ECOLAB INC. current report, Q1 FY2004

Business Context and Reporting Period

This Form 8-K Current Report was filed by Ecolab Inc. on February 28, 2004. The filing addresses corporate governance changes and leadership transitions under Item 5 (Other Events and Regulation FD Disclosure).

Financial Metrics

The filing text does not provide a clear value for revenue, profit, cash flow, margins, debt, or liquidity. This report focuses exclusively on corporate events rather than financial performance data.

Material Changes

  • Leadership Transition: The Board of Directors announced that Douglas M. Baker, Jr., currently President and Chief Operating Officer, will succeed Allan L. Schuman as Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1, 2004.
  • Chairman Role: Allan L. Schuman will remain Chairman of the Board. The Board anticipates he will serve in this capacity until at least December 31, 2005.
  • Board Expansion: Effective February 28, 2004, the Board size was expanded from 13 to 14 members, with Douglas M. Baker, Jr. appointed as a Director.

Guidance, Outlook, and Risks

The filing does not contain financial guidance, outlook projections, or specific risk factors. It references a News Release dated March 1, 2004, attached as Exhibit 99, which provides further details on the leadership transition.

Key Facts for Investor Verification

  • Confirm the exact effective date of the CEO transition (July 1, 2004).
  • Verify Allan L. Schuman's continued tenure as Chairman through at least December 31, 2005.
  • Review the attached News Release (Exhibit 99) for additional context on the succession plan.
  • Note that no financial performance data is included in this specific filing.