SSL International delivers “strong” results

London-based healthcare product manufacturer, SSL International, has announced “strong” results for the financial year ending 31st March 2006. The company reported increased profits of 49.1 million pounds – up 18 per cent – while sales across the group increased by 4.6 per cent.

SSL, which owns and manufactures Durex condoms and Scholl medical footwear and footcare products, said that Durex sales went up by 9.3 per cent and Scholl footcare sales by 11 per cent.

Garry Watts, chief executive, commented: “SSL has had a good year, with profits up 33 per cent. Sales have grown strongly, margins have improved, we’ve launched new products, increased investment behind the brands and controlled costs.”

“We’ve announced a significant further investment in China. We’ve set an ambitious new target of annual double digit operating profit growth in each of the current and next two years. We’re increasing the final dividend by five per cent.”

SSL has two main UK sites in London and Manchester. The company employs approximately 4,500 staff in over 35 countries and it also produces over-the-counter medicines such as Syndol, an analgesic, as well as Meltus, a cough medicine.

Earlier this month, the company announced it had taken full control of its joint Chinese contraceptive venture, Qingdao London Durex, for 19.8 million pounds.

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