P&G brush up profit figure with haircare sales

Consumer products company Procter and Gamble (P&G) today announced a 22% jump in its second-quarter profits to $1.82bn (€1.44bn), led by lower manufacturing costs and the acquisition of hair-care giant Wella.

The Dow-listed P&G said sales for the quarter surged 20% from last year to $13.22bn (€10.46bn), coming in at more than 3% above expectations. The dollar's recent weakness against foreign currencies added 4% to sales.

Beauty care sales jumped 50%, reaching $4.49bn in the quarter. Much of that growth came with last year's acquisition of German company Wella's shampoos, conditioners and other hair products.

P&G brands include Pantene, Head & Shoulders, Herbal Essences and the Olay skin-care brand.

P&G is one of the biggest companies in the world and employs around 600 people in Ireland at its facility in Nenagh.