BD reports financial growth in first quarter of 2012

BD has reported a year-on-year revenue increase of 2.5 percent for the first quarter of the latest financial year.

The company generated $1.89 billion (1.19 billion pounds) in sales during the three months ending on December 31st 2011, with an improved performance noted across its medical, diagnostics and bioscience business units.

Rising international sales helped to compensate for a relatively subdued US performance, with BD attributing this trend to growing demand from emerging markets, as well as strong sales for safety-engineered products.

Vincent Forlenza, chief executive officer and president of BD, said this represented a solid start to the year, given the challenging economic climate.

He added: "Our operating results reflect our increased investments in high-growth areas. We will continue to drive efficiency throughout the company and we remain committed to delivering value to our customers and shareholders."

This week, the company also announced the acquisition of Kiestra Lab Automation, a creator of innovative automation solutions for microbiology laboratories.