Pankaj Singh Bisht, Jadetimes Staff
Pankaj is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Business News.
In a sweeping strategic revamp, Unilever has planned to double its emphasis on the Indian market as it identifies with the country's fast economic development and swelling consumer base. The step is included in a general effort to refocus operations and focus on high-growth markets and brands.
India at the Forefront
India's economy is on a strong growth path, with estimates suggesting it may emerge as the world's third-largest economy by 2030. This growth is being driven by a growing middle class and higher consumer spending, which makes it an attractive market for multinational companies. Unilever's CEO, Hein Schumacher, has outlined the company's plans to take advantage of these opportunities by positioning India at the forefront of its new business strategy. This strategy is set to take advantage of growing consumption in one of the world's most rapidly expanding economies.
Operational Restructuring
In its strategic reorientation, Unilever intends to restructure its operations into four separate business groups: Beauty & Wellbeing, Personal Care, Home Care, and Nutrition.
The restructuring is intended to improve agility and concentration, allowing the company to react better to market needs. In accordance with the same, Unilever also resolved to hive off its ice cream business consisting of famous names like Ben & Jerry's, Magnum, and Wall's. The ice cream business, underpinned by its peculiar mode of operations as well as varied supply chain specifications, will be carved out of a separate standalone company by December 2025.
Investment in Key Brands
Unilever's operating model focuses on 30 premium brands in 24 key markets, with a strong emphasis on India.
Its focused approach is anticipated to generate mid-single-digit underlying sales growth and modest operating margin gains after separation. The company plans to reinvest in its core brands to support innovation and respond to changing Indian consumer preferences. By positioning its portfolio in accordance with local preferences and growing its presence in high-growth segments, Unilever hopes to cement its market share in India.
Building Digital and E-commerce Competencies
Acnowledging the online revolution sweeping India, Unilever will be strengthening its digital and e-commerce presence. With an explosion of internet penetration and smartphone use, online shopping has gone through the roof, and Unilever has been making suitable adjustments to its strategies. Leveraging data analytics and digital marketing, the company will better target Indian consumers who are tech-savvy, provide them with personalized experiences, and open up more territory for itself in the digital space.
Sustainability and Social Responsibility
Unilever is dedicated to its sustainability agenda and social responsibility programs. Within India, this commitment is reflected in initiatives for advancing environmental sustainability, community support, and business ethics. In positioning its business priorities in harmony with society's expectations, Unilever seeks to create a resilient and responsive business model that aligns with Indian consumers' increasing environmental and social awareness.
Unilever's strategic focus on the Indian market is a measured reaction to India's dynamic economy and evolving consumer. Through restructuring for operations, selective investment in core brands, digital uplift, and an unwavering dedication to sustainability, Unilever is well-positioned to deepen its presence in India. This strategy not only seeks to generate growth but to positively impact India's socio-economic growth.
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