Condom sales unfazed by economic downturn

NEW YORK, Feb. 12 (UPI) -- The sale of condoms in the United States has actually increased as the country has been mired in an economic downturn, The Nielsen Co. says.

The information and media company said during last year's fourth quarter, sales of the safe-sex items increased by 5 percent nationwide. USA Today said Thursday condom sales in January increased 6 percent compared with the same time period in 2008.

Jim Daniels, who serves as marketing vice president for the Trojan condom manufacturer, suggested the sales increases may be due to U.S. residents finding cheaper modes of entertainment during the economic crisis.

"If people don't have the money to go out to a fancy dinner or are looking to cut back, Trojan gives them some real affordable ways to stay in and make some great memories together," he told USA Today.

Ansell Healthcare marketing vice president Carol Carrozza, whose company makes LifeStyles condoms, said Ansell is focusing on additional products to market to budget-conscious U.S. residents.