Beiersdorf has posted better-than-expected sales for the first quarter of the fiscal year, according to a report published by Reuters.

The owner of Nivea saw organic sales rise 4.8 percent (+7.7 percent in nominal terms) to €1.8 billion for the first three months of the year, well about the predicted €1.77 billion.

Within the consumer segment, which saw sales rise 3 percent as a whole (6.3 percent in nominal terms) the group saw gains in all regions and from all brands, with Nivea posting a sales increase of 3.5 percent, Eucerin gaining 3.3 percent and Hansaplast up 3.3 percent. However, La Prairie was the strongest performer with sales up an impressive 10.5 percent.

“Beiersdorf has further accelerated its growth with another strong boost in the first quarter 2017 and substantial gains in market shares. This applies to both business segments, Consumer and tesa. tesa saw a particularly strong jump in sales, emphasizing its strong position in the world market. Consumer also generated an excellent sales increase in a declining market environment. We therefore look ahead with cautious optimism despite the continuing risks in the markets,” said Stefan F Heidenreich, Beiersdorf CEO.

The group re-confirmed its outlook for the year, with sales expected to grow between 3 and 4 percent.