However, Polman’s plan to shift the company’s headquarters from the UK to the Netherlands in an attempt to simplify its structure met with strong objections from investors and the idea was dropped. Now his successor Alan Jope will have the task of dealing with the impacts of Brexit.
Meanwhile, Unilever is said to be in talks with GlaxoSmithKline plc (GSK) to buy its nutrition business, which includes the malted drink brand Horlicks. Horlicks enjoys a strong position in India which gives it significant value.
Unilever ditches London for Rotterdam
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Like several other companies, Unilever is making changes to its portfolio in order to tackle shifts in consumer preferences and heavy competition. The company is focusing on its profitable businesses and offloading its weaker units in order to drive growth. The purchase of Horlicks could strengthen Unilever’s presence in India, which is seen as a lucrative market by many Western companies who are increasing their investments in the country.
Over the past three months, Unilever’s shares have dropped over 5%. As of 12:30 pm ET, the stock was down 0.75%.