Clarins, France, said its half-year results, due out Sept. 9, will not contain a negative surprise. “Therewill not be a surprise-in any case, a negative surprise,” said Christian Courtin, chairman. “In 2003 weposted a better-than-expected operating margin of 12.1%. We will do as well this year, I’m convinced.”The company also confirmed its goal of 5% sales growth this year. Last month, Clarins postedhalf-year sales of $527.7 million.Following the end of a perfume di...