SSL International plc is a manufacturer and distributor of healthcare products sold into consumer markets worldwide. SSL has a diverse portfolio of consumer products which include the global brands, Durex* condoms and personal lubricants, Scholl* footcare and footwear as well as local over-the-counter brands such as Syndol, Meltus and Full Marks in the UK and Sauber, Mister Baby and Proxima Baby in Southern Europe

(*See separate profiles for Durex & Scholl)

SSL employs around 5,000 people operating from commercial offices in over 35 countries and has manufacturing capabilities in Thailand, Spain and the UK as well as joint venture manufacturing in India and China. The head office is in London.

In March 2003, SSL announced a strategy to divest its medical division; this disposal programme has now been completed, and for the first time since its creation, SSL is now uniquely positioned to focus on its consumer brands free of distractions. The aim is to exploit the considerable potential of these brand assets and three objectives have been set to achieve this:

To grow 'brand contribution' by driving sales growth and creating brand value through investment in effective advertising and continual development of new products, through innovation, which are aligned to customer needs.

To re-energise and invigorate staff, following the period of change and continue to employ highly motivated, well remunerated and success oriented people throughout the organisation.

Challenge the cost base throughout the organisation without jeopardising the goal of brand growth.

In short, the strategy is to build brands and grow sales, develop new products and cut costs to meet and beat industry standards with the objective of growing value for SSL shareholders.

Partnering Strategy

Along with internal innovation and development programs, external collaborations form a major part of SSL's R&D strategy

SSL are interested in establishing partnerships and licensing agreements with external companies in order to bring products in mid/late stages of development to market.

SSL is also actively looking for fully developed products that it could in-license for the UK and Irish OTC markets to complement their current portfolio.

Partnerships

SSL has marketing and distribution agreements with Wilkinson Sword in Australia, Schering Plough (Coppertone) in Japan, Comasec (Marigold Household Gloves) in Europe and Cadbury's Schweppes (V6 dental gum) in Spain.