Reckitt Benckiser sales gain on Durex, Strepsils demand | Progresiv
Reckitt Benckiser Group Plc reported first-quarter revenue growth that met analysts’ estimates, boosted by Durex condoms and Strepsils throat lozenges, and maintained its full-year outlook on better-than-expected sales of consumer-health products. 
Like-for-like net sales rose 5 per cent, the Slough, England-based company said in a statement Monday. The health unit, which includes Nurofen painkillers and Scholl foot products, boosted sales 10 per cent, exceeding estimates.
"We had a good start to the year despite continued challenging market conditions," Chief Executive Officer Rakesh Kapoor said in the statement. The company continues to forecast growth of 4 per cent to 5 per cent in like-for-like sales for 2016 and "moderate" margin expansion over the mid-term.
Reckitt Benckiser is seeking to expand in healthcare – its fastest-growing business – as sales of products such as Mucinex and Gaviscon medicines outpace demand for food and homecare brands. Kapoor has said he’s keen to make acquisitions in that industry, which he views as fragmented and likely to consolidate. (www.esmmagazine.com)
