Colgate-Palmolive Company reported a rise in worldwide sales and unit volume growth together with higher than expected earnings growth for fourth quarter 2007.  

Worldwide sales grew 13.5% to $3.6 billion and unit volume grew 5.0%, as reported.  Excluding divestments, worldwide sales and unit volume grew 14.0% and 5.5%, respectively.  Global pricing increased 2.0% and foreign exchange added 6.5%.  

According to the company, the very strong top-line growth was supported by a 14% increase in worldwide advertising spending. Fourth quarter 2007 results include $75.8 million of after-tax charges  related to the 2004 Restructuring Program.

In other news, Colgate’s Board of Directors authorized a new 30  
million share repurchase program.  The company plans to repurchase the shares of common stock over the next two years.  The shares may be repurchased in open-market or privately negotiated transactions.  As of Dec. 31, 2007, the company had approximately 509 million shares of common stock outstanding.