Positive Performance, UNVR Profit Reaches IDR 1.3 Trillion in Q1-2026

Unilever Indonesia (Photo: Unilever)

PT Unilever Indonesia Tbk (UNVR) recorded a 14.1 percent increase in net profit from continuing operations to Rp1.3 trillion in the first quarter of 2026 driven by sales growth during the period.

Unilever's domestic sales grew 3.5 percent with a basic volume increase of 2.1 percent, so that the company's net sales increased 2.8 percent to IDR 8.4 trillion in the first quarter of 2026.

Then the gross margin was recorded at 48.2 percent, down 18 basis points from the previous year. However, without taking into account the cost of transformation, the gross margin remained strong at 48.8 percent.

On the other hand, pre-tax profit from continuing operations increased significantly by 18.9 percent or up 167 basis points compared to the same period last year.

President Director of Unilever Indonesia Benjie Yap said that the performance in the first quarter further strengthened the company's confidence in being on a positive growth track, supported by improved fundamentals and stronger momentum.

"Our first quarter results for 2026 mark an important step forward, reflecting the momentum that has been built throughout 2025. In the midst of still challenging external conditions, the disciplined steps we have taken over the past year are beginning to show progress in the quality of growth, execution strength in the market, and the resilience of the Company's financial performance," said Benjie in a written statement, Thursday, April 30.

To maintain growth, UNVR has set three main focuses, namely, first, the company ensures that the innovations it presents remain relevant and attractive to consumers through increased product affordability through economically valuable packaging, brand activation expansion, and adjustment of strategies in each sales channel to increase effectiveness and conversion.

In addition, format-based innovations are also being developed to open new usage opportunities and strengthen competitiveness in various categories.

The company also strengthens its core brands with an integrated approach to 6P (Product, Packaging, Proposition, Promotion, Place, and Pricing), as well as maintaining investment levels to be able to effectively create demand.

Meanwhile, portfolio transformation continues to be directed to higher growth segments, with an increasing contribution from 8.3 percent to 10.0 percent in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period last year.

This reflects the Company's disciplined efforts in restructuring its portfolio to strengthen the quality of growth and improve overall business competitiveness.

Second, the strengthening of sales channel infrastructure and execution advantages are the main drivers of performance.

Domestic sales growth of 3.5 percent was supported by solid performance in the General Trade and Modern Trade channels, as well as strong contributions from the Health and Beauty and Digital Commerce segments. This shows an increase in the quality of execution in the field as well as the alignment between demand creation and product availability.

The company is also accelerating the development of future channels, especially Health and Beauty, through portfolio strengthening, strategic partnerships, and category expansion. The launch of the TRESemmé Silk Press product and cooperation with AS Watsons are part of this strategy.

On the other hand, Digital Commerce continues to be a priority by utilizing relevant moments and trends, increasing search visibility, and strengthening collaboration with the affiliate community to expand market reach.

Third, the company continues to drive gross margin improvement through efficiency across all business lines and accelerating digital transformation.

The discipline in cost management and the implementation of transformation programs help strengthen margin resilience. As sales volumes recover, the operational leverage effect begins to have a positive impact on financial performance, although there is still pressure from rising raw material costs and exchange rate fluctuations.

These measures form a more efficient cost structure and lay the foundation for sustainable growth.

Looking ahead, he said the company remains committed to growing beyond the market and anticipating various external challenges.

"Although market conditions continue to change, we still expect a moderate margin increase for 2026 overall. Our priorities remain the same: strengthening the business foundation, realizing consistent growth, and creating sustainable value for shareholders," said Benjie.