The story here is that Unilever PLC's (LSE:ULVR) organic sales growth (OSG) for the second quarter came in at 3.8%, which Barclays sees as competitive, especially against tough comparisons and in a tricky consumer environment.
Looking ahead, it forecasts OSG picking up sequentially to 4.1% in Q3 and 4.6% in Q4, driven by a bounce-back in Asia and sustained momentum in developed markets.
Management’s upbeat tone on the call, especially about Asia, Latin America, Home Care, and Beauty, stood out to the analysts.
Margins are also in focus. Unilever beat on margin in Q2, and Barclays has nudged its full-year margin forecast up to 18.9%. That should help the company deliver growth in “hard currency” earnings (i.e. not just numbers flattered by FX).
On the regional breakdown, India is finally accelerating, China is recovering, and Indonesia surprised positively. Latin America’s been soft, but Barclays is confident in a turnaround there later this year.
The note flags ongoing innovation, premiumisation, and bolt-on acquisitions - especially in Beauty and Wellbeing - as drivers of longer-term upside.
The upcoming spin-off of Magnum Ice Cream is also expected to help unlock value.
Barclays keeps its ‘overweight’ rating on Unilever, with a new price target of £54.00, up slightly from £53.50.