LONDON (Yosefardi) – Unilever Plc reported 2.9% underlying sales growth in 2014 but its turnover declined 2.7% to EUR48.4 billion. It reported net profit of EUR5.5 billion last year, increased 5% from previous year.
Of total turnover, personal care contributed EUR17.7 billion, foods EUR12.4 billion, refreshment EUR9.2 billion and home care EUR9.2 billion.
In the fourth quarter of 2014, the company’s underlying sales growth was up 2.1% with volume growth of 0.4% and price increase of 2.5%. Turnover increased 2.4% including a positive currency impact of 1.6% and net acquisition & disposals (1.3%).
Growth was weak in emerging markets as economic pressures impacted consumer demand, Unilever noted.
Developed markets were flat, with a modest pick-up in North America partly offsetting market contraction in Europe. Globally, its markets grew by around 2.5% with flat volumes.
For foods, Unilever said, Indonesia saw strong growth of Royco and Bango, both of which are well adapted to meet local needs.