Emami to merge marketing arm

 According to an official release, the proposal, aimed at bringing its marketing and selling network within its fold, will be placed for approval of shareholders and other statutory approvals.

 Emami, which makes personal and health care products, reported growth of 37% in turnover and 68% in profit for the year ended March 31, 2006, with turnover and PAT at Rs 301 crore and Rs 49 crore as against Rs 219 crore and Rs 29 crore respectively in the preceding financial year.

 Navratna oil logged a with market share of 50% due to sales growth of 24% and consolidated its leadership position. The Boroplus antiseptic cream increased market share to 67% as sales rose 32% while sales of Boroplus prickly heat powder, Fast Relief, Menthoplus pain balm and Sona Chandi Chyawanprash also grew, the company release said.

 New launches and brand extensions accounted for 10% of turnover, including products like Fair and Handsome Fairness Cream for men, Boroplus light cream and Boroplus body lotion.The company also forayed into baby care segment with introduction of Sona Chandi Healthy & Fair

 baby massage oil. Other new launches were an ayurvedic laxative, a cough syrup and Vaporub, and Memo-plus, a memory booster, the release said.

 Emami's International business grew by 44% as shipments rose to CIS, SAARC, GCC, Africa and Europe due to string sales of the mass Emita range, along with the the Gold and Ayucare range for niche and premium markets, the release said.