Personal Care Brands Strong at J&J

Johnson & Johnson announced sales of $15.1 billion for the third quarter of 2009, a decrease of 5.3% as compared to the third quarter of 2008. Operational results declined 2.8% and the negative impact of currency was 2.5%. Domestic sales declined 8.1%, while international sales declined 2.5%, reflecting operational growth of 2.4% and a negative currency impact of 4.9%.

However, net earnings rose 1.1% to $3.3 billion. According to the company, personal care products such as Dabao, Aveeno and Listerine contributed to operational sales growth during the quarter.