FMCG major Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) reported a moderate 6.2% increase in its fourth quarter net profits to ₹1,183 crore, led by robust sales across business segments.
The profits are in line with a 6.39% growth in revenues to ₹8,969 crore in the quarter. The company’s domestic consumer business grew at 8% with underlying volume growth at 4% even as the EBITDA margin expanded by 90 basis points.
‘Challenging year’
“This has been a strong quarter with profitable volume-driven growth,” said Harish Manwani, chairman. “In a challenging year, we delivered a resilient performance by managing our business dynamically and responding with agility to the changing external environment. With gradual improvement in market conditions, we remain optimistic about the medium-term outlook for our sector.”
In the fabric wash category growth was driven by the premium segment as Surf sustained its robust volume-led growth momentum, while in household care, Vim liquid continued its strong performance, the company said.
Welcoming the introduction of Goods & Services Tax (GST), Mr. Manwani said, “It will be a win-win for all stakeholders. Our strategic agenda of delivering consistent, competitive, profitable and responsible growth remains unchanged.”
HUL shares rose marginally to ₹1,006.35 in a stable market on Wednesday.
