Avery Dennison Q2 results in line with expectations

“Second-quarter results were in line with our expectations, and we are on track for full-year earnings growth and free cash flow within the ranges of our guidance,” said Dean Scarborough, Avery Dennison chairman, president and CEO. “We continued to deliver on our commitment to return more cash to shareholders, repurchasing more than two million shares during the quarter.

“We are aggressively implementing the next phase of our restructuring initiative to help us deliver on our financial targets for double-digit earnings growth and higher returns,” Scarborough said. “Our near-term target is to achieve more than $100 million in annualized savings by mid-2013. The leaner cost structure that will result will enhance our overall competitive position and strengthen our ability to increase returns even in an uncertain economic environment.”

Second Quarter 2012 Results by Segment

All references to sales reflect comparisons on an organic basis, which exclude the estimated impact of currency translation, acquisitions and divestitures. Adjusted operating margin (non-GAAP) refers to earnings before interest expense and taxes, excluding restructuring costs and other items, as a percentage of sales.

Pressure-sensitive Materials (PSM)

Label and Packaging Materials sales increased mid-single digits compared to prior year. Graphics and Reflective Solutions sales declined low single digits compared to prior year.

Operating margin declined 20 basis points to 8.4% due to higher restructuring costs. Adjusted operating margin improved 10 basis points as the benefit from higher volume more than offset higher employee-related expenses, including incentive compensation.

Retail Branding and Information Solutions (RBIS)

Consistent with recent trends, sales were flat, reflecting caution from retailers and brands in the U.S. and Europe.

Operating margin declined 150 basis points to 4.8% due to wage inflation, partially offset by productivity initiatives. Adjusted operating margin declined 160 basis points.

Other specialty converting businesses

Sales increased modestly due to increased volume

Operating margin improved 50 basis points to 2.9% as the impact of higher volume and productivity initiatives more than offset higher employee-related expenses and restructuring costs. Adjusted operating margin improved 80 basis points.

Other

Share Repurchase

The company repurchased 2.4 million shares during the second quarter at an aggregate cost of $70 million. Year-to-date through the end of the second quarter, the company repurchased 4.8 million shares at an aggregate cost of $142 million.

Results of Discontinued Operations