Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) reported a better-than-expected performance for the March quarter (Q4 FY26), with underlying volume growth coming in at 6%, ahead of analyst expectations of 4–5%. The strong volume-led growth indicates improving demand momentum across categories.
The company posted an 8% year-on-year rise in consolidated revenue for the quarter, with turnover reaching ₹16,207 crore. Underlying sales growth (USG) stood at 7%, supported by the healthy volume expansion and steady pricing.
Operationally, EBITDA rose 6% year-on-year to ₹3,841 crore, while EBITDA margin improved sequentially by 40 basis points to 23.7%. Profit after tax before exceptional items (PAT bei) came in at ₹2,711 crore, up 4% year-on-year, while reported PAT grew 20% to ₹3,002 crore, aided by exceptional gains.
The March quarter marked the company’s strongest growth in the last 12 quarters, driven by broad-based performance across segments.
Among key business verticals, Home Care delivered 9% growth, led by strong performance in fabric wash and household care categories. The segment also benefited from sustained premiumisation and continued market development initiatives.
The Beauty & Wellbeing segment reported 8% underlying sales growth, driven by strong double-digit growth in hair care and continued traction in premium skincare and cosmetics. Personal Care grew 5%, supported by high-single digit growth in skin cleansing, with brands such as Dove and Lux contributing to the momentum.
The Foods business also delivered 5% growth, led by strong performance in lifestyle nutrition and coffee, while tea saw relatively muted growth. The company highlighted continued expansion in packaged foods and premiumisation initiatives across key categories.
For the full financial year FY26, HUL reported turnover of ₹63,763 crore, up 5%, driven by 4% volume growth. EBITDA margin stood at 23.6%, while profit after tax (before exceptional items) was ₹10,324 crore. Reported PAT for the year came in at ₹10,652 crore.
The board has proposed a final dividend of ₹22 per share for FY26, subject to shareholder approval. Including the interim dividend declared earlier, total dividend payout for the year stands at ₹9,633 crore.
Commenting on the performance, CEO and Managing Director Priya Nair said the company witnessed an improved demand environment during FY26, supported by macroeconomic stability. She added that HUL continues to focus on strengthening its portfolio, driving demand generation, and improving operational agility to sustain growth.
About the company:
Hindustan Unilever Limited is India’s largest FMCG company, with a wide portfolio of brands across home care, personal care, foods, and beverages. The company operates a strong distribution network and has a dominant presence in both urban and rural markets.