Jafra Cosmetics Shows 14% Sales Gain in Quarter

CDRJ Investments in Westlake Village, which does business as Jafra Cosmetics International Inc., said third-quarter net sales were $76.6 million, up 14% from the $67.1 million reported in the third quarter of 1999.

Excluding the effects of foreign currency translation, the third-quarter sales increased 15% over the same period last year. The company ended the quarter with 311,000 consultants, up 13% from last year.

Net income was $155,000 for the quarter, compared with a loss of $598,000 a year earlier.

“This was another successful quarter for Jafra,” said Ronald Clark, chairman and chief executive. “Mexico and South America continue to be our fastest-growing geographic markets, with both regions reporting sales growth in excess of 20% for the quarter.”

Jafra manufactures skin and body care products, cosmetics, fragrances, and other personal care products through a direct selling system made up of self-employed sales personnel. The company was founded in 1956 and expanded into Latin America in 1977 and Europe in 1978.

In April 1998, Jafra was acquired from Gillette Co. by an investment fund managed by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice Inc. and certain members of senior management.