Sales growth in PartyLite's International markets and in Blyth's Wholesale seasonal decor and premium candle brand were partially offset by lower sales volume in PartyLite U.S. and in the foodservice and Catalog & Internet business units. International sales represented 53% of total sales in the fourth quarter this year versus 47% in last year's fourth quarter.
Commenting on the Company's financial results, Robert B. Goergen, Blyth's Chairman of the Board and CEO, said, "As we entered fiscal year 2010, we recognized that sales and profit growth would be difficult to achieve. In light of the challenging economic environment, we focused on cash flow generation, implementing numerous working capital management programs during fiscal year 2010 that resulted in a 145% increase in cash flow from operations, which was $93 million this year versus $38 million last year. We operated our business units with no outside seasonal funding and satisfied the repayment of our 7.9% bonds. We recognize that this strong performance is unlikely to be repeated at fiscal year 2010 levels in the near term."
Net Sales for the fiscal year ending January 31, 2010 were $958.1 million versus $1,050.8 million last year.