Henkel has reported sales in excess of €5 billion for the first time as it delivered a ‘strong performance’ in the first quarter of the financial year.

The German manufacturer of Schwarzkopf reported an organic sales rise of 4 percent (13.6 percent in nominal terms) and a double-digit increase in operating profit for the three months to March, while EBIT margin improved by 10 basis points to 16.9 percent.

“Henkel delivered a strong performance in the first quarter in a highly challenging market environment. The consumer goods markets were characterized by intensifying promotional and pricing pressure. We were able to significantly increase sales and earnings and to further grow adjusted return on sales. For the first time, quarterly sales exceeded €5 billion. Adjusted operating profit also reached a new high. All three business units and all regions contributed to the successful development and high quality of earnings,” said Henkel CEO Hans Van Bylen.

Henkel’s beauty business posted sales growth of 2.3 percent to €1.011 billion, with adjusted operating profit up 7.4 percent to €169 million.