Unilever stock gains momentum as 2026 volume outlook rises

Unilever strengthened its growth outlook after reporting solid third-quarter performance on October 28, 2026. The consumer goods group said underlying sales rose 5.2 percent, with volume contributing 2.9 percent and pricing 2.3 percent.

Management now expects at least 3 percent underlying volume growth for full-year 2026, while retaining its 4 percent to 6 percent underlying sales growth range. The company also expects second-half underlying sales growth of around 5 percent and a modest improvement in underlying operating margin from 20.0 percent in 2025.

Volume momentum drives the outlook

Power Brands delivered 5.8 percent underlying sales growth and 3.3 percent volume growth. Home Care was the strongest business group, with 9.1 percent underlying sales growth and 5.4 percent volume growth. Emerging markets recorded 9.5 percent underlying sales growth, while developed markets declined 0.9 percent.

Unilever reported turnover of 13.3 billion euros for the quarter, up 6.7 percent from the prior year. Foods was broadly flat, as growth in emerging markets and Unilever Food Solutions was offset by weaker developed-market retail performance.

The company said work on combining its Foods business with McCormick is progressing through dedicated project teams. Closing remains subject to McCormick shareholder approval, regulatory clearances and other customary conditions. An investor event is planned for the following week.

The real-time quote of Unilever stock traded at 58.61 euros on Lang & Schwarz at 4:38 p.m. CET on Friday, October 30, 2026.

The FTSE 100 provides the relevant broader market setting for this London-listed consumer goods group.

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Unilever published the third-quarter review on October 28, 2026.