Unilever reported a strong first half of 2026, delivering 4.8% underlying sales growth (USG) driven by volume, with momentum accelerating to 5.8% USG in the second quarter. Turnover edged up 0.5% to €25.6 billion, while underlying operating margin improved 10 basis points to 20.3%. Underlying earnings per share increased 2.4% to €1.61, reflecting continued productivity gains following the completion of the company's €800 million efficiency program ahead of schedule.
- Beauty remained a standout performer, with Beauty & Wellbeing posting 5.9% USG as power brands including Dove, Sunsilk and Vaseline fueled growth.
- Personal Care also delivered a solid 4.8% USG, supported by FIFA World Cup 2026 campaigns, while Home Care led all business groups with 7.6% USG, driven by strong demand in India and Brazil.
- Foods grew 1.2%, with emerging-market gains offsetting softer conditions in developed markets.
Buoyed by the strong performance, Unilever raised its full-year 2026 guidance, now expecting 4% to 6% underlying sales growth with approximately 3% underlying volume growth and a modest improvement in operating margin.
The company also completed its €1.5 billion share buyback program, increased its quarterly dividend by 3%, and said the planned combination of its Foods business with McCormick remains on track for completion by mid-2027.
