THE WHAT? Unilever reported first-quarter 2026 results showing volume-led growth and reaffirmed its full-year guidance.

THE DETAILS The company delivered underlying sales growth of 3.8%, driven primarily by volume growth of 2.9%, with price contributing 0.9%. Power Brands led performance with 5.0% growth, while emerging markets—particularly India and Latin America—were key contributors. Turnover reached €12.6 billion, down 3.3% due to negative currency impacts.

In Beauty & Wellbeing, sales rose 3.6%, supported by strong performance from brands such as Dove and Vaseline, alongside momentum in prestige skincare. Personal Care grew 3.7%, driven by deodorants and skin cleansing, while Home Care delivered 6.1% growth led by strong volumes in markets like India and Brazil. Foods grew 2.2%, with Hellmann’s a key driver.

Unilever also confirmed strategic moves, including the planned combination of its Foods business with McCormick to create a global flavour powerhouse and transition towards a pure-play Home and Personal Care (HPC) company. The group announced a 3% dividend increase and launched a €1.5 billion share buyback programme.

THE WHY? The performance highlights Unilever’s focus on volume-led growth, portfolio simplification and investment in high-performing brands, while navigating currency pressures and macroeconomic uncertainty.

Source: Unilever

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