Alberto-Culver has reported fourth-quarter sales to have risen nearly 12%. The company reportedly earned US$65.8 million for the quarter, nearly 12% more than the previous quarter earnings of US$59 million. The announcement was made only weeks before the shareholders meeting to divide the company in two.
While net earnings for the year fell from US$210.0 to US$205.3, sales rose 6.8% from US$3.5 billion to US$3.8 billion. Net earnings for the year were nearly US$254 million. The company reported that the failed deal to merge Sally businesses with Regis Corp. reduced earnings by US$38.3 million.
According to the company, the focus is now on improving consumer product sales, which were up 9.4% in 2006.
