or the Committee, except as to any rights which may be expressly conferred on the Employee under this option.

 

6. Discretion of the Corporation, Board of Directors and the Committee. Any decision made or action taken by the Corporation or by the Board of Directors of the Corporation or by the Committee arising out of or in connection with the construction, administration, interpretation and effect of this option shall be within the absolute discretion of the Corporation, the Board of Directors of the Corporation or the Committee, as the case may be, and shall be conclusive and binding upon all persons.

 

7. Amendments. The Committee may at any time alter or amend this option to the extent (1) permitted by law, (2) permitted by the rules of any stock exchange on which the common stock or any other security of the Corporation is listed, (3) permitted under applicable provisions of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (including rule 16b-3 thereof), and (4) that such action would not result in the disallowance of a deduction to the Corporation under section 162(m) of the Code or any successor section (including the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, the Committee may not take any action that would result in any amount payable under this option qualifying as “applicable employee remuneration” as so defined for purposes of section 162(m) of the Code.

 

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8. Inalienability of Benefits and Interest. This option and the rights and privileges conferred hereby shall not be subject in any manner to anticipation, alienation, sale, transfer, assignment, pledge, encumbrance or charge, and any such attempted action shall be void and no such benefit or interest shall be in any manner liable for or subject to debts, contracts, liabilities, engagements, or torts of the Employee.

 

9. Delaware Law to Govern. All questions pertaining to the construction, interpretation, regulation, validity and effect of the provisions of this option shall be determined in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware.

 

10. Purchase of Common Stock. The Corporation and its Affiliates may, but shall not be required to, purchase shares of common stock of the Corporation for purposes of satisfying the requirements of this option. The Corporation and its Affiliates shall have no obligation to retain and shall have the unlimited right to sell or otherwise deal with for their own account, any shares of common stock of the Corporation purchased for satisfying the requirements of this option.

 

11. Notices. Any notice to be given to the Corporation under this option shall be addressed to the Corporation in care of its Treasurer located at the World Headquarters, and any notice to be given to the Employee under the terms of this option may be addressed to him at his address as it appears on the Corporation’s records, or at such other address as either party may hereafter designate in writing to the other. Any such notice shall be deemed to have been duly given if and when enclosed in a properly sealed envelope or wrapper addressed as aforesaid, registered and deposited, postage and registry fee prepaid, in a post office or branch post office regularly maintained by the United States Government.

 

12. Changes in Capitalization. In the event there are any changes in the common stock or the capitalization of the Corporation through a corporate transaction, such as any merger, any acquisition through the issuance of capital stock of the Corporation, any consolidation, any separation of the Corporation (including a spin-off or other distribution of stock of the Corporation), any reorganization of the Corporation (whether or not such reorganization comes within the definition of such term in section 368 of the Code), or any partial or complete liquidation by the Corporation, recapitalization, stock dividend, stock split or other change in the corporate structure, appropriate adjustments and changes shall be made by the Committee in (a) the number of shares and the option price per share of stock subject to this option, and (b) such other provisions of this option as may be necessary and equitable to carry out the foregoing purposes, provided, however that no such adjustment or change may be made to the extent that such adjustment or change will result in the disallowance of a deduction to the Corporation under section 162(m) of the Code or any successor section.

 

13. Effect on Other Plans. All benefits under this option shall constitute special compensation and shall not affect the level of benefits provided to or received by the Employee (or the Employee’s estate or beneficiaries) as part of any employee benefit plan of the Corporation or an Affiliate. This option shall not be construed to affect in any way the Employee’s rights and obligations under any other plan maintained by the Corporation or an Affiliate on behalf of employees.

 

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14. Successors. This option shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of any successor or successors of the Corporation.

 

15. Defined Terms. Terms which are capitalized are defined herein or in the Plan and have the same meaning set forth in the Plan, unless the context indicates otherwise.

 

16. For U.S. Employee’s Only. A U.S. Employee who has not previously signed a noncompete agreement has until the end of the one hundred twenty (120) day period beginning from the date of grant of this option to sign and return the Noncompete Agreement provided to such Employee. If the U.S. Employee does not sign and return the provided Noncompete Agreement on or before the end of such one hundred twenty (120) day period then the grant of the right and option to purchase the shares of common stock of the Corporation, as set forth in Section 1, shall not be binding on and shall be voidable by the Corporation, in which case it shall have no further force or effect.

 

17. Acceptance of Option terms and conditions. An Employee has until the end of the one hundred twenty (120) day period beginning from the date of grant of this option to accept this Option Agreement. If the Employee does not accept this Option Agreement on or before the end of such one hundred twenty (120) day period then the grant of the right and option to purchase the shares of common stock of the Corporation, as set forth in Section 1, shall not be binding on and shall be voidable by the Corporation, in which case it shall have no further force or effect.

Acknowledgment of Conditions

I understand and acknowledge the following conditions with respect to the award granted to me under Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s 2001 Equity Participation Plan:

 

 

The 2001 Equity Participation Plan (the “Plan”) is discretionary in nature and Kimberly-Clark may cancel or terminate it at any time. The grant of an option is a one-time benefit and does not create any contractual or other right to receive a grant of options or benefits in lieu of options in the future. Future grants, if any, will be at the sole discretion of Kimberly-Clark, including, but not limited to, the timing of any grant, the number of option shares, vesting provisions and the exercise price.

 

 

My participation in the Plan is voluntary. The value of the option is an extraordinary item of compensation outside the scope of my employment contract, if any. As such, the option is not part of normal or expected compensation for purposes of calculating any severance, resignation, redundancy, end of service payments, bonuses, long-service awards, pension, retirement or welfare benefits or similar payments and in no event shall be considered as compensation for, or relating in any way to, past services for the Corporation or my actual employer (the “Employer”).

 

 

Vesting of any option shares ceases upon termination of active employment for any reason except as may otherwise be explicitly provided in the Plan document and this Award Agreement, and will not be extended by any notice period mandated under local

 

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law (e.g., active employment would not include a period of “garden leave” or similar period pursuant to local law); the Committee shall have the exclusive discretion to determine when I am no longer actively employed for purposes of my this option.

 

 

In consideration of the grant of this option, no claim or entitlement to compensation or damages shall arise from termination of this option or diminution in value of this option resulting from termination of my employment by the Corporation or the Employer (for any reason whatsoever and whether or not in breach of local labor laws) and I irrevocably release the Corporation and the Employer from any such claim that may arise; if, notwithstanding the foregoing, any such claim is found by a court of competent jurisdiction to have arisen, then, by signing this Award Agreement, I shall be deemed irrevocably to have waived my entitlement to pursue such claim.

 

 

The future value of the underlying shares is unknown and cannot be predicted with certainty. If the underlying shares do not increase in value, the option will have no value. If I exercise this option and obtain shares, the value of those shares acquired upon exercise may increase or decrease in value, even below the option price.

 

 

Regardless of any action the Corporation or the Employer take with respect to any or all income tax, social insurance, payroll tax, payment on account or other tax-related withholding (“Tax-Related Items”), I acknowledge that the ultimate liability for all Tax-Related Items legally due by me is and remains my responsibility and that the Corporation and/or the Employer (1) make no representations or undertakings regarding the treatment of any Tax-Related Items in connection with any aspect of this option, including, but not limited to, the grant, vesting or exercise of this option, the subsequent sale of shares acquired pursuant to such exercise and the receipt of any dividends; and (2) do not commit to structure the terms of the grant or any aspect of this option to reduce or eliminate my liability for Tax-Related Items.

 

 

Prior to the relevant taxable event, I shall pay or make adequate arrangements satisfactory to the Corporation and/or the Employer to satisfy or account for all Tax-Related Items. In this regard, I authorize the Corporation or the Employer to withhold all applicable Tax-Related Items legally payable by me from my wages or other cash compensation payable to me by the Corporation or the Employer or from any equivalent cash payment received pursuant to the option. Alternatively, or in addition, if permissible under local law, the Corporation or the Employer may, in their sole discretion, (i) sell or arrange for the sale of shares to be issued upon exercise to satisfy Tax-Related Items, and/or (ii) withhold in shares, provided that the Corporation and the Employer shall withhold only the amount of shares necessary to satisfy the minimum withholding amount or any such amount as described by the Corporation not to result in adverse accounting consequences. If the obligation for Tax-Related Items is satisfied by withholding in shares, I am deemed to have been issued the full number of shares subject to the option, notwithstanding that a number of shares is held back solely for the purpose of paying Tax-Related Items. I shall pay to the Corporation or to the Employer any amount of Tax-Related Items that the Corporation or the Employer may be required to withhold as a result of my exercise of the option, the vesting of the option, the receipt of an equivalent cash payment, or the sale of shares that cannot be satisfied by the means previously described. The Corporation may refuse to honor the exercise or deliver shares to me if I fail to comply with my obligation in connection with the Tax-Related Items as described herein.

 

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The Corporation is not providing any tax, legal or financial advice, nor is the Corporation making any recommendations regarding my participation in the Plan, or my acquisition or sale of the underlying shares. I am hereby advised to consult with my own personal tax, legal and financial advisors regarding my participation in the Plan before taking any action related to the Plan.

 

 

Data Privacy. I hereby explicitly and unambiguously consent to the collection, use and transfer, in electronic or other form, of my personal data as described in this Agreement and any other this option grant materials by and among, as applicable, the Employer, the Corporation and its subsidiaries and Affiliates for the exclusive purpose of implementing, administering and managing my participation in the Plan.

I understand that the Corporation and the Employer may hold certain personal information about me, including, but not limited to, my name, home address and telephone number, date of birth, social insurance number or other identification number, salary, nationality, job title, any shares of stock or directorships held in the Corporation, details of all options or any other entitlement to shares of common stock awarded, canceled, exercised, vested, unvested or outstanding in my favor, for the exclusive purpose of implementing, administering and managing the Plan (“Data”).

I understand that Data will be transferred to a broker, or such other stock plan service provider as may be selected by the Corporation in the future, which is assisting the Corporation with the implementation, administration and management of the Plan. I understand that the recipients of the Data may be located in the United States or elsewhere, and that the recipients’ country (e.g., the United States) may have different data privacy laws and protections than my country. I understand that I may request a list with the names and addresses of any potential recipients of the Data by contacting my local human resources representative. I authorize the Company, the broker and any other possible recipients which may assist the Corporation (presently or in the future) with implementing, administering and managing the Plan to receive, possess, use, retain and transfer the Data, in electronic or other form, for the sole purpose of implementing, administering and managing my participation in the Plan. I understand that Data will be held only as long as is necessary to implement, administer and manage my participation in the Plan. I understand that I may, at any time, view Data, request additional information about the storage and processing of Data, require any necessary amendments to Data or refuse or withdraw the consents herein, in any case without cost, by contacting in writing my local human resources representative. I understand, however, that refusing or withdrawing my consent may affect my ability to participate in the Plan. For more information on the consequences of my refusal to consent or withdrawal of consent, I understand that I may contact my local human resources representative.

 

 

My option may not be assigned, sold, encumbered, or in any way transferred or alienated.

 

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The Plan is governed by and subject to U.S. law. Interpretation of the Plan and my rights under the Plan will be governed by provisions of U.S. law. For purposes of litigating any dispute that arises under this grant or the Agreement, the parties hereby submit to and consent to the jurisdiction of the State of Delaware, U.S.A. and agree that such litigation shall be conducted in the federal courts for the United States for the Northern District of Texas, where this grant is made and/or to be performed.

 

 

I understand that I am solely responsible for obtaining/providing whatever exchange control approvals, permits, licenses or notices, which may be necessary for me to exercise my option, acquire the shares or to hold or sell the shares subject to the option or restricted share unit award. Neither Kimberly-Clark nor its Affiliates will be responsible for obtaining such approvals, licenses or permits, or for making any such notices, nor will Kimberly-Clark or its Affiliates be liable for any fines or penalties I may incur for failure to obtain any required approvals, permits or licenses or to make any required notices.

 

 

If I have received this Agreement or any other document related to the Plan translated into a language other than English and if the translated version is different than the English version, the English version will control, unless otherwise prescribed by local law.

 

 

The provisions of this Agreement are severable and if any one or more provisions are determined to be illegal or otherwise unenforceable, in whole or in part, the remaining provisions shall nevertheless be binding and enforceable.

 

 

I recognize that the grant of this option is not an element of my normal or expected compensation and I acknowledge that I have no future rights to option grants under this or any other plans offered by Kimberly-Clark, including but not limited to, upon termination of the Plan or upon severance of my employment.

Conclusion and Acceptance

I accept this grant via electronic signature by clicking the “Accept” icon and certify that I have read, understand and agree to the terms and conditions of the 2001 Equity Participation Plan (the “Plan”), the provisions of the applicable agreements and all other applicable documents (including any country-specific terms for my country of residence). I hereby authorize my employer to furnish Kimberly-Clark (and any agent administering the Plan or providing recordkeeping services) with such information and data as it shall request in order to facilitate the grant of options and enable administration of the Plan and I understand that such information shall be used only as long and to the extent necessary to administer my participation in the Plan. I agree that my participation in the Plan and the awards granted to me under the Plan will be governed solely by provisions of U.S. law.

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION

NONQUALIFIED STOCK OPTION

AWARD AGREEMENT

APPENDIX A

This Appendix A includes additional terms and conditions that govern this option granted to the Employee under the Plan if the Employee resides in one of the countries listed below. Certain capitalized terms used but not defined in this Appendix A have the meanings set forth in the Plan and/or the Award Agreement.

AUSTRALIA

Securities Law Notice

If the Employee acquires shares of the Corporation’s common stock pursuant to this option and the Employee offers his or her shares of the Corporation’s common stock for sale to a person or entity resident in Australia, the offer may be subject to disclosure requirements under Australian law. The Employee should obtain legal advice on his or her disclosure obligations prior to making any such offer.

CANADA

Form of Payment

Notwithstanding anything in the Plan or the Award Agreement to the contrary, the Employee is prohibited from surrendering shares of common stock that he or she already owns or attesting to the ownership of shares to pay the option price or any Tax-Related Items in connection with this option.

Language Consent

The parties acknowledge that it is their express wish that the Award Agreement, as well as all documents, notices and legal proceedings entered into, given or instituted pursuant hereto or relating directly or indirectly hereto, be drawn up in English.

Les parties reconnaissent avoir exigé la rédaction en anglais de la convention, ainsi que de tous documents exécutés, avis donnés et procédures judiciaries intentées, directement ou indirectement, relativement à ou suite à la présente convention.

Securities Law Notice

The Employee is permitted to sell shares acquired through the Plan through the designated broker appointed under the Plan, if any, provided the resale of shares acquired under the Plan takes place outside of Canada through the facilities of a stock exchange on which the shares are listed. The Corporation’s shares are currently listed on New York Stock Exchange.

 

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CHINA

Method of Exercise

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Award Agreement, due to regulatory requirements in China, the Employee must exercise this option using the cashless exercise method. To complete a full cashless exercise, the Employee should notify a licensed securities broker acceptable to the Corporation to: (i) sell all of the shares upon exercise; (ii) use the proceeds to pay the option price, brokerage fees and any applicable Tax-Related Items; and (iii) remit the balance in cash to the Employee. If the Employee does not complete this procedure, the Corporation may refuse to allow the Employee to exercise this option. The Corporation reserves the right to provide the Employee with additional methods of exercise depending on local developments.

Repatriation Acknowledgment and Consent

The Employee understands and agrees that due to exchange control laws in China, the Employee will be required to immediately repatriate the cash proceeds from the sale of shares to China. The Employee further understand that such repatriation of the cash proceeds may need to be effected through a special exchange control account established by the Corporation or a parent, subsidiary or Affiliate, and the Employee hereby consents and agrees that the cash proceeds may be transferred to such special account prior to being delivered to the Employee.

INDIA

Fringe Benefit Tax

By accepting this option and participating in the Plan, the Employee consents and agrees to assume any and all liability for fringe benefit tax that may be payable by the Employee or the Employer in connection with the Plan upon request of the Corporation and at the Corporation’s sole discretion. The Employee understands that the grant of this option and participation in the Plan is contingent upon his or her agreement to assume liability for fringe benefit tax payable on the shares of common stock acquired under the Plan if the Corporation so requests.

Further, by accepting this option and participating in the Plan, the Employee agrees that the Corporation and/or the Employer may collect fringe benefit tax from the Employee by any of the means set forth in the Acknowledgment of Conditions section of the Award Agreement or any other reasonable method established by the Corporation. The Employee also agrees to execute any other consents or elections required to accomplish the foregoing, promptly upon request of the Corporation.

ITALY

Method of Exercise

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Award Agreement, due to regulatory

 

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requirements in Italy, the Employee must exercise this option using the cashless exercise method. To complete a full cashless exercise, the Employee should notify a licensed securities broker acceptable to the Corporation to: (i) sell all of the shares upon exercise; (ii) use the proceeds to pay the option price, brokerage fees and any applicable Tax-Related Items; and (iii) remit the balance in cash to the Employee. If the Employee does not complete this procedure, the Corporation may refuse to allow the Employee to exercise this option. The Corporation reserves the right to provide the Employee with additional methods of exercise depending on local developments.

Data Privacy Notice and Consent.

This provision replaces in its entirety the data privacy in the Award Agreement:

The Employee hereby explicitly and unambiguously consents to the collection, use, processing and transfer, in electronic or other form, of his or her personal data as described in this section of this Appendix A by and among, as applicable, the Employer, the Corporation and any Affiliate for the exclusive purpose of implementing, administering, and managing the Employee’s participation in the Plan.

The Employee understands that the Employer, the Corporation and any Affiliate hold certain personal information about him or her, including, but not limited to, the Employee’s name, home address and telephone number, date of birth, social insurance or other identification number, salary, nationality, job title, any shares of common stock or directorships held in the Corporation or any Affiliate, details of all options, or any other entitlement to shares of common stock awarded, canceled, exercised, vested, unvested or outstanding in the Employee’s favor, for the exclusive purpose of implementing, managing and administering the Plan (“Data”).

The Employee also understands that providing the Corporation with Data is necessary for the performance of the Plan and that his or her refusal to provide such Data would make it impossible for the Corporation to perform its contractual obligations and may affect the Employee’s ability to participate in the Plan. The Controller of personal data processing is Kimberly-Clark Corporation with registered offices at 351 Phelps Drive, Irving, Texas 75038, United States of America, and, pursuant to Legislative Decree no. 196/2003, its representative in Italy is Kimberly-Clark s.r.l. at Via Della Rocca, 49, Torino, Italy.

The Employee understands that Data will not be publicized, but it may be transferred to banks, other financial institutions, or brokers involved in the management and administration of the Plan. The Employee understands that Data may also be transferred to the Corporation’s independent registered public accounting firm. The Employee further understand that the Corporation and/or any Affiliate will transfer Data among themselves as necessary for the purpose of implementing, administering and managing the Employee’s participation in the Plan, and that the Corporation and/or any Affiliate may each further transfer Data to third parties assisting the Corporation in the implementation, administration, and management of the Plan, including any requisite transfer of Data to a broker or other third party with whom the Employee may elect to deposit any shares of common stock acquired under the Plan. Such recipients

 

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may receive, possess, use, retain, and transfer Data in electronic or other form, for the purposes of implementing, administering, and managing the Employee’s participation in the Plan. The Employee understands that these recipients may be located in or outside the European Economic Area, such as in the United States or elsewhere. Should the Corporation exercise its discretion in suspending all necessary legal obligations connected with the management and administration of the Plan, it will delete Data as soon as it has completed all the necessary legal obligations connected with the management and administration of the Plan.

The Employee understands that Data processing related to the purposes specified above shall take place under automated or non-automated conditions, anonymously when possible, that comply with the purposes for which Data is collected and with confidentiality and security provisions as set forth by applicable laws and regulations, with specific reference to Legislative Decree no. 196/2003.

The processing activity, including communication, the transfer of Data abroad, including outside of the European Economic Area, as herein specified and pursuant to applicable laws and regulations, does not require the Employee’s consent thereto as the processing is necessary to performance of contractual obligations related to implementation, administration, and management of the Plan. The Employee understands that, pursuant to Section 7 of the Legislative Decree no. 196/2003, he or she has the right to, including but not limited to, access, delete, update, correct, or terminate, for legitimate reason, the Data processing. Furthermore, the Employee is aware that Data will not be used for direct marketing purposes. In addition, Data provided can be reviewed and questions or complaints can be addressed by contacting the Employee’s local human resources representative.

Plan Document Acknowledgment

In accepting the grant of this option, the Employee acknowledges that he or she has received a copy of the Plan and the Award Agreement and has reviewed the Plan and the Award Agreement, including this Appendix A, in their entirety and fully understands and accepts all provisions of the Plan and the Award Agreement, including this Appendix A.

The Employee acknowledges that he or she has read and specifically and expressly approves the following sections of the Award Agreement: Section 2(d) on Payment of Withholding Taxes; Section 5 on No Right of Continued Employment; Section 9 on Delaware Law to Govern; the section on Acknowledgment of Conditions; and the Data Privacy Notice and Consent section included in this Appendix A.

MEXICO

Labor Law Policy and Acknowledgment

In accepting the grant of this option, the Employee expressly recognizes that Kimberly-Clark Corporation, with registered offices at 351 Phelps Drive, Irving, Texas 75038, United States of America, is solely responsible for the administration of the Plan and that the Employee’s participation in the Plan and acquisition of shares of common stock do not constitute an

 

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employment relationship between the Employee and the Corporation since the Employee is participating in the Plan on a wholly commercial basis and his or her sole Employer is Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. Based on the foregoing, the Employee expressly recognizes that the Plan and the benefits that he or she may derive from participating in the Plan do not establish any rights between the Employee and the Employer, Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. and do not form part of the employment conditions and/or benefits provided by Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V., and any modification of the Plan or its termination shall not constitute a change or impairment of the terms and conditions of the Employee’s employment.

The Employee further understands that his or her participation in the Plan is as a result of a unilateral and discretionary decision of the Corporation; therefore, Kimberly-Clark Corporation reserves the absolute right to amend and/or discontinue the Employee’s participation at any time without any liability to the Employee.

Finally, the Employee hereby declares that he or she does not reserve to him- or herself any action or right to bring any claim against Kimberly-Clark Corporation for any compensation or damages regarding any provision of the Plan or the benefits derived under the Plan, and the Employee therefore grants a full and broad release to the Corporation, its Affiliates, branches, representation offices, its shareholders, officers, agents, or legal representatives with respect to any claim that may arise.

Política Laboral y Reconocimiento/Aceptación

Al aceptar el otorgamiento de la Opción de Compra de Acciones y/o Acciones Diferidas, el Empleado expresamente reconoce que Kimberly-Clark Corporation con oficinas registradas en 351 Phelps Drive, Irving, Texas 75038, U.S.A., es la única responsable por la administración del Plan y que la participación del Empleado en el Plan y en su caso la adquisición de las Opciones de Compra de Acciones o Acciones no constituyen ni podrán interpretarse como una relación de trabajo entre el Empleado y Kimberly-Clark Corporation, ya que el Empleado participa en el Plan en un marco totalmente comercial y su único Patrón lo es Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. con domicilio en Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. Mexico. Derivado de lo anterior, el Empleado expresamente reconoce que el Plan y los beneficios que pudieran derivar de la participación en el Plan no establecen derecho alguno entre el Empleado y el Patrón, Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. y no forma parte de las condiciones de trabajo y/o las prestaciones otorgadas por Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. y que cualquier modificación al Plan o su terminación no constituye un cambio o impedimento de los términos y condiciones de la relación de trabajo del Empleado.

Asimismo, el Empleado reconoce que su participación en el Plan es resultado de una decisión unilateral y discrecional de Kimberly-Clark Corporation por lo tanto, Kimberly-Clark Corporation se reserva el absoluto derecho de modificar y/o terminar la participación del Empleado en cualquier momento y sin responsabilidad alguna frente el Empleado.

Finalmente, el Empleado por este medio declara que no se reserva derecho o acción alguna que ejercitar en contra de Kimberly-Clark Corporation por cualquier compensación o daño en relación con las disposiciones del Plan o de los beneficios derivados del Plan y por lo tanto, el Empleado otorga el más amplio finiquito que en derecho proceda a Kimberly-Clark

 

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Corporation, sus afiliadas, subsidiarias, oficinas de representación, sus accionistas, funcionarios, agentes o representantes legales en relación con cualquier demanda que pudiera surgir.

NEW ZEALAND

Securities Law Notice

The Employee will receive the following documents (in addition to this Appendix A) in connection with this option from the Corporation:

 

1. an Award Agreement which sets forth the terms and conditions of the option grant;

 

2. a copy of the Corporations’ most recent annual report and most recent financial reports have been made available to enable the Employee to make informed decisions concerning this option; and

 

3. a copy of the description of the Kimberly-Clark Corporation 2001 Equity Participation Plan (“Description”) (i.e., the Corporation’s Form S-8 Plan Prospectus under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended), and the Corporation will provide any attachments or documents incorporated by reference into the Description upon written request. The documents incorporated by reference into the Description are updated periodically. Should the Employee request copies of the documents incorporated by reference into the Description, the Corporation will provide the Employee with the most recent documents incorporated by reference.

RUSSIA

Securities Law Notice

This Award Agreement, the Plan and all other materials the Employee may receive regarding participation in the Plan do not constitute advertising or an offering of securities in Russia. The issuance of shares of common stock under the Plan has not and will not be registered in Russia and hence the shares described in any Plan-related documents may not be offered or placed in public circulation in Russia.

Please note that, under the Russian law, the Employee is not permitted to sell the Corporation’s shares directly to other Russian individuals and the Employee is not permitted to bring share certificates into Russia.

SOUTH AFRICA

Tax Acknowledgment

By accepting this Option, the Employee agrees to notify the Employer of the amount of any gain realized upon exercise of this Option. If the Employee fails to advise the Employer of the gain realized upon exercise, the Employee may be liable for a fine. The Employee will be responsible for paying any difference between the actual tax liability and the amount withheld.

If the Employee uses cash to exercise this Option and purchase shares, rather than a

 

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cashless exercise method, the Employee must first obtain a “Tax Clearance Certificate (in Respect of Foreign Investment)” from the South African Reserve Service. The Employee must also complete a transfer of funds application form to transfer the funds. The Tax Clearance Certificate should be presented to a dealer of the Exchange Control Department of the South Africa Reserve Bank (it is likely that the Employee’s bank will qualify as such a dealer), together with a completed application form to transfer funds. No transfer of funds may be completed unless the original Tax Clearance Certificate bears the official stamp and signature of the Office of Receiver of Revenue of the South African Reserve Service.

SPAIN

Labor Law Acknowledgment

By accepting this Option, the Employee acknowledges that he or she understands and agrees to participation in the Plan and that he or she has received a copy of the Plan.

The Employee understands that the Corporation has unilaterally, gratuitously and discretionally decided to grant Options under the Plan to individuals who may be employees of the Corporation or its Affiliates throughout the world. The decision is a limited decision that is entered into upon the express assumption and condition that any grant will not economically or otherwise bind the Corporation or any of its Affiliates on an ongoing basis. Consequently, the Employee understands that any grant is given on the assumption and condition that it shall not become a part of any employment contract (either with the Corporation or any of its Affiliates) and shall not be considered a mandatory benefit, salary for any purposes (including severance compensation) or any other right whatsoever. Further, the Employee understands and freely accepts that there is no guarantee that any benefit whatsoever shall arise from any gratuitous and discretionary grant since the future value of this Option and the underlying shares is unknown and unpredictable. In addition, the Employee understands that this grant would not be made but for the assumptions and conditions referred to above; thus, the Employee understands, acknowledges and freely accepts that should any or all of the assumptions be mistaken or should any of the conditions not be met for any reason, then this Option shall be null and void.

UNITED KINGDOM

Tax Acknowledgment

The following information supplements the information regarding Tax-Related Items in the Acknowledgment of Conditions section of the Award Agreement:

If payment or withholding of the income tax due is not made within 90 days of the event giving rise to the Tax-Related Items or such other period specified in section 222(1)(c) of the U.K. Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003 (the “Due Date”), the amount of any uncollected Tax-Related Items shall constitute a loan owed by the Employee to the Employer, effective on the Due Date. The Employee agrees that the loan will bear interest at the then-current Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (“HMRC”) official rate; it will be immediately due and repayable. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Employee is an officer or executive director (as within the meaning of Section 13(k) of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Act of

 

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1934, as amended), the terms of this provision will not apply to the Employee. In the event that the Employee is an officer or director, as defined above, and Tax-Related Items are not collected from or paid by the Employee by the Due Date, the amount of any uncollected Tax-Related Items may constitute a benefit to the Employee on which additional income tax and National Insurance Contributions may be payable. The Employee acknowledges the Corporation or the Employer may recover it at any time thereafter by any of the means referred to in the Award Agreement. The Employee authorizes the Corporation to withhold the transfer of any shares unless and until the loan is repaid in full.

VIETNAM

Method of Exercise

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Award Agreement, due to regulatory requirements in Vietnam, the Employee must exercise this Option using the cashless exercise method. To complete a full cashless exercise, the Employee should notify a licensed securities broker acceptable to the Corporation to: (i) sell all of the shares upon exercise; (ii) use the proceeds to pay the option price, brokerage fees and any applicable Tax-Related Items; and (iii) remit the balance in cash to the Employee. If the Employee does not complete this procedure, the Corporation may refuse to allow the Employee to exercise this Option. The Corporation reserves the right to provide the Employee with additional methods of exercise depending on local developments.

Repatriation Acknowledgment and Consent

The Employee understands and agrees that due to exchange control laws in Vietnam, the Employee will be required to immediately repatriate the cash proceeds from the sale of shares to Vietnam. The Employee further understand that such repatriation of the cash proceeds may need to be effected through a special exchange control account established by the Corporation or a parent, subsidiary or Affiliate, and the Employee hereby consents and agrees that the cash proceeds may be transferred to such special account prior to being delivered to the Employee.

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION

PERFORMANCE RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT

AWARD AGREEMENT

This Award, granted on the date approved by the Committee or the Chief Executive Officer, as the case may be, and as reflected on the Merrill Lynch Benefits OnLine site, or any successor system, via the Grant Summary screen as the Grant Date, by Kimberly-Clark Corporation, a Delaware corporation (hereinafter called the “Corporation”), is subject to the terms and conditions of the 2001 Equity Participation Plan (the “Plan”) and the Award Agreement, including any country-specific terms contained in Appendix A to this Award Agreement.

W I T N E S S E T H:

WHEREAS, the Corporation has adopted the 2001 Equity Participation Plan (the “Plan”) to encourage those employees who materially contribute, by managerial, scientific or other innovative means, to the success of the Corporation or of an Affiliate, to acquire an ownership interest in the Corporation, thereby increasing their motivation for and interest in the Corporation’s or the Affiliate’s long-term success;

NOW, THEREFORE, it is agreed as follows:

 

1. Number of Share Units Granted. The Corporation hereby grants to the Employee Performance Restricted Stock Units (“PRSUs”) at the target level approved on the date of grant and as reflected on the Merrill Lynch Benefits OnLine site, or any successor system, via the Grant Summary screen as the Units Granted (the “Target Level”), subject to the terms, conditions and restrictions set forth herein and in the Plan, and the Corporation’s attainment of the Performance Goals established by the Committee as set forth on Appendix A-1. The actual number of PRSUs earned by the Employee at the end of the Restricted Period may range from 0 to 150% of the Target Level.

 

2. Transferability Restrictions.

 

  (a) Restricted Period. During the Restricted Period, the Employee may not sell, assign, transfer, or otherwise dispose of, or mortgage, pledge or otherwise encumber the Award. Except as provided under paragraph 2, the Award shall be subject to forfeiture until the end of the Restricted Period three years after the date of this grant. Employee becomes 100% vested in the number of PRSUs earned based on attainment of the Performance Goal at the end of the Restricted Period as approved and authorized by the Committee.

The Restricted Period shall begin on the date of the granting of this Award, and shall end three years after the date of this grant. Holders of Awards shall have none of the rights of a shareholder with respect to such shares including, but

 

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not limited to, any right to receive dividends in cash or other property or other distribution or rights in respect of such shares except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, nor to vote such shares as the record owner thereof.

During each year in the Restricted Period, the Employee will be paid in cash an amount equal to any dividends and other distributions which would have been paid on shares of Common Stock, based on the Target Level of PRSUs granted under this Award. The amount equal to any dividends and other distributions on the Award shall be paid to the Employee if dividends are declared and paid by the Corporation with respect to its outstanding shares of Common Stock. In the case of dividends paid in property other than cash, the amount of the dividend shall be deemed to be the fair market value of the property at the time of the payment of the dividend, as determined in good faith by the Corporation. The Corporation shall not be required to segregate any cash or other property of the Corporation. Any amounts which become payable to an Employee shall be paid from the general assets of the Corporation.

 

  (b)

Termination of Employment. Employee shall forfeit any unvested Award upon termination of employment unless such termination (i) is due to a Qualified Termination of Employment, or (ii) if more than six months after the date of grant, due to death, Retirement, Total and Permanent Disability, or the shutdown or divestiture of a business unit. A termination of employment shall not be deemed to have occurred while an Employee is on military leave or other bona fide leave of absence if the period of such leave does not exceed six months, or if longer, so long as the Employee retains a right to reemployment with the Corporation or an Affiliate under an applicable statute or by contract. For purposes of this subparagraph, a leave of absence constitutes a bona fide leave of absence only if there is a reasonable expectation that the Employee will return to perform services for the Corporation or an Affiliate. If the period of leave exceeds six months and the Employee does not retain a right to reemployment under an applicable statute or by contract, the employment relationship is deemed to terminate on the first date immediately following such six-month period. Notwithstanding the foregoing sentence, where a leave of absence is due to any medically determinable physical or mental impairment that can be expected to result in death or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than six months, where such impairment causes the Employee to be unable to perform the duties of his or her position of employment or any substantially similar position of employment, a 29-month period of absence is substituted for such six-month period in determining whether a termination of employment shall be deemed to have occurred. A termination of employment with the Corporation or an Affiliate to accept immediate reemployment with the Corporation or an Affiliate likewise shall not be deemed to be a termination of employment for purposes of the Plan. An Employee who is classified as an intermittent employee shall be deemed to have a termination of employment for purposes of the Plan. Notwithstanding anything in this Plan to the contrary, a termination of employment with respect to any Restricted Share Units that are required to meet the requirements of Section 409A of the Code and the regulations thereunder shall not be deemed

 

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to be a termination of employment for purposes of the Plan if it is anticipated that the level of bona fide services the Employee would perform after such date would continue at a rate equal to more than 20 percent of the average level of bona fide services performed over the immediately preceding 36-month period (or the full period of services to the Corporation or an Affiliate if the Employee has been providing such services less than 36 months).

 

  (c) Death, Retirement, or Total and Permanent Disability. In the event that more than six months after the date of grant the Employee’s termination of employment is due to death or Total and Permanent Disability, it shall result in pro rata vesting in the number of Restricted Share Units earned based on attainment of the Performance Goal at the end of the Restricted Period as approved and authorized by the Committee, prorated for the number of full months of employment during the Restricted Period prior to the Participant’s termination of employment, and shall be paid within 70 days following the end of the Restricted Period. In the event that more than six months after the date of grant the Employee’s termination of employment is due to Retirement it shall result in 100% vesting in the number of Restricted Share Units earned based on attainment of the Performance Goal at the end of the Restricted Period as approved and authorized by the Committee, and such Award shall be paid within 70 days following the end of the Restricted Period.

 

  (d) Shutdown or Divestiture. In the event that more than six months after the date of grant the Employee’s termination of employment is due to the shutdown or divestiture of the Corporation’s or its Affiliate’s business it shall result in pro rata vesting in the number of Restricted Share Units earned based on attainment of the Performance Goal at the end of the Restricted Period as approved and authorized by the Committee, prorated for the number of full years of employment during the Restricted Period prior to the Participant’s termination of employment, and shall be paid within 70 days following the end of the Restricted Period.

 

  (e) Qualified Termination of Employment. In the event of a Qualified Termination of Employment all restrictions will lapse and the shares will become fully vested and the number of shares that shall be considered to vest shall be the greater of the Target Level or the number of shares which would have vested based on the attainment of the Performance Goal as of the end of the prior calendar year and shall be paid within 10 days following the last day of employment of the Employee with the Corporation. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, the payment of an Award to a Key Employee who has separated from service due to a Qualified Termination of Employment shall be made at the earlier of the first day of the seventh month following the date of separation from service or the end of the Restricted Period. A Key Employee is any Employee who meets the definition of a specified employee as defined in Section 409A(a)(2)(B)(i) of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

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  (f) Payment of Awards. The payment of the Award shall be made in shares of Common Stock. Except as may otherwise be provided in subparagraph 2(e), the payment of an Award shall be made within 70 days following the end of the Restricted Period.

 

  (g) Payment of Withholding Taxes. No shares of Common Stock, nor any cash payment, may be delivered under this Award, unless prior to or simultaneously with such issuance, the Employee or, in the event of his death, the person succeeding to his rights hereunder, shall pay to the Corporation such amount as the Corporation advises is required under applicable federal, state or local laws to withhold and pay over to governmental taxing authorities by reason of the delivery of such shares of Common Stock and any cash payment pursuant to this Award. The Corporation may, in its discretion, withhold payment of required withholding taxes with cash or shares of Common Stock which otherwise would be delivered following the date of vesting of the Award under this paragraph 2.

 

3. Nontransferability. Neither the Award nor the Employee’s right to receive payment for vested Awards may be assigned or transferred except upon the death of the Employee (i) by will, (ii) by the laws of descent and distribution or (iii) pursuant to a designation by the Employee of a beneficiary or beneficiaries, provided that no such designation shall be effective unless filed with the Committee prior to the death of such Employee.

 

4. Compliance with Law. No payment may be made under this Award, unless prior to the issuance thereof, the Corporation shall have received an opinion of counsel to the effect that this Award by the Corporation to the Employee will not constitute a violation of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. As a condition of this Award, the Employee shall, if requested by the Corporation, submit a written statement in form satisfactory to counsel for the Corporation, to the effect that any shares received under this Award shall be for investment and not with a view to the distribution thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Corporation shall have the right, in its discretion, to cause the certificates representing shares hereunder to be appropriately legended to refer to such undertaking or to any legal restrictions imposed upon the transferability thereof by reason of such undertaking.

The Award granted hereby is subject to the condition that if the listing, registration or qualification of the shares subject hereto on any securities exchange or under any state or federal law, or if the consent or approval of any regulatory body shall be necessary as a condition of, or in connection with, the granting of the Award or the delivery of shares thereunder, such shares may not be delivered unless and until such listing, registration, qualification, consent or approval shall have been effected or obtained. The Corporation agrees to use its best efforts to obtain any such requisite listing, registration, qualification, consent or approval.

The Employee is solely responsible for obtaining/providing whatever exchange control approvals, permits, licenses, or notices, which may be necessary for the Employee to hold the Award, or to receive any payment of cash or shares or to hold or sell the shares subject to the Award, if any. Neither Kimberly-Clark nor its Affiliates will be

 

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responsible for obtaining any such approvals, licenses or permits, or for making any such notices, nor will the Corporation nor its Affiliates be liable for any fines or penalties the Employee may incur for failure to obtain any required approvals, permits or licenses or to make any required notices.

 

5. No Right of Continued Employment. The granting of this Award does not confer upon the Employee any legal right to be continued in the employ of the Corporation or its Affiliates, and the Corporation and its Affiliates reserve the right to discharge the Employee whenever the interest of the Corporation or its Affiliates may so require without liability to the Corporation or its Affiliates, the Board of Directors of the Corporation or its Affiliates, or the Committee, except as to any rights which may be expressly conferred on the Employee under this Award.

 

6. Discretion of the Corporation, Board of Directors and the Committee. Any decision made or action taken by the Corporation or by the Board of Directors of the Corporation or by the Committee arising out of or in connection with the construction, administration, interpretation and effect of this Award shall be within the absolute discretion of the Corporation, the Board of Directors of the Corporation or the Committee, as the case may be, and shall be conclusive and binding upon all persons.

 

7. Inalienability of Benefits and Interest. This Award and the rights and privileges conferred hereby shall not be subject in any manner to anticipation, alienation, sale, transfer, assignment, pledge, encumbrance or charge, and any such attempted action shall be void and no such benefit or interest shall be in any manner liable for or subject to debts, contracts, liabilities, engagements, or torts of the Employee.

 

8. Delaware Law to Govern. The Plan is governed by and subject to the laws of the United States of America. All questions pertaining to the construction, interpretation, regulation, validity and effect of the provisions of this Award and any rights under the Plan shall be determined in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware.

 

9. Purchase of Common Stock. The Corporation and its Affiliates may, but shall not be required to, purchase shares of Common Stock of the Corporation for purposes of satisfying the requirements of this Award. The Corporation and its Affiliates shall have no obligation to retain and shall have the unlimited right to sell or otherwise deal with for their own account, any shares of common stock of the Corporation purchased for satisfying the requirements of this Award.

 

10. Notices. Any notice to be given to the Corporation under this Award shall be addressed to the Corporation in care of its Director of Compensation located at the World Headquarters, and any notice to be given to the Employee under the terms of this Award may be addressed to him at his address as it appears on the Corporation’s records, or at such other address as either party may hereafter designate in writing to the other. Any such notice shall be deemed to have been duly given if and when enclosed in a properly sealed envelope or wrapper addressed as aforesaid, registered and deposited, postage and registry fee prepaid, in a post office or branch post office regularly maintained by the United States Government.

 

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11. Changes in Capitalization. In the event there are any changes in the common stock or the capitalization of the Corporation through a corporate transaction, such as any merger, any acquisition through the issuance of capital stock of the Corporation, any consolidation, any separation of the Corporation (including a spin-off or other distribution of stock of the Corporation), any reorganization of the Corporation (whether or not such reorganization comes within the definition of such term in section 368 of the Code), or any partial or complete liquidation by the Corporation, recapitalization, stock dividend, stock split or other change in the corporate structure, appropriate adjustments and changes shall be made by the Committee in (a) the number of shares subject to this Award, and (b) such other provisions of this Award as may be necessary and equitable to carry out the foregoing purposes.

 

12. Effect on Other Plans. All benefits under this Award shall constitute special compensation and shall not affect the level of benefits provided to or received by the Employee (or the Employee’s estate or beneficiaries) as part of any employee benefit plan of the Corporation or an Affiliates. This Award shall not be construed to affect in any way the Employee’s rights and obligations under any other plan maintained by the Corporation or an Affiliate on behalf of employees.

 

13. Discretionary Nature of Award. The grant of an Award is a one-time benefit and does not create any contractual or other right to receive a grant of Awards or benefits in lieu of Awards in the future. Future grants, if any, will be at the sole discretion of Kimberly-Clark, including, but not limited to, the timing of any grant, the number of PRSUs and vesting provisions. The value of the Award is an extraordinary item of compensation outside the scope of the Employee’s employment contract, if any. As such, the Award is not part of normal or expected compensation for purposes of calculating any severance, resignation, redundancy, end of service payments, bonuses, long-service awards, pension or retirement benefits or similar payments.

 

14. Data Privacy. The Employee hereby authorizes their employer to furnish Kimberly-Clark (and any agent of Kimberly-Clark administering the Plan or providing Plan recordkeeping services) with such information and data as it shall request in order to facilitate the grant of Awards and administration of the Plan and the Employee waives any data privacy rights such Employee might otherwise have with respect to such information.

 

15. Conflict with Plan. This Award is awarded pursuant to and subject to the Plan. This Agreement is intended to supplement and carry out the terms of the Plan. It is subject to all terms and provisions of the Plan and, in the event of a conflict, the Plan shall prevail.

 

16. Successors. This Award shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of any successor or successors of the Corporation.

 

17. Amendments. The Committee may at any time alter or amend this Award to the extent (1) permitted by law, (2) permitted by the rules of any stock exchange on which the common stock or any other security of the Corporation is listed, and (3) permitted under applicable provisions of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (including rule 16b-3 thereof).

 

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18. Defined Terms. Terms which are capitalized are defined herein or in the Plan and have the same meaning set forth in the Plan, unless the context indicates otherwise.

 

19. For U.S. Employee’s Only. A U.S. Employee who has not previously signed a noncompete agreement has until the end of the one hundred twenty (120) day period beginning from the date of grant of this Award to sign and return the Noncompete Agreement provided to such Employee. If the U.S. Employee does not sign and return the provided Noncompete Agreement on or before the end of such one hundred twenty (120) day period then the grant of the Award, as set forth in Section 1, shall not be binding on and shall be voidable by the Corporation, in which case it shall have no further force or effect.

 

20. Acceptance of Award terms and conditions. An Employee has until the end of the one hundred twenty (120) day period beginning from the date of grant of this Award to accept this Award Agreement. If the Employee does not accept this Award Agreement on or before the end of such one hundred twenty (120) day period then the grant of the Award, as set forth in Section 1, shall not be binding on and shall be voidable by the Corporation, in which case it shall have no further force or effect.

Acknowledgment of Conditions

I understand and acknowledge the following conditions with respect to the Award granted to me under Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s 2001 Equity Participation Plan:

 

 

The 2001 Equity Participation Plan (the “Plan”) is discretionary in nature and Kimberly-Clark may cancel or terminate it at any time. The grant of an Award is a one-time benefit and does not create any contractual or other right to receive an Award or benefits in lieu of an Award in the future. Future grants, if any, will be at the sole discretion of Kimberly-Clark, including, but not limited to, the timing of any grant, the number of Awards, vesting provisions and the exercise price.

 

 

My participation in the Plan is voluntary. The value of the Award is an extraordinary item of compensation outside the scope of my employment contract, if any. As such, the restricted share unit award is not part of normal or expected compensation for purposes of calculating any severance, resignation, redundancy, end of service payments, bonuses, long-service awards, pension, retirement or welfare benefits or similar payments and in no event shall be considered as compensation for, or relating in any way to, past services for Kimberly-Clark as my actual employer (the “Employer”).

 

 

The future value of the underlying shares is unknown and cannot be predicted with certainty. If the underlying shares do not increase in value, the Award will have no value.

 

 

In consideration of the grant of the Award, no claim or entitlement to compensation or damages shall arise from termination of the Award, and no claim or entitlement to compensation or damages shall arise from any diminution in value of the PRSUs or shares received upon vesting of PRSUs resulting from termination of my employment by the

 

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Corporation or the Employer (for any reason whatsoever and whether or not in breach of local labor laws) and I irrevocably release the Corporation and the Employer from any such claim that may arise; if, notwithstanding the foregoing, any such claim is found by a court of competent jurisdiction to have arisen, then, by accepting this Award Agreement, I shall be deemed irrevocably to have waived any entitlement to pursue such claim.

 

 

In the event of termination of my employment (whether or not in breach of local labor laws and except as otherwise explicitly provided in the Award Agreement of the Plan), my right to receive PRSUs and vest under the Plan, if any, will terminate effective as of the date that I am no longer actively employed and will not be extended by any notice period mandated under local law (e.g., active employment would not include a period of “garden leave” or similar period pursuant to local law); the Committee shall have the exclusive discretion to determine when I am no longer actively employed for purposes of the Award.

 

 

The Corporation is not providing any tax, legal or financial advice, nor is the Corporation making any recommendations regarding participation in the Plan. Further, I have been advised to consult with my own advisors regarding participation in the Plan before taking any action related to the Plan.

 

 

Regardless of any action the Corporation or the Employer takes with respect to any or all income tax (including federal, state and local taxes), social insurance, payroll tax, payment on account or other tax-related withholding (“Tax-Related Items”), I acknowledge that the ultimate liability for all Tax-Related Items legally due by me and remains my responsibility and that the Corporation and/or the Employer (i) make no representations or undertakings regarding the treatment of any Tax-Related Items in connection with any aspect of the Award, including the grant of the PRSUs, the vesting of PRSUs, the conversion of the PRSUs into shares or the receipt of an equivalent cash payment, the subsequent sale of any shares acquired at vesting and the receipt of any dividends; and (ii) do not commit to structure the terms of the grant or any aspect of the Award to reduce or eliminate the my liability for Tax-Related Items.

 

 

Prior to the relevant taxable event, I shall pay, or make adequate arrangements satisfactory to the Corporation or to the Employer (in their sole discretion) to satisfy all Tax-Related Items. In this regard, I authorize the Corporation or the Employer to withhold all applicable Tax-Related Items legally payable by me from my wages or other cash compensation payable to me by the Corporation or the Employer or from any equivalent cash payment received pursuant to the PRSUs. Alternatively, or in addition, if permissible under local law, the Corporation or the Employer may, in their sole discretion, (i) sell or arrange for the sale of shares to be issued pursuant to the PRSUs to satisfy Tax-Related Items, and/or (ii) withhold in shares, provided that the Corporation and the Employer shall withhold only the amount of shares necessary to satisfy the minimum withholding amount or any such amount as described by the Corporation not to result in adverse accounting consequences. If the obligation for Tax-Related Items is satisfied by withholding in shares, I am deemed to have been issued the full number of shares subject to the Award, notwithstanding that a number of shares is held back solely for the purpose of paying Tax-Related Items. I shall pay to the Corporation or to the Employer any amount of Tax-Related Items that the Corporation or the Employer may be required to withhold as a result of my receipt of PRSUs, the vesting of PRSUs, the receipt of an equivalent cash payment,

 

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or the conversion of vested PRSUs to shares that cannot be satisfied by the means previously described. The Corporation may refuse to deliver shares to me if I fail to comply with my obligation in connection with the Tax-Related Items as described herein.

 

 

I hereby explicitly and unambiguously consent to the collection, use and transfer, in electronic or other form, of my personal data as described in this Award Agreement by and among, as applicable, my Employer, the Corporation, and its Affiliates for the exclusive purpose of implementing, administering and managing my participation in the Plan.

 

 

I understand that the Corporation and my Employer may hold certain personal information about me, including, but not limited to, my name, home address and telephone number, date of birth, social insurance number or other identification number, salary, nationality, job title, any shares of common stock or directorships held in the Corporation, details of all Awards or any other entitlement to shares awarded, canceled, vested, unvested or outstanding in my favor, for the purpose of implementing, administering and managing the Plan (“Data”). I understand that Data may be transferred to any third parties assisting in the implementation, administration and management of the Plan, that these recipients may be located in my country, or elsewhere, and that my country may have different data privacy laws and protections than my country. I understand that I may request a list with the names and addresses of any potential recipients of the Data by contacting my local human resources representative. I authorize the recipients to receive, possess, use, retain and transfer the Data, in electronic or other form, for the purposes of implementing, administering and managing my participation in the Plan, including any requisite transfer of such Data as may be required to a broker, escrow agent or other third party with whom the shares received upon vesting of the PRSUs may be deposited. I understand that Data will be held only as long as is necessary to implement, administer and manage my participation in the Plan. I understand that I may, at any time, view Data, request additional information about the storage and processing of Data, require any necessary amendments to Data or refuse or withdraw the consents herein, in any case without cost, by contacting in writing my local human resources representative. I understand that refusal or withdrawal of consent may affect my ability to participate in the Plan. For more information on the consequences of my refusal to consent or withdrawal of consent, I understand that I may contact my local human resources representative.

 

 

My Award may not be assigned, sold, encumbered, or in any way transferred or alienated.

 

 

The Plan is governed by and subject to U.S. law. Interpretation of the Plan and my rights under the Plan will be governed by provisions of U.S. law. For purposes of litigating any dispute that arises under this Award or Award Agreement, the parties submit to and consent to the jurisdiction of the State of Delaware, and agree that such litigation shall be conducted in the federal courts for the United States for the Northern District of Texas and no other courts.

 

 

I understand that I am solely responsible for obtaining/providing whatever exchange control approvals, permits, licenses or notices, which may be necessary for my Award, to

 

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acquire the shares or to hold or sell the shares subject to the PRSU award. Neither Kimberly-Clark nor its Affiliates will be responsible for obtaining such approvals, licenses or permits, or for making any such notices, nor will Kimberly-Clark or its Affiliates be liable for any fines or penalties I may incur for failure to obtain any required approvals, permits or licenses or to make any required notices.

 

 

If one or more of the provisions of this Award Agreement shall be held invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions shall be deemed null and void; however, to the extent permissible by law, any provisions which could be deemed null and void shall first be construed, interpreted or revised retroactively to permit this Award Agreement to be construed so as to foster the intent of this Award Agreement and the Plan.

 

 

If I have received this Award Agreement or any other document related to the Plan translated into a language other than English and if the translated version is different than the English version, the English version will control.

 

 

I recognize that the grant of this restricted share unit award is not an element of my normal or expected compensation and I acknowledge that I have no future rights to Awards under this or any other plans offered by Kimberly-Clark, including but not limited to, upon termination of the Plan or upon severance of my employment.

Conclusion and Acceptance

I accept this grant via electronic signature by clicking the “Accept” icon and certify that I have read, understand and agree to the terms and conditions of the 2001 Equity Participation Plan (the “Plan”), the provisions of the applicable agreements and all other applicable documents (including any country-specific terms applicable to my grant). I hereby authorize my employer to furnish Kimberly-Clark (and any agent administering the Plan or providing recordkeeping services) with such information and data as it shall request in order to facilitate the grant of Awards and enable administration of the Plan and I understand that such information shall be used only as long and to the extent necessary to administer my participation in the Plan. I agree that my participation in the Plan and the Awards granted to me under the Plan will be governed solely by provisions of U.S. law.

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION

PERFORMANCE RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT

AWARD AGREEMENT

APPENDIX A

This Appendix A includes additional terms and conditions that govern the Award granted to the Employee under the Plan if the Employee resides in one of the countries listed below. Certain capitalized terms used but not defined in this Appendix A have the meanings set forth in the Plan and/or the Award Agreement.

AUSTRALIA

Securities Law Notice

If the Employee acquires shares of the Corporation’s common stock pursuant to this Award and the Employee offers his or her shares of the Corporation’s common stock for sale to a person or entity resident in Australia, the offer may be subject to disclosure requirements under Australian law. The Employee should obtain legal advice on his or her disclosure obligations prior to making any such offer.

Award Payable Only in Shares

Notwithstanding any discretion contained in the Plan, or any provision in the Award Agreement to the contrary, Awards granted to Employees in Australia shall be paid in shares of the Corporation’s common stock only and do not provide any right for Employee to receive a cash payment.

CANADA

Award Payable Only in Shares

Notwithstanding any discretion contained in the Plan, or any provision in the Award Agreement to the contrary, Awards granted to Employees in Canada shall be paid in shares of the Corporation common stock only and do not provide any right for Employee to receive a cash payment.

Language Consent

The parties acknowledge that it is their express wish that the Award Agreement, as well as all documents, notices and legal proceedings entered into, given or instituted pursuant hereto or relating directly or indirectly hereto, be drawn up in English.

Les parties reconnaissent avoir exigé la rédaction en anglais de la convention, ainsi que de tous documents exécutés, avis donnés et procédures judiciaries intentées, directement ou indirectement, relativement à ou suite à la présente convention.

 

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Securities Law Notice

The Employee is permitted to sell shares acquired through the Plan through the designated broker appointed under the Plan, if any, provided the resale of shares acquired under the Plan takes place outside of Canada through the facilities of a stock exchange on which the shares are listed. The Corporation’s shares are currently listed on New York Stock Exchange.

CHINA

Exchange Control Notice

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Award Agreement, due to regulatory requirements in China, the Corporation reserves the right to force the Employee to immediately sell all of the shares upon vesting of the Award, upon notice to the Employee.

The Employee understands and agrees that due to exchange control laws in China, the Employee will be required to immediately repatriate the cash proceeds from the sale of shares to China. The Employee further understand that such repatriation of the cash proceeds may need to be effected through a special exchange control account established by the Corporation or a parent, subsidiary or Affiliate, and the Employee hereby consents and agrees that the cash proceeds may be transferred to such special account prior to being delivered to the Employee.

INDIA

Fringe Benefit Tax

By accepting this option and participating in the Plan, the Employee consents and agrees to assume any and all liability for fringe benefit tax that may be payable by the Employee or the Employer in connection with the Plan upon request of the Corporation and at the Corporation’s sole discretion. The Employee understands that the grant of the Award and participation in the Plan is contingent upon his or her agreement to assume liability for fringe benefit tax payable on the shares of common stock acquired under the Plan if the Corporation so requests.

Further, by accepting this Award and participating in the Plan, the Employee agrees that the Corporation and/or the Employer may collect fringe benefit tax from the Employee by any of the means set forth in the Acknowledgment of Conditions section of the Award Agreement or any other reasonable method established by the Corporation. The Employee also agrees to execute any other consents or elections required to accomplish the foregoing, promptly upon request of the Corporation.

ITALY

Data Privacy Notice and Consent.

This provision replaces in its entirety the data privacy in the Award Agreement:

The Employee hereby explicitly and unambiguously consents to the collection, use, processing and transfer, in electronic or other form, of his or her personal data as

 

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described in this section of this Appendix A by and among, as applicable, the Employer, the Corporation and any Affiliate for the exclusive purpose of implementing, administering, and managing the Employee’s participation in the Plan.

The Employee understands that the Employer, the Corporation and any Affiliate hold certain personal information about him or her, including, but not limited to, the Employee’s name, home address and telephone number, date of birth, social insurance or other identification number, salary, nationality, job title, any shares of common stock or directorships held in the Corporation or any Affiliate, details of all Awards, or any other entitlement to shares of common stock awarded, canceled, exercised, vested, unvested or outstanding in the Employee’s favor, for the exclusive purpose of implementing, managing and administering the Plan (“Data”).

The Employee also understands that providing the Corporation with Data is necessary for the performance of the Plan and that his or her refusal to provide such Data would make it impossible for the Corporation to perform its contractual obligations and may affect the Employee’s ability to participate in the Plan. The Controller of personal data processing is Kimberly-Clark Corporation with registered offices at 351 Phelps Drive, Irving, Texas 75038, United States of America, and, pursuant to Legislative Decree no. 196/2003, its representative in Italy is Kimberly-Clark s.r.l. at Via Della Rocca, 49, Torino, Italy.

The Employee understands that Data will not be publicized, but it may be transferred to banks, other financial institutions, or brokers involved in the management and administration of the Plan. The Employee understands that Data may also be transferred to the Corporation’s independent registered public accounting firm. The Employee further understand that the Corporation and/or any Affiliate will transfer Data among themselves as necessary for the purpose of implementing, administering and managing the Employee’s participation in the Plan, and that the Corporation and/or any Affiliate may each further transfer Data to third parties assisting the Corporation in the implementation, administration, and management of the Plan, including any requisite transfer of Data to a broker or other third party with whom the Employee may elect to deposit any shares of common stock acquired under the Plan. Such recipients may receive, possess, use, retain, and transfer Data in electronic or other form, for the purposes of implementing, administering, and managing the Employee’s participation in the Plan. The Employee understands that these recipients may be located in or outside the European Economic Area, such as in the United States or elsewhere. Should the Corporation exercise its discretion in suspending all necessary legal obligations connected with the management and administration of the Plan, it will delete Data as soon as it has completed all the necessary legal obligations connected with the management and administration of the Plan.

The Employee understands that Data processing related to the purposes specified above shall take place under automated or non-automated conditions, anonymously when possible, that comply with the purposes for which Data is collected and with confidentiality and security provisions as set forth by applicable laws and regulations, with specific reference to Legislative Decree no. 196/2003.

 

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The processing activity, including communication, the transfer of Data abroad, including outside of the European Economic Area, as herein specified and pursuant to applicable laws and regulations, does not require the Employee’s consent thereto as the processing is necessary to performance of contractual obligations related to implementation, administration, and management of the Plan. The Employee understands that, pursuant to Section 7 of the Legislative Decree no. 196/2003, he or she has the right to, including but not limited to, access, delete, update, correct, or terminate, for legitimate reason, the Data processing. Furthermore, the Employee is aware that Data will not be used for direct marketing purposes. In addition, Data provided can be reviewed and questions or complaints can be addressed by contacting the Employee’s local human resources representative.

Plan Document Acknowledgment

In accepting the grant of this option, the Employee acknowledges that he or she has received a copy of the Plan and the Award Agreement and has reviewed the Plan and the Award Agreement, including this Appendix A, in their entirety and fully understands and accepts all provisions of the Plan and the Award Agreement, including this Appendix A.

The Employee acknowledges that he or she has read and specifically and expressly approves the following sections of the Award Agreement: Section 2(6) on Payment of Withholding Taxes; Section 5 on No Right of Continued Employment; Section 8 on Delaware Law to Govern; the section on Acknowledgment of Conditions; and the Data Privacy Notice and Consent section included in this Appendix A.

MEXICO

Labor Law Policy and Acknowledgment

In accepting the grant of this Award, the Employee expressly recognizes that Kimberly-Clark Corporation, with registered offices at 351 Phelps Drive, Irving, Texas 75038, United States of America, is solely responsible for the administration of the Plan and that the Employee’s participation in the Plan and acquisition of shares of common stock do not constitute an employment relationship between the Employee and the Corporation since the Employee is participating in the Plan on a wholly commercial basis and his or her sole Employer is Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. Based on the foregoing, the Employee expressly recognizes that the Plan and the benefits that he or she may derive from participating in the Plan do not establish any rights between the Employee and the Employer, Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. and do not form part of the employment conditions and/or benefits provided by Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V., and any modification of the Plan or its termination shall not constitute a change or impairment of the terms and conditions of the Employee’s employment.

The Employee further understands that his or her participation in the Plan is as a result of a unilateral and discretionary decision of the Corporation; therefore, Kimberly-Clark Corporation reserves the absolute right to amend and/or discontinue the Employee’s participation at any time without any liability to the Employee.

 

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Finally, the Employee hereby declares that he or she does not reserve to him- or herself any action or right to bring any claim against Kimberly-Clark Corporation for any compensation or damages regarding any provision of the Plan or the benefits derived under the Plan, and the Employee therefore grants a full and broad release to the Corporation, its Affiliates, branches, representation offices, its shareholders, officers, agents, or legal representatives with respect to any claim that may arise.

Política Laboral y Reconocimiento/Aceptación

Al aceptar el otorgamiento de este Premio, el Empleado expresamente reconoce que Kimberly-Clark Corporation con oficinas registradas en 351 Phelps Drive, Irving, Texas 75038, U.S.A., es la única responsable por la administración del Plan y que la participación del Empleado en el Plan y en su caso la adquisición de las Opciones de Compra de Acciones o Acciones no constituyen ni podrán interpretarse como una relación de trabajo entre el Empleado y Kimberly-Clark Corporation, ya que el Empleado participa en el Plan en un marco totalmente comercial y su único Patrón lo es Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V., con domicilio en Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. Mexico. Derivado de lo anterior, el Empleado expresamente reconoce que el Plan y los beneficios que pudieran derivar de la participación en el Plan no establecen derecho alguno entre el Empleado y el Patrón, Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. y no forma parte de las condiciones de trabajo y/o las prestaciones otorgadas por Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. y que cualquier modificación al Plan o su terminación no constituye un cambio o impedimento de los términos y condiciones de la relación de trabajo del Empleado.

Asimismo, el Empleado reconoce que su participación en el Plan es resultado de una decisión unilateral y discrecional de Kimberly-Clark Corporation por lo tanto, Kimberly-Clark Corporation se reserva el absoluto derecho de modificar y/o terminar la participación del Empleado en cualquier momento y sin responsabilidad alguna frente el Empleado.

Finalmente, el Empleado por este medio declara que no se reserva derecho o acción alguna que ejercitar en contra de Kimberly-Clark Corporation por cualquier compensación o daño en relación con las disposiciones del Plan o de los beneficios derivados del Plan y por lo tanto, el Empleado otorga el más amplio finiquito que en derecho proceda a Kimberly-Clark Corporation, sus afiliadas, subsidiarias, oficinas de representación, sus accionistas, funcionarios, agentes o representantes legales en relación con cualquier demanda que pudiera surgir.

NEW ZEALAND

Securities Law Notice

The Employee will receive the following documents (in addition to this Appendix A) in connection with the Award from the Corporation:

 

1. an Award Agreement which sets forth the terms and conditions of the Award grant;

 

2. a copy of the Corporation’s most recent annual report and most recent financial reports have been made available to enable the Employee to make informed decisions concerning the Award; and

 

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3. a copy of the description of the Kimberly-Clark Corporation 2001 Equity Participation Plan (“Description”) (i.e., the Corporation’s Form S-8 Plan Prospectus under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended), and the Corporation will provide any attachments or documents incorporated by reference into the Description upon written request. The documents incorporated by reference into the Description are updated periodically. Should the Employee request copies of the documents incorporated by reference into the Description, the Corporation will provide the Employee with the most recent documents incorporated by reference.

RUSSIA

Securities Law Notice

This Award Agreement, the Plan and all other materials the Employee may receive regarding participation in the Plan do not constitute advertising or an offering of securities in Russia. The issuance of shares of common stock under the Plan has not and will not be registered in Russia and hence the shares described in any Plan-related documents may not be offered or placed in public circulation in Russia.

Please note that, under the Russian law, the Employee is not permitted to sell the Corporation’s shares directly to other Russian individuals and the Employee is not permitted to bring share certificates into Russia.

SOUTH AFRICA

Tax Acknowledgment

By accepting the Award, the Employee agrees to notify the Employer of the amount of any gain realized upon vesting of the Award. If the Employee fails to advise the Employer of the gain realized upon vesting, the Employee may be liable for a fine. The Employee will be responsible for paying any difference between the actual tax liability and the amount withheld.

SPAIN

Labor Law Acknowledgment

By accepting the Award, the Employee acknowledges that he or she understands and agrees to participation in the Plan and that he or she has received a copy of the Plan.

The Employee understands that the Corporation has unilaterally, gratuitously and discretionally decided to grant Awards under the Plan to individuals who may be employees of the Corporation or its Affiliates throughout the world. The decision is a limited decision that is entered into upon the express assumption and condition that any grant will not economically or otherwise bind the Corporation or any of its Affiliates on an ongoing basis. Consequently, the Employee understands that any grant is given on the assumption and condition that it shall not become a part of any employment contract (either with the Corporation or any of its Affiliates) and shall not be considered a mandatory benefit, salary for any purposes (including severance compensation) or any other right whatsoever. Further, the Employee understands and freely

 

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accepts that there is no guarantee that any benefit whatsoever shall arise from any gratuitous and discretionary grant since the future value of the Award and the underlying shares is unknown and unpredictable. In addition, the Employee understands that this grant would not be made but for the assumptions and conditions referred to above; thus, the Employee understands, acknowledges and freely accepts that should any or all of the assumptions be mistaken or should any of the conditions not be met for any reason, then the Award shall be null and void.

UNITED KINGDOM

Tax Acknowledgment

The following information supplements the information regarding Tax-Related Items in the Acknowledgment of Conditions section of the Award Agreement:

If payment or withholding of the income tax due is not made within 90 days of the event giving rise to the Tax-Related Items or such other period specified in section 222(1)(c) of the U.K. Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003 (the “Due Date”), the amount of any uncollected Tax-Related Items shall constitute a loan owed by the Employee to the Employer, effective on the Due Date. The Employee agrees that the loan will bear interest at the then-current Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (“HMRC”) official rate; it will be immediately due and repayable. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Employee is an officer or executive director (as within the meaning of Section 13(k) of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended), the terms of this provision will not apply to the Employee. In the event that the Employee is an officer or director, as defined above, and Tax-Related Items are not collected from or paid by the Employee by the Due Date, the amount of any uncollected Tax-Related Items may constitute a benefit to the Employee on which additional income tax and National Insurance Contributions may be payable. The Employee acknowledges the Corporation or the Employer may recover it at any time thereafter by any of the means referred to in the Award Agreement. The Employee authorizes the Corporation to withhold the transfer of any shares unless and until the loan is repaid in full.

VIETNAM

Exchange Control Notice

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Award Agreement, due to regulatory requirements in Vietnam, the Corporation reserves the right to force the Employee to immediately sell all of the shares upon vesting of the Award, upon notice to the Employee.

The Employee understands and agrees that due to exchange control laws in Vietnam, the Employee will be required to immediately repatriate the cash proceeds from the sale of shares to Vietnam. The Employee further understand that such repatriation of the cash proceeds may need to be effected through a special exchange control account established by the Corporation or a parent, subsidiary or Affiliate, and the Employee hereby consents and agrees that the cash proceeds may be transferred to such special account prior to being delivered to the Employee.

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION

TIME-VESTED RESTRICTED SHARE UNIT

AWARD AGREEMENT

This Award, granted on the date approved by the Committee or the Chief Executive Officer, as the case may be, and as reflected on the Merrill Lynch Benefits OnLine site, or any successor system, via the Grant Summary screen as the Grant Date, by Kimberly-Clark Corporation, a Delaware corporation (hereinafter called the “Corporation”), subject to the terms and conditions of the 2001 Equity Participation Plan (the “Plan”) and the Award Agreement, including any country-specific terms contained in Appendix A to this Award Agreement.

W I T N E S S E T H:

WHEREAS, the Corporation has adopted the 2001 Equity Participation Plan (the “Plan”) to encourage those employees who materially contribute, by managerial, scientific or other innovative means, to the success of the Corporation or of an Affiliate, to acquire an ownership interest in the Corporation, thereby increasing their motivation for and interest in the Corporation’s or the Affiliate’s long-term success;

NOW, THEREFORE, it is agreed as follows:

 

  1. Number of Share Units Granted. The Corporation hereby grants to the Employee the right to receive the number of Time-Vested Restricted Share Units of the $1.25 par value common stock of the Corporation approved on the date of grant and as reflected on the Merrill Lynch Benefits OnLine site, or any successor system, via the Grant Summary screen as the Units Granted, subject to the terms, conditions and restrictions set forth herein and in the Plan.

 

2. Transferability Restrictions.

(a) Restricted Period. During the Restricted Period, the Employee may not sell, assign, transfer, or otherwise dispose of, or mortgage, pledge or otherwise encumber the Award. The Restricted Share Units shall be subject to forfeiture until the Employee becomes vested in such Award according to the schedule set forth in the Award Agreement.

The Restricted Period shall begin on the date of the granting of this Award, and shall end upon the vesting of the Award according to the schedule set forth in the Award Agreement. Holders of Awards shall have none of the rights of a shareholder with respect to such shares including, but not limited to, any right to receive dividends in cash or other property or other distribution or rights in respect of such shares except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, nor to vote such shares as the record owner thereof.


During each calendar year in the Restricted Period, the Employee will be paid in cash an amount equal to any dividends and other distributions which would have been paid on shares of Common Stock, based on the Restricted Share Units granted under this Award. The amount equal to any dividends and other distributions on the Award shall be paid to the Employee within sixty days of when dividends are paid by the Corporation with respect to its outstanding shares of Common Stock. In the case of dividends paid in property other than cash, the amount of the dividend shall be deemed to be the fair market value of the property at the time of the payment of the dividend, as determined in good faith by the Corporation. The Corporation shall not be required to segregate any cash or other property of the Corporation. Any amounts which become payable to an Employee shall be paid from the general assets of the Corporation.

 

  (b) Termination of Employment. Employee shall forfeit any unvested Award upon termination of employment unless such termination (i) is due to a Qualified Termination of Employment, or (ii) if more than six months after the date of grant, due to death, Retirement, Total and Permanent Disability, or the shutdown or divestiture of a business unit. An authorized leave of absence shall not be deemed to be a termination of employment if the period of such leave does not exceed six months, or if longer, so long as Employee retains a right to reemployment with the Corporation or Affiliate under an applicable statute or by contract. For purposes of this subparagraph, a leave of absence constitutes a bona fide leave of absence only if there is a reasonable expectation that the Participant will return to perform services for the Corporation or an Affiliate. If the period of leave exceeds six months and the Participant does not retain a right to reemployment under an applicable statute or by contract, the employment relationship is deemed to terminate on the first date immediately following such six-month period. Notwithstanding the foregoing, where a leave of absence is due to any medically determinable physical or mental impairment that can be expected to result in death or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than six months, where such impairment causes the Participant to be unable to perform the duties of his or her position of employment or any substantially similar position of employment, a 29-month period of absence is substituted for such six-month period in determining whether a termination of employment shall be deemed to have occurred. A termination of employment with the Corporation or an Affiliate to accept immediate reemployment with the Corporation or an Affiliate likewise shall not be deemed to be a termination of employment if the level of bona fide services the Employee would perform after such date would permanently decrease to no more than 20 percent of the average level of bona fide services performed over the immediately preceding 36-month period (or the full period of services to the Corporation or an Affiliate if the Employee has been providing such services less than 36 months). A Participant who is classified as an intermittent employee shall be deemed to have a termination of employment for purposes of the Plan if the level of bona fide services the Participant would perform after such date would permanently decrease to less than 50 percent of the average level of bona fide services performed over the immediately preceding 36-month period (or the full period of services to the Corporation or an Affiliate if the Participant has been providing such services less than 36 months).

 

2


  (c) Death, Retirement, or Total and Permanent Disability. In the event that more than six months after the date of grant the Employee’s termination of employment is due to death or Total and Permanent Disability, it shall result in pro rata vesting, as determined by the Committee, and the number of shares that are considered to vest shall be prorated for the number of full months of employment during the Restricted Period prior to the Participant’s termination of employment, and shall be paid 90 days following the Participant’s termination of employment. In the event that more than six months after the date of grant the Employee’s termination of employment is due to Retirement it shall result in 100% vesting of the Award at the end of the Restricted Period, and such Award shall be paid at the first day of the seventh month following the date of separation from service

 

  (d) Shutdown or Divestiture. In the event that after the date of grant the Employee’s termination of employment is due to the shutdown or divestiture of the Corporation’s or its Affiliate’s business it shall result in pro rata vesting, as determined by the Committee, and the number of shares that are considered to vest shall be determined at the end of the Restricted Period, prorated for the number of full years of employment during the Restricted Period prior to the Participant’s termination of employment, and shall be paid within 90 days following the end of the Restricted Period.

 

  (e) Qualified Termination of Employment. In the event of a Qualified Termination of Employment all restrictions will lapse and the shares will become fully vested and shall be paid within 10 days following the last day of employment of the Employee with the Corporation.

 

  (f) Payment of Awards. The payment of the Award shall be made in shares of Common Stock. Except in the event the Employee’s termination of employment is due to Retirement the payment of an Award shall be made within 90 days following the date of vesting of the Award under the previous subparagraphs. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, except in the event of death, the payment of an Award to an Employee whose termination of employment is due to retirement shall be made at the first day of the seventh month following the date of separation from service.

 

  (g) Payment of Withholding Taxes. No shares of Common Stock, nor any cash payment, may be delivered under this Award, unless prior to or simultaneously with such issuance, the Employee or, in the event of his death, the person succeeding to his rights hereunder, shall pay to the Corporation such amount as the Corporation advises is required under applicable federal, state or local laws to withhold and pay over to governmental taxing authorities by reason of the delivery of such shares of Common Stock and any cash payment pursuant to this Award. The Corporation may, in its discretion, withhold payment of required withholding taxes with cash or shares of Common Stock which otherwise would be delivered following the date of vesting of the Award under this paragraph 2.

 

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3. Nontransferability. Neither the Award nor the Employee’s right to receive payment for vested Awards may be assigned or transferred except upon the death of the Employee (i) by will, (ii) by the laws of descent and distribution or (iii) pursuant to a designation by the Employee of a beneficiary or beneficiaries, provided that no such designation shall be effective unless filed with the Committee prior to the death of such Employee.

 

4. Compliance with Law. No payment may be made under this Award, unless prior to the issuance thereof, the Corporation shall have received an opinion of counsel to the effect that this Award by the Corporation to the Employee will not constitute a violation of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. As a condition of this Award, the Employee shall, if requested by the Corporation, submit a written statement in form satisfactory to counsel for the Corporation, to the effect that any shares received under this Award shall be for investment and not with a view to the distribution thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Corporation shall have the right, in its discretion, to cause the certificates representing shares hereunder to be appropriately legended to refer to such undertaking or to any legal restrictions imposed upon the transferability thereof by reason of such undertaking.

The Award granted hereby is subject to the condition that if the listing, registration or qualification of the shares subject hereto on any securities exchange or under any state or federal law, or if the consent or approval of any regulatory body shall be necessary as a condition of, or in connection with, the granting of the Award or the delivery of shares thereunder, such shares may not be delivered unless and until such listing, registration, qualification, consent or approval shall have been effected or obtained. The Corporation agrees to use its best efforts to obtain any such requisite listing, registration, qualification, consent or approval.

The Employee is solely responsible for obtaining/providing whatever exchange control approvals, permits, licenses, or notices, which may be necessary for the Employee to hold the Award, or to receive any payment of cash or shares or to hold or sell the shares subject to the Award, if any. Neither Kimberly-Clark nor its Affiliates will be responsible for obtaining any such approvals, licenses or permits, or for making any such notices, nor will the Corporation nor its Affiliates be liable for any fines or penalties the Employee may incur for failure to obtain any required approvals, permits or licenses or to make any required notices.

 

5. No Right of Continued Employment. The granting of this Award does not confer upon the Employee any legal right to be continued in the employ of the Corporation or its Affiliates, and the Corporation and its Affiliates reserve the right to discharge the Employee whenever the interest of the Corporation or its Affiliates may so require without liability to the Corporation or its Affiliates, the Board of Directors of the Corporation or its Affiliates, or the Committee, except as to any rights which may be expressly conferred on the Employee under this Award.

 

6. Discretion of the Corporation, Board of Directors and the Committee. Any decision made or action taken by the Corporation or by the Board of Directors of the Corporation or by the Committee arising out of or in connection with the construction, administration, interpretation and effect of this Award shall be within the absolute discretion of the Corporation, the Board of Directors of the Corporation or the Committee, as the case may be, and shall be conclusive and binding upon all persons.

 

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7. Inalienability of Benefits and Interest. This Award and the rights and privileges conferred hereby shall not be subject in any manner to anticipation, alienation, sale, transfer, assignment, pledge, encumbrance or charge, and any such attempted action shall be void and no such benefit or interest shall be in any manner liable for or subject to debts, contracts, liabilities, engagements, or torts of the Employee.

 

8. Delaware Law to Govern. The Plan is governed by and subject to the laws of the United States of America. All questions pertaining to the construction, interpretation, regulation, validity and effect of the provisions of this Award and any rights under the Plan shall be determined in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware.

 

9. Purchase of Common Stock. The Corporation and its Affiliates may, but shall not be required to, purchase shares of Common Stock of the Corporation for purposes of satisfying the requirements of this Award. The Corporation and its Affiliates shall have no obligation to retain and shall have the unlimited right to sell or otherwise deal with for their own account, any shares of common stock of the Corporation purchased for satisfying the requirements of this Award.

 

10. Notices. Any notice to be given to the Corporation under this Award shall be addressed to the Corporation in care of its Director of Compensation located at the World Headquarters, and any notice to be given to the Employee under the terms of this Award may be addressed to him at his address as it appears on the Corporation’s records, or at such other address as either party may hereafter designate in writing to the other. Any such notice shall be deemed to have been duly given if and when enclosed in a properly sealed envelope or wrapper addressed as aforesaid, registered and deposited, postage and registry fee prepaid, in a post office or branch post office regularly maintained by the United States Government.

 

11. Changes in Capitalization. In the event there are any changes in the common stock or the capitalization of the Corporation through a corporate transaction, such as any merger, any acquisition through the issuance of capital stock of the Corporation, any consolidation, any separation of the Corporation (including a spin-off or other distribution of stock of the Corporation), any reorganization of the Corporation (whether or not such reorganization comes within the definition of such term in section 368 of the Code), or any partial or complete liquidation by the Corporation, recapitalization, stock dividend, stock split or other change in the corporate structure, appropriate adjustments and changes shall be made by the Committee in (a) the number of shares subject to this Award, and (b) such other provisions of this Award as may be necessary and equitable to carry out the foregoing purposes.

 

12. Effect on Other Plans. All benefits under this Award shall constitute special compensation and shall not affect the level of benefits provided to or received by the Employee (or the Employee’s estate or beneficiaries) as part of any employee benefit plan of the Corporation or an Affiliate. This Award shall not be construed to affect in any way the Employee’s rights and obligations under any other plan maintained by the Corporation or an Affiliate on behalf of employees.

 

13.

Discretionary Nature of Award. The grant of an Award is a one-time benefit and does not create any contractual or other right to receive a grant of Awards or benefits in lieu

 

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of Awards in the future. Future grants, if any, will be at the sole discretion of Kimberly-Clark, including, but not limited to, the timing of any grant, the number of Restricted Share Units and vesting provisions. The value of the Award is an extraordinary item of compensation outside the scope of the Employee’s employment contract, if any. As such, the Award is not part of normal or expected compensation for purposes of calculating any severance, resignation, redundancy, end of service payments, bonuses, long-service awards, pension or retirement benefits or similar payments.

 

14. Data Privacy. The Employee hereby authorizes their employer to furnish Kimberly-Clark (and any agent of Kimberly-Clark administering the Plan or providing Plan recordkeeping services) with such information and data as it shall request in order to facilitate the grant of Awards and administration of the Plan and the Employee waives any data privacy rights such Employee might otherwise have with respect to such information.

 

15. Conflict with Plan. This Award is awarded pursuant to and subject to the Plan. This Agreement is intended to supplement and carry out the terms of the Plan. It is subject to all terms and provisions of the Plan and, in the event of a conflict, the Plan shall prevail.

 

16. Successors. This Award shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of any successor or successors of the Corporation.

 

17. Amendments. The Committee may at any time alter or amend this Award to the extent (1) permitted by law, (2) permitted by the rules of any stock exchange on which the common stock or any other security of the Corporation is listed, and (3) permitted under applicable provisions of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (including rule 16b-3 thereof).

 

18. Defined Terms. Terms which are capitalized are defined herein or in the Plan and have the same meaning set forth in the Plan, unless the context indicates otherwise.

 

19. For U.S. Employee’s Only. A U.S. Employee who has not previously signed a noncompete agreement has until the end of the one hundred twenty (120) day period beginning from the date of grant of this Award to sign and return the Noncompete Agreement provided to such Employee. If the U.S. Employee does not sign and return the provided Noncompete Agreement on or before the end of such one hundred twenty (120) day period then the grant of the Award, as set forth in Section 1, shall not be binding on and shall be voidable by the Corporation, in which case it shall have no further force or effect.

 

20. Acceptance of Award terms and conditions. An Employee has until the end of the one hundred twenty (120) day period beginning from the date of grant of this Award to accept this Award Agreement. If the Employee does not accept this Award Agreement on or before the end of such one hundred twenty (120) day period then the grant of the Award, as set forth in Section 1, shall not be binding on and shall be voidable by the Corporation, in which case it shall have no further force or effect.

 

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Acknowledgment of Conditions

I understand and acknowledge the following conditions with respect to the Award granted to me under Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s 2001 Equity Participation Plan:

 

 

The 2001 Equity Participation Plan (the “Plan”) is discretionary in nature and Kimberly-Clark may cancel or terminate it at any time. The grant of an Award is a one-time benefit and does not create any contractual or other right to receive an Award or benefits in lieu of an Award in the future. Future grants, if any, will be at the sole discretion of Kimberly-Clark, including, but not limited to, the timing of any grant, the number of Awards, vesting provisions and the exercise price.

 

 

My participation in the Plan is voluntary. The value of the Award is an extraordinary item of compensation outside the scope of my employment contract, if any. As such, the restricted share unit award is not part of normal or expected compensation for purposes of calculating any severance, resignation, redundancy, end of service payments, bonuses, long-service awards, pension, retirement or welfare benefits or similar payments and in no event shall be considered as compensation for, or relating in any way to, past services for Kimberly-Clark as my actual employer (the “Employer”).

 

 

The future value of the underlying shares is unknown and cannot be predicted with certainty. If the underlying shares do not increase in value, the Award will have no value.

 

 

In consideration of the grant of the Award, no claim or entitlement to compensation or damages shall arise from termination of the Award, and no claim or entitlement to compensation or damages shall arise from any diminution in value of the RSUs or shares received upon vesting of RSUs resulting from termination of my employment by the Corporation or the Employer (for any reason whatsoever and whether or not in breach of local labor laws) and I irrevocably release the Corporation and the Employer from any such claim that may arise; if, notwithstanding the foregoing, any such claim is found by a court of competent jurisdiction to have arisen, then, by accepting this Award Agreement, I shall be deemed irrevocably to have waived any entitlement to pursue such claim.

 

 

In the event of termination of my employment (whether or not in breach of local labor laws and except as otherwise explicitly provided in the Award Agreement of the Plan), my right to receive RSUs and vest under the Plan, if any, will terminate effective as of the date that I am no longer actively employed and will not be extended by any notice period mandated under local law (e.g., active employment would not include a period of “garden leave” or similar period pursuant to local law); the Committee shall have the exclusive discretion to determine when I am no longer actively employed for purposes of the Award.

 

 

The Corporation is not providing any tax, legal or financial advice, nor is the Corporation making any recommendations regarding participation in the Plan. Further, I have been advised to consult with my own advisors regarding participation in the Plan before taking any action related to the Plan.

 

 

Regardless of any action the Corporation or the Employer takes with respect to any or all income tax (including federal, state and local taxes), social insurance, payroll tax, payment on account or other tax-related withholding (“Tax-Related Items”), I acknowledge that the

 

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ultimate liability for all Tax-Related Items legally due by me and remains my responsibility and that the Corporation and/or the Employer (i) make no representations or undertakings regarding the treatment of any Tax-Related Items in connection with any aspect of the Award, including the grant of the RSUs, the vesting of RSUs, the conversion of the RSUs into shares or the receipt of an equivalent cash payment, the subsequent sale of any shares acquired at vesting and the receipt of any dividends; and (ii) do not commit to structure the terms of the grant or any aspect of the Award to reduce or eliminate the my liability for Tax-Related Items.

 

 

Prior to the relevant taxable event, I shall pay, or make adequate arrangements satisfactory to the Corporation or to the Employer (in their sole discretion) to satisfy all Tax-Related Items. In this regard, I authorize the Corporation or the Employer to withhold all applicable Tax-Related Items legally payable by me from my wages or other cash compensation payable to me by the Corporation or the Employer or from any equivalent cash payment received pursuant to the RSUs. Alternatively, or in addition, if permissible under local law, the Corporation or the Employer may, in their sole discretion, (i) sell or arrange for the sale of shares to be issued pursuant to the RSUs to satisfy Tax-Related Items, and/or (ii) withhold in shares, provided that the Corporation and the Employer shall withhold only the amount of shares necessary to satisfy the minimum withholding amount or any such amount as described by the Corporation not to result in adverse accounting consequences. If the obligation for Tax-Related Items is satisfied by withholding in shares, I am deemed to have been issued the full number of shares subject to the Award, notwithstanding that a number of shares is held back solely for the purpose of paying Tax-Related Items. I shall pay to the Corporation or to the Employer any amount of Tax-Related Items that the Corporation or the Employer may be required to withhold as a result of my receipt of RSUs, the vesting of PSUs, the receipt of an equivalent cash payment, or the conversion of vested RSUs to shares that cannot be satisfied by the means previously described. The Corporation may refuse to deliver shares to me if I fail to comply with my obligation in connection with the Tax-Related Items as described herein.

 

 

I hereby explicitly and unambiguously consent to the collection, use and transfer, in electronic or other form, of my personal data as described in this Award Agreement by and among, as applicable, my Employer, the Corporation, and its Affiliates for the exclusive purpose of implementing, administering and managing my participation in the Plan.

 

 

I understand that the Corporation and my Employer may hold certain personal information about me, including, but not limited to, my name, home address and telephone number, date of birth, social insurance number or other identification number, salary, nationality, job title, any shares of common stock or directorships held in the Corporation, details of all Awards or any other entitlement to shares awarded, canceled, vested, unvested or outstanding in my favor, for the purpose of implementing, administering and managing the Plan (“Data”). I understand that Data may be transferred to any third parties assisting in the implementation, administration and management of the Plan, that these recipients may be located in my country, or elsewhere, and that my country may have different data privacy laws and protections than my country. I understand that I may request a list with the names and addresses of any potential recipients of the Data by contacting my local human resources representative. I authorize the recipients to receive, possess, use, retain and transfer the Data, in electronic or other form, for the purposes of

 

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implementing, administering and managing my participation in the Plan, including any requisite transfer of such Data as may be required to a broker, escrow agent or other third party with whom the shares received upon vesting of the RSUs may be deposited. I understand that Data will be held only as long as is necessary to implement, administer and manage my participation in the Plan. I understand that I may, at any time, view Data, request additional information about the storage and processing of Data, require any necessary amendments to Data or refuse or withdraw the consents herein, in any case without cost, by contacting in writing my local human resources representative. I understand that refusal or withdrawal of consent may affect my ability to participate in the Plan. For more information on the consequences of my refusal to consent or withdrawal of consent, I understand that I may contact my local human resources representative.

 

 

My Award may not be assigned, sold, encumbered, or in any way transferred or alienated.

 

 

The Plan is governed by and subject to U.S. law. Interpretation of the Plan and my rights under the Plan will be governed by provisions of U.S. law. For purposes of litigating any dispute that arises under this Award or Award Agreement, the parties submit to and consent to the jurisdiction of the State of Delaware, and agree that such litigation shall be conducted in the federal courts for the United States for the Northern District of Texas and no other courts.

 

 

I understand that I am solely responsible for obtaining/providing whatever exchange control approvals, permits, licenses or notices, which may be necessary for my Award, to acquire the shares or to hold or sell the shares subject to the RSU award. Neither Kimberly-Clark nor its Affiliates will be responsible for obtaining such approvals, licenses or permits, or for making any such notices, nor will Kimberly-Clark or its Affiliates be liable for any fines or penalties I may incur for failure to obtain any required approvals, permits or licenses or to make any required notices.

 

 

If one or more of the provisions of this Award Agreement shall be held invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions shall be deemed null and void; however, to the extent permissible by law, any provisions which could be deemed null and void shall first be construed, interpreted or revised retroactively to permit this Award Agreement to be construed so as to foster the intent of this Award Agreement and the Plan.

 

 

If I have received this Award Agreement or any other document related to the Plan translated into a language other than English and if the translated version is different than the English version, the English version will control.

 

 

I recognize that the grant of this restricted share unit award is not an element of my normal or expected compensation and I acknowledge that I have no future rights to Awards under this or any other plans offered by Kimberly-Clark, including but not limited to, upon termination of the Plan or upon severance of my employment.

 

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Conclusion and Acceptance

I accept this grant via electronic signature by clicking the “Accept” icon and certify that I have read, understand and agree to the terms and conditions of the 2001 Equity Participation Plan (the “Plan”), the provisions of the applicable agreements and all other applicable documents (including any country-specific terms for my country of residence). I hereby authorize my employer to furnish Kimberly-Clark (and any agent administering the Plan or providing recordkeeping services) with such information and data as it shall request in order to facilitate the grant of Awards and enable administration of the Plan and I understand that such information shall be used only as long and to the extent necessary to administer my participation in the Plan. I agree that my participation in the Plan and the Awards granted to me under the Plan will be governed solely by provisions of U.S. law.

 

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KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION

TIME-VESTED RESTRICTED SHARE UNIT

AWARD AGREEMENT

APPENDIX A

This Appendix A includes additional terms and conditions that govern the Award granted to the Employee under the Plan if the Employee resides in one of the countries listed below. Certain capitalized terms used but not defined in this Appendix A have the meanings set forth in the Plan and/or the Award Agreement.

AUSTRALIA

Securities Law Notice

If the Employee acquires shares of the Corporation’s common stock pursuant to this Award and the Employee offers his or her shares of the Corporation’s common stock for sale to a person or entity resident in Australia, the offer may be subject to disclosure requirements under Australian law. The Employee should obtain legal advice on his or her disclosure obligations prior to making any such offer.

Award Payable Only in Shares

Notwithstanding any discretion contained in the Plan, or any provision in the Award Agreement to the contrary, Awards granted to Employees in Australia shall be paid in shares of the Corporation’s common stock only and do not provide any right for Employee to receive a cash payment.

CANADA

Award Payable Only in Shares

Notwithstanding any discretion contained in the Plan, or any provision in the Award Agreement to the contrary, Awards granted to Employees in Canada shall be paid in shares of the Corporation common stock only and do not provide any right for Employee to receive a cash payment.

Language Consent

The parties acknowledge that it is their express wish that the Award Agreement, as well as all documents, notices and legal proceedings entered into, given or instituted pursuant hereto or relating directly or indirectly hereto, be drawn up in English.

Les parties reconnaissent avoir exigé la rédaction en anglais de la convention, ainsi que de tous documents exécutés, avis donnés et procédures judiciaries intentées, directement ou indirectement, relativement à ou suite à la présente convention.

 

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Securities Law Notice

The Employee is permitted to sell shares acquired through the Plan through the designated broker appointed under the Plan, if any, provided the resale of shares acquired under the Plan takes place outside of Canada through the facilities of a stock exchange on which the shares are listed. The Corporation’s shares are currently listed on New York Stock Exchange.

CHINA

Exchange Control Notice

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Award Agreement, due to regulatory requirements in China, the Corporation reserves the right to force the Employee to immediately sell all of the shares upon vesting of the Award, upon notice to the Employee.

The Employee understands and agrees that due to exchange control laws in China, the Employee will be required to immediately repatriate the cash proceeds from the sale of shares to China. The Employee further understand that such repatriation of the cash proceeds may need to be effected through a special exchange control account established by the Corporation or a parent, subsidiary or Affiliate, and the Employee hereby consents and agrees that the cash proceeds may be transferred to such special account prior to being delivered to the Employee.

INDIA

Fringe Benefit Tax

By accepting this option and participating in the Plan, the Employee consents and agrees to assume any and all liability for fringe benefit tax that may be payable by the Employee or the Employer in connection with the Plan upon request of the Corporation and at the Corporation’s sole discretion. The Employee understands that the grant of the Award and participation in the Plan is contingent upon his or her agreement to assume liability for fringe benefit tax payable on the shares of common stock acquired under the Plan if the Corporation so requests.

Further, by accepting this Award and participating in the Plan, the Employee agrees that the Corporation and/or the Employer may collect fringe benefit tax from the Employee by any of the means set forth in the Acknowledgment of Conditions section of the Award Agreement or any other reasonable method established by the Corporation. The Employee also agrees to execute any other consents or elections required to accomplish the foregoing, promptly upon request of the Corporation.

ITALY

Data Privacy Notice and Consent.

This provision replaces in its entirety the data privacy in the Award Agreement:

The Employee hereby explicitly and unambiguously consents to the collection, use, processing and transfer, in electronic or other form, of his or her personal data as

 

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described in this section of this Appendix A by and among, as applicable, the Employer, the Corporation and any Affiliate for the exclusive purpose of implementing, administering, and managing the Employee’s participation in the Plan.

The Employee understands that the Employer, the Corporation and any Affiliate hold certain personal information about him or her, including, but not limited to, the Employee’s name, home address and telephone number, date of birth, social insurance or other identification number, salary, nationality, job title, any shares of common stock or directorships held in the Corporation or any Affiliate, details of all Awards, or any other entitlement to shares of common stock awarded, canceled, exercised, vested, unvested or outstanding in the Employee’s favor, for the exclusive purpose of implementing, managing and administering the Plan (“Data”).

The Employee also understands that providing the Corporation with Data is necessary for the performance of the Plan and that his or her refusal to provide such Data would make it impossible for the Corporation to perform its contractual obligations and may affect the Employee’s ability to participate in the Plan. The Controller of personal data processing is Kimberly-Clark Corporation with registered offices at 351 Phelps Drive, Irving, Texas 75038, United States of America, and, pursuant to Legislative Decree no. 196/2003, its representative in Italy is Kimberly-Clark s.r.l. at Via Della Rocca, 49, Torino, Italy.

The Employee understands that Data will not be publicized, but it may be transferred to banks, other financial institutions, or brokers involved in the management and administration of the Plan. The Employee understands that Data may also be transferred to the Corporation’s independent registered public accounting firm. The Employee further understand that the Corporation and/or any Affiliate will transfer Data among themselves as necessary for the purpose of implementing, administering and managing the Employee’s participation in the Plan, and that the Corporation and/or any Affiliate may each further transfer Data to third parties assisting the Corporation in the implementation, administration, and management of the Plan, including any requisite transfer of Data to a broker or other third party with whom the Employee may elect to deposit any shares of common stock acquired under the Plan. Such recipients may receive, possess, use, retain, and transfer Data in electronic or other form, for the purposes of implementing, administering, and managing the Employee’s participation in the Plan. The Employee understands that these recipients may be located in or outside the European Economic Area, such as in the United States or elsewhere. Should the Corporation exercise its discretion in suspending all necessary legal obligations connected with the management and administration of the Plan, it will delete Data as soon as it has completed all the necessary legal obligations connected with the management and administration of the Plan.

The Employee understands that Data processing related to the purposes specified above shall take place under automated or non-automated conditions, anonymously when possible, that comply with the purposes for which Data is collected and with confidentiality and security provisions as set forth by applicable laws and regulations, with specific reference to Legislative Decree no. 196/2003.

The processing activity, including communication, the transfer of Data abroad, including outside of the European Economic Area, as herein specified and pursuant to

 

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applicable laws and regulations, does not require the Employee’s consent thereto as the processing is necessary to performance of contractual obligations related to implementation, administration, and management of the Plan. The Employee understands that, pursuant to Section 7 of the Legislative Decree no. 196/2003, he or she has the right to, including but not limited to, access, delete, update, correct, or terminate, for legitimate reason, the Data processing. Furthermore, the Employee is aware that Data will not be used for direct marketing purposes. In addition, Data provided can be reviewed and questions or complaints can be addressed by contacting the Employee’s local human resources representative.

Plan Document Acknowledgment

In accepting the grant of this option, the Employee acknowledges that he or she has received a copy of the Plan and the Award Agreement and has reviewed the Plan and the Award Agreement, including this Appendix A, in their entirety and fully understands and accepts all provisions of the Plan and the Award Agreement, including this Appendix A.

The Employee acknowledges that he or she has read and specifically and expressly approves the following sections of the Award Agreement: Section 2(6) on Payment of Withholding Taxes; Section 5 on No Right of Continued Employment; Section 8 on Delaware Law to Govern; the section on Acknowledgment of Conditions; and the Data Privacy Notice and Consent section included in this Appendix A.

MEXICO

Labor Law Policy and Acknowledgment

In accepting the grant of this Award, the Employee expressly recognizes that Kimberly-Clark Corporation, with registered offices at 351 Phelps Drive, Irving, Texas 75038, United States of America, is solely responsible for the administration of the Plan and that the Employee’s participation in the Plan and acquisition of shares of common stock do not constitute an employment relationship between the Employee and the Corporation since the Employee is participating in the Plan on a wholly commercial basis and his or her sole Employer is Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. Based on the foregoing, the Employee expressly recognizes that the Plan and the benefits that he or she may derive from participating in the Plan do not establish any rights between the Employee and the Employer, Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. and do not form part of the employment conditions and/or benefits provided by Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V., and any modification of the Plan or its termination shall not constitute a change or impairment of the terms and conditions of the Employee’s employment.

The Employee further understands that his or her participation in the Plan is as a result of a unilateral and discretionary decision of the Corporation; therefore, Kimberly-Clark Corporation reserves the absolute right to amend and/or discontinue the Employee’s participation at any time without any liability to the Employee.

Finally, the Employee hereby declares that he or she does not reserve to him- or herself any action or right to bring any claim against Kimberly-Clark Corporation for any compensation or damages regarding any provision of the Plan or the benefits derived under the Plan, and the Employee therefore grants a full and broad release to the Corporation, its Affiliates, branches, representation offices, its shareholders, officers, agents, or legal representatives with respect to any claim that may arise.

 

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Política Laboral y Reconocimiento/Aceptación

Al aceptar el otorgamiento de este Premio, el Empleado expresamente reconoce que Kimberly-Clark Corporation con oficinas registradas en 351 Phelps Drive, Irving, Texas 75038, U.S.A., es la única responsable por la administración del Plan y que la participación del Empleado en el Plan y en su caso la adquisición de las Opciones de Compra de Acciones o Acciones no constituyen ni podrán interpretarse como una relación de trabajo entre el Empleado y Kimberly-Clark Corporation, ya que el Empleado participa en el Plan en un marco totalmente comercial y su único Patrón lo es Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V., con domicilio en Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. Mexico. Derivado de lo anterior, el Empleado expresamente reconoce que el Plan y los beneficios que pudieran derivar de la participación en el Plan no establecen derecho alguno entre el Empleado y el Patrón, Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. y no forma parte de las condiciones de trabajo y/o las prestaciones otorgadas por Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. y que cualquier modificación al Plan o su terminación no constituye un cambio o impedimento de los términos y condiciones de la relación de trabajo del Empleado.

Asimismo, el Empleado reconoce que su participación en el Plan es resultado de una decisión unilateral y discrecional de Kimberly-Clark Corporation por lo tanto, Kimberly-Clark Corporation se reserva el absoluto derecho de modificar y/o terminar la participación del Empleado en cualquier momento y sin responsabilidad alguna frente el Empleado.

Finalmente, el Empleado por este medio declara que no se reserva derecho o acción alguna que ejercitar en contra de Kimberly-Clark Corporation por cualquier compensación o daño en relación con las disposiciones del Plan o de los beneficios derivados del Plan y por lo tanto, el Empleado otorga el más amplio finiquito que en derecho proceda a Kimberly-Clark Corporation, sus afiliadas, subsidiarias, oficinas de representación, sus accionistas, funcionarios, agentes o representantes legales en relación con cualquier demanda que pudiera surgir.

NEW ZEALAND

Securities Law Notice

The Employee will receive the following documents (in addition to this Appendix A) in connection with the Award from the Corporation:

 

1. an Award Agreement which sets forth the terms and conditions of the Award grant;

 

2. a copy of the Corporation’s most recent annual report and most recent financial reports have been made available to enable the Employee to make informed decisions concerning the Award; and

 

3. a copy of the description of the Kimberly-Clark Corporation 2001 Equity Participation Plan (“Description”) (i.e., the Corporation’s Form S-8 Plan Prospectus under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended), and the Corporation will provide any attachments or documents incorporated by reference into the Description upon written request. The documents incorporated by reference into the Description are updated periodically. Should the Employee request copies of the documents incorporated by reference into the Description, the Corporation will provide the Employee with the most recent documents incorporated by reference.

 

15


RUSSIA

Securities Law Notice

This Award Agreement, the Plan and all other materials the Employee may receive regarding participation in the Plan do not constitute advertising or an offering of securities in Russia. The issuance of shares of common stock under the Plan has not and will not be registered in Russia and hence the shares described in any Plan-related documents may not be offered or placed in public circulation in Russia.

Please note that, under the Russian law, the Employee is not permitted to sell the Corporation’s shares directly to other Russian individuals and the Employee is not permitted to bring share certificates into Russia.

SOUTH AFRICA

Tax Acknowledgment

By accepting the Award, the Employee agrees to notify the Employer of the amount of any gain realized upon vesting of the Award. If the Employee fails to advise the Employer of the gain realized upon vesting, the Employee may be liable for a fine. The Employee will be responsible for paying any difference between the actual tax liability and the amount withheld.

SPAIN

Labor Law Acknowledgment

By accepting the Award, the Employee acknowledges that he or she understands and agrees to participation in the Plan and that he or she has received a copy of the Plan.

The Employee understands that the Corporation has unilaterally, gratuitously and discretionally decided to grant Awards under the Plan to individuals who may be employees of the Corporation or its Affiliates throughout the world. The decision is a limited decision that is entered into upon the express assumption and condition that any grant will not economically or otherwise bind the Corporation or any of its Affiliates on an ongoing basis. Consequently, the Employee understands that any grant is given on the assumption and condition that it shall not become a part of any employment contract (either with the Corporation or any of its Affiliates) and shall not be considered a mandatory benefit, salary for any purposes (including severance compensation) or any other right whatsoever. Further, the Employee understands and freely accepts that there is no guarantee that any benefit whatsoever shall arise from any gratuitous and discretionary grant since the future value of the Award and the underlying shares is unknown and unpredictable. In addition, the Employee understands that this grant would not be made but for the assumptions and conditions referred to above; thus, the Employee understands, acknowledges and freely accepts that should any or all of the assumptions be mistaken or should any of the conditions not be met for any reason, then the Award shall be null and void.

 

16


UNITED KINGDOM

Tax Acknowledgment

The following information supplements the information regarding Tax-Related Items in the Acknowledgment of Conditions section of the Award Agreement:

If payment or withholding of the income tax due is not made within 90 days of the event giving rise to the Tax-Related Items or such other period specified in section 222(1)(c) of the U.K. Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003 (the “Due Date”), the amount of any uncollected Tax-Related Items shall constitute a loan owed by the Employee to the Employer, effective on the Due Date. The Employee agrees that the loan will bear interest at the then-current Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (“HMRC”) official rate; it will be immediately due and repayable. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Employee is an officer or executive director (as within the meaning of Section 13(k) of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended), the terms of this provision will not apply to the Employee. In the event that the Employee is an officer or director, as defined above, and Tax-Related Items are not collected from or paid by the Employee by the Due Date, the amount of any uncollected Tax-Related Items may constitute a benefit to the Employee on which additional income tax and National Insurance Contributions may be payable. The Employee acknowledges the Corporation or the Employer may recover it at any time thereafter by any of the means referred to in the Award Agreement. The Employee authorizes the Corporation to withhold the transfer of any shares unless and until the loan is repaid in full.

VIETNAM

Exchange Control Notice

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Award Agreement, due to regulatory requirements in Vietnam, the Corporation reserves the right to force the Employee to immediately sell all of the shares upon vesting of the Award, upon notice to the Employee.

The Employee understands and agrees that due to exchange control laws in Vietnam, the Employee will be required to immediately repatriate the cash proceeds from the sale of shares to Vietnam. The Employee further understand that such repatriation of the cash proceeds may need to be effected through a special exchange control account established by the Corporation or a parent, subsidiary or Affiliate, and the Employee hereby consents and agrees that the cash proceeds may be transferred to such special account prior to being delivered to the Employee.

 

17

Summary of Outside Directors' Compensation

Exhibit No. (10)o

Outside Directors’ Compensation

(Effective January 1, 2009)

Each Outside Director of Kimberly-Clark Corporation will receive the following compensation for his or her services as a director, in accordance with the terms of the Corporation’s Outside Directors’ Compensation Plan (dated as of November 12, 2003) (the “Plan”). The compensation elements listed below supersede or are in lieu of all other cash or stock options currently set out under the Plan:

 

   

A cash retainer in the amount of $85,000, payable in quarterly installments in advance. No separate meeting fees will be payable for attending board and committee meetings. Outside Directors joining the Board during the year will receive the full quarterly amount of the annual retainer for the quarter in which they join the Board and each quarter thereafter.

 

   

A grant of Restricted Share Units with a value of $140,000 on the grant date, based on the closing price for the Corporation’s common stock on that date (the “Grant Date Price”). This grant will be made effective as of the first business day of the year. Outside Directors joining the Board during the year will receive a pro-rata grant of Restricted Share Units upon the effective date of their election to the Board.

 

   

The Chairman of each of the Audit, Management Development and Compensation, and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committees will each receive an additional grant of Restricted Share Units with a value of $20,000 based on the Grant Date Price. This grant will be made effective as of the first business day of the year.

 

   

The Lead Director will receive an additional grant of Restricted Share Units with a value of $30,000 based on the Grant Date Price. This grant will be made effective as of the first business day of the year.

 

   

The Restricted Period for the Restricted Share Units shall commence on the date of grant and expire on the date each recipient retires from or otherwise terminates service on the Board. The Restricted Share Units may not be transferred during the Restricted Period.

Summary of Financial Counseling Program

Exhibit No. (10)t

EXECUTIVE FINANCIAL COUNSELING PROGRAM

NOVEMBER 12, 2008

The Management Development and Compensation Committee (the “Committee”) of the Board of Directors of Kimberly-Clark Corporation has established for certain executives an annual allowance for financial counseling (the “Program”). The Program is designed to provide participants with access to knowledgeable resources that understand the Corporation’s compensation and benefit plans and that can assist these participants in efficiently and effectively managing their financial tax planning issues.

Under the Program, all Group Presidents and Senior Vice Presidents that directly report to the Chief Executive Officer are entitled to receive an allowance of $12,000 in both their first year of Program eligibility and in their year of retirement from the Corporation; each other year, these eligible participants are entitled to receive an allowance of $8,000 per year. Other eligible participants designated by the Committee are entitled to receive an allowance of $8,000 in both their first year of Program eligibility and in their year of retirement from the Corporation; each other year, these eligible participants are entitled to receive an allowance of $5,000 per year. The Chief Executive Officer shall not be eligible to participate in the Program.

Under the Program, expenses for any calendar year must be submitted within 30 days after the end of the calendar year. All reimbursements under the Program shall be paid as a cash payment during the first 2  1/2 months following the calendar year in which the expenses were incurred. This Plan is intended to be compliant with Section 409A of the Code and the guidance promulgated thereunder. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Plan, the Corporation and the Committee shall administer and interpret the Plan, and exercise all authority and discretion under the Plan, to satisfy the requirements of Code Section 409A and the guidance promulgated thereunder and any noncompliant provisions of this Plan will either be void or deemed amended to comply with Section 409A of the Code and the guidance promulgated thereunder.

The Committee has the right to construe and interpret the Program and resolve all questions arising under the Program. Nothing contained in the Program shall be construed as a contract of employment or a right of any participant to be continued in any employment with the Corporation or as a limitation on the right of the Corporation to discharge any participant at any time with or without cause. The Committee may, at any time, amend, suspend or terminate the Program in its entirety.

Computation of ratio of earnings to fixed charges

Exhibit No. (12)

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges

(Dollar amounts in millions)

 

     Year Ended December 31
     2008    2007    2006    2005    2004
Consolidated Companies               

Income from continuing operations before income taxes

   $ 2,289    $ 2,318    $ 1,845    $ 1,969    $ 2,203

Interest expense

     304      265      220      190      163

Interest factor in rent expense

     102      88      75      66      65

Amortization of capitalized interest

     13      15      16      7      13
Equity Affiliates               

Share of 50%-owned:

              

Income before income taxes

     1      2      3      2      2

Interest expense

     —        —        —        —        —  

Interest factor in rent expense

     —        —        —        —        —  

Amortization of capitalized interest

     —        —        —        —        —  

Distributed income of less than 50%-owned

     131      130      244      113      95
                                  

Earnings

   $ 2,840    $ 2,818    $ 2,403    $ 2,347    $ 2,541
                                  
Consolidated Companies               

Interest Expense

   $ 304    $ 265    $ 220    $ 190    $ 163

Capitalized interest

     14      18      15      8      6

Interest factor in rent expense

     102      88      75      66      65
Equity Affiliates               

Share of 50%-owned:

              

Interest and capitalized interest

     —        —        —        —        —  

Interest factor in rent expense

     —        —        —        —        —  
                                  

Fixed Charges

   $ 420    $ 371    $ 310    $ 264    $ 234
                                  

Ratio of earnings to fixed charges

     6.76      7.60      7.75      8.89      10.86
                                  

 

Note: The Corporation is liable for certain obligations of S.D. Warren Company, which was sold in December 1994. The buyer provided the Corporation with a letter of credit from a major financial institution guaranteeing repayment of these obligations. No losses are expected from these arrangements and they have not been included in the computation of earnings to fixed charges.
Subsidiaries of the Corporation

Exhibit No. (21)

KIMBERLY-CLARK CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES

The following list includes certain companies that were owned directly or indirectly by Kimberly-Clark Corporation, a Delaware corporation, Dallas, Texas, as of December 31, 2008. The place of incorporation or organization is next to the name of the company.

Consolidated Subsidiaries

1194127 Ontario Inc., Ontario, Canada

*3700 Orleans, LLC, Louisiana

*700 Tchoupitoulas LLC (Arts Hotel), Louisiana

*900 E. Walnut, LLC, Missouri

Abdelia Comercial Ltda., Brazil

*Arabian Medical Products Manufacturing Company, Saudi Arabia

Avent, Inc., Delaware

Avent de Honduras, S.A. de C.V., Honduras

Avent Holdings, LLC, Delaware

Avent S. de R.L. de C.V., Mexico

Avent Slovakia, Inc., Delaware

Avent Slovakia s.r.o., Slovakia

Bacraft S.A. Indústria de Papel, Brazil

*Badgers LLC, Delaware

*Badgers II LLC, Delaware

Ballard Medical Products (Canada) Inc., Ontario, Canada

Beco, Inc., Wisconsin

*Bonster, S.A., Luxembourg

*Carriage LP, South Carolina

*Central High Associates, LLC, Wisconsin

*Central High Managers, LLC, Indiana

*Chapel Valley Housing II, LLC, Wisconsin

*City Hall Square LLC, Wisconsin

*Colombiana Kimberly Colpapel S.A., Colombia

Delaware Overseas Finance, Inc., Delaware

Durafab, Inc., Texas

Excell Paper Sales Co., Pennsylvania

Excell Paper Sales LLC, Delaware

Fisbra Indústria e Comércio de Produtos Higiênicos Ltda., Brazil

*Gateway Hotel Partners, LLC, Missouri

*Gateway Tower Partners, LLC, Missouri

*Genpar AP, LLC, Texas

*Genpar CM, LLC, Texas

*Genpar CM II, LLC, Delaware

*Genpar RI, LLC, Texas

Gerinconfort Indústria e Comercio de Produtos Higienicos Ltd., Brazil


*H-K Overseas Holland B.V., Netherlands

Hakle Kimberly Deutschland GmbH, Germany

Hakle Kimberly Papiervertriebs GmbH, Austria

Hercules Global Investments, Cayman Islands

*Hogla Kimberly Limited, Israel

*Hogla Kimberly Marketing Limited, Israel

Housing Horizons, LLC, Texas

*Humble AP Partners LP, Texas

*Humble CM Partners LP, Texas

*Humble RI Partners LP, Texas

Industrial Helvetia S.A., Chile

Industrial Mimosa S.A., Uruguay

*Janesville School Apartments LLC, Wisconsin

K-C Advertising, Inc., Delaware

*K-C Antioquia Global Ltda., Colombia

K-C Equipment Finance L.P., United Kingdom

K-C Financial Services Investment Company, Delaware

K-C Guernsey I Ltd., Isle of Guernsey

K-C Guernsey II Ltd., Isle of Guernsey

K-C Investment Partnership, Ontario

K-C Nevada, Inc., Nevada

K-C Worldwide, LLC, Delaware

Kalayaan Land Corporation, Philippines

KC Tower Corporation, Delaware

KCA Super Pty. Limited, Australia

KCC Comercial Ltda., Sao Paulo, Brazil

KCK Tissue, Argentina

K.C.S.A. Holdings (Proprietary) Limited, South Africa

*Kimberly Bolivia S.A., Bolivia

Kimberly-Clark (Barbados) Holding Ltd., Barbados

Kimberly-Clark (China) Company Ltd., China

Kimberly-Clark (Cyprus) Ltd., Cyprus

Kimberly-Clark (Hong Kong) Ltd., Hong Kong

Kimberly-Clark (Singapore) Finance Ltd., Singapore

Kimberly-Clark (Trinidad) Limited, Trinidad & Tobago

Kimberly-Clark Argentina S.A., Argentina

Kimberly-Clark Argentina Holdings S.A., Argentina

Kimberly-Clark Amsterdam Holdings, B.V., Netherlands

Kimberly-Clark Asia Holdings Pte. Ltd., Singapore

Kimberly-Clark Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., Singapore

Kimberly-Clark Australia Consolidated Holdings Pty. Limited, Australia

Kimberly-Clark Australia Holdings Pty. Limited, Australia

Kimberly-Clark Australia Pty. Limited, Australia

Kimberly-Clark B.V., Netherlands

Kimberly-Clark Bahrain Holding Company S.P.C., Bahrain

Kimberly-Clark Brasil Holdings Limitada, Brazil


Kimberly-Clark Brasil Indústria e Comércio de Produtos de Hygiene Ltda., Brazil

Kimberly-Clark Canada Holdings, Inc., Ontario, Canada

Kimberly-Clark Canada Inc., Ontario, Canada

Kimberly-Clark Canada Inc. Kanadischen Rechts & Company KG, Germany

Kimberly-Clark Canada International Holdings, Inc.

Kimberly-Clark Canada Investment Incorporated, Nova Scotia, Canada

Kimberly-Clark Canada Services Corporation, Ontario, Canada

Kimberly-Clark Canada U.K. Holding Limited, Ontario, Canada

Kimberly-Clark Cayman Islands Company, Cayman Islands

Kimberly-Clark Cayman Islands Finance Company, Cayman Islands

Kimberly-Clark Cayman Islands Holding Company, Cayman Islands

*Kimberly-Clark Central American Holdings, S.A., Panama

*Kimberly-Clark Chile S.A., Chile

Kimberly-Clark Colombia Limitada, Colombia

*Kimberly-Clark Costa Rica Limitada, Costa Rica

Kimberly-Clark de Centro America, S.A., El Salvador

Kimberly-Clark Denmark Holdings ApS, Denmark

Kimberly-Clark do Brasil Limitada, Brazil

Kimberly-Clark Dominican Republic S.A., Dominican Republic

Kimberly-Clark Dominicana, S.A., Dominican Republic

Kimberly-Clark Dublin Finance Limited, United Kingdom

Kimberly-Clark Dutch Holdings B.V., Netherlands

Kimberly-Clark Ecuador, S.A., Ecuador

Kimberly-Clark Europe Limited, United Kingdom

Kimberly-Clark European Investment B.V., Netherlands

Kimberly-Clark European Services Limited, United Kingdom

Kimberly-Clark Far East Pte. Limited, Singapore

Kimberly-Clark Finance Ltd., United Kingdom

Kimberly-Clark Financial Services, Inc., Tennessee

Kimberly-Clark Foundation, Inc., Wisconsin

Kimberly-Clark Global Finance Ltd., Bermuda

Kimberly-Clark Global Sales, LLC, Delaware

Kimberly-Clark GmbH, Switzerland

Kimberly-Clark Guatemala, Limitada, Guatemala

Kimberly-Clark Health Care Inc., Delaware

Kimberly-Clark Hellas EPE, Greece

Kimberly-Clark Holding e Representações do Brasil Ltda., Brazil

Kimberly-Clark Holding Limited, United Kingdom

Kimberly-Clark Holland Holdings B.V., Netherlands

Kimberly-Clark Honduras, S. de R.L. de C.V., Honduras

Kimberly-Clark Hygiene Products Private Ltd., India

Kimberly-Clark Inc., Ontario, Canada

Kimberly-Clark Innovation Corporation, Korea

Kimberly-Clark Integrated Services Corporation, Delaware

Kimberly-Clark International Services Corporation, Delaware

Kimberly-Clark International, S.A., Panama


Kimberly-Clark Investering Finance Corporation Limited, Netherlands

Kimberly-Clark Kenko Indústria e Comércio Ltda., Sao Paulo, Brazil

Kimberly-Clark Kft Trading Limited Liability Company, Hungary

Kimberly-Clark Latin America, Inc., Delaware

Kimberly-Clark Latin America Inc. y Cia, S.C., Spain

Kimberly-Clark Latin America Investments, Inc., Delaware

Kimberly-Clark Lda., Portugal

Kimberly-Clark Lever Private Limited, India

Kimberly-Clark Limited, United Kingdom

Kimberly-Clark Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Luxembourg

Kimberly-Clark Luxembourg Finance S.a.r.l., Luxembourg

Kimberly-Clark Luxembourg Holdings S.a.r.l., Luxembourg

*Kimberly-Clark Malta Holding Co. Ltd., Malta

*Kimberly-Clark Malta Investment Company Limited, Malta

Kimberly-Clark Manufacturing (Thailand) Limited, Thailand

Kimberly-Clark Mediterranean Finance Company Ltd., Malta

Kimberly-Clark N.V., Belgium

Kimberly-Clark Netherlands Holdings B.V., Netherlands

Kimberly-Clark North Asia Co., Ltd, South Korea

Kimberly-Clark OOO, Russia

Kimberly-Clark Pacific Finance Company, Cayman Islands

Kimberly-Clark Pacific Holdings Pty Limited, Australia

Kimberly-Clark Paper (Guangzhou) Company Limited, People’s Republic of China

Kimberly-Clark Paper (Shanghai) Company Limited, People’s Republic of China

Kimberly-Clark Paraguay S.A., Paraguay

Kimberly-Clark Patriot Holdings, Inc., Cayman Islands

Kimberly-Clark Pennsylvania, LLC, Delaware

Kimberly-Clark Pension Trusts Ltd., United Kingdom

Kimberly-Clark Personal Hygienic Products (Nanjing) Co. Ltd., People’s Republic of China

Kimberly-Clark Personal Hygienic Products Company Limited, Beijing, People’s Republic of China

*Kimberly-Clark Peru S.R.L., Peru

Kimberly-Clark Philippines Inc., Philippines

Kimberly-Clark Philippines Holdings, Inc., Philippines

Kimberly-Clark Products (Malaysia) Sdn. Bdh., Malaysia

Kimberly-Clark Produtos Para Saúde Limitada, Brazil

Kimberly-Clark Puerto Rico, Inc., Delaware

Kimberly-Clark S.A., Poland

Kimberly-Clark S.L., Spain

Kimberly-Clark S.A.S., France

Kimberly-Clark S.p.A., Italy

Kimberly-Clark s.r.l., Italy

Kimberly-Clark s.r.o., Czech Republic

Kimberly-Clark Sales Corporation B.V., Netherlands

Kimberly-Clark Scandinavia ApS, Denmark

Kimberly-Clark Services Asia-Pacific, Australia

Kimberly-Clark Services, Inc., Delaware


Kimberly-Clark Singapore Pte. Ltd., Singapore

Kimberly-Clark of South Africa (Pty.) Limited, South Africa

Kimberly-Clark Southern Africa (Holdings) (Pty) Ltd., South Africa

Kimberly-Clark Sp. z.o.o., Poland

Kimberly-Clark SUD, S.p.A., Italy

Kimberly-Clark Taiwan, Cayman Islands

Kimberly-Clark Thailand Limited, Thailand

Kimberly-Clark Trading (Malaysia) Sdn. Bdh., Malaysia

Kimberly-Clark Treasury Asia-Pacific, Australia

Kimberly-Clark Tuketim Mallari Sanayi Ve Ticaret Anonim Sirketi, Turkey

Kimberly-Clark U.K. Operations Limited, United Kingdom

Kimberly-Clark Ukraine LLC, Ukraine

*Kimberly-Clark Venezuela, C.A., Venezuela

Kimberly-Clark Ventures, LLC, Delaware

Kimberly-Clark Vietnam Co., Ltd., Vietnam

Kimberly-Clark West Indies Finance Company, Cayman Islands

Kimberly-Clark Worldwide Australia Holdings Pty. Limited, Australia

Kimberly-Clark Worldwide Taiwan Investment Limited, Taiwan

Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc., Delaware

KIMNICA, S.A., Nicaragua

KS&J Indústria e Comercio Ltda., Brazil

La Ada de Acuña, S. de R. L., Mexico

*Lafayette-Lahr LLC, Indiana

*LaSalle Apartments LLC, Wisconsin

*LeClaire Apartments LLC, Wisconsin

*Limpar AP, LLC, Delaware

*Limpar CM, LLC, Delaware

*Limpar CM II, LLC, Delaware

*Limpar RI, LLC, Delaware

*Main Lake Apartments LLC, Wisconsin

Manlak Investments (Pty.) Limited, South Africa

MFS Holdings, LLC, Delaware

Microcuff GmbH, Germany

Mimo Brasil Limitada, Brazil

Mimo Uruguay S.A., Uruguay

*Mineral Point School Apartments, Wisconsin

Minnetonka Limitada, Brazil

Minnetonka Overseas Investments Limited, Cayman Islands

*Molett Marketing Limited, Israel

Mountain Tree Farm Company, Washington

*National Terminal Apartments LLC, Ohio

*New Glarus School Apartments LLC, Wisconsin

Nueva Arizona, S.A., Argentina

*Olayan Kimberly-Clark (Bahrain) W.L.L., Bahrain

*Olayan Kimberly-Clark Arabia Company, Saudi Arabia

*Papeles del Cauca S.A., Colombia


PLS Holdings, LLC, Delaware

P.T. Kimberly-Clark Indonesia, Indonesia

*Providence Leasing LLC, Delaware

Ridgeway Insurance Company Limited, Bermuda

Ropers LLC, Delaware

Ropers II LLC, Delaware

Safeskin (B.V.I.) Limited, British Virgin Islands

Safeskin Corporation (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Malaysia

Safeskin Corporation (Thailand) Limited, Thailand

Safeskin Latex (Thailand) Limited, Thailand

Safeskin Medical & Scientific (Thailand) Limited, Thailand

Scott CB Holding Company, Delaware

Scott S.A., France

Scott Executive Pension Trustees Limited, United Kingdom

Scott Paper Eastern China Inc., Delaware

SK Corporation, Taiwan

*Stephenson Mill Associates LLC, Wisconsin

*Stephenson Mill Managers, LLC, Indiana

Syzygy, Inc., Delaware

Taiwan Scott Paper Corporation, Taiwan

*TCB Genpar, LLC, Texas

*TCB Limpar, LLC, Texas

Technology Systems S.A., Argentina

*Tecnosur S.A., Colombia

Texans LLC, Delaware

Texans II LLC, Delaware

Texas Company Building, LP, Texas

Three Rivers Timber Company, Washington

Tiscorp, L.P., United Kingdom

Tri-Med Specialties, Inc., Kansas

*YuHan-Kimberly, Limited, Korea

* Indicates a company that is not wholly owned directly or indirectly by the Corporation.

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Exhibit No. (23)

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

 

We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement Nos. 33-49050, 33-58402, 33-64689, 333-02607, 333-06996, 333-17367, 333-43647, 333-94139, 333-51922, 333-61010, 333-62358, 333-89314, 333-104099, 333-115347, and 333-155380 all on Form S-8 and No. 333-144828 on Form S-3 of our reports dated February 26, 2009, relating to the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule of Kimberly-Clark Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Corporation”) (which report expresses an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial statement schedule and includes an explanatory paragraph regarding the adoption of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, Fair Value Measurements, on January 1, 2008, and the adoption of Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109, on January 1, 2007) and the effectiveness of the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting, appearing in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Corporation for the year ended December 31, 2008.

 

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Deloitte & Touche LLP
Dallas, Texas
February 27, 2009
Powers of Attorney

Exhibit No. (24)

POWER OF ATTORNEY

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned does hereby constitute and appoint Mark A. Buthman, Randy J. Vest and Thomas J. Mielke, and each of them, with full power to act alone, his true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, and to file the same with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents or any one of them, or his substitute or their substitutes, lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 27th day of February, 2009.

 

/s/ John R. Alm

John R. Alm

POWER OF ATTORNEY

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned does hereby constitute and appoint Mark A. Buthman, Randy J. Vest and Thomas J. Mielke, and each of them, with full power to act alone, his true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, and to file the same with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents or any one of them, or his substitute or their substitutes, lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 27th day of February, 2009.

 

/s/ Dennis R. Beresford

Dennis R. Beresford


POWER OF ATTORNEY

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned does hereby constitute and appoint Mark A. Buthman, Randy J. Vest and Thomas J. Mielke, and each of them, with full power to act alone, his true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, and to file the same with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents or any one of them, or his substitute or their substitutes, lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 27th day of February, 2009.

 

/s/ John F. Bergstrom

John F. Bergstrom

POWER OF ATTORNEY

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned does hereby constitute and appoint Mark A. Buthman, Randy J. Vest and Thomas J. Mielke, and each of them, with full power to act alone, his true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, and to file the same with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents or any one of them, or his substitute or their substitutes, lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 27th day of February, 2009.

 

/s/ Abelardo E. Bru

Abelardo E. Bru


POWER OF ATTORNEY

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned does hereby constitute and appoint Mark A. Buthman, Randy J. Vest and Thomas J. Mielke, and each of them, with full power to act alone, his true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, and to file the same with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents or any one of them, or his substitute or their substitutes, lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 27th day of February, 2009.

 

/s/ Robert W. Decherd

Robert W. Decherd

POWER OF ATTORNEY

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned does hereby constitute and appoint Mark A. Buthman, Randy J. Vest and Thomas J. Mielke, and each of them, with full power to act alone, her true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for her and in her name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, and to file the same with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done, as fully to all intents and purposes as she might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents or any one of them, or her substitute or their substitutes, lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 27th day of February, 2009.

 

/s/ Mae C. Jemison

Mae C. Jemison


POWER OF ATTORNEY

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned does hereby constitute and appoint Mark A. Buthman, Randy J. Vest and Thomas J. Mielke, and each of them, with full power to act alone, his true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, and to file the same with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents or any one of them, or his substitute or their substitutes, lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 27th day of February, 2009.

 

/s/ James M. Jenness

James M. Jenness

POWER OF ATTORNEY

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned does hereby constitute and appoint Mark A. Buthman, Randy J. Vest and Thomas J. Mielke, and each of them, with full power to act alone, his true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, and to file the same with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents or any one of them, or his substitute or their substitutes, lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 27th day of February, 2009.

 

/s/ Ian C. Read

Ian C. Read


POWER OF ATTORNEY

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned does hereby constitute and appoint Mark A. Buthman, Randy J. Vest and Thomas J. Mielke, and each of them, with full power to act alone, her true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for her and in her name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, and to file the same with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done, as fully to all intents and purposes as she might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents or any one of them, or her substitute or their substitutes, lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 27th day of February, 2009.

 

/s/ Linda Johnson Rice

Linda Johnson Rice

POWER OF ATTORNEY

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned does hereby constitute and appoint Mark A. Buthman, Randy J. Vest and Thomas J. Mielke, and each of them, with full power to act alone, his true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, and to file the same with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents or any one of them, or his substitute or their substitutes, lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 27th day of February, 2009.

 

/s/ Marc J. Shapiro

Marc J. Shapiro


POWER OF ATTORNEY

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned does hereby constitute and appoint Mark A. Buthman, Randy J. Vest and Thomas J. Mielke, and each of them, with full power to act alone, his true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, and to file the same with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents or any one of them, or his substitute or their substitutes, lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 27th day of February, 2009.

 

/s/ G. Craig Sullivan

G. Craig Sullivan
Certification of CEO required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a)

Exhibit No. (31)a

CERTIFICATIONS

I, Thomas J. Falk, certify that:

 

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Kimberly-Clark Corporation (the “registrant”);

 

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

 

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

 

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

 

  (a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

  (b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 

  (c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

 

  (d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

 

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

  (a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 

  (b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

February 27, 2009

  /s/ Thomas J. Falk              
 

Thomas J. Falk

Chief Executive Officer

 

Certification of CFO required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a)

Exhibit No. (31)b

CERTIFICATIONS

I, Mark A. Buthman, certify that:

 

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Kimberly-Clark Corporation (the “registrant”);

 

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

 

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

 

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

 

  (a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

  (b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 

  (c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

 

  (d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

 

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

  (a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 

  (b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

February 27, 2009

   /s/ Mark A. Buthman          
  

Mark A. Buthman

Chief Financial Officer

 

Certification of CEO required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b)

Exhibit No. (32)a

Certification of Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code

I, Thomas J. Falk, Chief Executive Officer of Kimberly-Clark Corporation, certify that, to my knowledge:

 

(1) the Form 10-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 27, 2009 (“accompanied report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

 

(2) the information contained in the accompanied report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of Kimberly-Clark Corporation.

 

/s/ Thomas J. Falk

Thomas J. Falk
Chief Executive Officer
February 27, 2009
Certification of CFO required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b)

Exhibit No. (32)b

Certification of Chief Financial Officer

Pursuant to Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code

I, Mark A. Buthman, Chief Financial Officer of Kimberly-Clark Corporation, certify that, to my knowledge:

 

(1) the Form 10-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 27, 2009 (“accompanied report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

 

(2) the information contained in the accompanied report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of Kimberly-Clark Corporation.

 

/s/ Mark A. Buthman

Mark A. Buthman
Chief Financial Officer
February 27, 2009