Volume-led growth across categories supports margin expansion
FMCG major Hindustan Unilever reported a consolidated net profit of Rs 2,992 crore for the March quarter, up 21.4 per cent from Rs 2,464 crore in the corresponding period last financial year, according to the regulatory filling.
Revenue from operations stood at Rs 16,351 crore, registering a 7.6 per cent increase compared with Rs 15,190 crore in Q4FY25.
The board has proposed a final dividend of Rs 22 per share, subject to shareholder approval at the annual general meeting (AGM). This is in addition to the interim dividend of Rs 19 per share declared in October 2025, taking the total dividend payout for the financial year to Rs 9,633 crore.
Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (Ebitda) rose 3.2 per cent to Rs 3,877 crore from Rs 3,754 crore in the year-ago quarter. Ebitda margins improved by 70 basis points year-on-year to 23.7 per cent.
Segment Performance
Home Care revenue grew 9 per cent, marking its strongest performance in 11 quarters, led by double-digit growth in Fabric Wash and high single-digit growth in Household Care.
Beauty and Wellbeing reported 8 per cent underlying sales growth (USG), supported by mid single-digit underlying volume growth (UVG). The segment saw strong double-digit growth in Hair Care.
Personal Care grew 5 per cent, with Skin Cleansing delivering high single-digit growth, driven by brands such as Dove and Lux. Market development initiatives supported double-digit competitive growth in premium soaps and bodywash.
The Foods segment recorded 5 per cent USG, led by high single-digit UVG. Tea registered low single-digit UVG, while coffee posted strong double-digit growth, supported by both volume and pricing.
Priya Nair, CEO and Managing Director, Hindustan Unilever, said, “Financial Year 2026 witnessed an improved demand environment driven by supportive macro-economic policies. During the year, we took decisive actions to accelerate growth, including sharpening our portfolio, scaling investments to create desire at scale, strengthening frontline demand generation capabilities, and simplifying the organisation to drive speed, focus, and execution.”
“Looking ahead, we are well-positioned to navigate this volatile operating environment, supported by our strong brands, robust financial position, and operational agility. We are focussed on strengthening our consumer franchise while delivering sustainable and competitive growth,” she added.
Following the results, HUL shares declined over 3 per cent to an intraday low of Rs 2,232 on the BSE.
