Durex firm boosts profits

Durex-to-Scholl footcare firm SSL International today said first-half profits had jumped 59% as its key brands weathered tough trading conditions.

The company was helped by a weaker pound and overseas acquisitions as it posted pre-tax profits of £51.9m (€57m) for the six months to September 30.

Stripping out currency effects, sales of its branded goods grew 3.3% to £321m (€355m) as demand for Durex and its Play range of lubricants and sex toys showed little sign of flagging.

Durex condom sales were up more than 4% after a “robust” performance across the range, with particularly strong markets in China, the Middle East and Eastern Europe.

Scholl footcare sales were up 1.9% despite the difficult consumer environment, helped by launches such as the Deo-Activ range of foot deodorants and an improved Cracked Heel Repair Cream.