Reckitt Benckiser offers to purchase SSL International

Reckitt Benckiser has made an offer to purchase healthcare company SSL International in a deal worth just over 2.5 billion pounds.

The move to acquire SSL, which is responsible for the Durex contraceptive brand, is expected to increase the net revenues of Reckitt Benckiser’s health and personal care unit by more than a third.

It comes after a strong period of sales for the companies, with both Reckitt Benckiser and SSL having reported year-on-year growth in their most recent financial reports.

Should the deal go ahead, it will allow Reckitt Benckiser to add Durex to its portfolio of Powerbrands, in addition to the footcare range Scholl.

It will also help to expand its presence in a number of markets, while SSL can expect to benefit from increased resources and a wider distribution network.

Bart Becht, chief executive officer of Reckitt Benckiser, said: “The acquisition of SSL will provide a step change to Reckitt Benckiser’s global health and personal care business, which has been a key driver of Reckitt Benckiser’s net revenue growth and profit progression.”