SSL sees strong earnings despite poor UK market
DUREX condom maker SSL International yesterday reported a 51 per cent jump in profits despite difficult trading in the UK.
The firm, which also makes Scholl footwear, said profits for the year rose from £76.5m to £115.3m.
Sales in the 12 months to the end of March increased by 25 per cent to £802.5m.
Business was boosted by strong Durex sales in China, Poland, Germany and the Middle East as well as acquisitions in the Ukraine and Russia.
Chief executive Garry Watts said it was a “tough year” in the UK. “We are recession resistant if not entirely recession proof.
“The global economy seems to be improving although in certain territories recovery will be slow.”
Sales from Scholl footcare rose 4.6 per cent, by £168m from £143m a year ago, after strong performances in France, Italy and Germany.