Unilever highlights underlying growth in 2013

Unilever has announced its financial results for the 2013 full-year period, during which it generated 49.8 billion euros (40.94 billion pounds) in turnover.

Though this was down by three percent year on year due to ongoing economic difficulties and challenging trading conditions, the company was still able to outperform the market as a whole, with underlying sales growth of 4.3 percent.

According to the firm, this reflects the success of its strategy of strong margin accretive innovations and active cost management, with investments made over the last five years positioning it well for long-term growth.

Its personal care division remains its largest source of income, thanks to the ongoing success of brands such as Dove, TRESemme, Clear and Sunsilk.

Paul Polman, chief executive officer of Unilever, said: "Once again, we remain focused on delivering profitable volume growth ahead of our markets, steady and sustainable core operating margin improvement and strong cash flow."

The firm also recently announced the sale of its Soft and Beautiful, TCB and Pro-Line Comb-Thru personal care brands to hair care specialist Strength of Nature as part of ongoing efforts to refine its business focus.