SANOFI BEAUTY SALES OFF 4.3% IN 4TH QUARTER
PARIS — Citing a slowdown in consumer consumption in Europe, Sanofi SA said fourth-quarter sales in its beauty business sank 4.3 percent to $680.3 million (3.8 billion francs) at current exchange rates. Earnings, however, are expected to be up by about 10 percent over the year ago.
A year ago, Sanofi reported sales of 4 billion francs.
At constant exchange rates, sales were down 5 percent from the year-ago quarter.
Yves Saint Laurent’s Opium lines for men and women recorded “very satisfying” growth, with sales up 17 percent, according to the company. Sales of skin care products also increased.
Krizia and Fendi reported higher sales as a result of new product lines, and Roger & Gallet benefited from the development of its soap lines, Sanofi said.
Nina Ricci sales were down 5 percent, offset by a 5 percent sales gain at Yves Rocher.
Total company sales, including the health care business, rose 2.4 percent to $4.23 billion (23.8 billion francs.)