Alcon announces 12.4 per cent rise in sales

Alcon has announced a 12.4 per cent rise in sales to $6.29 billion (4.43 billion pounds).

Revealed as part of the organisation’s 2008 results, the increase was accompanied by an 8.3 per cent growth in organic sales, while reported diluted earnings per share were up 29.3 per cent to $6.79.

The company’s sales over the fourth quarter of the year also rose 1.9 per cent to $1.5 billion.

Alcon chairman, president and chief executive officer Cary Rayment said he was “pleased” to see the company had delivered “solid financial results”, despite the current economic climate.

He added: “The long-term strategic drivers of our business remain in place, supported by the favourable demographics of the eye care industry and our demonstrated ability to gain market share.”

Mr Rayment concluded by stating the organisation will prioritise spending on research and development, in a bid to drive future growth.

Founded in 1945, Alcon employs almost 15,000 people around the world.