Reckitt Benckiser looks to Durex to protect sales

Reckitt Benckiser says recently acquired SSL brands Durex and Scholl helped lift first quarter revenue by 15%.

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The Cillit Bang and Nurofen owner says revenue was £2.3bn in the three months to 31 March. Like for like income, which excludes the impact of acquisitions, rose 5%.

Strong growth in emerging markets and the success of new products such as Dettol No Touch were also cited as performance drivers.

The uplift will be a fillip to the company, which saw its share price tumble following the surprise announcement last week that CEO Bart Becht is to retire after 16 years. Rakesh Kapoor will replace Becht in September 2012.

Company shares increased 3.7% in early trading this morning (20 April).

Reckitt adds that the acquisition of SSL, completed last year, will help lift revenue for the full-year.

The company has bolstered its marketing team in a bid to grow the Durex brand in the UK.