Playtex Products Inc. reported continued strong results for the fourth quarter and full year ended Dec. 31, 2005, and anticipates higher net sales growth in 2006. Net sales of retained brands in 2005 posted a second consecutive year of growth with gains in all three segments: feminine care, skin care and infant care. Net income, excluding charges and gains, grew 24 percent for the full year 2005 versus 2004.
Feminine Care net sales declined 1 percent versus the prior year quarter. Skin care net sales grew 15 percent in the quarter versus the prior year quarter, as each brand in the segment grew. Net sales of Banana Boat sun care products grew due to strong sell-in of its new 2006 product line-up, and lower returns from the previous season. Wet Ones hand and face wipes showed continued strength due to strong distribution and category growth, and Playtex gloves reversed earlier negative net sales trends.
Infant Care net sales grew 1 percent in the fourth quarter 2005 versus year ago primarily due to strong sales of new Playtex cups and pacifier products, and a slight increase for Diaper Genie. Partially offsetting this were lower sales of Playtex infant bottles due to intensified competitive activity.
