Unilever optimistic after sales rise

Consumer products giant Unilever today said it had made good progress after underlying sales grew 4.8% in the three months to the end of September.

The group, which is best known for Dove Soap, Magnum ice cream and Hellmann’s mayonnaise, said all product categories and operating regions achieved growth, including a “notable contribution” from Europe.

Analysts had been looking for sales growth in the region of 5%, with the operating margin of 14.8% slightly better than some forecasts.

Chief executive Patrick Cescau explained that price hikes and productivity gains had offset higher than expected overheads.

He added: “Stronger innovation and additional investment behind our priorities are driving the growth of our brands.”