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FMCG Giant Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) Case Study

Devashish Shrivastava

Devashish Shrivastava , Anik Banerjee

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) is a British-Dutch assembling organization headquartered in Mumbai, India. The items of Hindustan Unilever Ltd incorporate nourishments, drinks, cleaning specialists, individual consideration items, water purifiers, and purchaser merchandise. HUL was set up in 1933 as Lever Brothers and following the merger of its constituent gatherings in 1956, HUL was renamed Hindustan Lever Limited. The organization was then renamed in June 2007 as "Hindustan Unilever Limited".

At the start of 2019, the Hindustan Unilever Limited portfolio had 35 items marked in 20 classifications and utilized 18,000 representatives with offers of Rs. 34,619 crores in 2017-18. In December 2018, HUL reported its procurement of Glaxo Smithkline's India business for $3.8 billion out of an all value merger manage ratio of 1:4.39.

However, the joining of 3800 representatives of GSK stayed questionable as HUL expressed there was no provision for maintenance of workers in the deal. In January 2019, HUL said that it hopes to finish the merger with Glaxo Smith Kline Consumer Healthcare (GSKCH India) this year.

History And Journey Of Hindustan Unilever Brands And Products Of Hindustan Unilever Business Model of HUL Business Growth In India Expected Future Growth

case study of hindustan unilever limited

History And Journey Of Hindustan Unilever

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) is India's biggest quick-moving customer merchandise organization. HUL works in seven business sections.

The cleanser segment incorporates cleansers, cleanser bars, cleanser powders, and scourers. Individual items incorporate items in the classifications of oral consideration, healthy skin (barring cleansers), hair care bath powder, and shading beautifiers. Refreshments incorporate tea and espresso.

Nourishments incorporate staples (atta salt and bread) and culinary items (tomato-based items natural product-based items and soups). Frozen yogurts incorporate frozen yogurts and solidified treats. Others incorporate synthetic substances and water business.

HUL's item portfolio incorporates family unit brands—for example, Lux, Lifebuoy, Surf Excel, Rin, Wheel, Fair and Lovely, Pond's, Vaseline, Lakme, Dove, Clinic Plus, Sunsilk, Pepsodent, Closeup, Axe, Brooke Bond, and Bru, Knorr, Kissan, and Kwality Wall's. HUL is a backup of Unilever, one of the world's driving providers of food products , home care, personal care, and refreshment items with deals in more than 190 nations and a yearly turnover of $6.08 billion in 2020.

case study of hindustan unilever limited

Hindustan Unilever Limited traces its origins to Unilever, a British-Dutch multinational company, which is the parent of HUL. William Hesketh Lever was a popular social reformer and is regarded as one of the main propagators of several significant employee benefits options like benefits of health, savings, and more. Thus, his ideologies largely seeped into Unilver and resulted in developing its strong sense of corporate responsibility and leadership. This culture was invariably passed on to the Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL).

The British-Dutch company Unilever, which emerged as a result of the merger of the operations of Dutch Margarine Unie and British soapmaker Lever Brothers, when it first came to India, discovered the rich and largely unexplored potential of the Indian market. Soon after, the establishment of Hindustan Vanaspati Mfg. Co. Ltd. followed in 1931, which was succeeded by the foundation of Lever Brothers India Limited (1933) and United Traders Limited (1935). The Indian subcontinent had only been importing FMCG products, branded under Lever Brothers since then, the first of which were spotted as early as 1888. Following this, brands like Lifebuoy stepped in 1895, along with other famous companies like Pears, Lux, and Vim. Vanaspati was launched in 1918 and the famous Dalda brand came to the market in 1937.

The 3 Unilever companies - Hindustan Vanaspati Manufacturing Company, Lever Brothers India Limited, and United Traders Limited eventually merged together to form HUL in November 1956. HUL offered 10% of its equity to the Indians and soon swooped into the news, being the first foreign subsidiary to do so.

The organization obtained Lipton in 1972, and Lipton Tea (India) Ltd was consolidated in 1977. Brooke Bond joined the Unilever overlap in 1984 through a global obtaining. Lake's (India) Ltd joined the Unilever overlap through a worldwide securing of Chesebrough Pond's USA in 1986.

The progression of the Indian economy, which began in 1991, denoted an enunciation in the organization's development bend. The expulsion of the administrative structure enabled the organization to investigate every item and open-door section with no imperatives on the creation limit. At the same time, deregulation allowed acquisitions and mergers .

The Tata Oil Mills Company (TOMCO) converged with the organization with effect from April 1, 1993. In 1996, Unilever and Lakme Ltd framed a 50:50 joint endeavor, Lakme Unilever Ltd, to advertise Lakme's market-driven beautifiers and other suitable results. In 1998, Lakme Ltd offered its brands to Unilever and stripped its half stake in the joint venture.

In 1994, the organization and US-based Kimberly Clark Corporation framed a 50:50 joint endeavor—Kimberly-Clark Lever Ltd—which markets Huggies Diapers and Kotex Sanitary Pads. The organization likewise set up a backup in Nepal called Unilever Nepal Limited (UNL). UNL's production line speaks to the biggest assembling interest in the Himalayan kingdom. In the1992, Brooke Bond gained Kothari General Foods with critical interests in instant coffee.

In 1993, HUL acquired Kissan from the UB Group and the Dollops ice-cream business from Cadbury India. Tea Estates and Doom Dooma, two major organizations of Unilever, were converged with Brooke Bond. At that point, in 1994, Brooke Bond India and Lipton India converged to shape Brooke Bond Lipton India Ltd (BBLIL) to empower more noteworthy concentration and guarantee collaboration in the customary beverages business. BBL converged with Unilever with effect from January 1, 1996.

The internal rebuilding finished with the merger of Pond's (India) Limited (PIL) with HUL in 1998. The two organizations had huge covers in personal products, specialty chemicals, and export organizations; other than a typical appropriation framework since 1993 for personal products. The two additionally had a typical administration pool and an innovation base.

In January 2000, the administration chose to grant 74% value in Modern Foods to Unilever. This started the divestment of government value in open division endeavors (PSU) to private area accomplices. The organization's entrance into bread production is a key augmentation of the organization's wheat business. In 2002, the organization procured the administration's residual stake in Modern Foods.

Journey Of Hindustan Unilever

In 2002, the organization made its entry into Ayurvedic well-being with its Ayush item range and Ayush therapy centers. In 2003, the organization procured the Cooked Shrimp and Pasteurized Crabmeat business of the Amalgam Group of Companies, an innovator in marine products trades. Additionally, the organization propelled Hindustan Unilever Network Direct to home business. In 2004, the organization launched the 'Pureit' water purifier.

In 2005, Lever India Exports, Lipton India Exports Ltd, Merry climate Food Products, Toc Disinfectants Ltd, and International Fisheries Ltd were amalgamated within Unilever. In February 2006, Vasishti Detergents Ltd (VDL) converged with Unilever. In September 2006, Modern Foods Industries (India) Ltd & Modern Foods and Nutrition Industries Ltd were included. In October 2006, Unilever stripped its 51% controlling stake in Unilever India Shared Services Ltd, currently known as Capgemini Business Services Pvt. Ltd., to Cap Gemini SA.

In March 2007, Sangam Direct, a non-store home conveyance retail business managed by Unilever India Exports Ltd (UIEL) and a completely possessed auxiliary, was moved to Wadhavan Foods Retail Pvt Ltd (WFRPL) in a droop deal business. Likewise, Unilever completed the demerger of its operational offices in Shamnagar, Jamnagar, and Janmam and shaped three autonomous organizations —Shamnagar Estates Ltd., Jamnagar Properties Ltd, and Hindustan Kwality Walls Foods Ltd. In June 2007, the organization changed its name from Hindustan Lever Ltd to Hindustan Unilever Limited.

In 2008, the organization reported its coordinated efforts with the Indian Dental Association (IDA) related to World Dental Federation (FDI) through the Pepsodent brand to help improve the oral well-being and cleanliness benchmarks in India. In April 2008, the organization demerged and moved certain immovable properties to Brooke Bond Real Estates Pvt Ltd. In January 2010, the organization introduced its new corporate office.

In April 2010, Unilever affirmed the plan of amalgamation of Bon Ltd, an entirely possessed backup of Hindustan Unilever Limited, with it. The selected date for the previously mentioned plan was 1 April 2009 and the plan was made viable from April 28, 2010. Ensuing to the amalgamation, Bon Ltd stopped being an auxiliary of the company.

During 2010-11, Kissan forayed into a new market fragment in three major classifications. It propelled Kissan Fruit and Soya, a delightful mix of organic product juice and soya milk, which appreciated a separated suggestion in this market. The brand likewise went into the Indian (non-sweet) spreads showcase with the dispatch of Kissan Creamy Spread over key towns. In the bakery division, the organization propelled two new items—Chapi and Cream Rolls. The organization stripped 43.31% stake in Hindustan Field Services Pvt Ltd for Smollan Group (the JV accomplice).

Along these lines, Hindustan Field Services Pvt. Ltd. stopped being a backup organization. Lakme Lever Pvt Ltd, a completely claimed auxiliary of HUL, extended the system of Lakme Beauty Salons in that year with the opening of 11 franchises and oversaw salons alongside 18 franchisees' salons.

In December 2011, the organization demerged the FMCG sends-out business, including explicit fares related to assembling units of the organization, into its entirely claimed backup Unilever India Exports Ltd (UIEL). The plan wound up successful on January 1, 2012.

Hindustan Unilever - One Team One Dream

In 2012, the organization went into a concurrence with Unilever to showcase Brylcreem in India. During the year under audit, Unilever and elements of Piramal Realty (Ajay Piramal Group) consented to an arrangement for the task of HUL's leasehold privileges of the land and building named Gulita arranged at Worli Sea Face Mumbai for an exchange estimation of Rs. 452.5 Crore.

On 22 January 2013, the Board of Directors of HUL affirmed a proposition to consent to another arrangement with its parent organization Unilever for the arrangement of innovation exchange imprint permit, trademark registration, and other services on 1 February 2013. This new understanding underlined that the loyalty cost of 1.4% of turnover payable by HUL to Unilever will increment in a staged way to an eminence cost of 3.15% of turnover, no later than the money-related year finishing 31 March 2018.

The expansion in eminence cost in the period from 1 February 2013 to 31 March 2014 is assessed to be 0.5% of turnover and from there on in the scope of 0.3% to 0.7% of turnover in each money related year, paving the way to a complete evaluated sovereignty cost increment of 1.75% of turnover contrasted with existing courses of action no later than the monetary year finishing 31 March 2018.

In 2014, Unilever reported an organization with Internet.org, a Facebook-directed coalition of accomplices to see how web access can be expanded to contact millions of individuals crosswise over India. The organization additionally dispatched Prabhat activity for network improvement in towns around its industrial facilities during the year under survey. Furthermore, the organization also went into association with MTV to embrace its brands during the year under review. In 2015, the organization propelled The Unilever Foundry.

During the year under audit, the organization was perceived as the most inventive advertiser at the Mobile Marketing Association (MMA). The organization additionally resuscitated Ayush with e-dispatch during the year. Besides, it also propelled the 'Swachh Aadat Swachh Bharat' program in India during the year under review. On 8 September 2015, HUL reported that it has further consented to bring forth an arrangement for the deal and the transfer of its bread and pastry shop business under the brand Modern to Nimman Foods Private Limited, an investee organization of the Everstone Group, for an undisclosed amount.

case study of hindustan unilever limited

Brands And Products Of Hindustan Unilever

HUL is the market chief in Indian buyer items with products in more than 20 purchaser classes (for example, cleansers, tea, cleansers, and shampoos among others). Sixteen of HUL's brands were included in the ACNielsen Brand Equity rundown of 100 Most Trusted Brands Annual Survey (2014) which was completed by Brand Equity, an enhancement of The Economic Times. There are many brands and products owned by Hindustan Uniliver:

case study of hindustan unilever limited

Food Products

  • Annapurna salt and Atta (once known as Kissan Annapurna)
  • Brooke Bond 3 Roses, Taj Mahal, Taaza and Red Label tea
  • Kissan squashes, kinds of ketchup, squeezes and sticks
  • Lipton ice tea
  • Knorr soups and supper creators and soupy noodles
  • Kwality Wall's solidified treat
  • Modern Bread, prepared to eat chapattis and other pastry shop things (presently offered to Everstone Capital)
  • Magnum (ice cream)

Homecare Brands

  • Wheel cleaner
  • Cif Cream Cleaner
  • comfort cleansing agents
  • Domex disinfectant/toilet and bathroom cleaner
  • Rin detergent products
  • sunlight cleanser and shading care
  • Surf Excel cleanser and delicate wash
  • Vim dishwash
  • magic – Water Saver

Personal Care Brands

  • Aviance Beauty Solutions and products
  • Axe deodorant and aftershave lotion and soap and accessories
  • Lever Ayush Therapy ayurvedic health care and personal care products and items
  • International breeze
  • Brylcreem hair cream, hair gel and hair products
  • Clear anti-dandruff hair products
  • Clinic Plus shampoo and oil
  • Close Up toothpaste
  • Dove skin cleansing & hair care range: bar, lotions, creams, and antiperspirant deodorants
  • Denim shaving products
  • Fair and Lovely, skin lightening cream
  • Indulekha ayurvedic hair oil
  • Lakmé beauty products and salons
  • Lifebuoy soaps and handwash range
  • Liril 2000 soap
  • Lux soap, body wash, and deodorant
  • Pears soap, body wash
  • Pepsodent toothpaste
  • Pond's talcs and creams
  • Sunsilk shampoo
  • Sure antiperspirant
  • Vaseline petroleum jelly, skincare lotions
  • Vaseline and relevant products

Water Purifier Products

  • Pureit water purifier

case study of hindustan unilever limited

Business Model of HUL

Hindustan Unilever is an FMCG company that leverages its Direct to Consumer (D2C) business model and has made over 50 billion in revenue, as discovered in 2017. The company has crossed INR 50,000 cr ($6.55 bn) in turnover during FY21, as per the reports on April 2022. HUL is the first pure FMCG brand to hit such a milestone.

The business model of Hindustan Unilever is propelled with the idea of making living sustainable feasible for the masses. With sustainable living, HUL wants to bring about:

  • Bettering the future of the children
  • A future full of confidence
  • A future full of health
  • A future that is better for the planet
  • A future that is better for the farming and farmers of India

The beauty and personal care segment of Hindustan Unilever helps the company see the most profit, while the food and refreshments segment is declared as the fastest-growing segment of the company. Home care is another segment of the company among its 3 primary segments.

The Hindustan Unilever company gets its competitive advantage from the global footprint it has and the track record of the company for enhancing value for its consumers around the globe.

Some of the prominent patterns that are noticeable in the business model of HUL are:

Reverse Innovation

Reverse innovation refers to the process of building products for industrial countries and then adapting them to the emerging markets. The technique of reverse innovation is what is truly wielded by HUL, which has been a prominent inspiration for many other big brands. The 'Knorr Stock Pot’ that the brand came up with is an excellent example of leveraging reverse innovation. This technique was mastered by HUL by taking references from the famous ‘Dense Soup treasure,’ which was the first major example of reverse innovation, launched in China in 2007.  

Focussing on the financially weak

In contrast to the other foreign subsidiaries, HUL ideated to focus on the financially weaker sections of the country, which led them to focus on the majority of the Indian people. Citing the discovery of Wheel detergent powder is one of the examples where Hindustan Unilever created products for the majority of the Indian consumers. Wheel had lower oil-to-water ratio, which enabled Indian to wash textiles even in rivers with hands. Wheel was then made available cleverly by the brand in the local corner shops as well as via door-to-door representatives.

Staying keen on the Triple Bottom Line

While most of the companies solely focus on the profit part of the follow the Triple Bottom Line with only a little focus on the other segments, HUL has a new approach where the brand decided aimed for the other segments, thereby caring for people and the planet.  

HUL largely focuses on the people, including its consumers and others. For instance, the company changed the name of one of its popular products "Fair and Lovely" to "Glow and Lovely", following the All Black Lives Matter movement that raged globally. This instantly made HUL a favourite!  

Significant Distribution Strategy

The distribution strategy that Hindustan Unilever follows is exemplary! It focuses on hyperlocal markets, retail stores, wholesalers, hypermarkets convenience stores, ecommerce, and more. This hugely helps in the promotion of the HUL products and moving them fast to the consumers!

Business Growth In India

FMCG giant Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) announced a 15.98% development in solidified net benefit at Rs 6,060 crore for the monetary year finished March 31, 2019, when contrasted with Rs 5,225 crore in 2018. The net profit that HUL witnessed in FY21 rose by 18% YoY at Rs 7,954 crore.

Business Growth Of Hindustan Unilever

Remarking on the profit, HUL Chairman and Managing Director Sanjiv Mehta stated, "We have conveyed a solid execution for the quarter regardless of some balance in rustic market development. Our attention to fortifying the center and driving business sector advancement has been reliably conveying great outcomes. We have now developed top line and primary concern for the eighth continuous year and our 2019 outcomes were a demonstration of both our technique and execution."

Growth Of Hindustan Unilever

"Given the large-scale monetary pointers, close term advertise development has directed. Notwithstanding, the medium-term viewpoint remains positive. As an association, we are well-situated to react with speed and nimbleness to address the issues of our shoppers. We stay concentrated on our vital plan of conveying predictable, focused, beneficial, and dependable development," he included.

"Together with the between time profit of Rs 9 for each offer, the all-out profit for the money-related year closure March 31, 2019, adds up to Rs. 22 for every offer," the organization said. "Combined income for 2018-19 remained at Rs 39,860 crore, up from Rs 36,622 crore a year sooner," HUL said in a document to the Bombay Stock Exchange.

Hindustan Unilever's Volume Growth

HUL's business in India developed by 12%, driven by 10% volume development in the household advertise. In the January-March quarter, the organization posted 13.84% development in its independent net benefit at Rs 1,538 crore when contrasted with Rs 1,351 crore in a similar quarter a year ago. The offers of the organization remained at Rs 9,809 crore in Q4FY19 from Rs 9,003 crore in Q4FY18, enrolling a development of 8.95%. The working benefit (EBITDA) for the March quarter was up 13% year-on-year at Rs 2,321 crore and the EBITDA edge was up 90 bps.

Challenges Ahead Of Hindustan Unilever

The organization said that the edge improved because of judicious administration of instability in costs (unrefined and money driven) alongside improved blend and working influence.

HUL reported that its Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) stood at Rs 11,324 crore, while the EBITDA margin was reported to be 25% during FY21.

Also read : Unknown Facts About Famous Brands | A Case Study

Expected Future Growth

Hindustan Unilever NSE 0.01 % (HUL) may clock 9-10% development in June quarter benefit despite a slight balance in volumes because of value climbs crosswise over classes. IIFL Institutional Equities expects the FMCG major to report a 6% volume development, a slight control from the 7% volume development recorded in the past quarter.

Growth Prediction Of Hindustan Unilever

"Our channel checks give us a feeling that the organization has started value climbs crosswise over classes, (for example, cleansers, espresso), among others. We along these lines gauge a business development of 9%, like the past quarter level. We expect the slight withdrawal in gross edge to be counterbalanced by influence in promotion spending and different costs. In general, EBITDA and PAT are relied upon to develop at 13% and 12%, individually," IIFL said. IDFC Securities expects HUL to report 10.3% to ascend in benefit at Rs 1,728 crore. It sees deals developing at 8% to Rs 10,250 crore.

"We expect 6% volume development and factor in deals development of 11% in home consideration and 7% in close to home consideration portions. Lower advertisement spends (down 80 bps YoY) and commands over different overheads will help EBITDA edges," it stated while proposing edge at 24.3% against 23.7% the previous year. Edelweiss sees income, Ebitda, and benefit development at 7.3%, 8.6%, and 7.7% YoY.

Hindustan Unilever's Performance In Past Years

"We anticipate that HUL's volume should grow 5% YoY on a high base of 12% YoY development. Q1FY18 was affected by GST dispatch thus the best approach to take a gander at volume development is three years' normal, which will be 5.6%. Delicate quality in the second 50% of Q4FY19 proceeded for the full quarter in Q1FY20. Provincial development is presently at a similar level as urban development. A mixed value climb of 2.5% has been taken. On EBITDA edge front, we expect 20-30 bps YoY development," the business said.

What is Hindustan Unilever origin?

Hindustan Unilever or Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) is an Indian subsidiary of Unilever, which sprung from its Dutch-British roots. HUL is headquartered in Mumbai.  

Who is the owner of Hindustan Unilever Limited?

HUL is owned by Unilever, its British multinational parent, headquartered in London.

What is HUL?

HUL is the acronym for Hindustan Unilever Limited.

Who are Hindustan Unilever founders?

Hindustan Unilever founders can be cited as 3 parent companies - Hindustan Vanaspati Mfg. Co. Ltd., Lever Brothers India Limited, and United Traders Limited, which were merged to form HUL.

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Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) Case Study 2021 – Industry, SWOT, Financials & Shareholding

by Team Trade Brains | Mar 3, 2021 | Case Study , Stocks | 1 comment

HUL Case Study

HUL Case Study and analysis 2021: Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) is India’s biggest fast-moving consumer goods company . In this article, we will look into the fundamentals of HUL, focusing on both qualitative and quantitative aspects. Here, we will perform the SWOT Analysis of HUL, Michael Porter’s 5 Force Analysis, followed by looking into HUL  key financials. We hope you will find the Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL)  case study helpful.

Disclaimer: This article is only for informational purposes and should not be considered any kind of advisory/advice. Please perform your independent analysis before investing in stocks, or take the help of your investment advisor. The data is collected from Trade Brains Portal .

Table of Contents

About HUL and its Business Model

HUL Case Study - Brands

With a legacy of over 80 years, Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) is India’s biggest fast-moving consumer goods company. Actually, the very first product of the company was launched in 1888 named Sunlight Soap. In 1931 Unilever set up its subsidiary in India and in 1956, its subsidiaries consolidated to form Hindustan Leer Limited.

In 2007, the name was renamed Hindustan Unilever Limited. In 2013, the parent company Unilever increased the market stake in HUL to 67% and in 2018, the market cap of HUL passed $50bn.

 HUL primarily has three divisions:

  • Beauty and Personal Care
  • Food and Refreshment

Hindustan Unilever has a pan India access and it is found that more than 9 out of 10 households in India use a brand of HUL. Currently, the company has 14 brands in 44 different categories including Skin Cleansing, Tea, Deodrants, HFD, etc. Famous Brands like Surf Excel, Rin, Wheel, Vaseline, Pepsodent, Clinic Plus are included in the portfolio of the company.

On April 1, 2020, HUL also acquired leading brands like Horlicks and Boost. The company has 21,000 employees working under it with 31 factories, more than 1150 suppliers, and the products are available at more than 8million outlets in India.

HUL Case Study – Industry Analysis

FMCG sector is the fourth largest sector in India, which has surged from 840 Billion USD in 2017 to 1.1 Trillion USD in FY20 and is expected to grow at 10% a year. Personal Care and Household dominates with 50% of FMCG sales in India. Rapid urbanisation, increasing disposable incomes and better lifestyles have been the main growth drivers for the FMCG sector.

55% of the sales come from the urban segment, however, for the last few years, it has witnessed faster growth in the rural segment as compared to the urban segment. In rural India, the sector grew at 10.6% in the Q3 FY20, majorly due to better agricultural output.

case study of hindustan unilever limited

It is expected that the rural FMCG market will rise to USD 220 billion by the end of 2025, at the same time, the market share of the unorganised market is expected to fall rapidly.

Michael Porter’s 5 Force Analysis of HUL

1. rivalry amongst competitors.

  • FMCG industry is a very competitive one with many brands available, and new products coming in each quarter make innovation very important. FMCG business is highly dependent on advertisement and companies spent a big percentage on it.
  • The switching costs for the customers are very low in this sector as the product differentiation is moderately low, which intensifies the competition.

2. A Threat by Substitutes

  • Substitute in the FMCG sector is highly dependent on the particular product. For example, it is way easier to find Colgate toothpaste at a local shop than a homemade organic dentifrice. On the other hand, the substitute product for biscuits is rusk which is easily available. Since switching costs are very less, the threat of substitutes is relatively on the higher side.

3. Barriers to Entry

  • Barriers to entry in the FMCG sector are far less as compared to the others. FMCG business is majorly dependent on brand identification and this can be developed with unique qualities, logo, advertisement; basically, proper market strategy.
  • The distribution network is very large and branched in the FMCG sector, which further eases out barriers of entry.

4. Bargaining Power of Suppliers

  • In FMCG business, companies have long term business with the suppliers, which helps them to negotiate the price. Moreover, the number of suppliers is ample; hence, decreasing the bargaining power of suppliers. However, companies need to make sure that they are getting the supplies at the cheapest possible prices as the industry is a high-volume, low-margin business.

5. Bargaining Power of Customers

  • Factors like a high number of similar product companies available, very low switching costs and similar products available at similar quality and in almost the same price range increase the bargaining power of customers. The only thing that can make them stay is brand loyalty for a product.

HUL Case Study – SWOT Analysis

Now, moving forward in our HUL case study, we will perform the SWOT analysis.

1. Strengths

  • HUL has a strong brand equity and a large legacy as it is a very old and well-rooted company with a variety of popular brands and products.
  • The company has its presence across the length and breadth of India with over 8 million+ retail stores where its products are available.

2. Weaknesses

  • HUL runs in a very competitive environment and there are highly established and rising companies that are little product-focused and hence, eat up the market share of the company.
  • HUL currently doesn’t have any ayurvedic or natural products in their portfolio, which is a negative aspect of the company as the current population’s trend is shifting to herbal products and many focused companies are making the best use of it.

3. Opportunities

  • With increasing disposable incomes, education and youth population, the FMCG sector in rural and semi-urban areas is expected to grow very rapidly as compared to urban areas. The company can use this very well as it already has a brand image and a wide chain of distributors.
  • The company can use its healthy cash reserve position and brand image legacy to acquire various products to diversify its portfolio.
  • HUL runs in a highly competitive environment, with 100% FDI allowed by the Govt. of India and new multinational companies setting their feet, the company faces a high threat from its competitors.
  • The company is highly dependent on raw material prices. Inflation can shrink the margins for the company as it runs in a sector that is a high-volume, low-margin one.
  • Population’s shift to organic and healthy products can help some unorganized and small companies to increase their market share, which can be a threat to HUL.
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HUL’s Management

There are 9 members in the board of directors committee of the company, out of which 6 are Independent Directors including one female member.

Mr Sanjiv Mehta has been serving as the Chairman and Managing Director of the company since 2018. Chartered Accountant by degree, Sanjiv Mehta is also the President of Unilever South Asia (Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal). In 2019, he was awarded the “Business Leader of The Year” award by the All India Management Association.

Mr Willem Uijen is the Executive Director, Supply Chain of Hindustan Unilever Limited. He has been with the company since 1999 and was a part of various demographical projects of the company, especially in Latin America. In January 2020, he joined his current position.

Financial Analysis of HUL

  • 44% of the company’s revenue comes from Beauty and Personal Care, followed by Home Care (34%). Foods & Refreshment contributes 19% and only 3% comes from others.
  • In terms of Operating profit, Beauty and Personal care products contribute the maximum (55%), 29% comes from Home Care, 14% and 3% from Foods and others respectively.
  • The company has a 54% market share in the Skin Care Segment, which makes it the market leader. In Dishwashing Detergents, 55% of the market share is dominated by the company. 47% and 37% is the respective market share which company owns in Shampoo and Personal Care Segment.
  • As of Sept’20, the company spent 9.79% on advertisements as a % of total sales, which has shown a good rise from 7.46 of June’20.
  • Net Profit Margin for the company is 14.77% as of FY20, which has surged from 13.59% as that of FY19. Current NPM is the highest of that in the last 5 financial years and the 3 Yrs. Avg. Net Profit Margin is 14.26%. Source: Trade Brains Portal ]

HUL Net Profit Margin

  • In FY20, HUL showed a Revenue Growth of 1.2% from the previous FY. 3-year CAGR is 6.16%, which means that in recent years, the revenue growth has been subdued. A similar trend is visible from Net Profit Growth, 1-year CAGR is 11.46% whereas 3-year CAGR (14.66%) is higher.

hul case study revenue profit and net flow

  • The company has a very healthy and consistent cash flow from Operating Activities. Outflow in cash flow from financing activities surged in FY20 as the company paid a higher dividend than the previous year.

hul case study cashflow statement

HUL Case Study Financial Ratios

1. profitability ratios.

  • EBITA Margin for the company has been increasing for the last 5 financial years except for FY19, in which it witnessed a small dip from 20.7 to 19.91. As of FY20, EBITDA Margin is 21.54%.
  • Hindustan Unilever has the premium RoE of 84.15 (FY20), and a consistent rise in the same has been visible for the last 4 years. The 3 years avg RoE is 79.76%.
  • The company enjoys 3-digit RoCE, which is very well respected by the market and a similar rising trend is visible in RoCE as that of RoE. As of FY20, RoCE is 114.67% and the Avg ROCE for 3 years is 110.16%.

2. Leverage Ratios

  • As of FY20, Quick Ratio and Current Ratio for the company are 1.02 and 1.32 respectively, which indicated its good liquidity position. These levels have been more or less the same for the last 5 financial years, which is a positive sign for the company.
  • HUL is a 100% debt-free company and its Interest Coverage Ratio is 48.69% as of FY20. Although this level is very good currently, it was 261.73 in FY19.

3. Efficiency Ratios

  • Currently, the asset turnover ratio for the company is 2.4, which is slightly lower than the previous year but this figure has been almost constant in the recent financial years.
  • The inventory turnover ratio witnessed a continuous rise from FY16 (12.04%) to FY19(17.53%), which later dipped to 17.18 in FY20 due to virus outbreak disruptions.
  • The number of receivable days has decreased (12.79% in FY19 to 11.83% in FY20) and the number of payable days has increased (90.77% in FY19 to 92.86% in FY20), indicating the company’s increased bargaining power over the buyers and suppliers.

Shareholding Pattern of HUL

  • Promoters own 61.9% of the company as of December quarter 2020. Although it has been the same for the last 3 quarters, a fall was seen from the level of 67.18% in March 2020. The best part is that promoters do not pledge a single share.
  • FIIs hold 14.92% of shares of the company as of December 2020, which has surged from the level of 12.32% in the same period the previous year.
  • DIIs own nearly 10.72% shares of the company, which was around 6.68% a year back. Both FIIs and DIIs have increased their shareholding in the previous years.
  • Public shareholding has witnessed a fall in the recent quarters, from the level of 14.95% in Jun2020 to 12.46% in Dec 2020.

Closing Thoughts

In this article, we tried to perform a quick Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) case study. Although there are still many other prospects to look into, however, this guide would have given you a basic idea about HUL.

What do you think about HUL fundamentals from the long-term investment point of view? Do let us know in the comment section below. Take care and happy investing!

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HUL (Hindustan Unilever) Marketing Strategy 2024: A Case Study

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) is India’s largest fast-moving consumer goods company, renowned for its extensive range of trusted brands across various categories. With over 35+ brands spanning 20 diverse categories, HUL has established a strong presence in Indian households, catering to the evolving needs of consumers.

As a leading player in the industry, HUL’s marketing approach has been instrumental in driving its success. By implementing effective strategies, the company has consistently captured market share and maintained its competitive edge. In this case study, we will delve into the marketing strategy of HUL in 2024, analyzing the key tactics that have contributed to its continued growth and market leadership.

Key Takeaways:

  • HUL has a diverse product portfolio with over 35+ brands across 20 categories.
  • The company has a wide distribution network, reaching 1.5 million retail outlets directly in India and 7.7 million retail outlets globally.
  • HUL focuses on television advertisements, allocating up to 18% of its operations’ expenditure to promotion.
  • The company aims for sustainable development and reduced plastic usage through innovative projects like vending machines and smart fill machines.
  • HUL follows a pricing strategy that aligns with competitors’ pricing to maintain market balance.

Overview of Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL)

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) is a prominent player in the Indian market and a subsidiary of Unilever, one of the world’s leading consumer goods companies. With a rich legacy of over 85 years, HUL has established itself as a trusted household name in India. The company boasts a diverse portfolio of more than 35 well-known brands across 20 categories, catering to the needs of millions of Indian consumers.

HUL has achieved remarkable growth and success over the years. In the past decade alone, the company has doubled its turnover to 45,000 crore rupees (€5.1 billion) and added 26,000 crore rupees (€3 billion) to its bottom line. This tremendous growth has propelled HUL to become the second-largest Unilever business globally, with a market capitalization of more than 570,000 crore rupees (€65 billion).

One of HUL’s key strengths lies in its ability to adapt to the evolving market landscape and cater to the changing consumer preferences. The company has a strong focus on innovation and has expanded its product portfolio through strategic acquisitions. For instance, the acquisition of Indulekha hair oil has resulted in sixfold growth in the Premium Naturals segment within just five years. Additionally, HUL’s entry into the Foods and Refreshment segment through the inclusion of brands like Horlicks and Boost has positioned it as one of the largest players in this category in India.

HUL is committed to sustainability and has implemented several initiatives to drive positive social and environmental impact. The company’s “Winning in Many Indias” (WIMI) model has enabled Lifebuoy, one of its flagship brands, to launch 17 hand sanitizer variants in a span of just 100 days, contributing to substantial growth for the brand. Furthermore, through the Hindustan Unilever Foundation (HUF), HUL has undertaken water management initiatives that have made a significant impact, enabling more than 1.3 trillion liters of water potential.

HUL is also at the forefront of tackling environmental challenges, striving to be a plastic-neutral business. The company has collected and safely disposed of over 100,000 tons of post-consumer plastic waste and has made a commitment to collect and safely dispose of more plastic waste than used in its packaging from a certain year.

With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, HUL has made significant strides in promoting gender equality. Currently, 42% of the company’s managerial workforce comprises women, and HUL has implemented initiatives to achieve gender parity in the coming years.

HUL’s commitment to digital transformation has positioned the company for future success. The establishment of a Digital Council and the adoption of AI for recruitment and cognitive computing are examples of HUL’s efforts to build a future-ready workplace.

HUL’s strong financial performance and strategic initiatives have earned the company a reputation as the employer of choice, not just in the consumer goods industry but across industries. The company employs around 21,000 individuals and has a wide network of more than 500,000 retailers connected to its Shikhar app, which proved crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic by aiding in order placements and stock management.

With a robust portfolio of leading brands and a commitment to sustainable growth, HUL continues to shape the consumer goods industry in India and drive transformative change in the market.

Product Strategy of Hindustan Unilever Limited

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) has established itself as a market leader in India with its diverse and comprehensive product portfolio. HUL’s product strategy focuses on meeting the needs and preferences of middle-class Indian households, offering a wide range of high-quality products in various categories.

In the food and beverages sector, HUL owns renowned brands such as Kwality Wall’s, Lipton, Brooke Bond, Bru, Annapurna, and Knorr. These brands cater to the diverse tastes of Indian consumers, providing them with delicious and nutritious food options.

When it comes to home care, HUL offers an array of detergents like Surf Excel, Rin, Comfort, and Sunlight, ensuring cleanliness and hygiene for households across the country. Additionally, HUL provides household cleaning products such as Cif and Domex, assisting consumers in maintaining a clean and safe living environment.

In the personal care segment, HUL boasts an impressive lineup of brands including Clear, Tresemme, Clinic Plus, Dove, Lux, Pears, Vaseline, Lifebuoy, Axe, and Brylcreem. These brands offer a wide range of personal care products, including hair care, skincare, and personal hygiene essentials, ensuring that consumers feel and look their best.

Recognizing the importance of clean drinking water, HUL also provides water purifiers under the Pure It brand. These purifiers emphasize the importance of safe and accessible drinking water, promoting the health and well-being of consumers.

HUL’s extensive product portfolio reflects its commitment to offering quality products that fulfill the needs of Indian consumers across various categories. By leveraging its diverse brand offerings and understanding customer preferences, HUL aims to continue its success in the Indian market.

HUL’s product strategy, backed by its strong brand portfolio, enables the company to cater to a wide range of consumer needs and preferences. Through continuous innovation and market research , HUL maintains its position as a leading player in the Indian FMCG industry.

Place & Distribution Strategy of Hindustan Unilever Limited

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) has established a robust place and distribution strategy to efficiently reach and serve both urban and rural consumers across India. With a multi-channel approach, the company ensures widespread availability of its products through various distribution channels, including traditional trade, modern trade outlets, and direct-to-consumer channels via e-commerce platforms.

The HUL distribution network is extensive, with 2 million outlets directly and 7.7 million retail outlets worldwide. In India, the company operates through its managing arm, Hindustan Unilever Limited Network, that includes a strong direct selling network. This network consists of 2,500 redistribution stockists covering 6.3 million retail outlets in metropolitan India.

To serve the rural market, HUL has implemented specific initiatives like Project Shakti, which empowers rural women in the distribution process. Through this program, the company reaches around 250 million people in rural India, meeting their diverse needs.

HUL’s commitment to sustainability extends to its distribution strategy. The company leverages advanced technology and data analytics to optimize its supply chain, reduce the carbon footprint, minimize water usage, and manage waste generation.

With a strong focus on market penetration, HUL’s distribution strategy caters to the diverse needs of consumers. From urban centers to remote areas, the company ensures that its products are readily available to meet consumer demand. This wide reach has contributed to HUL’s market leadership in various categories, including being the market leader in the coffee category in India, with nine out of ten households using HUL products.

HUL Distribution Reach and Statistics

In conclusion, Hindustan Unilever Limited’s strong distribution strategy, encompassing a diverse range of channels, enables it to effectively serve both urban and rural consumers. The company’s commitment to sustainability and continual innovation in its distribution processes ensures that HUL products reach even the most remote locations, contributing to its market leadership in India.

Price Strategy of Hindustan Unilever Limited

Hul pricing strategy: delivering value to consumers.

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) employs a comprehensive pricing strategy to cater to the diverse needs of Indian consumers while ensuring sustainable growth in the market. With its extensive portfolio of trusted brands and a steadfast commitment to delivering value, HUL adopts various pricing components to maintain a competitive edge.

Market Penetration Pricing, Value-Based Pricing, Product Line Pricing, Competitive Pricing, Dynamic Pricing, Promotional Pricing, Premium Pricing for Niche Segments, Cost-Plus Pricing, and Skimming Strategy for Innovations are some of the key elements of HUL’s pricing policy.

One of the primary focuses of HUL’s pricing strategy is to offer products at reasonable prices, making them accessible to middle-class Indian households. By adjusting prices in response to competitors’ pricing of similar goods, HUL ensures that its products remain competitive in the market.

HUL has a deep understanding of the Indian economy, and its pricing strategy reflects this knowledge. The company aims to balance market dynamics while delivering value to consumers. By offering products at competitive prices, HUL strives to reach a wide range of customers and penetrate various market segments .

Attractive Marketing Plans and Customer-Centric Approach

With a large consumer base and fluctuating demand, HUL recognizes the importance of offering attractive marketing plans to meet the needs of its customers. By implementing pricing strategies that consider the affordability and purchasing power of consumers, HUL strives to create a win-win situation for both the company and its customers.

HUL’s pricing strategy goes hand in hand with its distribution strategy, which involves one of the most extensive distribution networks among FMCG companies in India. Leveraging technology for efficiency and utilizing a multi-channel distribution approach, HUL ensures that its products reach even the most remote areas of the country.

The company’s commitment to sustainability is also reflected in its pricing strategy. HUL focuses on rural market penetration and ensures sustainability in the supply chain, enabling consumers in rural areas to access its products while minimizing environmental impact.

Promotion Strategy of Hindustan Unilever Limited

Promotion is a vital component of Hindustan Unilever Limited’s (HUL) marketing strategy, which aims to create a strong brand presence and connect with consumers. With over 35+ brands across 20 categories and a vast portfolio of products, HUL utilizes various advertising techniques to effectively reach its target audience .

HUL understands the power of television advertisements and invests up to 18% of its expenditure on advertising, primarily through this medium. By leveraging television, HUL reaches a wide audience, ensuring maximum visibility for its brands.

To further enhance its promotion strategy, HUL has implemented several impactful campaigns. The Shakti campaign, Project Bharat, and Lifebuoy Swasthya Chetana are among the initiatives that showcase the company’s commitment to sustainability, community upliftment, and green alternatives.

In addition to television, HUL extends its promotion strategies to newspapers, the internet, personal and direct selling channels. By utilizing traditional media and embracing social media platforms, HUL effectively engages with consumers and builds long-term brand loyalty.

HUL understands the significance of celebrity endorsements in promoting its products. Collaborating with well-known personalities helps create a connection with consumers and enhances brand credibility.

Furthermore, HUL’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its promotion strategies. The company has innovated vending machines and smart fill machines to reduce plastic waste and promote eco-friendly practices.

It is worth noting that HUL places a strong emphasis on responsible marketing. In 2003, the company was one of the first to implement principles for marketing foods and beverages to children. HUL adheres to the Principles on Responsible Food & Beverage Marketing to Children, which apply to all its food and beverage marketing communications and activities worldwide.

By applying the Advertising Standards Council (ASCI) code and other regulatory guidelines on advertising, HUL ensures ethical and responsible promotion across all its communications. The company also has various internal measures, including employee training sessions, to ensure the implementation of responsible marketing standards.

HUL’s promotion strategies have been successful in engaging consumers on important issues and promoting brand values. Campaigns like Dove’s Campaign for Real Beauty, Surf excel’s “Dirt is Good” campaign, and Comfort One Rinse campaign have effectively connected with consumers and conveyed meaningful messages.

Overall, HUL’s promotion strategy encompasses various channels, including traditional media, social media platforms, promotional events, celebrity endorsements, and sustainable development initiatives. By adopting a multifaceted approach, HUL effectively reaches its target audience and establishes a strong brand presence in the market.

Brand Performance and Competitiveness of Hindustan Unilever Limited

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) is a leading player in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector in India. With a rich history dating back to 1933, HUL has built a strong brand equity and market leadership position. The company operates in over 20 consumer categories, offering a diverse portfolio of more than 40 brands across personal care, home care, food, and refreshments.

One of HUL’s key strengths is its comprehensive distribution network, reaching millions of households in India and international markets. The company’s extensive reach includes both urban and rural areas, making its products accessible to a wide range of consumers. In fact, HUL reports that nearly half of its sales come from rural markets, showcasing its success in tapping into the vast rural consumer base in India.

To further penetrate rural markets, HUL has implemented a rural strategy that focuses on offering smaller pack sizes and sachet formats for affordability. This approach caters to the needs and purchasing power of rural consumers, allowing them to access HUL products at affordable prices. Additionally, HUL’s rural marketing efforts include vernacular advertising campaigns tailored to local sensibilities, enabling effective communication and brand connection with rural consumers.

Furthermore, HUL’s rural initiatives, such as Project Shakti, have had a transformative impact on rural communities. Project Shakti, with its network of over 136,000 Shakti Ammas (rural women micro-entrepreneurs), has empowered women in rural areas by providing them with entrepreneurial opportunities. This initiative not only drives economic growth but also establishes HUL as a socially responsible and inclusive brand.

Despite its success in rural markets, HUL faces challenges in terms of infrastructure limitations and evolving consumer preferences. Infrastructure gaps, particularly in remote rural areas, can hinder HUL’s distribution capabilities and hinder its growth potential. Additionally, consumer preferences in rural markets are constantly evolving, requiring HUL to continuously innovate and adapt its product offerings to stay competitive.

To address these challenges and maintain its brand performance and competitiveness, HUL has identified several recommendations. The company should invest in strengthening its logistics capabilities to overcome infrastructure limitations and ensure efficient product distribution. Deepening market research will allow HUL to gain a deeper understanding of rural consumers’ evolving preferences and tailor its offerings accordingly. Furthermore, HUL can leverage digital solutions to enhance its rural operations, such as using technology for supply chain management and e-commerce platforms to expand its reach.

In conclusion, HUL’s brand performance and competitiveness in the FMCG sector are marked by its strong market leadership, diverse portfolio, and extensive distribution network. The company’s success in rural markets and its commitment to addressing challenges and embracing opportunities demonstrate its ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic business environment.

Growth Action Plan and Future Outlook of Hindustan Unilever Limited

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) has laid out an ambitious growth action plan to strengthen its performance and enhance its competitive edge in the industry. Through a series of strategic initiatives, HUL aims to capitalize on market opportunities, drive sustainable growth, and deliver financial results that position the company among the top performers in the industry.

At the heart of HUL’s growth action plan is the prioritization of its 30 Power Brands. These brands, carefully selected based on their potential for focused growth, form the core of HUL’s growth strategy. By leveraging the strengths of these brands, HUL aims to drive market share expansion and consolidate its leadership position in various product categories.

HUL recognizes the importance of brand superiority in today’s competitive landscape. To achieve this, the company adopts a comprehensive approach, measuring six superiority attributes: product, proposition, packaging, place, promotion, and pricing. By continuously evaluating and improving these attributes, HUL ensures that its brands resonate with consumers, drive preference, and maintain a strong competitive advantage.

In order to drive category growth and expand its market presence, HUL emphasizes scalable innovations. By investing in research and development, HUL aims to introduce innovative products that address evolving consumer needs while creating new market opportunities. This approach enables HUL to stay at the forefront of industry trends and foster sustainable growth.

HUL recognizes the growing importance of digital channels in reaching and engaging consumers. As part of its growth action plan, the company increases its brand investment in digital channels to maximize its presence in the digital landscape. By leveraging technology and data-driven insights, HUL aims to enhance its brand visibility, customer engagement, and sales performance in the digital space.

Continual portfolio optimization is another key component of HUL’s growth strategy. By regularly evaluating its brand portfolio, HUL identifies opportunities to divest non-core assets and selectively invest in high-potential brands and businesses. This approach ensures that HUL’s portfolio remains agile, competitive, and aligned with evolving market dynamics.

As a socially responsible company, HUL is committed to sustainability goals. The company focuses on addressing key environmental and social challenges, including climate change, nature conservation, plastics, and livelihoods. By integrating sustainability into its business operations, HUL contributes to a more sustainable future while creating shared value for its stakeholders.

Operational model simplification is a critical enabler of HUL’s growth action plan. By streamlining processes and workflows, HUL aims to enhance organizational efficiency, agility, and flexibility. This enables the company to respond quickly to market changes, improve customer service, and drive operational excellence across its value chain.

HUL understands the importance of customer development and engagement. To strengthen its relationships with customers, the company focuses on the frontline customer development roles. By equipping its front-line teams with the necessary skills, resources, and support, HUL enhances customer-centricity, drives customer loyalty, and fosters long-term partnerships.

Growth Outlook

Looking ahead, HUL has a positive outlook for its future growth. The company expects underlying sales growth for the upcoming year to be within the range of 3% to 5%, striking a balance between volume and price growth. HUL aims to improve its underlying operating margin through continued focus on gross margin expansion and productivity improvements.

The financial performance of HUL remains strong, with a turnover of €59.6 billion in the previous year and an underlying operating profit of €9.9 billion, reflecting a 2.6% increase compared to the prior year. The company continues to invest in its growth and expansion, returning €5.9 billion to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks.

HUL’s commitment to sustainability is exemplified by its achievements, including the creation of over 2.6 trillion liters of water potential and a 97% reduction in CO2 emissions. The company remains dedicated to upholding high ethical standards, emphasizing employee values such as integrity, respect, responsibility, and pioneering, while driving positive change within and beyond its organization.

In conclusion, HUL’s growth action plan and future outlook demonstrate its commitment to delivering sustainable growth, fostering innovation, and staying ahead of industry trends. With a focus on brand excellence, digital transformation, and sustainability, HUL is poised to thrive in the dynamic and evolving consumer goods landscape.

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), India’s largest fast-moving consumer goods company, has demonstrated remarkable growth and success in the market. With a focus on delivering high-quality products across diverse sectors, HUL has achieved significant revenue and profit figures throughout its history.

However, the company acknowledges the need to adapt to changing market dynamics and enhance its competitive edge. By implementing its Growth Action Plan, HUL aims to further strengthen its position and drive sustainable growth. This comprehensive plan includes strategies such as brand superiority improvement, portfolio optimization, and organizational performance enhancement.

With a commitment to understanding and catering to the unique needs of the Indian consumer base, HUL is poised to capitalize on its market share and solidify its position as an industry leader. Through its performance-driven approach, HUL seeks to continue delivering value to consumers, shareholders, and the Indian economy as a whole.

What is Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL)?

What is hul’s product strategy, how does hul distribute its products, what pricing strategy does hul follow, how does hul promote its brand, what is the brand performance and competitiveness of hul, what is hul’s growth action plan and future outlook, related posts:.

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case study of hindustan unilever limited

Nina Sheridan is a seasoned author at Latterly.org, a blog renowned for its insightful exploration of the increasingly interconnected worlds of business, technology, and lifestyle. With a keen eye for the dynamic interplay between these sectors, Nina brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her writing. Her expertise lies in dissecting complex topics and presenting them in an accessible, engaging manner that resonates with a diverse audience.

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></center></p><h2>Hindustan Unilever Case Study: Business Model, Financials, and SWOT Analysis</h2><p>Hindustan Unilever is a household name; almost every product in your bathroom was made by HUL. Today, we’ll explore its business model to understand its operations.</p><p>Table of Contents</p><h2>About Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL)</h2><p>Hindustan Unilever was founded in the latter part of the 1980s. The Lever brothers, established by William Hesketh Lever, first entered the Indian market in 1888 with a product known as sunlight soap. However, the soap was marked with the phrase “Made in England by Lever Brothers”.</p><p>Hindustan Vanaspati Manufacturing Company, Unilever’s first Indian affiliate, was founded in 1931. Lever Brothers India Limited followed in 1933, and United Traders Limited followed in 1935. In 1956, these companies amalgamated to establish Hindustan Unilever Limited.</p><p>The company’s headquarters is located in Mumbai. Rohit Jawa took over as CEO of Hindustan Unilever Limited in June 2023, replacing Sanjeev Mehta.</p><p>After Hindustan Unilever Limited was founded, its primary focus was on acquiring Indian brands that were already well-established.</p><h2>Key Acquisitions</h2><p>1984 – Brooke Bond, a tea brand.</p><p>1972 – Lipton, a national tea product manufacturer.</p><p>2015-16 – Indulekha, a premium hair oil brand.</p><p>2019-20 – GSK, a healthcare product manufacturer.</p><p>2019-20 – Vwash, a female intimate hygiene product manufacturer</p><h2>Awards and Recognition</h2><p>2023 – Winner of the KPMG ESG Excellence award across India’s consumer market sector.</p><p>2022- Outstanding Company of the Year by CNBC –TV18</p><p>2021 – Best Governed Company Award</p><p>2021- Sustainable Factory of the Year award.</p><p>2020 – Top performer in the FMCG Category</p><p><center><img style=

Market Capitalization of HUL

As of 7 th Feb 2024, the total market cap of Hindustan Unilever is around 68.69 billion dollars.

At the beginning of 2007, the market cap of HUL was just 7.28 billion dollars. 

Products OF HUL

Whether a food and beverage product or a healthcare item, Hindustan Unilever is used by nine out of ten Indian households!

The products of Hindustan Unilever are as follows

  • Home care products – Laundry detergents, fabric conditioners, dishwashing liquids, and toilet cleaners. (Surf Excel, Rin, Wheel)
  • Personal care products – Soaps, shampoos, skin care products, hair care products, deodorants, oral care products. (Lux, Sunsilk, fair & lovely, Tresemme, axe and closeup, etc.
  • Beverages – Tea. (Lipton, brooke bond)
  • Foods – Packaged foods.
  • Water Purifier – Pureit water purifier.
  • Healthcare products – Health drinks. (Boost, Horlicks)
  • Baby care products – Baby soaps, shampoos, and body lotions. (Dove, Johnson’s Baby)
  • Cosmetic – Cosmetic and beauty products. (Lakme) 

Business Model and Marketing Strategy of HUL

The company’s wide range of products enables it to hold the top spot in the market for industrial consumer goods. They have well-known brands in several areas, and their revenue is greatly influenced by consumer recognition of their brands.

Its primary focus is innovation; a sizable amount of its revenue is allocated to creating new items and enhancing its existing line of products.

HUL has an extensive distribution network that reaches both rural and urban locations. Additionally, they invest heavily in all forms of promotion, including print, digital, and sponsorship.

They typically focus on comprehending customer demands and needs because this enables them to develop product lines that cater to consumer preferences

Branding Strategy of HUL

What’s in the name? Though everyone has heard this saying at some point in their lives, it is essential to remember that reputation and brand are everything. The company employs various graphics and logos for its many products, but its distinctive logo is printed on each one, making it easy for the general public to recognize them.

Let’s take a close look at the company’s finances to better understand its success.

Based on the aforementioned financial data, it is clear that the company’s revenue as well as profit has been increasing in the last 3 years.

Let’s now examine the company’s balance sheet year over year to examine its financial situation.

The company’s current assets have increased while the non-current assets have shown a small increase as compared to current assets.

If we compare that with the data from 2022, however, non-current liabilities have fallen and current liabilities have increased.

Shareholding Pattern

As of December 2023, the company’s promoters own over 61.9% of the company’s shares, while Domestic Institutional Investors hold about 12.3%, Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) account for roughly 13.64%, and the public owns 12.08% of the company’s shares.

SWOT Analysis of Hindustan Unilever

SWOT Analysis of Hindustan Unilever

  • The company’s primary strength is its widespread presence in India, with more than 8 million locations where customers can purchase its product. Its supply chain is excellent, well-managed, and efficient.
  • HUL has a long history, which they can preserve because of the money they currently spend on product development and research.
  • The company’s financial outcomes demonstrate the impact of its excellent performance.
  • A company’s market share might be reduced by any business that focuses on a certain product.
  • Since more and more consumers are turning to herbal items, the corporation may suffer from the lack of any Ayurvedic or natural products in its product line.
  • Due to its extensive product portfolio, HUL may encounter difficulties in effectively managing and allocating resources to it.

Opportunities

  • The country’s population is likely to have more disposable income in the next few years, which will cause the FMCG sector to grow significantly.
  • The business can quickly buy out companies that manufacture goods outside of its current product line, which will aid in product diversification.
  • They can expand their customer base and increase revenue by utilizing e-commerce platforms.
  • The business operates in a highly competitive market, and with the advent of globalization, numerous international brands have established themselves in the country.
  • Their margins may be impacted by regulatory changes made by the Indian government on food packaging ingredients, labeling, etc.
  • A downturn in the nation’s economy may affect consumer buying habits, affecting a company’s profitability.

The organization has achieved global recognition through its strategic planning and marketing approach. The economy’s overall performance determines HUL’s success, as does the population’s disposable income, which increases company profits.

We have tried to clarify every statistic and data about HUL in this case study, covering everything from their financials, history, and shareholding patterns.

However, always consider your risk tolerance and time horizon before making any investing decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where is the headquarters of hindustan unilever located.

The headquarters of Hindustan Unilever is located in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.

What was Hindustan Unilever’s former name?

Hindustan Vanaspati Manufacturing Company was the former name of Hindustan Unilever Ltd.

How many factories of HUL are there in India?

HUL currently has 29 factories nationwide.

How many businesses are part of Hindustan Unilever?

There are more than 50 brands connected with Hindustan Unilever.

What is HUL’s market capitalization ranking in the FMCG sector?

Hindustan Unilever ranked at the top among FMCG companies, having a market capitalization of around 6.05 Lakh Crore INR as of 7 Feb 2024.

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Hindustan Unilever Limited (A): Growing with India

By: Pranav Garg, J Ramachandran

This is a three-part case on India's largest consumer goods company, Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), a subsidiary of Unilever, the Anglo-Dutch multinational company. The case traces HUL's journey…

  • Length: 21 page(s)
  • Publication Date: Feb 1, 2019
  • Discipline: International Business
  • Product #: IMB739-PDF-ENG

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This is a three-part case on India's largest consumer goods company, Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), a subsidiary of Unilever, the Anglo-Dutch multinational company. The case traces HUL's journey from inception till the end of 2018 with an emphasis on the last two decades. The case also documents developments at Unilever during the last two decades. Students analyze HUL's strategy and performance in the context of the changing competitive landscape in India as well as the strategic imperatives of Unilever. The case also helps them examine the impact of the evolving parent-subsidiary relationship on HUL's strategic choices.

Learning Objectives

Assess the strategic and organizational challenges faced by (emerging market) subsidiaries of MNCs.

Examine how a parent company's strategy and evolving relationship with a subsidiary impact the latter's strategy and performance.

Feb 1, 2019

Discipline:

International Business

Geographies:

Indian Institute of Management-Bangalore

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case study of hindustan unilever limited

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Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL)

Article Overview

Introduction

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) is one of India’s wide-ranging consumer goods companies, spreading with two out of three people of Indian with above 20 wonderful categories in personal care products, home as well as meals & beverages. They provide the Company with combined volumes of an estimated four million tones and income of more than Rs. 13,000 crores. The HUL is likewise the U.S.A.’s Major exporting country; through the participation of the Indian authorities, it is recognized as a very famous gold trading center. The Anglo-Dutch company’s junior leverage holds a 52% majority stake in Hindustan Unilever Co. Ltd. In 1888, when the box was picked up during the day, the Lever Brothers started their royal business in India, cleaning soap bars enchase with the phrases like “ Made in England with the aid of Lever Brothers ” had been transferred to the Port of Kolkata and is the beginning of a generation of fast-paced product advertising and marketing of FMCG in HUL which When the Leverage Brothers India was suspended in 1933 and established in 1956, its shape changed to Hindustan Lever restrained with a combination of Lever Brothers, United buyers Ltd and Hindustan Vanaspati Mfg. Co. Ltd. The company is headquartered in Mumbai, India, powers more than 15,000 workers, and indirectly employs more than 52,000 employees. In the months of June 2007, the company changed its name to Hindustan Unilever Co. Ltd. The main motive of carrying out the case research changed into to seriously examine various characteristics of operating of these companies in popular and methods followed for accomplishing strategic pliability . These studies are carried out in stages based on evolution to Pursue strategic agility through the dynamic talents of excellent manufacturing companies. In addition, it examines popular popularity, general performance indicators, and economic indicators, as well as dynamic skill systems. an in-depth evaluation of the research has been completed and their consequences have portrayed the industrial framework concerning the research objective. 

Business Strategy of HUL

HUL’s nutrients strategy specializes in better products, better diets, better lives, and better products. Here Good products have a long history in HUL. They have got a protracted background in contributing definitely to humans’ diets. Their brands which include Knorr and Lipton have supplied healthful and terrific-tasting merchandise for over 100 years. They have got set ambitious vitamins goals which might be embedded into the enterprise and R&D approach. 

Related Article: Deepinder Goyal: Delving into the Business Strategies of Indian Food Delivery King

Nutrition Strategy of HUL

Better merchandise :.

They usually enhance the nutritional nice of our merchandise even as now they can not compromise on taste. The Lipton tea and Brooke Bond Purple Label are delicious, healthy drinks that refresh and moisturize. kids’ fit to be eaten Frozen or Ice Dessert products have strict vitamins standards. They also are gradually reducing the sodium content material of  Kissan ketchup/sauces and Knorr Soups portfolio to get the sodium benchmarks in line with Unilever’s maximum nutrition standards. 

Better Nutrition :

Through their advertising, they inspire more nutritious cuisine. They sell wholesome recipes on the product % and online. They have constantly supported and keep lending our support to mothers in making scrumptious yet wholesome food for his or her youngsters. 

Better Lives :

Their campaigns inspire human beings to undertake more healthy diets and existence, for instance, the Lipton green Tea ‘domestic to domestic, The facts of fats’ marketing campaign . 

Company facilities of HUL

Hindustan Unilever owns 45 foremost units and has over 50 1/3 birthday celebration gadgets in India with quite a number 65 brands crossing 20 awesome classes inclusive of food and healthcare , skincare, soaps, shampoos, detergents and pores, kinds of toothpaste, tea, cosmetics, coffee , water purifiers, and deodorants,  etc. Its principal portfolio consists of main household manufacturers including Lux, Surf Excel, Lifebuoy, Rin, fair & cute, Wheel,  Pond’s, Lakmé, Vaseline, Dove, Sunsilk, hospital Plus, Pepsodent, Closeup, Brooke Bond, Bru, Kissan, Kwality Walls, Knorr, Pureit and awl. The organization has over 16,000 personnel and has an annual turnover of around Rs.21.736 crore (FY 2011-2012). HUL is a subsidiary of Unilever, one of the global’s leading providers of rapid-moving consumer items with sturdy nearby as the company is rooted in more than 100 countries around the world, with annual sales in 2011 of approximately 46.5 billion euros. Unilever owns approximately 52% of HUL. 

Financial Growth of HUL

It is observed that 44% of the organization’s sales come from beauty and personal care , accompanied by using domestic Care (34%). foods & Refreshment contributes 19% and handiest three% comes from others. In terms of working income, beauty and personal care products make a contribution the most (55%), 29% get home care, and 14% and 3% from food and other things. In the skincare phase, employers occupy 54% of the market, making it the market leader. In Dishwashing Detergents, 55% of the marketplace proportion is dominated by using the agency. 47% and 37% is the respective marketplace proportion which agency owns in Shampoo and private Care phase. As of September 20, the company has issued 9.79% of the total income which has shown an increased spike in total sales as of 20th June. Internet profit Margin for the business enterprise is 14.77% in FY20, up from 13.59% in FY2019 contemporary NPM is the best of that inside the remaining 5 financial years and the 3 Yrs. Avg. internet earnings Margin is 14.26%. HUL net earnings Margin In FY20, HUL confirmed a sales increase of 1.2% from the preceding FY. 3-year CAGR is 6.16%, which means that sales growth this year is moderate. A comparable fashion is visible from the internet earnings boom, 1-12 months CAGR is eleven.46% whereas 3-yr CAGR (14.66%) is higher. HUL as a fall, look at sales profit and bottom line. The employer has completely healthy and regular coins that go with the flow from working sports. Outflow in coins waft from financing sports surged in FY20 as the agency paid a better dividend than the preceding 12 months.

The SWOT Analysis of HUL

HUL has a strong logo equity and a huge legacy as it’s miles a very antique and properly-rooted organization with a selection of famous brands and products. The organization has its presence across the duration and breadth of India with over 8 million+ retail stores in which its merchandise is to be had.

HUL runs in a completely competitive environment and there are noticeably hooked up and rising agencies that might be little product-centered and consequently, consume up the market proportion of the organization. HUL presently doesn’t have any ayurvedic or herbal merchandise in their portfolio, that’s a bad element of the business enterprise because the modern populace’s fashion is transferring to natural merchandise and lots of targeted companies are making fine use of it.

Opportunities

With increasing disposable incomes, education, and kids population, the FMCG quarter in rural and semi-urban areas is predicted to develop very rapidly compared to city regions. The agency can use this very well as it already has a brand image and an extensive chain of vendors. The organization can use its healthful cash reserve position and emblem picture legacy to acquire various merchandise to diversify its portfolio.

HUL runs in a rather aggressive surrounding, with 100% FDI allowed via the government of India and new multinational corporations placing their toes, the organization faces an excessive danger from its competitors. The agency is exceptionally dependent on uncooked cloth charges. Inflation can cut back the margins for the business enterprise because it runs in a zone that may be an excessive-quantity, low-margin one. Populace’s shift to natural and healthful products can help a few unorganized and small agencies to grow their marketplace share, which may be a risk to HUL.

Unilever has pursued this advertising and marketing approach since the consumers in developing enterprise sectors are profoundly targeted around value. it could give close-by contenders the brink, besides if an organization can find out a technique to tug in clients with deal costs just as better items. Unilever accepts the reality that productivity improvement should likewise be chargeable for improvement. Unilever’s effective picture advancement program is upheld with a huge degree of showcasing and publicizing physical games which includes a maximum of the media structures. As there are various open doors in the unfamiliar commercial enterprise sectors, yet the inclination of danger is similar to circumstances. The brilliant studies and development (R&D) wing, improved and separate product offerings, and marketplace research are terrific large additives that reason an organization to make the maximum of its latent capacity and extremely good piece of the general enterprise inside the unusual market. To keep up a more fruitful brand an incentive there should be first-rate coordination and incorporation among the emblem chiefs inside the showcasing department.

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Hindustan Unilever Q2 net profit falls to Rs 2,591 crore, misses estimates; Rs 29 per share dividend declared

Hindustan unilever q2 fy25 results update: fmcg giant's july-september net profit fell more than expected to rs 2,591 crore, while revenue beat estimates to grow to 16,145 crore..

HUL Earnings Update

Hindustan Unilever Q2 FY25 results

Hindustan Unilever Ltd's Q2 FY25 consolidated net profit declined 2.4 percent to Rs 2,591 crore from Rs 2,668 crore in the same quarter a year ago, falling more than Street expectations. A Moneycontrol poll of seven brokerages showed that HUL's July-September net profit was expected to fall half a percent to Rs 2,654 crore from a year ago.

The FMCG giant's second quarter consolidated revenue expanded 2.1 percent on-year to Rs 16,145 crore, against the Moneycontrol poll prediction of Rs 15,694 crore.

Hindustan Unilever's Q2 results were expected to be marred by high commodity inflation in certain segments, along with muted demand. Ahead of the results, brokerages expected HUL's margins to shrink due to higher advertisement spends and increased royalty to parent Unilever Ltd.

Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) for the quarter stood at Rs 3,647 crores. The EBITDA margin, at 23.8 percent, continued to remain healthy.

Rohit Jawa, CEO and Managing Director said, "In September quarter, FMCG demand witnessed moderating growth in urban markets while rural continued to recover gradually. In this context, we delivered a competitive and profitable performance. We continued to execute on our strategic priorities of transforming our portfolio whilst generating healthy EBITDA margin and cash flows, providing attractive returns to our shareholders. We remain watchful of gradual recovery in consumer demand while creating a sustained competitive advantage through our business fundamentals: investing behind our aspirational brands, scaling market-making innovations and maintaining operational rigor."

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Home Care reported revenue of Rs 5,737 crore in Q2 and strong volume-led growth momentum continues as it grew eight percent with high-single-digit UVG. Fabric Wash and Household care volumes grew in high-single digit. Liquids portfolio witnessed a strong double-digit volume growth.

The company said in the investor presentation that they continued to strengthen liquids segment with the expansion of Rin liquid and forayed into the floor cleaner market with a superior product under the Vim brand. The market development journey in fabric enhancers was bolstered by the launch of Comfort beads.

Beauty & Wellbeings' revenue stood at Rs 3,323 crore. This segment reported high single digit intrinsic growth led by volume. It grew by seven percent with mid-single digit UVG. Hair Care continued to grow in high-single digit led by outperformance in Sunsilk, Dove and Tresemme. Skin care and Colour cosmetics delivered a mid-single digit growth. Premium Skin portfolio maintained its double-digit growth trajectory.

Personal Care reported a revenue of Rs 2,412 crore and showed sequential improvement in turnover led by the premium portfolio. The segment declined five percent with negative pricing and low-single digit volume decline. Skin cleansing declined primarily on account of pricing actions taken during the year.

Premium portfolio grew ahead of the segment and within that bodywash continued to strengthen its market leadership with high double-digit growth. Oral Care delivered a competitive high-single digit growth led by Closeup.

"There will be price increases in the December quarter in skin cleansing and tea segment amid commodity inflation," said Ritesh Tiwari, Executive Director, Finance and CFO of HUL.

Foods & Refreshment witnessed marginal decline in revenue of Rs 3,803 crore. This segment declined two percent with a low-single-digit volume decline. Tea continued to cement its market leadership through value and volume share gains. Green and Functional tea maintained their strong volume growth however overall category volumes remained subdued.

Coffee grew in double digits. Nutrition drinks continued to gain market shares while consumption remained subdued. Foods grew volumes in low-single digit.

"Ice-cream maintained its volume vis-à-vis last year. Horlicks ₹10 sachet, Diabetes Plus chocolate flavour, Knorr’s Korean Kimchi Soup and Kissan’s 100% Fruit based spread were launched in the quarter," the company said in its investor presentation.

HUL declared a total interim dividend of Rs 29 per equity share, including a regular interim dividend of Rs 19 and special dividend of Rs 10, for the financial year 2024-25. 'The record date for the purpose of determining the entitlement of the shareholders for the interim dividend has been fixed as Wednesday, 6 November, 2024, and dividend will be paid to the shareholders on 21 November, 2024," Hindustan Unilever said in a results filing to stock exchanges.

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