J&J’s Consumer Sales Fall 1.6% in 2009

Johnson & Johnson has reported that its global sales rose 9% to $16.6 billion for the fourth quarter, while full-year sales fell 2.9% to $61.9 billion. Worldwide consumer sales fell 1.6% to $15.8 billion in 2009, with operational growth of 2.0% and a negative currency impact of 3.6%, according to J&J.

Primary contributors to the operational growth recorded by its consumer business included Neutrogena, Aveeno and Dabao skin care products and international sales of Listerine, the compay said.

“In a year of tremendous challenge, we maintained our long-term focus while delivering solid results—a great tribute to the employees of Johnson & Johnson,” said William C. Weldon, chairman and chief executive Officer. “We made important investments in acquisitions, strategic partnerships and launches of recently-approved innovative products while preserving our financial flexibility to continue to invest in innovation. This positions us well for continued leadership and growth in global health care as we enter 2010.”