08.04.05
Gillette Co. posted a 17% percent gain in quarterly profit, as new products such as its Venus Vibrance pulsating razor for women boosted sales growth. Profit at the Boston-based company, which is being acquired by Procter & Gamble Co. in a $53.5 billion deal, rose to $498 million from $426 million a year earlier. Net sales jumped 13% to $2.77 billion. Analysts, on average, expected revenue of $2.64 billion. Blade and razor sales rose 11% to $1.21 billion and profit in the segment rose 16% to $488 million. Duracell sales rose 18% to $539 million as an early start to the hurricane season fueled increased sales in North America, the company said. Profit rose 34% to $119 million.