Consumer
Our Consumer business continues to distinguish itself with science-based innovation, proprietary technologies and recommendations by health care professionals. We are the premier consumer health care business. Over a billion people around the world count on our consumer products for themselves and their families.
In 2009, Consumer sales were $15.8 billion, growing 2 percent operationally despite a soft economy. Operational sales increased in the Skin Care, Women’s Health, Oral Care and Wound Care franchises, with growth in several product lines, including NEUTROGENA®, AVEENO®, LISTERINE® and SPLENDA®. Innovation in iconic brands is a cornerstone of our Consumer business. In 2009 we launched LISTERINE® TOTAL CARE in the U.S. and AVEENO® NOURISH+ Hair Care, among others.
We also developed new ways of doing business. Noteworthy developments include the opening of the first NEUTROGENA® store, in Mumbai, India; the expansion of skin iD™, an online personalized acne solution sold directly to consumers; and the selling of products on home shopping channels.
More than half of Consumer sales come from markets outside the United States. Deep consumer insights into local markets and relevant product introductions drive global expansion, particularly in developing markets. Recent acquisitions continue to fuel global growth, such as the thriving DABAO® brand in China, Vania Expansion SNC in Europe and LE PETIT MARSEILLAIS®, expanding beyond its French heritage into new markets.
