Profits related to sex are starting to make a U-turn as more countries ease lockdown restrictions, consumer goods company Reckitt said Thursday.
Condom sales have climbed in countries including China and parts of the U.S. and Europe where authorities are starting to loosen lockdowns, The BBC said, citing Reckitt's earnings.
Market research agency Kantar said British shoppers are making more trips to supermarkets and buying less on the internet as lockdown eases and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines continues.
Worldwide, the company saw a "double-digit" increase in sales of Durex condoms, lubricants and sex toys in the first quarter this year, compared with the previous year, The New York Post reported.
"Looser 'stay at home' restrictions in China, compared to the first quarter of 2020, have for example, helped drive strong growth in our 'sexual well-being category,'" Reckitt said in a statement.
However, demand for health products were down overall as fewer customers stocked up on flu and cold medicines, the UK-based consumer goods company said. According to chief executive Laxman Narasimhan, sales for Dettol and Lysol were strong as hygiene habits improved.
Sales of Reckitt's Air Wick air freshener and Finish dishwasher pod performed well, particularly in North America, benefiting from ongoing "stay at home" trends.
The company also saw a decline for baby formula products in the wake of lower birth rates. Stain removal brand Vanish returned to growth after weak demand throughout 2020 attributed to restrictions on social activity.
Reckitt said it expects a "moderately stronger" cold and flu season this year and next year as more people go back to work and school, and more social distancing measures are loosened.
