Unilever Unveils Strategic Growth Plan Aiming for Maximum Returns
Global consumer goods company Unilever is today revealing its progress and future strategy under the "Growth Action Plan 2030" during its Investor Event. The plan aims to achieve consistent and superior performance through market-leading brands.
The company confirmed that it is on track to complete its comprehensive €800 million efficiency program and finalize separation efforts in the Ice Cream division by the end of 2025. Post-separation, Unilever will focus on four main Business Groups: Beauty and Wellness, Personal Care, Home Care, and Food, previously known as Nutrition.
These groups will be supported by 30 Power Brands in 24 key markets, which account for approximately 85% of Unilever's revenue. Other markets will operate under a unified Unilever strategy to leverage scale and simplicity.
The Growth Action Plan 2030 will build on existing strategies and enhance performance through three strategic pillars: Focus, Excellence, and Acceleration. The Focus pillar will concentrate on Power Brands and key markets with the highest return potential. Strategies include doubling investments in India, accelerating growth in the U.S., and selectively expanding in emerging markets.
Under the Excellence pillar, Unilever will focus on five opportunities to drive brand growth: superior brand quality, social media-driven demand creation, scalable innovations, premium segment transition, and growth channels.
The Acceleration pillar will prioritize capabilities such as science and technology, lean and agile supply chain, net efficiency, and scaled artificial intelligence to enhance performance.
Unilever's medium-term objectives remain consistent. The company targets mid-single-digit underlying sales growth supported by at least 2% underlying volume growth. Additionally, it expects moderate improvements in underlying operating margin driven by gross margin expansion and efficiency gains.
Hein Schumacher, CEO of Unilever, expressed confidence in the Growth Action Plan 2030, targeting total shareholder return among the top three in competitors and achieving high double-digit returns on invested capital. Schumacher emphasized the company’s commitment to delighting consumers and driving growth as Unilever continues its transformation. The new company purpose, "To make everyday life brighter for everyone," reflects its focus on enhancing global consumer experiences. Schumacher shared his excitement about the opportunities ahead and the company's potential while noting that detailed plans will be shared with investors throughout the day.