Estee Lauder
EL
#715
Rank
$35.32 B
Marketcap
$97.66
Share price
-1.82%
Change (1 day)
44.11%
Change (1 year)

Estee Lauder - 10-Q quarterly report FY


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================================================================================







SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549-1004
----------------------

FORM 10-Q


(Mark One)
[X] Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 1998

OR

[ ] Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934

Commission file number 1-14064


The Estee Lauder Companies Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


Delaware 11-2408943
(State or other jurisdiction of (IRS Employer Identification No.)
incorporation or organization)


767 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10153
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)


Registrant's telephone number, including area code 212-572-4200



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 [ ]


At April 24, 1998, 61,466,446 shares of the registrant's Class A Common Stock,
$.01 par value, and 56,839,667 shares of the registrant's Class B Common Stock,
$.01 par value, were outstanding.

================================================================================
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.


INDEX
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Page
Part I. Financial Information
<S> <C>

Consolidated Statements of Earnings --
Three Months and Nine Months Ended March 31, 1998 and 1997............................... 2

Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations............................................ 3

Consolidated Balance Sheets --
March 31, 1998 and June 30, 1997......................................................... 9

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows --
Nine Months Ended March 31, 1998 and 1997................................................ 10

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.................................................... 11

Part II. Other Information............................................................................. 15
</TABLE>


1
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
(Unaudited)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
March 31 March 31
-------------------- ------------------
1998 1997 1998 1997
---- ---- ---- ----

(In millions, except per share data)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net Sales........................................................ $ 871.5 $791.4 $2,773.0 $2,605.7

Cost of sales.................................................... 195.1 167.3 628.8 584.7
------- ------ -------- --------
Gross Profit..................................................... 676.4 624.1 2,144.2 2,021.0

Selling, general and administrative expenses:
Selling, general and administrative........................... 588.1 547.5 1,788.4 1,700.2
Related party royalties....................................... 7.5 7.7 24.1 24.7
------- ------ -------- --------
595.6 555.2 1,812.5 1,724.9
------- ------ -------- --------
Operating Income................................................. 80.8 68.9 331.7 296.1

Interest (expense) income, net................................... (3.1) 2.3 (2.2) 1.2
------- ------ -------- --------
Earnings before Income Taxes and Minority Interest............... 77.7 71.2 329.5 297.3

Provision for income taxes....................................... 31.1 29.9 131.8 124.9
Minority interest................................................ (0.9) (3.0) (4.9) (11.5)
------- ------ -------- --------
Net Earnings..................................................... 45.7 38.3 192.8 160.9

Preferred stock dividends........................................ 5.9 5.9 17.6 17.6
------- ------ --------- --------
Net Earnings Attributable to Common Stock (Note 1)............... $ 39.8 $ 32.4 $ 175.2 $ 143.3
======= ====== ======== ========


Net earnings per common share (Note 1):
Basic........................................................ $ .34 $ .28 $ 1.48 $ 1.22
Diluted...................................................... $ .33 $ .27 $ 1.46 $ 1.21

Weighted average common shares outstanding (Note 1):
Basic........................................................ 118.4 117.8 118.4 117.5
Diluted...................................................... 119.9 118.7 119.6 118.4

Cash dividends declared per common share......................... $ .085 $ .085 $ .255 $ .255
</TABLE>

See notes to consolidated financial statements.


2
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively, the
"Company") manufacture skin care, makeup, fragrance and hair care products which
are distributed in over 100 countries and territories. The following is a
comparative summary of operating results for the three and nine months ended
March 31, 1998 and 1997:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
March 31 March 31
---------------------- ---------------------
1998 1997 1998 1997
---- ---- ---- ----
(In millions)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET SALES
By Region:
The Americas:
United States........................................... $ 539.8 $439.6 $1,614.0 $1,433.4
Other Americas.......................................... 28.4 25.4 101.2 96.2
--------- ------ -------- --------
Total Americas........................................ 568.2 465.0 1,715.2 1,529.6
Europe, the Middle East & Africa........................... 209.7 207.6 716.8 680.3
Asia/Pacific............................................... 93.6 118.8 341.0 395.8
--------- ------- -------- --------
$ 871.5 $791.4 $2,773.0 $2,605.7
========= ====== ======== ========

By Product Category:
Skin Care.................................................. $ 324.5 $325.4 $ 931.9 $ 969.8
Makeup..................................................... 352.7 324.9 1,009.8 961.9
Fragrance.................................................. 174.1 137.0 796.4 661.7
Hair Care.................................................. 20.2 4.1 34.9 12.3
--------- ------- -------- --------
$ 871.5 $791.4 $2,773.0 $2,605.7
========= ====== ======== ========

OPERATING INCOME
The Americas:
United States.............................................. $ 45.9 $ 24.8 $ 188.3 $ 145.3
Other Americas............................................. 5.8 5.9 28.4 28.4
--------- ------- -------- --------
Total Americas.......................................... 51.7 30.7 216.7 173.7
Europe, the Middle East & Africa.............................. 31.1 29.6 98.7 88.9
Asia/Pacific.................................................. (2.0) 8.6 16.3 33.5
--------- ------- -------- --------
$ 80.8 $ 68.9 $ 331.7 $ 296.1
========= ======= ======== ========
</TABLE>

The following table sets forth certain consolidated statement of earnings data
as a percentage of net sales:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
March 31 March 31
---------------------- ----------------------
1998 1997 1998 1997
---- ---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales........................................................ 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Cost of sales.................................................... 22.4 21.1 22.7 22.4
----- ----- ----- -----
Gross profit..................................................... 77.6 78.9 77.3 77.6
Selling, general and administrative expenses:
Selling, general and administrative........................... 67.4 69.2 64.5 65.2
Related party royalties....................................... 0.9 1.0 0.9 1.0
----- ----- ----- -----
68.3 70.2 65.4 66.2
----- ----- ----- -----
Operating income................................................. 9.3 8.7 11.9 11.4
Interest (expense) income, net................................... (0.4) 0.3 - -
----- ----- ----- -----

Earnings before income taxes and minority interest............... 8.9 9.0 11.9 11.4
Provision for income taxes....................................... 3.6 3.8 4.8 4.8
Minority interest................................................ (0.1) (0.4) (0.1) (0.4)
----- ----- ----- -----
Net earnings ................................................... 5.2% 4.8% 7.0% 6.2%
===== ===== ===== =====
</TABLE>


3
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


NET SALES

Net sales increased 10% or $80.1 million to $871.5 million, and 6% or $167.3
million to $2,773.0 million for the three and nine months ended March 31, 1998,
respectively, as compared with the same prior-year periods, on the strength of
new product launches, the global rollout of recent fragrance introductions and
the continued solid performance of existing key products. The continuing
strength of the U.S. dollar negatively impacted net sales for the current three
and nine month periods by approximately $27.6 million and $102.4 million,
respectively. Excluding the impact of foreign currency translation, net sales
increased 14% and 10% for the three and nine months ended March 31, 1998,
respectively. Net sales for the for the three and nine months ended March 31,
1998 include the sales of Sassaby, Inc. ("Sassaby") and Aveda Corporation
("Aveda") from the dates of their acquisitions, which were October 1997 and
December 1997, respectively. The introduction of new products may have some
cannibalization effect on sales of existing products, which is taken into
account by the Company in its business planning. The Company's quarterly net
sales are subject to seasonal fluctuations, particularly in the fragrance
category.

PRODUCT CATEGORIES

Skin Care

Net sales of skin care products for the three months ended March 31, 1998 were
comparable to the prior year, and decreased 4% or $37.9 million to $931.9
million, for the nine months ended March 31, 1998 as compared with the
prior-year. The continued strengthening of the U.S. dollar versus the Asian and
European currencies affects skin care sales to a greater extent than makeup or
fragrance sales since skin care sales in the Asian and European markets
represent a larger portion of total sales than in the other markets. Excluding
the impact of foreign currency translation, skin care sales for the three and
nine months ended March 31, 1998 increased 4% and 1%, respectively, as compared
to the same prior-year periods. Skin care sales were positively impacted by the
recent launch of Diminish, Uncircle, Weather Everything, All About Eyes and
Moisture In-Control, as well as the continued growth of existing products such
as Salt Rub, Moisture On-Line and Verite. The comparison of the current year
with the same prior-year periods was impacted by the successful introductions of
Fruition Extra and Lip Zone in the prior year and lower sales of Advanced Night
Repair Recovery.

Makeup

Net sales of makeup products rose 9% or $27.8 million to $352.7 million and 5%
or $47.9 million to $1,009.8 million for the current three and nine month
periods, respectively, compared with the same prior-year periods. Higher makeup
product sales were due to the successful introduction of Two-In-One Eyeshadow,
Superlast Creme Lisptick and Minute Makeup, as well as from recent launches of
Blush All Day, Superbalanced Makeup, Quickliner For Lips and Double Wear
Foundation. These increases were partially offset by lower sales of Long Last
Lipstick and Lip Shaper. In addition, the current period comparisons were
impacted by the launches of City Base Compact Foundation, Long Last Soft Shine
Lipstick and Natural Finish Powder Makeup in the same prior-year periods.
Excluding the impact of foreign currency translation, makeup sales for the three
and nine months ended March 31, 1998 increased 11% and 8%, respectively, as
compared with the same prior-year periods.

Fragrance

Net sales of fragrance products increased 27% or $37.1 million to $174.1
million, and 20% or $134.7 million to $796.4 million for the three and nine
months ended March 31, 1998, respectively, as compared with the same prior-year
periods. The increase is primarily attributable to the continued success of
Lauder Pleasures For Men in the Americas, the domestic success and international
launch of Clinique Happy, the introduction of Hilfiger Athletics and the ongoing
worldwide success of "tommy" and "tommy girl". These increases were partially
offset by the impact of the successful European launch of Kiton in the same
prior-year period, along with lower sales of White Linen Breeze, Havana Pour
Elle and Knowing. Excluding the impact of foreign currency translation,
fragrance sales for the three and nine months ended March 31, 1998 increased 31%
and 25%, respectively, as compared with the same prior-year periods.


4
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


Hair Care

Net sales of hair care products increased significantly as compared with the
same prior-year periods due to the inclusion of Aveda hair care product lines
beginning December 1997.

GEOGRAPHIC

Sales in the Americas increased 22% or $103.2 million to $568.2 million, and 12%
or $185.6 million to $1,715.2 million for the three and nine months ended March
31, 1998, respectively, as compared with the same prior-year periods. This
increase is driven by sales of new products across all categories, sales related
to new acquisitions and sales growth of existing fragrance and makeup products
particularly in the United States. In Europe, the Middle East & Africa, net
sales increased 1% or $2.1 million to $209.7 million, and 5% or $36.5 million to
$716.8 million for the current three and nine month periods ended March 31,
1998, respectively, compared with the same prior-year periods. For the nine
months ended March 31, 1998, the increase was primarily the result of higher net
sales in the United Kingdom, the distributor and travel retail businesses, South
Africa, Belgium, and the inclusion of sales from the Company's European
fragrance venture. These increases were partially offset by lower sales in
Germany and France for the three and nine months ended March 31, 1998, as a
result of the continued unfavorable impact of foreign currency translation.
Excluding the impact of foreign currency translation, Europe, the Middle East
and Africa sales would have increased 7% and 13% over the prior-year three and
nine month periods, respectively. Net sales in Asia/Pacific decreased 21% or
$25.2 million to $93.6 million, and 14% or $54.8 million to $341.0 million for
the three and nine months ended March 31, 1998, respectively, compared with the
same prior-year periods. Lower sales in the region due to difficult retail
environments combined with the continued decline in the Asian currencies against
the U.S. dollar, particularly the Japanese yen, Thailand baht and Korean won
resulted in the unfavorable comparisons with the prior-year periods. The
Company anticipates that Asia/Pacific will continue to be a difficult market for
the forseeable future. The Company is confronting this challenge by aggressively
introducing new skin care products as well as by launching its newer brands,
M.A.C. and Bobbi Brown, and by expanding Origins. Excluding the impact of
foreign currency translation, Asia/Pacific sales would have decreased 9%
and 3% for the three and nine months ended March 31, 1998, respectively,
as compared with the same prior-year periods. The Company strategically
staggers its new product launches by geographic markets, which may account for
differences in regional sales growth.

COST OF SALES

Cost of sales for the three and nine months ended March 31, 1998 were 22.4% and
22.7%, respectively, of net sales as compared with 21.1% and 22.4% of net sales
in the prior-year periods. The increases reflect the Company's recent
acquisitions of Sassaby and Aveda, both of which have product cost structures
higher than the Company's existing brands, as well as shifts in product mix. On
an ongoing basis, as the Company fully integrates these recent acquisitions,
cost of sales as a percent of net sales may differ from historical results.

SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE

Total selling, general and administrative expenses decreased to 68.3% and 65.4%
of net sales for the three and nine months ended March 31, 1998, respectively,
as compared with 70.2% and 66.2% of net sales in the same prior-year periods.
The Company's quarterly operating expenses are subject to the timing of
advertising and promotional spending due to product launches, rollouts and
incremental advertising in selective markets. In addition, the Company's recent
acquisitions' operating expenses as a percent of net sales are lower as compared
to the Company's corporate average.

OPERATING INCOME

Operating income increased 17% or $11.9 million to $80.8 million, and 12% or
$35.6 million to $331.7 million for the three and nine months ended March 31,
1998, respectively, as compared with the same prior-year periods. Operating
margins were 9.3% and 11.9% in the current periods as compared to 8.7% and 11.4%
in the corresponding prior-year periods.


5
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


The increase in operating income and margins was due to higher net sales coupled
with operational efficiencies and the timing of advertising and promotional
spending. Operating income in the Americas increased 68% or $21.0 million to
$51.7 million, and 25% or $43.0 million to $216.7 million for the three and nine
months ended March 31, 1998, respectively, compared with the same prior-year
periods, primarily due to the net sales increases in the United States and the
inclusion of operating results from recent acquisitions. In Europe, the Middle
East & Africa, operating income increased 5% or $1.5 million to $31.1 million
and 11% or $9.8 million to $98.7 million for the three and nine months ended
March 31, 1998, respectively. These increases were primarily due to improved
operating results in the United Kingdom, France, Italy, South Africa and
Belgium. Operating income in Asia/Pacific declined $10.6 million to a loss of
$2.0 million for the current quarter while operating income decreased 51% or
$17.2 million to $16.3 million for the nine months ended March 31, 1998,
compared with the same prior-year periods. This was due to lower sales in Japan,
Hong Kong and Taiwan, increased spending associated with the launches of Bobbi
Brown essentials and M.A.C. in Japan, and the continued expansion of Origins.
These results were partially offset by higher operating income in Korea. The
Company's quarterly operating results are subject to seasonal net sales
fluctuations in addition to the level, scope and timing of expenditures related
to product promotions or introductions.

INTEREST (EXPENSE) INCOME, NET

Net interest expense was $3.1 million and $2.2 million for the three and nine
months ended March 31, 1998, respectively, as compared with net interest income
of $2.3 million and $1.2 million, respectively, for the same prior-year periods.
The increase in net interest expense for the three and nine months ended March
31, 1998 is primarily due to higher borrowings associated with the Company's
recent acquisitions.

PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES

The provision for income taxes represents federal, foreign, state and local
income taxes. The effective income tax rates for the three and nine months ended
March 31, 1998 was 40.0% compared with 42.0% for the three and nine months ended
March 31, 1997. These rates reflect the effect of state and local taxes, higher
tax rates in certain foreign jurisdictions and certain nondeductible expenses.
The decrease in the effective income tax rate was principally attributable to a
relative change in the mix of earnings from higher tax countries such as Japan
to lower tax countries, the effect of a lower statutory tax rate in the United
Kingdom and the effect of recent United States federal tax regulations.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

The Company's principal sources of funds have historically been, and are
expected to continue to be, cash flow from operations and borrowings under
uncommitted and committed credit lines provided by banks in the United States
and abroad. At March 31, 1998, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of
$283.4 million compared with $255.6 million at June 30, 1997.

Uncommitted lines of credit amounted to $293.3 million at March 31, 1998, of
which $7.2 million were used. Unused committed lines of credit available to the
Company at March 31, 1998 amounted to $401.2 million. Total debt as a percentage
of total capitalization (including short-term debt) was 29% at March 31, 1998
and 3% at June 30, 1997. This increase is due to an increased level of
borrowings as a result of the Company's recent acquisitions. In February 1998,
the Company refinanced $300.0 million outstanding under its revolving credit
facility with a $405.0 million long-term note. See Note 2 "Long-Term Debt" of
the consolidated financial statements.

Net cash provided by operating activities increased to $239.8 million in the
nine months ended March 31, 1998 from $199.4 million in the prior year
nine-month period. This increase primarily reflects the Company's increased
profitability, lesser increases in accounts receivable and increases in accrued
liabilities, partially offset by an increase in other assets. Net cash used for
investing activities increased to $546.8 million in the nine months ended March
31, 1998 from $106.1 million in the prior year nine-month period due to the
Company's recent acquisitions and higher capital expenditures. Financing
activities reflect dividends paid, long-term borrowings and repayment of
long-term debt. Net cash provided by financing activities increased for the nine
months ended March 31, 1998, as compared to the same prior-year period,
primarily due to an increase in long-term debt as a result of the Company's
recent acquisitions.


6
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


In February 1998, the Company acquired the remaining interest in M.A.C. for
cash.

The Company is constructing a state-of-the-art warehouse and distribution center
in Lachen, Switzerland, which has been designed to accommodate the Company's
projected future growth. The Company to date has spent approximately $16.9
million at current exchange rates. The total cost of the new distribution center
is estimated to be approximately $17.6 million at current exchange rates, and
the Company anticipates that this facility will be fully operational by the end
of fiscal 1998.

Dividend payments were $37.7 million and $47.5 million for the nine months ended
March 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively.

The Company uses derivative financial instruments for the purpose of managing
its exposure to adverse fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and
interest rates. The Company addresses its risks through a controlled program of
risk management, the principal objective of which is to minimize the risks
and/or costs associated with financial and global operating activities. The
Company does not utilize derivative financial instruments for trading or other
speculative purposes. The Company conducts business in many foreign currencies.
As a result, it is subject to foreign currency exchange rate risk due to the
effects that foreign exchange rate movements of these currencies, principally
against the Belgian franc, U.K. pound, and Swiss franc, have on the Company's
costs and on the cash flows which it receives from its foreign subsidiaries.

The Company enters into forward exchange contracts to hedge purchases,
receivables and payables denominated in foreign currencies for periods
consistent with its identified exposures. Gains and losses related to qualifying
hedges of these exposures are deferred and recognized in operating income when
the underlying hedged transaction occurs. The Company also enters into purchased
foreign currency options to hedge anticipated transactions where there is a high
probability that anticipated exposures will materialize. Any gains realized on
such options that qualify as hedges are deferred and recognized in operating
income when the underlying hedged transaction occurs. Premiums on foreign
currency options are amortized over the period being hedged. Foreign currency
transactions which do not qualify as hedges are marked-to-market on a current
basis with gains and losses recognized through income and reflected in operating
expenses. In addition, any previously deferred gains and losses on hedges which
are terminated prior to the transaction date are recognized in current income
when the hedge is terminated. The contracts have varying maturities with none
exceeding 24 months.

The Company enters into interest rate swaps to convert floating interest rate
debt to fixed rate debt. These swap agreements are contracts to exchange
floating rate for fixed rate interest payments periodically over the life of the
agreements. Amounts currently due to or from interest rate swap counterparties
are recorded in interest expense in the period in which they accrue.

As a matter of policy, the Company only enters into contracts with parties that
have at least an "A" (or equivalent) credit rating. The counterparties to these
contracts are major financial institutions and the Company does not have
significant exposure to any one counterparty. The Company's exposure to credit
loss in the event of nonperformance by any of the counterparties is limited to
only the recognized, but not realized, gains attributable to the contracts.
Management believes risk of loss is remote and in any event would be immaterial.
Costs associated with entering into such contracts have not been material to the
Company's financial results. At March 31, 1998, the Company had contracts to
exchange foreign currencies in the form of purchased currency options and
forward exchange contracts in the amount of $93.1 million and $307.5 million,
respectively. Foreign currencies exchanged under these contracts are principally
the Belgian franc, U.K. pound, and Swiss franc. In addition, the Company had
interest rate swap agreements outstanding in the amount of $405.0 million. There
have been no significant changes in market risk since June 30, 1997 that would
have a material effect on the Company's calculated value-at-risk exposure, as
disclosed in its annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 1997.

The Company believes that cash on hand, internally generated cash flow,
available credit lines and access to capital markets will be adequate to support
currently planned business operations, acquisitions and capital expenditures
both on a near-term and long-term basis.


7
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


EFFECTS OF RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

In February 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 132, "Employers' Disclosures about
Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits," which will be effective for the
Company beginning July 1, 1998. SFAS No. 132 requires additional information
about the changes in the benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets during
the period, while standardizing the disclosure requirements for pensions and
other postretirement benefits. When adopted, the Company will be required to
restate disclosures for all prior periods presented.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

When used in this Form 10Q and in future filings by the Company with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, in the Company's press releases, annual
reports to stockholders and in other written or oral statements made by the
Company's representatives, the words and phrases "will likely result",
"expects", "will continue", "is anticipated", "estimates", "projects", or
similar expressions are intended to identify "forward-looking statements" within
the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such
statements include, without limitation, the Company's expectations regarding
sales, earnings or other future financial performance and liquidity, product
introductions, entry into new geographic regions and general optimism about
future operating results. Although the Company believes that its expectations
are based on reasonable assumptions within the bounds of its knowledge of its
business and operations, there can be no assurance that actual results will not
differ materially from its expectations. Factors that could cause actual results
to differ from expectations include, without limitation: (i) increased
competitive activity from companies in the skin care, makeup, hair care and
fragrance businesses, some of which have greater resources and broader
distribution channels than the Company; (ii) consolidations and restructurings
in the retail industry causing a decrease in the number of stores that sell the
Company's products, an increase in the ownership concentration within the retail
industry or ownership of retailers by the Company's competitors; (iii) social,
political and economic risks to the Company's foreign manufacturing and retail
operations, including changes in foreign investment and trade policies and
regulations of the host countries and of the United States; (iv) changes in the
laws, regulations and policies, including changes in accounting standards, that
affect, or will affect, the Company in the United States and abroad; (v) foreign
currency fluctuations affecting the Company's results of operations and value of
its foreign assets, the relative prices at which the Company and foreign
competitors sell their products in the same market and the Company's operating
and manufacturing costs outside of the United States; (vi) shipment delays,
depletion of inventory and increased production costs resulting from disruptions
of operations at any of the facilities which, due to consolidations in the
Company's manufacturing operations, now manufacture nearly all of the Company's
supply of a particular type of product (i.e., focus factories); (vii) changes in
product mix to ones which are less profitable; and (viii) the ability of the
Company and third parties, including customers or suppliers, to adequately
address Year 2000 issues. The Company assumes no responsibility to update
forward looking statements made herein or otherwise.


8
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

March 31 June 30
1998 1997
---- ----
(Unaudited)
(In millions)
<S> <C> <C>
ASSETS

Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents............................................................... $ 283.4 $ 255.6
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of
$38.5 and $36.4 at March 31, 1998 and June 30, 1997, respectively.................... 557.0 471.7
Inventory and promotional merchandise (Note 1).......................................... 423.7 440.6
Prepaid expenses and other current assets............................................... 172.7 143.2
-------- --------
Total current assets............................................................... 1,436.8 1,311.1

Property, Plant and Equipment, net (Note 1)............................................. 322.2 265.0

Other Assets
Investments, at cost or market value.................................................... 27.4 25.9
Deferred taxes.......................................................................... 61.0 59.9
Goodwill, net (Note 1).................................................................. 499.0 91.7
Other intangibles, net (Note 1)......................................................... 72.0 69.6
Other assets............................................................................ 65.5 49.9
-------- --------
724.9 297.0
-------- --------
$2,483.9 $1,873.1
======== ========

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

Current Liabilities
Notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt.................................. $ 7.3 $ 31.1
Accounts payable........................................................................ 151.8 165.8
Accrued income taxes.................................................................... 72.1 57.4
Other accrued liabilities............................................................... 627.7 505.2
-------- --------
Total current liabilities.......................................................... 858.9 759.5

Noncurrent Liabilities
Long-term debt (Note 2)................................................................. 405.0 -
Other noncurrent liabilities............................................................ 186.2 205.9
-------- --------
591.2 205.9

$6.50 Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, at redemption value........................ 360.0 360.0

Stockholders' Equity
Capital stock, $.01 par value; 300,000,000 shares Class A authorized, shares
outstanding 61,464,714 at March 31, 1998 and 61,436,663 at June 30, 1997;
120,000,000 shares Class B authorized, shares outstanding 56,839,667................. 1.2 1.2
Paid-in capital......................................................................... 169.7 165.3
Retained earnings....................................................................... 531.4 386.4
Unrealized investment gains, net........................................................ 5.3 2.9
Cumulative translation adjustments...................................................... (33.8) (8.1)
-------- --------
673.8 547.7
-------- --------
$2,483.9 $1,873.1
======== ========
</TABLE>
See notes to consolidated financial statements.


9
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Nine Months Ended
March 31
--------------------
1998 1997
---- ----
(In millions)
<S> <C> <C>
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net earnings............................................................................... $ 192.8 $ 160.9
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash
flows provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization.......................................................... 57.3 42.3
Amortization of purchased royalty rights............................................... 13.3 13.3
Deferred income taxes.................................................................. (10.7) (14.3)
Minority interest...................................................................... 4.9 11.5
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Increase in accounts receivable, net................................................... (87.2) (97.4)
Decrease in inventory and promotional merchandise...................................... 22.5 84.9
Increase in other assets............................................................... (70.1) (23.0)
Decrease in accounts payable........................................................... (18.4) (37.2)
Increase in accrued income taxes....................................................... 16.9 15.1
Increase in other accrued liabilities.................................................. 115.6 26.7
Increase in noncurrent liabilities..................................................... 2.9 16.6
--------- --------
Net cash flows provided by operating activities...................................... 239.8 199.4

Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired............................................ (459.9) (46.5)
Capital expenditures....................................................................... (89.7) (58.8)
Purchase of long-term investments.......................................................... (0.7) (1.0)
Proceeds from disposition of long-term investments......................................... 3.5 0.2
--------- --------
Net cash flows used for investing activities......................................... (546.8) (106.1)

Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Proceeds from long-term debt............................................................... 405.0 -
Decrease in notes payable.................................................................. (10.0) (50.4)
Repayments and redemptions of long-term debt............................................... (21.9) (23.4)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs.............................. - 38.1
Proceeds from exercise of stock options.................................................... 0.2 0.7
Dividends paid............................................................................. (37.7) (47.5)
--------- --------
Net cash flows provided by (used for) financing activities........................... 335.6 (82.5)

Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash and Cash Equivalents.................................. (0.8) (0.4)
--------- --------
Net Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents..................................................... 27.8 10.4
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period.............................................. 255.6 254.8
--------- --------
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period.................................................... $ 283.4 $ 265.2
========= ========
</TABLE>
See notes to consolidated financial statements.


10
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


NOTE 1 -- SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of The
Estee Lauder Companies Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively, the "Company").
All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in
consolidation.

Certain amounts in the financial statements for prior years have been
reclassified to conform to the current year presentations for comparative
purposes.

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and
with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X.
Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required
by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements.
In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring
accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. The
results of operations of any interim period are not necessarily indicative of
the results of operations to be expected for the fiscal year. For further
information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and accompanying
footnotes included in the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the year
ended June 30, 1997.

Net Earnings Per Common Share

For the periods ended March 31, 1998, in accordance with the requirements of
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 128, "Earnings Per
Share", net earnings per common share amounts ("basic EPS") were computed by
dividing net earnings after deducting preferred stock dividends on the Company's
$6.50 Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock by the weighted average number of
common shares outstanding and contingently issuable shares (which satisfy
certain conditions) and excluded any potential dilution. Net earnings per common
share amounts -- assuming dilution ("diluted EPS") were computed by reflecting
potential dilution from the exercise of stock options. SFAS No. 128 requires the
presentation of both basic EPS and diluted EPS on the face of the income
statement. Earnings per share amounts for the same prior-year periods have been
restated to conform with the provisions of SFAS No. 128.

A reconciliation between the numerators and denominators of the basic and
diluted EPS computations for net earnings is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
March 31, 1998 March 31, 1998
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income Shares Per Share Income Shares Per Share
(Numerator) (Denominator) Amounts (Numerator) (Denominator) Amounts
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In millions, except per share data)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>


Net earnings $45.7 $192.8
Preferred stock dividends (5.9) (17.6)
----- ------

Basic EPS
Net earnings attributable
to common stock 39.8 118.4 $.34 175.2 118.4 $1.48
==== =====

Effect of Dilutive
Securities
Stock options - 1.5 - 1.2
----- ----- ------ -----

Diluted EPS
Net earnings attributable
to common stock and
assumed option exercises $39.8 119.9 $.33 $175.2 119.6 $1.46
===== ===== ==== ====== ===== =====
</TABLE>


11
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>


Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
March 31, 1997 March 31, 1997
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income Shares Per Share Income Shares Per Share
(Numerator) (Denominator) Amounts (Numerator) (Denominator) Amounts
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(In millions, except per share data)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net earnings $38.3 $160.9
Preferred stock dividends (5.9) (17.6)
----- --------

Basic EPS
Net earnings attributable
to common stock 32.4 117.8 $.28 143.3 117.5 $1.22
==== =====

Effect of Dilutive
Securities
Stock options - .9 - .9
----- ----- ------ -----

Diluted EPS
Net earnings attributable
to common stock and
assumed option exercises $32.4 118.7 $.27 $143.3 118.4 $1.21
===== ===== ==== ====== ===== =====
</TABLE>

Inventory and Promotional Merchandise

Inventory and promotional merchandise include only items saleable or usable in
future periods and are stated at the lower of first-in, first-out cost or
market. Promotional merchandise is charged to expense at the time the
merchandise is shipped to the Company's customers.

Inventory and promotional merchandise consists of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

March 31 June 30
1998 1997
---- ----
(In millions)
<S> <C> <C>
Raw materials............................. $110.3 $119.3
Work in process........................... 16.9 23.5
Finished goods............................ 216.6 193.8
Promotional merchandise................... 79.9 104.0
------ ------
$423.7 $440.6
====== ======
</TABLE>

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, plant and equipment are carried at cost. For financial statement
purposes, depreciation is provided principally on the straight-line method over
the estimated useful lives of the assets ranging from 3 to 40 years. Leasehold
improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the
lives of the respective leases or the expected useful lives.



12
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


Property, plant and equipment consists of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

March 31 June 30
1998 1997
---- ----
(In millions)
<S> <C> <C>
Land............................................... $ 13.2 $ 11.8
Buildings and improvements......................... 125.1 91.9
Machinery and equipment............................ 390.3 355.8
Furniture and fixtures............................. 72.0 56.9
Leasehold improvements............................. 111.7 86.6
------- ------
712.3 603.0
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization..... 390.1 338.0
------- ------
$322.2 $265.0
======= ======
</TABLE>

Intangible Assets

Intangible assets consist of goodwill, purchased royalty rights, patents and
trademarks. Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of purchased businesses
over the value of their underlying net assets and is amortized on a
straight-line basis over 40 years. The cost of all other intangibles is
amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. The
carrying amounts of intangible assets are assessed for impairment when changes
in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be
recoverable.

Management Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses
reported in those financial statements. Actual results could differ from those
based upon such estimates and assumptions.

NOTE 2 - LONG - TERM DEBT

In February 1998, the Company refinanced $300.0 million of amounts outstanding
under it's revolving credit facility with a $405.0 million unsecured long-term
note which matures February 1, 2005 and bears interest at a floating rate based
on LIBOR. The note is payable at maturity, with interest paid quarterly. The
Company may, at its option, prepay the note in whole, or in part, at any time
upon three days notice. The Company's interest rate swap agreement effectively
converts the floating interest rate debt to a 6.69% fixed rate obligation. The
agreement contains financial and other restrictive covenants, and at March 31,
1998 the Company was in compliance with all such covenants.

NOTE 3 - SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION AND
NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Nine Months Ended March 31
1998 1997
---- ----
(In millions)
<S> <C> <C>
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest............................................. $ 5.7 $ 5.8
Income taxes......................................... 111.6 $111.3
Non-Cash items:
Exchange of stock options in conjunction
with acquisition..................................... $ 4.3 $ -
</TABLE>


13
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


NOTE 4 - ACQUISITION OF BUSINESSES

In February 1998, the Company acquired the remaining equity interest in its
majority-owned subsidiary, M.A.C., for cash. The acquisition was accounted for
using the purchase method of accounting and the results of operations are
included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements since the date of
acquisition. Pro-forma results of operations as if the acquisition had been
completed as of July 1, 1997 has not been presented as the impact on the
Company's result of operations would not have been material.



14
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.


PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings.

The Company is involved in various routine legal proceedings incident to the
ordinary course of its business. The Company believes that the outcome of all
pending legal proceedings in the aggregate will not have a material adverse
effect on its business or financial condition.

Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K.

(a) Exhibits--

10.16 Term Loan Agreement, dated as of January 28, 1998, among The
Estee Lauder Companies Inc., as borrower, Estee Lauder Inc.,
as guarantor, and Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York,
The Chase Manhattan Bank and Citibank, N.A.

27.1 Financial Data Schedule.

(b) Reports on Form 8-K - There were no reports on Form 8-K for the three months
ended March 31, 1998.




SIGNATURES


Pursuant to the requirements 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.


THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.



Date: April 28, 1998 By:/s/ Robert J. Bigler
-----------------------
Robert J. Bigler
Senior Vice President
and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial and
Accounting Officer)


15
THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.

EXHIBIT INDEX


Exhibit No. Description
- ----------- ----------------------

10.16 Term Loan Agreement, dated as of January 28, 1998, among The
Estee Lauder Companies Inc., as borrower, Estee Lauder Inc.,
as guarantor, and Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York,
The Chase Manhattan Bank and Citibank, N.A.

27.1 Financial Data Schedule.



16