Unilever plc (UN,ULVR.L,UL) reported an underlying sales growth of 4.9 percent for the first quarter of 2013, with emerging markets up 10.4%. Turnover was 12.2 billion euros, up 0.2% including a negative currency impact of 3.5%. Emerging markets delivered double digit growth for quarter and represented over 57% of total turnover. Developed markets growth remained sluggish. Europe faced a particularly strong prior year comparator and whilst the overall performance was solid, the reported growth was held back by the slow start to the ice cream season and weakness in spreads, the Group said.
Unilever said it saw continued strong growth from Home Care and Personal Care and modest growth from Refreshment, despite a much slower start to the ice cream season in Europe. Foods performance was mixed and whilst savoury and dressings held up well, the spreads category continued to be under pressure, the Group said.
The Board declared a quarterly interim dividend for the first quarter of 0.2690 euros per Unilever N.V. ordinary share, representing an increase of 10.7%. The Group said there has been no material change to its financial position since the published 2012 Group financial statements.
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June 05, 2026 16:18 ET A busy week for economic news flow saw a slew of reports being released that reflected the trends in the U.S. labor market. In Europe, economic growth and inflation data gained attention as the European Central Bank and Bank of England head for policy session later in the month. In Asia, the monetary policy session of the Indian central bank was in focus as the country, a major oil importer, reels under the pressures of a weaker rupee and rising inflation.