HUL Q3 revenue up 6%; core profit growth muted despite 121% jump in PAT on ice-cream demerger gain

Hindustan Unilever Ltd. (HUL) reported a 6% year-on-year rise in consolidated revenue for the quarter ended December (Q3), with turnover at ₹16,235 crore, as early signs of demand recovery and steady volume growth supported performance across segments. However, core profit growth remained modest, even as reported profit surged on account of a one-time gain from the ice-cream business demerger. 

HUL's underlying sales growth

The FMCG major posted 5% underlying sales growth (USG), driven by 4% underlying volume growth (UVG), indicating gradual improvement in consumption trends. EBITDA rose 3% year-on-year to ₹3,788 crore while EBITDA margin stood at 23.3%, within the company’s guided range. 

Reported profit after tax (PAT) jumped 121% to ₹6,603 crore, primarily due to a one-off positive impact from the ice-cream demerger. Excluding exceptional items, PAT grew 1% to ₹2,562 crore, reflecting subdued underlying earnings momentum. 

Home Care posts 3% USG

Home Care registered 3% USG with mid-single digit volume growth, even as pricing actions during the year led to a negative price impact. Fabric Wash recorded mid-single digit UVG while the liquids portfolio grew in double digits. Household Care maintained strong momentum, led by Vim liquid, and the company pushed premiumisation through initiatives such as the ₹99 Surf Excel Easy Wash pack. 

Beauty & Wellbeing delivers 6% USG

Beauty & Wellbeing delivered 6% USG, led by volume-driven double-digit growth in Hair Care, supported by premium brands Dove and TRESemmé. Health & Wellbeing posted high double-digit growth while Skin Care and Colour Cosmetics saw strength in winter and light moisturiser portfolios. The segment also gained market share in emerging channels, including quick commerce. 

Personal Care grows 6%

Personal Care grew 6%, aided by double-digit growth in premium Skin Cleansing brands Pears and Dove, and strong performance in Oral Care led by Closeup. 

Foods reports 6% USG

Foods reported 6% USG, driven by high-single digit volume growth. Coffee sustained double-digit growth, while Packaged Foods expanded across categories such as ketchup, mayonnaise, and soups. 

HUL CEO and MD Priya Nair said demand trends reflected early signs of recovery, supported by policy measures. She added that HUL remains focused on building modern brands, accelerating growth in high-demand spaces and strengthening capabilities in future channels to drive sustained, volume-led growth. 

At 11:13 AM on Thursday, the company’s shares were trading 3.6% lower at ₹2,374.90 apiece on the BSE.