Business1 min read

Old is gold: FMCG cos find a new beat

By · Published by Everything Blog

In short

Legacy players are aggressively stretching household brand names to tap into evolving consumer trends such as health-focused nutrition and advanced hair care. For instance, companies like HUL and ITC are targeting the protein space through supplements and specialized cookies. Marico and Emami are simultaneously moving their well-known care labels into expanded personal care segments. These widespread portfolio shifts correspond with strong quarterly revenue improvements across the participating corporations.

Key points

  • Leading fast-moving consumer goods enterprises are utilizing well-known household names t…: Leading fast-moving consumer goods enterprises are utilizing well-known household names to penetrate higher-growth product categories.
  • Formulations centered on protein have emerged as an important focus area for both nutriti…: Formulations centered on protein have emerged as an important focus area for both nutritional supplements and packaged snacks.
  • Transitioning away from single legacy categories toward diversified personal care and dig…: Transitioning away from single legacy categories toward diversified personal care and digital lines is supporting solid corporate profitability.

Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1

The trend is visible across major FMCG players, including Hindustan Unilever (HUL), Emami, Marico and ITC. Whether it is Horlicks moving into protein powder, BoroPlus entering baby care or Sunfeast offering protein cookies, companies are looking to give established brands a fresh role as consumer preferences shift and new growth opportunities emerge.

HUL, for instance, has entered the protein segment with Horlicks Protein Powder, launched during the September quarter. The company is banking on Horlicks’ long-standing association with nutrition to reach consumers looking to meet their daily protein needs. HUL said the product had seen encouraging early traction and that it saw considerable room to expand in the category.

The launch came during a strong September quarter for HUL. Underlying sales grew 15%, while underlying volume growth stood at 7%. Turnover increased 15% to Rs 18,071 crore. EBITDA rose 8% to Rs 4,089 crore, and profit after tax before exceptional items climbed 9% to Rs 2,795 crore. Reported profit after tax, however, remained flat year-on-year, partly because the corresponding quarter last year had benefited from one-off tax-related gains.

Emami is…

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