HUL’s strength lies in its extensive reach and distribution network, covering over 9 million retail outlets across India through a multi-tiered system of distributors and stockists. This allows their products to penetrate both urban and rural markets effectively. The company emphasizes understanding consumer needs and preferences, investing significantly in research and development to innovate and tailor products for the Indian market.
Financially, HUL demonstrates robust performance with a turnover of ₹60,680 crore in FY 2024-25. They focus on sustainable growth, aiming to increase their business while reducing environmental impact and enhancing positive social outcomes through initiatives like Project Shakti, which empowers rural women entrepreneurs. HUL’s commitment to quality, affordability, and widespread availability has solidified its leadership position in the competitive Indian FMCG landscape.
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From Hindustan Unilever to Nestlé, traditional fast-moving consumer goods companies are repositioning their iconic brands to cater to a new premium market.
The Indian consumer goods industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with legacy brands reworking their promise of reliability at scale to cater to the changing needs of younger consumers. For decades, brands like Godrej, Marico, and Tata Consumer Products have been synonymous with reliability and affordability. However, with the rise of digital-first brands and changing consumer preferences, these companies are now shifting their focus towards premium, lifestyle-led offerings.
Younger consumers, particularly Gen Z, are driving this change. They are more exposed to global trends, less loyal to labels, and demand more from the brands they engage with. In response, companies like Hindustan Unilever, Nestle, and Dabur are reinventing their brands, introducing premium variants, and expanding their product lines to cater to the evolving needs of their customers.
For instance, Hindustan Unilever has updated its Lifebuoy soap brand to focus on skin protection, while Nestle has introduced Korean-style noodles under its Maggi brand. Dabur has launched premium variants of its Vatika shampoo, featuring ingredients like red onion and argan oil. Unilever has also launched Vaseline Lip Derma Therapy in South Korea, targeting Gen X and Gen Z consumers with a premium face-care product.
This shift towards premiumization is not just about launching new products or increasing prices. It requires a deeper transformation in how legacy companies present themselves and engage with consumers. Digital-first brands have set a new standard for packaging, visual language, and storytelling, and legacy brands must adapt to remain relevant.
The challenge for legacy companies is to balance reinvention with trust. Decades of familiarity and quality have built trust with consumers, but familiarity alone is no longer enough. Companies must layer relevance and aspiration on top of their foundation to remain competitive. As the Indian consumer market continues to evolve, with rising aspirations and increasing demand for premium products, legacy brands must be willing to adapt and innovate to remain relevant.
The premiumization trend is no longer limited to metro cities, with rural and semi-urban markets now accounting for over 40% of premium FMCG sales. Companies must deliver value-led premium experiences through the right formats and channels to cater to the growing aspirations of consumers across income groups. Ultimately, the key to success lies in understanding the changing needs of consumers and being willing to evolve and innovate to meet those needs.
Global consumer goods giants like Walmart and Nestle are experiencing a surge in CEO turnover — TradingView News
Several major companies have announced changes in their leadership this year. Unilever ousted its CEO, Hein Schumacher, and replaced him with Fernando Fernandez in February. Stanley Black & Decker appointed Christopher Nelson as its next CEO, effective October 1, succeeding Donald Allan Jr. who is set to retire.
Hershey named Kirk Tanner, the chief of Wendy’s, as its CEO, effective August 18, replacing Michele Buck who is set to retire. Hindustan Unilever named Priya Nair as its managing director and CEO, replacing Rohit Jawa. Kenvue fired its CEO, Thibaut Mongon, and named director Kirk Perry as interim CEO.
Diageo’s CEO, Debra Crew, stepped down after two years, and finance chief Nik Jhangiani took over in the interim. Procter & Gamble said CEO Jon Moeller is stepping away, to be succeeded by Chief Operating Officer Shailesh Jejurikar. Target named Michael Fiddelke as its CEO, replacing Brian Cornell, effective February 1, 2026.
Nestle dismissed its CEO, Laurent Freixe, following an investigation into an undisclosed romantic relationship, and replaced him with Philipp Navratil. Walmart’s CEO, Doug McMillon, will retire in January 2026, and John Furner will succeed him. Kohl’s Corp named Michael Bender as its permanent CEO, after he served as the interim chief since May.
Coca-Cola named COO Henrique Braun as its new CEO, effective March 31, 2026, succeeding James Quincey. Altria announced that CEO Billy Gifford will retire, effective May 14, 2026, and will be succeeded by finance head Salvatore Mancuso. Lululemon Athletica named its finance chief Meghan Frank and chief commercial officer André Maestrini as co-interim CEOs while it searches for its new boss.
Most recently, Kraft Heinz named industry veteran Steve Cahillane as its new CEO, ahead of the packaged food giant’s split, effective January 1. These changes in leadership reflect the evolving needs and strategies of these companies as they navigate the current business landscape.
Nestle India appoints Nitu Bhushan as its new Human Resources Head, click for details.
Nestle India has appointed Nitu Bhushan as its new Head of Human Resources. This move is part of the company’s efforts to strengthen its leadership team and drive business growth. Bhushan brings with her over two decades of experience in human resources, having worked with several multinational companies in the past.
As the new HR head, Bhushan will be responsible for leading the company’s human resources function, including talent management, organizational development, and employee engagement. She will also play a key role in driving Nestle India’s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Bhushan’s appointment is seen as a significant move by Nestle India to enhance its HR capabilities and create a more agile and responsive organization. The company has been focusing on transforming its business model to meet the changing needs of consumers and the market, and Bhushan’s expertise is expected to help drive this transformation.
Prior to joining Nestle India, Bhushan worked with several leading companies, including PepsiCo and Hindustan Unilever. She has a strong track record of developing and implementing HR strategies that drive business results and has expertise in areas such as talent management, leadership development, and organizational design.
The appointment of Bhushan as HR head is also seen as a positive move for diversity and inclusion at Nestle India. As a woman leader, Bhushan’s appointment is expected to help promote gender diversity and inclusion within the organization. Nestle India has been actively working to increase the representation of women in its workforce and leadership positions, and Bhushan’s appointment is a significant step in this direction.
Overall, the appointment of Nitu Bhushan as HR head is a significant move by Nestle India to strengthen its leadership team and drive business growth. With her expertise and experience, Bhushan is expected to play a key role in shaping the company’s HR strategy and driving its diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. As the company continues to navigate the changing business landscape, Bhushan’s leadership is expected to help Nestle India stay ahead of the curve and achieve its business objectives.
Companies are Investing in Flexible Plastic Recycling to Complete the Sustainability Cycle – Packaging World
The growing concern over plastic waste and its impact on the environment has led to an increased focus on recycling and sustainability in the packaging industry. One area of particular interest is the recycling of flexible films, which are used in a wide range of packaging applications, from snack food wrappers to plastic bags. In response to this concern, many brands are now funding flexible film recycling initiatives to help close the loop and reduce waste.
Flexible films are a type of plastic packaging that is lightweight, flexible, and often used for packaging food, beverages, and other consumer goods. However, these films are not typically accepted in curbside recycling programs, and as a result, they often end up in landfills or oceans. The lack of infrastructure for recycling flexible films has made it difficult for companies to collect and process these materials, which has contributed to the growing problem of plastic waste.
To address this issue, several major brands, including PepsiCo, Unilever, and Procter & Gamble, have launched initiatives to fund the development of flexible film recycling programs. These programs aim to create a closed-loop system, where used flexible films are collected, recycled, and turned into new packaging materials. By funding these initiatives, brands are helping to drive innovation and investment in the recycling infrastructure needed to process flexible films.
One example of such an initiative is the Flexible Film Recycling Group, a collaborative effort between several major brands and the Sustainable Packaging Coalition. This group is working to develop a national recycling program for flexible films, which would allow consumers to drop off used films at participating retail locations. The collected films would then be processed and turned into new packaging materials, such as plastic bags, containers, and even new flexible films.
The benefits of flexible film recycling are numerous. By closing the loop on flexible film packaging, companies can reduce waste, conserve natural resources, and decrease their environmental footprint. Additionally, recycling flexible films can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impact of plastic waste on oceans and wildlife. Furthermore, by funding flexible film recycling initiatives, brands can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and reduce the risk of regulatory action and reputational damage associated with plastic waste.
In conclusion, the funding of flexible film recycling initiatives by major brands is a significant step towards reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainability in the packaging industry. By driving innovation and investment in recycling infrastructure, these brands are helping to create a closed-loop system for flexible films, which can help to conserve natural resources, reduce waste, and mitigate the impact of plastic waste on the environment. As the demand for sustainable packaging continues to grow, it is likely that more brands will follow suit and invest in flexible film recycling initiatives, ultimately helping to create a more circular and sustainable packaging industry.
Top brands like Mahindra, Procter & Gamble, and Amazon lead the pack with exciting offers; check them out
The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM Ahmedabad) recently completed Cluster 2 of its Summer Placements for the PGP Class of 2027. The placement round, which took place on October 31, 2025, was conducted in a hybrid format, allowing companies to participate virtually or in person. Over 60 roles were made available across diverse profiles, with participating organizations from seven key sectors: Advertising & Media, Conglomerates, Consumer Goods, Consumer Services, Financial Platforms & Services, Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare, and Retail B2B & E-commerce.
In the Conglomerate domain, Mahindra & Mahindra emerged as the top recruiter, followed by TATA Administrative Services and Aditya Birla Group. Other participants included CK Birla Group, JSW, Vedanta Limited, and Abhinandan Ventures. In the Consumer Goods space, Procter & Gamble led the hiring drive, with notable hiring from ITC, Hindustan Unilever, Nestlé, and Coca-Cola, among others.
The Financial Services sector saw FinIQ Consulting as the top recruiter, while Jiostar led the chart in Advertising & Media. Amazon and Flipkart continued to dominate the Retail B2B & E-commerce sector. The Healthcare and pharmaceutical firms, including Glenmark, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, and Optum, also made key offers. International offers were received from Fast Retailing Co. Ltd.
Notably, IIM Ahmedabad welcomed several new recruiters this season, including Medtronic India, Philip Morris International, Dainik Bhaskar, Haleon, Jiostar, and Jupiter Money. The institute will conduct Cluster 3 of the Summer Placement drive on November 3, 2025. IIM Ahmedabad is renowned for its academic excellence, research, and top placements, and is committed to fostering global business leaders and innovative thinkers. The successful completion of Cluster 2 of the Summer Placements is a testament to the institute’s strong industry connections and the high demand for its students.
Stock Market Updates for Hindustan Unilever
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IIM Ahmedabad’s Cluster 2 Summer Placements for 2025 See Mahindra, Procter & Gamble, and Amazon Emerge as Top Recruiters
The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) has completed the second cluster of its Summer Placement process for the PGP Class of 2027. The placement process, which was conducted in hybrid mode, featured companies from seven major sectors: Advertising and Media, Conglomerates, Consumer Goods, Consumer Services, Financial Platforms and Services, Pharmaceuticals and Health Care, and Retail B2B and E-commerce. Over 60 roles were offered by a diverse group of recruiters.
The Conglomerates sector saw Mahindra & Mahindra making the most hires, followed by TATA Administrative Services and Aditya Birla Group. In the Consumer Goods sector, Procter & Gamble led the hiring, followed by ITC Limited. Other top recruiters in this sector included AB InBev, Asian Paints, and Hindustan Unilever. FinIQ Consulting emerged as the top recruiter in the Financial Platform and Services sector, while Jiostar led in Advertising and Media. Amazon and Flipkart were among the leading recruiters in the Retail B2B and E-commerce space.
The Pharmaceuticals and Health Care sector saw strong participation from companies such as Glenmark, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, and Emcure Pharmaceuticals. Students also received international offers from Fast Retailing Co. Ltd. New recruiters at IIMA this year included Dainik Bhaskar, Haleon, Jiostar, Jupiter Money, Medtronic India, and Philip Morris International.
The placement process has been a success so far, with many top companies participating and offering a wide range of roles to students. The third cluster of IIMA’s Summer Placement process is scheduled for November 3, 2025. The institute has seen a strong participation from various sectors, with many new recruiters joining the process this year. The summer placements are an important part of the IIMA curriculum, providing students with an opportunity to gain practical experience and build their professional network.
The diversity of recruiters and the range of roles offered reflect the strong reputation of IIMA and the quality of its students. The institute’s placement process is designed to provide students with a wide range of opportunities, and the completion of the second cluster is a significant milestone in this process. With the third cluster scheduled to take place soon, students and recruiters alike are looking forward to the next stage of the placement process. Overall, the summer placements at IIMA have got off to a strong start, with many top companies participating and offering exciting opportunities to students.
North America’s Frozen Food Industry Outlook to 2025: An In-Depth Analysis
The North American frozen food market is expected to reach $145.34 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 3.85% from 2025 to 2033. The market is driven by consumer demand for convenience, extended shelf life, and innovative product options. The United States leads the market, followed by Canada and Mexico. Urbanization, retail growth, and shifting dietary preferences are contributing to the growth of the market in Mexico.
The market is undergoing a significant transformation due to changing consumer tastes and lifestyle requirements. Consumers are increasingly opting for frozen meals due to their convenience and longer shelf life. The market is also driven by innovation, with improvements in freezing technologies and packaging enhancing the nutritional value and flavor of frozen products.
Key factors driving the market growth include:
1. Growing demand from Gen Z and Millennials for convenient meal options
2. Plant-based frozen entree innovation, particularly those with a health focus
3. Improvements in freezing and packaging technology, such as Individual Quick Freezing (IQF) and Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP)
However, the market also faces challenges, including:
1. Consumer perceptions of frozen food as being less healthy and less fresh than fresh food
2. Logistics complexity and the cold chain, which requires significant investment in energy, storage, and transportation
Recent developments in the industry include the launch of new products, such as Baja Foods’ frozen chicken and cheese enchiladas, and Wardwizard Foods and Beverages’ expansion into the US and Canada with its ‘QuikShef’ brand. Companies such as Unilever, Nestle, and General Mills are also investing in the market, with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
The market is segmented by product type, category, distribution channel, and country. The product type segment includes frozen fruit and vegetables, frozen meat and poultry, frozen seafood, frozen ready meals, and frozen bakery and desserts. The category segment includes ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook products. The distribution channel segment includes traditional grocery stores, hypermarkets and supermarkets, discount stores, club stores, online, and others. The country segment includes Canada, Mexico, the United States, and the rest of North America.
Overall, the North American frozen food market is expected to continue growing, driven by consumer demand for convenience, innovation, and sustainability. Companies that invest in innovation, sustainability, and consumer education are likely to succeed in this market.
Nestle and Reckitt find a beacon of hope in India amidst worldwide challenges.
Nestle SA, a Swiss packaged foods company, has highlighted India as a market with “strong performance and good momentum” in its post-earnings call. This is the first time India has been mentioned in such a context by the company, amidst global challenges. Nestle’s global CFO, Anna Manz, attributed the strong performance to investments made in high-priority areas, citing India, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Pakistan as examples. The company’s India unit reported a 10.8% year-on-year increase in domestic quarterly sales, reaching ₹5,411 crore, its highest-ever quarterly sales.
Another European company, Reckitt Benckiser, also cited India as a “standout market” despite disruptions caused by changes in the goods and services tax (GST). The company’s CEO, Kris Licht, stated that emerging markets, including India and China, had a standout performance, growing 15.5% in the quarter. However, the company’s CFO, Shannon Eisenhardt, noted that India posted low single-digit growth in the quarter due to the GST changes, which impacted revenue growth.
Other companies, such as Hindustan Unilever, Godrej Consumer Products, and Dabur, have also flagged short-term impacts on sales and profitability due to GST-related disruptions. Despite these challenges, Reckitt Benckiser expects India to continue contributing to its growth, with Licht stating that the company has a “very successful business in India” and is focused on taking other markets to the same level of excellence.
Globally, Nestle SA’s sales fell 1.9% year-on-year to $82.8 billion in the first nine months of 2025. The company has undergone significant changes, including the exit of its chairman and the termination of two chief executives. The new global chief, Philipp Navratil, announced 16,000 worldwide job cuts, describing it as a “hard but necessary” decision. Reckitt Benckiser, on the other hand, reported like-for-like net revenue growth of 7% across the group, led by emerging markets. The company expects India to continue delivering high single-digit growth in the future, despite the short-term impact of GST changes.
Focusing on stagnant revenue, lackluster profits, and the upcoming strategy of the newly appointed CEO.
Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), India’s largest fast-moving consumer goods company, is set to announce its financial results for the July-September quarter on Thursday. This will be the first quarter under new CEO Priya Nair, who was appointed on August 1. The company has recently implemented price cuts across several popular product categories in response to GST cuts, which came into effect on September 22. The GST rates for soaps, shampoos, toothpaste, and other consumer products were reduced from 18% to 5%.
The price cuts, ranging from 10% to 15%, are expected to benefit 40% of HUL’s portfolio. However, the company has faced supply chain disruptions and a short-term impact on sales due to the transition. Distributors and retailers have paused new orders to clear existing inventory, and consumers have delayed purchases in anticipation of lower prices. The impact is expected to continue into October, but analysts predict a recovery starting in November.
A Bloomberg poll of 15 analysts has estimated HUL’s consolidated revenue at Rs16,024 crore and a profit after tax of Rs2568.6 crore. Another poll of 21 analysts has pegged HUL’s standalone revenue at Rs15,938 crore, with 18 analysts expecting a profit of Rs2511.5 crore. The company’s management commentary on Thursday will provide more details on the impact of the GST transition and the price changes on consumer demand.
The new CEO, Priya Nair, is expected to provide insight into the company’s strategy and handling of the GST transition. Analysts have noted that HUL has shown aggression and speed under Nair’s leadership, with the company being among the first to come out with ads relaying new prices under the revised GST regime. However, the benefit of lower input prices is expected to be offset by higher sales promotions, which will impact profitability metrics.
Nuvama Institutional Equities analyst Abneesh Roy expects HUL to report a 1% year-on-year increase in consolidated revenue, with underlying consolidated volumes remaining flat year-on-year. The company’s EBITDA margins are expected to contract by 190bps on a year-on-year basis to 22%. Overall, the quarter’s results will provide insight into HUL’s performance under new leadership and its ability to navigate the challenges posed by the GST transition.
Nestlé exits climate initiative aimed at curbing greenhouse gas emissions from dairy farming.
Nestlé, a global food giant, has announced its decision to leave the Dairy Methane Action Alliance, a group aimed at reducing methane emissions from the dairy industry. The alliance was founded in 2023 by the Environmental Defense Fund, and Nestlé was one of its founding members, alongside other major companies such as Danone and General Mills. According to a Nestlé spokesperson, the decision to leave the alliance was made as part of a regular review of the company’s membership in external organizations.
Despite leaving the alliance, Nestlé remains committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions, including methane. The company has reported a 21% decrease in its greenhouse gas emissions in 2024 compared to 2018. Nestlé has also set ambitious targets to halve its emissions by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2050. The company’s Dairy Climate Plan and Net Zero Roadmap guide its efforts to reduce emissions throughout its supply chain.
Nestlé’s decision to leave the alliance comes as food companies face growing pressure to reduce their environmental footprint. However, many companies are struggling to meet their sustainability commitments due to increasing demand for products, regulatory challenges, and complex supply chains. For example, PepsiCo recently announced that it was becoming more “pragmatic” around its climate investments and scrapped some of its sustainability targets, including a goal to reduce total emissions by 40% by 2030.
Other large companies, such as Coca-Cola, Colgate-Palmolive, Mars, and Unilever, have also acknowledged that they may not meet certain packaging sustainability goals. The challenges faced by these companies highlight the complexities of reducing emissions and achieving sustainability targets, particularly in industries with sprawling supply chains and growing demand for products. Despite these challenges, companies like Nestlé remain committed to reducing their environmental impact and achieving their sustainability goals.
Jyothy Labs introduces its latest innovation, Dr Wool, a cutting-edge liquid detergent.
Jyothy Labs, a well-known Indian company, has launched a new liquid detergent called ‘Dr. Wool’. This launch is an effort by the company to expand its product portfolio and tap into the growing demand for liquid detergents in the Indian market.
The new product, ‘Dr. Wool’, is specifically designed for washing woolen and delicate garments. The company claims that this product is gentle on fabrics and effective in cleaning, making it an ideal choice for consumers who want to keep their delicate clothes looking their best.
Jyothy Labs is a prominent player in the Indian FMCG sector, with a range of brands under its umbrella, including Ujala, Maxo, and Henko. The company has a strong presence in the fabric care segment, and the launch of ‘Dr. Wool’ is expected to further strengthen its position in this market.
The Indian liquid detergent market is growing rapidly, driven by increasing consumer preference for convenience and ease of use. The market is dominated by a few major players, including Hindustan Unilever, Procter & Gamble, and Reckitt Benckiser. However, Jyothy Labs believes that there is still room for innovation and growth, and the launch of ‘Dr. Wool’ is a strategic move to capitalize on this trend.
The company plans to promote ‘Dr. Wool’ through a range of marketing channels, including television advertising, print media, and social media. The product will be available at major retail outlets and e-commerce platforms, making it easily accessible to consumers across the country.
Jyothy Labs is confident that ‘Dr. Wool’ will be a game-changer in the liquid detergent market, with its unique formula and gentle cleaning properties. The company is committed to delivering high-quality products that meet the evolving needs of Indian consumers, and the launch of ‘Dr. Wool’ is a testament to this commitment.
Overall, the launch of ‘Dr. Wool’ by Jyothy Labs is an exciting development in the Indian FMCG sector. With its focus on innovation, quality, and consumer satisfaction, the company is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the liquid detergent market. As the Indian consumer landscape continues to evolve, Jyothy Labs is likely to remain a key player in the FMCG sector, with ‘Dr. Wool’ being an important addition to its product portfolio.
FMCG companies warn of temporary challenges as they prepare for GST 2.0 implementation, here’s what you need to know about the potential short-term impact.
The Indian government’s decision to reduce the Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates on various fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) products is expected to cause short-term disruptions in the industry. Companies such as Emami, Godrej Consumer Products, and Hindustan Unilever are waiting for implementation guidelines from the government to deal with their existing inventory. The new GST regime, which comes into effect on September 22, will have two slabs of 5% and 18%, replacing the current four slabs of 5, 12, 18, and 28%.
FMCG companies are seeking clarification on how to handle existing stocks with printed Maximum Retail Prices (MRPs) under the current tax regime. They want to know if they can sell these stocks with discounts even after the new GST regime comes into force. Emami Vice Chairman and Managing Director Harsha Vardhan Agarwal said that the industry is evaluating the situation and waiting for verification from the government. Godrej Consumer Managing Director and CEO Sudhir Sitapati said that consumers will start getting FMCG products at reduced prices only by early or mid-next month, as goods take time to reach markets with the new MRPs.
The reduction of tariff to 5% is expected to cause some short-term disruptions for the FMCG industry, as dealers and companies are sitting on stocks with high MRPs. Simply passing on the reduced tax to trade does not guarantee that it reaches consumers directly. It will take some time before new MRPs flow into the market. Parle Products Vice President Mayank Shah said that the FMCG industry is waiting for implementation guidelines and that different companies will have different challenges depending on their products and shelf life.
Some companies, such as V-Mart and Blue Star, have already announced their plans to extend the benefit of the reduced GST to consumers. V-Mart will provide a discount on the final bill of consumers, while Blue Star will extend the benefit from September 22. The company has already started work on MRP labels and other administrative procedures. Overall, the reduction of GST rates is expected to boost consumer spending, but the industry is facing short-term challenges in implementing the changes.
Key FMCG companies such as HUL, Nestle, Dabur, and Britannia are set to reveal their Q2 FY26 earnings results in the near future, according to the Goodreturns earnings calendar.
The Q2 FY26 earnings calendar is upcoming, and several fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) giants are set to announce their results soon. Companies like Hindustan Unilever (HUL), Nestle, Dabur, Britannia, and others will be declaring their quarterly earnings, providing insight into their financial performance.
Hindustan Unilever, one of the largest FMCG companies in India, is expected to announce its Q2 results. The company has a diverse portfolio of brands, including food, beverages, and personal care products. Investors will be watching closely to see how the company has performed, given the current market trends and consumer demand.
Nestle, another global FMCG major, will also be declaring its Q2 results. The company has a significant presence in India, with popular brands like Maggi, KitKat, and Nescafe. Nestle’s results will be closely watched, as the company has been investing heavily in digital transformation and expanding its product portfolio.
Dabur, a leading Indian FMCG company, is also set to announce its Q2 results. The company has a strong presence in the Ayurvedic and natural products segment, with brands like Dabur Chyawanprash and Vatika. Dabur’s results will be closely watched, as the company has been expanding its product portfolio and increasing its digital presence.
Britannia, a well-known Indian food company, will also be declaring its Q2 results. The company has a diverse portfolio of brands, including biscuits, bread, and dairy products. Britannia’s results will be closely watched, as the company has been investing in new product launches and expanding its distribution network.
Other FMCG companies, like Marico, Godrej Consumer, and Emami, will also be announcing their Q2 results. These companies have a significant presence in the Indian market, with popular brands like Parachute, Good Knight, and Boroplus. Their results will provide insight into the overall performance of the FMCG sector in India.
The Q2 earnings season will be closely watched by investors, as it will provide insight into the financial performance of these FMCG giants. The results will also indicate the trends and outlook for the sector, given the current market conditions and consumer demand. As the earnings season approaches, investors will be eagerly waiting to see how these companies have performed and what their future plans are. The results will be crucial in determining the future direction of these companies and the overall FMCG sector in India.
Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) appoints Shailee Chatrath Tyagi to lead its Functional Nutrition Portfolio division.
Shailee Chatrath Tyagi has been appointed as the Head of the Functional Nutrition Portfolio (Brand Building) at Hindustan Unilever (HUL). In this role, she will be responsible for leading iconic brands such as Horlicks, Boost, and Horlicks Plus, overseeing their strategy, brand positioning, and innovation. Tyagi brings over 15 years of experience in the Indian Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, having worked with PepsiCo India on various beverage and snack brands.
During her tenure at PepsiCo India, Tyagi developed expertise in brand building, innovation, channel expansion, and purpose-driven campaigns. Her primary focus has been on creating strong connections with consumers, which will be beneficial in her new role at HUL. As a second-generation Unilever professional, Tyagi has a deep understanding of HUL’s heritage brands, combining her industry experience with a unique perspective on the company’s legacy.
Tyagi’s appointment reflects HUL’s commitment to reimagining its functional nutrition offerings to cater to modern consumers. The company aims to strike a balance between health, innovation, and brand legacy, and Tyagi’s expertise will be instrumental in achieving this goal. With her experience in the FMCG sector and her understanding of HUL’s heritage brands, Tyagi is well-equipped to lead the functional nutrition portfolio and drive growth for the company.
As the Head of the Functional Nutrition Portfolio, Tyagi will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies to enhance the brand positioning and innovation of Horlicks, Boost, and Horlicks Plus. Her focus will be on creating a strong consumer connection and driving business growth for these iconic brands. With her appointment, HUL aims to strengthen its position in the functional nutrition sector and provide modern consumers with innovative and healthy products that meet their evolving needs. Overall, Tyagi’s experience and expertise make her an ideal candidate to lead HUL’s functional nutrition portfolio and drive business growth for the company.
Direct-to-consumer startups in major fast-moving consumer goods sector show promise, yet struggle to achieve significant profits
In recent years, top Indian consumer goods companies such as Hindustan Unilever, ITC, Marico, and Emami have acquired or taken controlling stakes in numerous digital-first brands, also known as direct-to-consumer (D2C) startups. This move was largely driven by the ecommerce boom, which presented an opportunity for these fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies to exploit the growing online market. The partnerships have enabled the D2C brands to scale up their distribution networks across India, leveraging the marketing muscle and extensive reach of the FMCG companies.
As a result, many of these D2C startups have experienced significant sales growth. For instance, Plix’s revenue rose nearly threefold to Rs 418 crore in fiscal 2025, while Oziva’s revenue more than doubled to Rs 257.8 crore. Yogabar also saw a 50% surge in revenue to Rs 197.1 crore post-acquisition. However, despite the increased sales, many of these startups continue to incur losses, with some even widening their losses. Experts attribute this to the high cost of customer acquisition, which is a major contributor to the losses incurred by D2C brands.
The founders of these D2C startups acknowledge that being part of a larger FMCG ecosystem has provided them with access to more resources, including a larger distribution network and marketing muscle. However, they also emphasize that their operations remain independent, and they have been able to leverage the ecosystem without losing control. For example, Puru Gupta, the cofounder of True Elements, stated that Marico did not interfere in how they built their brand, and they were able to make strategic investments that led to slower growth in the short term but eventually resulted in significant growth.
Despite the mixed results, FMCG companies are expected to continue their D2C acquisition spree, driven by pressure from investors and analysts to innovate and compete with nimbler D2C companies. However, experts warn that simply plugging a D2C brand into a legacy FMCG system is not a guarantee of success. The cost of customer acquisition and the focus on efficiency and cost management in established FMCG companies can be challenging for D2C brands to navigate. As Arvind Singhal, MD of The Knowledge Company, noted, “In the next five years, most of these acquisitions will turn out to be completely dead. Many of them are being bought at crazy prices but may not deliver the growth expected.”
FMCG giants HUL, Marico, and ITC go on a buying binge: What’s behind their D2C shopping spree
Over the past five years, approximately two-thirds of acquisitions made by Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) companies have been in the Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) space. This trend is driven by the desire of established players to boost growth, expand into premium segments, and gain access to personalized consumer insights. According to Crisil Ratings, notable acquisitions include Hindustan Unilever’s purchase of Uprising Science Pvt Ltd (Minimalist) for Rs 2,706 crore, Marico’s acquisition of Satiya Nutraceuticals Pvt Ltd (Plix) for Rs 380 crore, and Emami Ltd’s takeover of Helios Lifestyle Ltd (The Man Company) for Rs 272 crore.
These acquisitions provide FMCG companies with access to unique features of digital channels, such as accelerated feedback, rapid innovation cycles, and targeted marketing. The modest size of these acquisitions has not impacted the credit profile of acquirers, with the average consideration for acquisitions being less than 5% of the net worth of the acquirers. Crisil Ratings notes that the acquisitions have strengthened the business profiles of traditional FMCG players by providing entry into niche product categories, aiding diversification and premiumisation of the overall product basket.
The majority of acquisitions (60%) have been in the personal care segment, with the rest in the food and beverage segment. About 85% of the acquisitions were undertaken to enter niche and premium segments, with 35% in the health and wellness segment and 20% in the specialized ingredients segment. The acquisitions have enabled D2C companies to mitigate challenges of scalability and profitability, with less than 15% of D2C companies crossing Rs 250 crore in revenue and only a third reporting operating profits prior to acquisition.
While the acquisitions have not dented the financial profiles of acquirers, Crisil Ratings notes that the ramp-up of the acquired D2C brands post-acquisition to a much larger scale will bear watching. The ability of FMCG companies to improve profitability over the medium term will be crucial in determining the success of these acquisitions. Overall, the trend of FMCG companies acquiring D2C startups is expected to continue, driven by the desire for growth, premiumisation, and access to personalized consumer insights.
FMCG giants like Amul and ITC cut prices significantly with new GST rates in effect.
The Indian government’s implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) 2.0 has led to a reduction in prices of daily essentials and food items. As a result, several Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) companies have announced price cuts, passing on the benefits to consumers. This move is expected to boost demand and sales, especially with the festive season of Navratri and Diwali approaching.
Some of the major FMCG companies that have announced price cuts include ITC, Amul, Nestlé India, Dabur, PepsiCo, Ferrero, Procter & Gamble (P&G), Emami, Hindustan Unilever (HUL), and Patanjali. The price reductions range from 2-15% across various product categories, including packaged foods, personal care products, dairy products, and beverages.
ITC has reduced prices of its ghee by Rs 70, making it one of the steepest reductions in the FMCG sector. Amul has also slashed prices of its ghee, butter, paneer, and ice creams. Nestlé India has cut prices of its Maggi noodles and coffee range, while Dabur has reduced prices of its juices, health supplements, and oral care products.
Ferrero has announced the steepest cut in the chocolate segment, with a reduction of Rs 100 on its Ferrero Rocher product. P&G has reduced prices of its Vicks Action 500 Advance and other products, including diapers, shampoos, and razors. Emami and HUL have also rolled out price cuts across their personal care and food products.
Patanjali has announced steep cuts across its Nutrela, personal care, and health products, including a reduction of Rs 48 on its ghee. Varun Beverages, the distributor of PepsiCo, has reduced prices of its juice and packaged water portfolio. Overall, the price cuts are expected to benefit consumers and boost sales for the FMCG companies during the festive season.
The price reductions will be effective starting September 22, and consumers can expect to see lower prices on a range of products, including food items, personal care products, and beverages. The move is seen as a positive development for consumers, who will benefit from the reduced prices, and for the FMCG companies, which are expected to see an increase in sales and demand.
Unilever names Indian-origin executive Srinivas Phatak as new Chief Financial Officer – What’s his background?
Unilever, a leading consumer goods company, has appointed Srinivas Phatak as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective immediately. Phatak, 53, is an India-born finance leader who has been with Unilever for over 25 years, serving in various roles across India and global markets. He succeeds Fernando Fernandez, who transitioned from CFO to CEO earlier this year.
Phatak’s appointment comes at a time when Unilever is undergoing a significant leadership reshuffle amid intensifying competition from new-age consumer brands. The company has been restructuring its leadership in both its global office and its second-largest market, India. Earlier this year, Unilever named Priya Nair as the first woman CEO of Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), and Niranjan Gupta as HUL’s new CFO.
Phatak has a strong track record of leading large-scale transformation projects and has played a key role in Unilever’s growth in India. He began his career with Hindustan Unilever in 1999 as a finance manager and has since held various roles, including Deputy CFO and Controller, EVP Risk Management and Controls, and CFO of HUL and VP Finance, South Asia. During his tenure as CFO of HUL, the company doubled its market capitalization, grew over 7%, and expanded margins by 300 basis points.
Phatak is a qualified Chartered Accountant and Cost Accountant, and he serves as a Non-Executive Director on the Board of Coats Plc. He is married to an eye surgeon and lives in London. On LinkedIn, Phatak described his journey as “coming full circle,” recalling his first day at HUL’s Mumbai office on September 15, 1999, and noting that exactly 26 years later, on September 15, he had been entrusted with the CFO role at Unilever’s London headquarters.
Phatak’s appointment is a significant milestone for Unilever, and he joins a growing list of Indian-origin executives in top finance roles at global giants such as Apple and Tesla. Unilever has said it will “invest disproportionately” in India, targeting “above group average volume growth.” With Phatak at the helm, the company is expected to continue its growth trajectory and navigate the challenges of intensifying competition in the consumer goods market.