HUL reports strong growth in net profit for Q1 FY26; shares rise 4%

Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) reported a 6% year-on-year increase in consolidated net profit, which stood at ₹2,768 crore for the June quarter this fiscal, on the back of lower tax expenses and broad-based volume-led growth across categories. Revenue rose 5% to ₹16,323 crore, with underlying volume growth at 4% and underlying sales growth at 5%.

EBITDA stood at ₹3,718 crore for the second quarter in FY26, marginally lower than ₹3,744 crore last year, while EBITDA margin contracted by 130 basis points to 22.8% this quarter, as the company increased investments in brand building and innovation.

HUL shares have risen as much as 4% to an intraday high of ₹2536.90 on the NSE, following the results announcement. At the time of writing, shares stood at ₹2,514.60, up 3.17% from the previous close of ₹2,437.40.

In segment-wise performance, the Home Care division reported 4% sales growth, with high-single digit volume growth. Fabric Wash grew in mid-single digits, led by Surf Excel, while Household Care posted double-digit volume growth on the back of strong performance in liquid detergents.

Beauty & Wellbeing delivered 7% sales and low-single digit volume growth. Hair Care grew at a mid-single digit rate, while Skin Care and Colour Cosmetics posted low-single digit growth. The Personal Care segment grew 6%, supported by calibrated price increases due to higher input costs. 

The Foods segment posted 5% USG and mid-single digit volume growth. Tea and coffee recorded double-digit growth, while Ice Cream grew in high-single digits despite adverse weather conditions. Packaged Foods and Lifestyle Nutrition segments continued to gain market share.

During the quarter, HUL launched several new products and completed the integration of Minimalist parent Uprising Science Pvt Ltd (USPL), which was acquired for ₹2,706 crore in April this year. USPL’s financials were included in the Q1 results.