The Procter & Gamble Company announced third quarter diluted net earnings from continuing operations of$0.96per share, an increase of 16 percent. Core EPS was up eight percent, within the Company's guidance range.

The Company continued to deliver broad-based volume and market share growth. Volume was up five percent behind growth in all six business segments, 16 of 17 top countries, and 20 of24 billion-dollarbrands. Market share was up in all geographic regions and flat or higher in 14 of the top 17 countries and for 18 of24 billion-dollarbrands. Businesses representing about two-thirds of net sales maintained or grew market share.

Net sales increased five percent to$20.2 billiondriven by five percent volume growth, as well as favorable pricing and foreign exchange, partially offset by geographic and product mix. Organic sales, which exclude the impacts of acquisitions, divestitures, and foreign exchange, grew four percent.

"The growth fundamentals of our business are strong," said Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive OfficerBob McDonald. "We delivered broad-based volume, sales, and market share growth, and grew EPS in a very difficult operating environment. We increased our dividend for the 55th consecutive year, by 9 percent. We continue to advance our Purpose-inspired growth strategy of improving the lives of more consumers, in more parts of the world, more