Unilever reports satisfaction with ‘solid’ third quarter

Unilever has published its financial report for the third quarter of 2010, during which the company experienced a "solid" level of year-on-year growth.

The health and personal care giant posted a turnover figure of 11.5 billion euros (9.9 billion pounds), up by 13.2 percent compared to Q3 2009, while underlying volume growth stood at 4.8 percent.

Each of its main business units saw an improved quarterly performance, with its personal care division having benefited from new Dove product launches and the success of brands such as Pepsodent.

The company has moved to expand its global reach via the planned takeover of Alberto Culver, with a $3.7 billion (2.3 billion pounds) deal having been agreed upon in September 2010.

It also expects to complete its buyout of Sara Lee's personal care business during the fourth quarter.

Unilever chief executive officer Paul Polman said: "These results confirm again that our strategy to focus on the consumer and to accelerate growth is working."