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Durex sales surge after national lockdown restrictions lifted
Everyone was happy when lockdown was lifted!
The end of national lockdown was a joyous occasion, especially for Durex who reported a leap in condom sales…
The global sales for the condom brand jumped more than 10% over the summer months following the lifting of the national lockdown.
The news comes after a slump in sales when lockdowns were first put in place, putting a ‘toll on the number of intimate occasions’ available to those not in long-term relationships where condoms tend to be the least popular contraception.
The household goods company, Reckitt Benckiser is Durex’s owner, the chief executive, Laxman Narasimhan said that after a ‘more challenging first half of the year, relaxations of social distancing regulations resulted in improved demand for our sexual well-being products, including Durex, which saw double-digit growth in revenue’.
He added: “This has been particularly pronounced in markets where the rate of pandemic infection has materially improved,”
The 12.5% increase in ‘sexual wellbeing products’ over the last three months isn’t the only bump in sales the group experienced.
Sales of detergents like Dettol, Cillit Bang and other sprays, wipes and liquids saw a 50% increase in sales compared to last year as people became more aware of the necessity for improved hygiene. Similarly, with more people working from home, the sales of air fresheners also jumped.
Reckitt added the effect on condom sales will also affect their baby formula business next year.
They explained: “There is evidence that birth rates will be further lowered in coming quarters as a result of behaviour changes related to the pandemic,”
The sales of vitamins, minerals and supplements have seen an increase throughout the period highlighting the demand for self-care and the growing importance of sexual health and wellbeing.
Ann Summers, known for its kinky lingerie and sex toys saw a 14.4% increase in the three months to September 26th compared to sales last year.
A spokesperson said: “2020 has been an extraordinary time, and as a business we have seen customers taking time to truly invest in their mental and sexual wellbeing,”
“We have also seen increased engagement on our expert advice videos and content hub online, as customers seek out new and exciting ways to survive lockdown.”