Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) released its financial performance for the quarter ending September 30, 2025. The company recorded a consolidated Underlying Sales Growth (USG) of 2% and flat Underlying Volume Growth (UVG) during the September quarter. Performance was influenced by temporary factors including GST changes and extended monsoon conditions in some regions. The EBITDA margin stood at 23.2%, a decline of 90 basis points compared to the previous year, driven by increased business investments. Profit After Tax before exceptional items fell by 4%, while overall Profit After Tax rose by 4%, primarily due to a one-time favorable resolution related to past tax disputes between Indian and UK authorities.
The Home Care segment demonstrated steady volume growth in the mid-single digits, which helped offset the impact of previous price cuts, leading to overall stable sales. Fabric Wash products experienced mid-single digit volume increases, driven largely by impressive double-digit growth in liquid detergents. This success was supported by innovative product launches and competitive pricing strategies. Household Care also performed strongly, with double-digit volume growth primarily led by dishwashing liquids. During the quarter, the company introduced Comfort Perfume Deluxe, a premium fabric conditioner featuring a distinctive fragrance-first formula that offers a richer scent experience for clothing.
In the Beauty & Wellbeing category, sales rose by 5%, largely fueled by gains in Skin Care and Health & Wellbeing products. Despite a year-over-year dip in revenue due to GST rate changes, Hair Care sustained its market leadership. Skin Care, which includes Colour Cosmetics, recorded high single-digit growth thanks to continued demand for core and emerging products, as well as effective pre-season winter stocking strategies. Digital sales channels kept up their strong performance, growing at a double-digit pace. Health & Wellbeing continued to expand robustly, notably with OZiva achieving triple-digit growth. The quarter also saw the launch of new offerings such as Pond’s Hydra Miracle Ultralight Biome moisturiser, Vaseline Cloud Soft formulated specifically for Indian skin, and OZiva’s collagen-enhancing supplement.
The Personal Care segment maintained flat sales growth, impacted by GST transitions during the quarter. Skin Cleansing products showed strong results, led by premium soaps achieving double-digit volume increases. Bodywash products strengthened their market share, while Oral Care experienced a slight decline. Closeup, however, managed low single-digit growth. The company prioritized premiumisation efforts, marked by the re-launch of Pears with updated packaging and an expansion of the Lux International soap range, aimed at capturing higher-end market segments.
Within the Foods segment, sales grew by 3%, supported by modest volume gains. Beverages, which include Tea and Coffee, delivered robust double-digit growth. Tea grew by a high single-digit percentage, aided by both price increases and volume expansion. Coffee maintained strong momentum, continuing its double-digit growth trend. Lifestyle Nutrition showed promising volume increases, though turnover declined due to prior pricing adjustments. Packaged Foods recorded subdued performance as the market adapted to GST changes. Ice Cream sales fell compared to the previous year, affected by extended monsoon conditions and disruptions related to tax reforms.
The quarter also featured several new product launches across segments. Horlicks PRO Fitness was introduced as a scientifically designed meal replacement aimed at fitness-conscious consumers. In the beverage space, BRU Gold Edition was launched, offering a premium coffee experience for discerning customers. These innovations reflect the company’s focus on expanding its portfolio with products that meet evolving consumer preferences and drive growth in targeted categories.
Overall, the business segments showed resilience amid external challenges such as GST transitions and weather disruptions. Through product innovation, targeted pricing strategies, and a continued push towards premium offerings, the company sustained stable sales and volume growth in key areas. The strong performance in digital channels and health-focused products further reinforces the company’s strategy to capture emerging market opportunities and meet shifting consumer demands. The Board of Directors approved an interim dividend of ₹19 per share for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026.
Priya Nair, CEO and Managing Director, stated, “We delivered a resilient performance with 2% sales growth and maintained a 23.2% EBITDA margin. The recent GST reforms are a positive development expected to boost consumer spending and sentiment. While the quarter experienced some short-term disruptions, we expect market conditions to stabilize by November, leading to steady recovery. Moving forward, we are committed to accelerating portfolio transformation by sharpening consumer segmentation, revitalizing core brands to enhance relevance, strengthening our marketing and sales through digital innovation, and investing significantly in high-growth areas. These priorities, supported by favorable economic factors, position us well for volume-driven growth over the medium to long term.”
Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) is one of India’s largest and most prominent fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies. A subsidiary of the global consumer goods giant Unilever, HUL operates in diverse sectors, including food and beverages, home and personal care, and health and wellness products.
Established in 1933, the company has built a strong portfolio of well-known brands, such as Dove, Lipton, Surf Excel, and Knorr, which have become household names in India and beyond. HUL is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, with initiatives focused on reducing its environmental footprint, promoting responsible sourcing, and supporting community development. As a market leader, HUL continues to adapt to evolving consumer needs, innovating with new products and solutions while maintaining a strong emphasis on quality, trust, and social responsibility.
