Durex condoms-to-Scholl footcare firm SSL International today said its global brands were beating the global downturn as half-year profits rocketed 46%.

Rising sales of Durex condoms in China, Italy and eastern Europe helped British healthcare firm SSL International bank an 18% hike in half-year earnings today.

The maker of Durex condoms and Scholl footwear today said former Railtrack chief executive Gerald Corbett will become its new chairman.

The transformation of Durex owner SSL International into a consumer products group moved into its final phase today with the sale of its surgical gloves and antiseptics business.