THE WHAT? Unilever has announced its financial outcomes for the first quarter of 2024, showcasing an underlying sales growth of 4.4%, with a notable 2.2% increase in volume. This performance is highlighted across all five business groups, with Beauty & Wellbeing leading the growth. The company reported a turnover of €15.0 billion, despite facing a 2.0% currency impact and a 0.9% effect from net disposals.
THE DETAILS The growth was primarily driven by Unilever’s Power Brands, which constitute 75% of the turnover, achieving a 6.1% underlying sales growth due to a 3.8% increase in volume. Amidst this financial growth, Unilever has also announced the separation of its Ice Cream business and the initiation of a significant productivity program to further its Growth Action Plan. Despite various market challenges, the company maintains its 2024 outlook with an expected underlying sales growth of 3% to 5% and anticipates a modest improvement in underlying operating margin.
THE WHY? Unilever’s CEO, Hein Schumacher, commented on the quarter’s results, emphasizing the implementation of the Growth Action Plan which focuses on delivering high-quality growth, streamlining the business, and reinforcing a strong performance orientation. The plan includes the recent strategic decision to spin off the Ice Cream segment and launch a comprehensive productivity initiative aimed at fostering faster growth and cost reduction.
Clinical aesthetics products refer to a category of products used in the field of medical aesthetics or cosmetic dermatology. These products are typically designed and formulated to be used under the supervision of healthcare professionals, such as dermatologists, plastic surgeons, or trained aestheticians. They are distinct from over-the-counter cosmetics in that they often contain active ingredients or formulations that require expertise in their application or administration.
Examples of clinical aesthetics products include:
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Dermal Fillers: Injectable substances used to add volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. Examples include hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm and Restylane.
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Botulinum Toxin (Botox): Injectables that temporarily paralyze facial muscles to reduce the appearance of wrinkles caused by repetitive movements, such as frown lines and crow's feet.
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Chemical Peels: Solutions applied to the skin to exfoliate and improve its texture. They can treat acne, pigmentation issues, and signs of aging.
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Laser and Light Therapies: Devices that emit focused light or laser energy to treat various skin conditions, including acne, scars, and signs of aging.
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Prescription Skincare Products: Formulations containing active ingredients like retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), hydroquinone, or prescription-strength antioxidants to address specific skin concerns under medical supervision.
