GSK has launched a northern European business following its multi-billion pound deal with Novartis.

GSK Consumer Healthcare Northern Europe – which covers Great Britain, Ireland, the Nordic region and Benelux – was unveiled this month under new area general manager Carlton Lawson (pictured), the manufacturer said.

The business has been “in place” since March, it said.

GSK’s joint venture with Novartis in March means it is now the world’s largest OTC manufacturer, it claimed, with over £6 billion in sales.

Mr Carlton said the new company has “exciting plans” for GSK’s brands, which include the Nicotinell range of stop-smoking products.