SSL International plc ("SSL"), the consumer healthcare business today issues its trading update for the year to 31st March 2009. Preliminary results for the year then ended will be announced on 19th May 2009.

 Total reported sales for the period are expected to be in the region of £640 million, over 20% ahead of last year or 6% on an underlying basis, after adjusting for favourable foreign currency movements.

Branded consumer sales are expected to be approximately £577 million showing an underlying sales growth rate of over 6% - driven by continuing strong growth in all three major categories. Durex has benefited from good growth in the condom business, and another strong performance from the Durex Play range reflecting the launch of Play O and the continuing advance of the Durex Play Massage range. Scholl Footcare has performed well due in part to the success of Scholl Perfect Nail Treatment and the initial roll out of the Scholl Biomechanics range. Scholl Footwear benefited from strong growth in Asia, coupled with solid performance in the major European territories. Sales of locally owned brands have been broadly flat.

 Other sales, which include unbranded condoms and distributor brands, amounted to approximately £63 million, growing by around 2% compared with last year on an underlying basis.

 Garry Watts, Chief Executive of SSL commented: “As a consequence of this underlying sales growth, continuing cost control and the benefit from favourable currency rates, we continue to expect to announce reported operating profit growth in excess of 30% for the year ending 31 March 2009."