Beiersdorf hits targets with 2011 first quarter results

Beiersdorf has expressed satisfaction with its financial results for the first quarter of 2011 after meeting targets defined by its corporate realignment programme.

The health and personal care firm saw an organic sales growth of 0.1 percent during the period, while group sales overall were elevated by 1.7 percent year on year to a total of 1.41 billion euros (1.24 billion pounds).

In the last three months, the company has been taking steps to refocus its operations with measures such as the streamlining of its consumer product range and an exit from the Nivea make-up business.

Other previously announced initiatives include a new emphasis on skin and body care products, which will make Beiersdorf more competitive and profitable in future.

Over the year as a whole, the company expects to equal its sales performance for 2010.

Thomas Quaas, Beiersdorf's chief executive officer, said: "The realignment of our business is on track. Our performance in the first quarter is in line with our planning."