GCPL net up 25% on local, global biz

Godrej Consumer Products (GCPL) saw its consolidated net profit increase 25 per cent to Rs 159.3 crore for the quarter ended September 30 against Rs 127.7 crore last year.

Net sales were up 35 per cent to Rs 1,595.3 crore versus Rs 1,186 crore last year.

On a standalone basis, GCPL’s net profit grew 14 per cent to Rs 125 crore and net sales grew 19 per cent to Rs 917 crore.

In personal wash, household insecticides and hair care, GCPL grew 24 per cent, 20 per cent and 10 per cent, respectively, MD A Mahendran said.

Global business growth, which gives 32-35 per cent of revenues, was 32 per cent, he said. GCPL has just completed the second phase of its acquisition of hair care company Darling in Africa, and will soon begin the third phase. The first two phases have given it control of six markets so far, with the balance eight to be completed in the third phase.

"We remain focused on our three by three strategy - driving leadership in our three core categories in emerging markets across Africa, Latin America and Asia. We also continue to intensify our focus on innovation," GCPL chairman Adi Godrej said.

The second quarter saw the company launch the Aer range of air freshners following the sale of erstwhile Sara Lee brand Ambipur to Procter & Gamble (P&G). It also continues to refurbish existing brands such as the recent relaunch of Cinthol.