First-quarter sales increased 8.4% in local currencies, 4.7% CHF for Givaudan, and fine fragrances and consumer products saw the biggest growth. The fragrance division had an overall sales increase of 10.7% local currencies, 6.8% CHF. Within that, fine fragrance sales grew 9%, primarily in Europe and Latin America, thanks to new products and carry over from launches in late 2011.
Led by strong sales in Asia Pacific and Latin America, consumer products saw an increase of 13.2% in local currencies. Developing countries in Europe, the Middle East and Africa also saw strong growth, as did North America. Fabric care saw the strongest growth, followed by personal and home care.
In the flavor division, sales increased by 6.4% in local currencies, 3% in CHF. Latin America led the charge with a 14% increase, mostly from beverage, sweet goods and savory. Beverage sales grew by double digits in Asia Pacific and North America. In Europe, the Middle East and Africa, sales were strongest in developing markets, as they were for fragrances.
