Interparfums sales up 25% in 2012 1st quarter

"Interparfums had another quarter of strong growth for the first three months of 2012 with consolidated sales of €110.8 million like-for-like, up 24.6% at current exchange rates and 22% atconstant exchange rates from the same period in 2011. This performance reflects strong momentum by the portfolios main brands that included very high and stronger-thanexpected demand for Jimmy Choo and Montblanc fragrances," the company informed.

Highlights by brand

Burberry fragrances registered further growth (+12%) from strong gains by the brands well-established lines and the rollout of the new Burberry Body line, launched at the end of 2011, although impacted by lower sales from the Burberry Sport line in the period;

Lanvin fragrances once again achieved double-digit growth with sales of more than €15 million, from continuing gains by the Éclat d’Arpège line and steady performances by the
Jeanne Lanvin and Marry Me! lines;

The forward momentum that began in 2011 with the Jimmy Choo Eau de Parfum continued in 2012 with the Eau de Toilette. As a result, Jimmy Choo fragrances registered particularly robust expansion (+68%) with sales of nearly €12 million for the quarter;

Montblanc fragrances also delivered high growth (+77%), with sales of €11 million from the continuing success of the Montblanc Legend line launched last year;

In a year without major launches, Van Cleef & Arpels fragrances showed resilience with sales of €5 million, steady in relation to the 2011 first-quarter;

The gradual repositioning of Boucheron fragrances in points of sale and a first initiative with the Jaipur line generated more than €4 million in revenue for the quarter.

Highlights by region

In an active market, sales in North America rose sharply (+68%) in response to commercial efforts by the US subsidiary, Interparfums Luxury Brands (that since January 1, 2012 has also been distributing Nine West fragrances on behalf of Interparfums Inc.);

Continuing gains were also achieved in Asia and France (up 22% and 15% respectively);

Western Europe (20% of total revenue) is holding its ground in a difficult economic environment;

A significant rise in volume sales for all brands combined with a favorable comparison base has set the stage for a return to high-growth in the Middle East (+35%).

Burberry license agreement: Discussions are being actively pursued with Burberry on the creation of an operating structure for the fragrance and beauty business.