Hindustan Unilever (HUL) has reported its Q2 FY27 results, with advertising and promotion expenditure falling 9.3% year-on-year to Rs 1,481 crore from Rs 1,632 crore. The spend was also 10.6% lower than the Rs 1,657 crore recorded in the June quarter. For the first half of FY27, HUL spent Rs 3,138 crore, down 2.8% from Rs 3,230 crore a year earlier.
The reduced outlay came even as underlying sales growth reached a 14-quarter high of 15%, backed by 7% underlying volume growth. HUL credited productivity in advertising and promotion spending, calibrated pricing and accelerated savings. Consolidated turnover stood at Rs 18,071 crore, while EBITDA rose 8% to Rs 4,089 crore, though margin contracted 140 basis points to 22.6%. Profit after tax before exceptional items grew 9% to Rs 2,795 crore.
Home Care led the quarter with 22% underlying sales growth and revenue of Rs 6,878 crore, helped by liquid detergents and the Rs 99 Surf Excel Easy Wash pack. Beauty & Wellbeing grew 16% to Rs 4,319 crore, with Minimalist accelerating. Personal Care rose 9% to Rs 2,617 crore, while Foods grew 9% to Rs 3,849 crore, supported by Horlicks and packaged foods.
Priya Nair, CEO and MD, HUL, said the volume growth reflected the company’s focus on building brands and strengthening distribution. Under its “Winning in New India” strategy, HUL expects consumption and premiumisation to drive 40% of incremental turnover, market development another 40% and new categories 20%.
