Essity’s net sales in the third quarter of 2019 increased 9.8% compared with the corresponding period a year ago to SEK 32.6 billion ($3.4 billion). Organic net sales, which exclude exchange rate effects, acquisitions and divestments, increased 5.9%, of which volume accounted for 3.8% and price/mix for 2.1%. Organic net sales were positively impacted by higher prices, a better mix and higher volumes in all business areas. Organic net sales increased 3.8% in mature markets and increased 9.8% in emerging markets. Emerging markets accounted for 36% of net sales. Exchange rate effects increased net sales by 4.3%. The divestment of the jointly owned company SCA Yildiz in Turkey reduced net sales by 0.4%.

In Personal Care, net sales in the quarter increased 7.1% to SEK 12.2 billion ($1.3 billion). Organic net sales, which exclude exchange rate effects, acquisitions and divestments, increased 4.5%, of which volume accounted for 3.3% and price/mix for 1.2%. Organic net sales in mature markets increased 3.3%. In emerging markets, which accounted for 37% of net sales, organic net sales increased 6.9%. Exchange rate effects increased net sales by 3.6%. The divestment of the jointly owned company SCA Yildiz in Turkey reduced net sales by 1%.

For Incontinence Products, with the globally leading TENA brand, organic net sales increased 5.9%. Growth was related to Western Europe, North America and emerging markets. In Medical Solutions, organic net sales increased 1.5%, mainly related to emerging markets. For Baby Care, organic net sales decreased 0.5% related to emerging markets. Organic net sales increased in Western Europe. For Feminine Care, organic net sales increased 10.7%. The increase was related to Latin America, Asia and Western Europe.

According to Essity, all business areas demonstrated healthy growth due to implemented price increases, a better mix and higher volumes. Growth was strengthened by innovations and investments in sales and marketing activities. In Incontinence Products, Essity launched TENA ProSkin Protective Underwear, with different models for men and women.