Sales Rise 2.7% at Church & Dwight for 2010

Full year 2010 sales increased 2.7% to $2.6 billion at Church & Dwight Co., Inc., according to the company’s annual report.

James R. Craigie, chairman and chief executive officer, commented, “We are very proud of the business results that we accomplished in 2010. Despite weak consumer demand and intense price competition, we delivered 3% organic sales growth, operating margin exceeding 18.1%, strong EPS growth and record free cash flow. Most importantly, we were able to increase market share in six of our eight power brands in 2010 and ended the year with strong consumption in our major brands.

“This consumption performance reflects a steady increase in marketing spending throughout the year, ending with our highest marketing spending of the year in the fourth quarter. Our new product launches, such as Arm & Hammer Power Gel Laundry Detergent and Arm & Hammer Double Duty Cat Litter, have also been key contributors to our organic growth this year. In addition, our new manufacturing plant and distribution center in York County, Pennsylvania, supported continued strong revenue growth and production efficiency for our laundry detergent business.”

Reported net sales for the fourth quarter decreased 2.1% to $656.9 million.

In regard to 2011, Craigie said, “We expect to build on our strong performance exiting 2010 and generate organic growth of 3-4% in 2011.”