Unilever plc - ADR

Strong Financial Performance in 2024: Unilever reported underlying sales growth of 4.2%, with volume growth at 2.9% and price contribution of 1.3%. Underlying operating profit rose by 12.6% reaching €11.2 billion, and the underlying operating margin improved to 18.4%. Gross margins also increased significantly by 280 basis points to 45%, exceeding pre-pandemic levels in all business groups except Ice Cream.

Decline in Market Growth Anticipated for 2025: For 2025, Unilever expects organic sales growth to slow to a range of 3% to 5%, with a particularly slower start in Q1. Challenges such as market deceleration in certain categories and regions, especially in emerging markets like China and Indonesia, are expected to impact growth.

Portfolio Adjustments and Separation of Ice Cream Business: Unilever is on track to separate its Ice Cream business by the end of 2025 via a demerger. This move aims to create focus and operational efficiency while allowing both Unilever and Ice Cream to maximize their growth potentials. The appointment of industry veteran Jean-Francois van Boxmeer as Chair Designate is seen as a positive step for this transition.