DUSSELDORF, GERMANY -- Henkel's Adhesive Technologies business unit recorded organic sales growth of 2.3% in the third quarter.

Nominally, sales increased 8.5% to 2.28 billion euros ($2.44 billion) on improved performance in emerging markets coupled with solid organic sales growth.

Latin America recorded double-digit growth. Eastern Europe and Africa/Middle East reported strong sales growth, although the situation in some countries was difficult. In Asia (excluding Japan), sales were below the level of the prior-year quarter, due particularly to weaker economic growth in China. Overall, sales performance in the mature markets was positive, with the mature markets of the Asia-Pacific region recording strong growth. Sales in North America showed positive development. In Western Europe, organic sales were slightly lower year-over-year.

Adjusted operating profit of the Adhesive Technologies business unit increased 10.3% to 412 million euros. Adjusted return on sales reached 18.1% for the first time. Reported operating profit increased by 3.7% to 367 million euros.

1 EUR = 1.07129 USD