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ULVR Unilever Plc

4,603.00
-34.00 (-0.73%)
04 Feb 2025 - Closed
Delayed by 15 minutes
Share Name Share Symbol Market Type Share ISIN Share Description
Unilever Plc LSE:ULVR London Ordinary Share GB00B10RZP78 ORD 3 1/9P
  Price Change % Change Share Price Bid Price Offer Price High Price Low Price Open Price Shares Traded Last Trade
  -34.00 -0.73% 4,603.00 4,610.00 4,611.00 4,632.00 4,593.00 4,627.00 2,542,567 16:35:21
Industry Sector Turnover Profit EPS - Basic PE Ratio Market Cap
Perfume,cosmetic,toilet Prep 59.6B 6.49B 2.6204 17.59 114.79B

Unilever PLC First Half Year Results 2017 (5666L)

20/07/2017 7:00am

UK Regulatory


TIDMULVR TIDM0NXM

RNS Number : 5666L

Unilever PLC

20 July 2017

2017 FIRST HALF YEAR RESULTS

 
 PROFITABLE GROWTH AHEAD OF OUR MARKETS, DRIVEN BY 'CONNECTED 
                       4 GROWTH' ('C4G') 
============================================================= 
 

Performance highlights

 
           Underlying performance                          GAAP measures 
                                    vs 2016                                    vs 2016 
 First Half 
 Underlying sales 
  growth (USG)                         3.0%   Turnover             EUR27.7bn      5.5% 
 USG excluding                                Turnover excluding 
  spreads                              3.4%    spreads             EUR26.2bn      6.0% 
 Underlying operating 
  margin                    17.8%    180bps   Operating margin         17.5%    310bps 
 Underlying earnings                          Earnings per 
  per share               EUR1.13     14.4%    share                 EUR1.09     24.1% 
                                              Net profit            EUR3.3bn     22.4% 
 Second quarter 
 Underlying sales 
  growth                               3.0%   Turnover             EUR14.4bn      4.9% 
 Quarterly dividend payable in September 2017 EUR0.3585 
  per share 
====================================================================================== 
 
   --      Strong progress against the strategic objectives set out for 2020 
   --      Turnover increased 5.5%, including a positive currency impact of 1.7% 
   --      Underlying sales growth 3.0%, ahead of our markets, with price up 3.0% and flat volumes 
   --      Excluding spreads, underlying sales growth of 3.4% with volume up 0.3% 

-- Underlying operating margin up 180bps, reflecting faster savings delivery and phasing of investment

   --      Underlying earnings per share up 14%, constant underlying EPS up 12% 
   --      Net profit increased 22% 
 
 Paul Polman: Chief Executive Officer statement 
----------------------------------------------- 
 

"Our first half results show continued growth well ahead of our markets and a substantial step-up in profitability despite the persisting volatile global trading environment. It once more shows the validity of Unilever's long-term compounding growth model. Our change programme 'Connected 4 Growth' ('C4G'), which started in the autumn of 2016, is delivering ahead of plan.

The transformation of Unilever into a more resilient, more competitive and more profitable business is accelerating. C4G is making our business even more agile, less complex and increasingly responsive to fast-changing consumer trends. The resulting increase in innovation speed and effectiveness will allow us to grow ahead of market. We see this as a proven way of delivering long-term shareholder value. C4G also enables a further step-change in margin expansion and cash flow delivery as we secure efficiencies from the roll-out of our savings programmes and benefit from the investments we have made over the last few years.

The actions we are taking keep us on track for another year of underlying sales growth ahead of our markets, in the

3 - 5% range. We anticipate accelerating growth in the second half of the year driven by the phasing of our innovation plans and a step-up in brand and marketing investment. We now expect an improvement in underlying operating margin this year of at least 100 basis points and strong cash flow."

20 July 2017

Underlying sales growth (USG), underlying volume growth (UVG), underlying price growth (UPG), underlying operating profit (UOP), underlying operating margin (UOM), underlying earnings per share (underlying EPS), constant underlying EPS, underlying effective tax rate, free cash flow (FCF) and net debt are non-GAAP measures (see pages 6 to 9)

 
 FIRST HALF OPERATIONAL REVIEW CATEGORIES 
----------------------------------------- 
 
 
                                 Second Quarter                      First Half 2017 
                                       2017 
                            =========================  =========================================== 
                            Turnover  USG   UVG   UPG  Turnover  USG   UVG    UPG       Change 
                                                                                     in underlying 
                                                                                       operating 
        (unaudited)                                                                     margin 
==========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  ===  =====  =====  ============== 
                             EURbn     %     %     %    EURbn     %     %      %         bps 
==========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  ===  =====  =====  ============== 
 Unilever                       14.4  3.0     -   3.0      27.7  3.0     -     3.0             180 
==========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  ===  =====  =====  ============== 
   Personal Care                 5.3  2.2  (0.3)  2.5      10.5  2.6     -     2.6             240 
   Home Care                     2.7  2.5   0.1   2.4       5.4  3.3   0.8     2.5             110 
==========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  ===  =====  =====  ============== 
   Home Care and Personal 
    Care                         8.0  2.3  (0.1)  2.5      15.9  2.8   0.3     2.6             180 
==========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  ===  =====  =====  ============== 
   Foods                         3.2  1.2  (1.3)  2.5       6.3  0.6  (1.7)    2.4             100 
   Refreshment                   3.2  6.7   1.8   4.8       5.5  6.1   1.2     4.9             230 
==========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  ===  =====  =====  ============== 
   Foods and Refreshment         6.4  3.9   0.2   3.7      11.8  3.1  (0.4)    3.5             160 
==========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  ===  =====  =====  ============== 
 

As part of our strategic review we announced on 6 April 2017 our intention to either sell or demerge our spreads business. The table below provides information on our second quarter 2017 and first half 2017 performance excluding sales related to spreads.

 
                                Second Quarter             First Half 2017 
                                      2017 
                           =========================  ========================= 
       (unaudited)         Turnover  USG   UVG   UPG  Turnover  USG   UVG   UPG 
=========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  ===  =====  === 
                            EURbn     %     %     %    EURbn     %     %     % 
=========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  ===  =====  === 
 Unilever excluding 
  spreads                      13.7  3.3   0.3   3.1      26.2  3.4   0.3   3.1 
=========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  ===  =====  === 
 Foods and Refreshment 
  excluding spreads             5.6  4.8   0.8   3.9      10.4  4.2   0.3   3.9 
=========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  ===  =====  === 
 Foods excluding spreads        2.4  2.3  (0.4)  2.8       4.8  2.0  (0.7)  2.7 
=========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  ===  =====  === 
 

Our markets: Market conditions have remained challenging. In the markets in which we operate volumes were virtually flat in aggregate. The economic crisis in Brazil continued to present a significant headwind. In India, trade stock levels thinned in the second quarter ahead of the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax, while markets in Indonesia were adversely impacted by fewer trading days due to public holidays.

Unilever overall performance: Underlying sales grew 3.0%, ahead of our markets, with growth in all our categories and sub-categories except for spreads. Turnover increased 5.5% to EUR27.7 billion, which included a positive currency impact of 1.7% and 0.8% from acquisitions net of disposals.

Gross margin improved by 40bps to 43.1% driven by margin-accretive innovations and acquisitions as well as our discipline in driving savings programmes. Brand and marketing investment contributed 130bps to margin progression. This reflects: 1) a recalibration of advertising spend in the overall market; 2) strong savings delivery from our zero based budgeting programme; and 3) innovation and support plans which are weighted towards the second half of the year, particularly in Personal Care. For the year as a whole, we expect our brand and marketing investment to be maintained at last year's level in absolute terms. Overheads were reduced by 10bps, driven by a further reduction in the underlying cost base partially offset by investment in new business models including retail-led brands and e-commerce. Underlying operating margin improved by 180bps to 17.8%. Operating margin was 17.5%.

'Connected 4 Growth' ('C4G'): We are making good progress against the objectives we have set out:

The new Country Category Business Teams ('CCBTs') are fully in place and helping to make our innovation pipeline stronger. CCBTs enable us to roll out global innovations faster, and be more agile in responding to local trends.

The savings programmes which are an integral part of C4G are delivering faster than expected, with savings of more than EUR1 billion in the first half year. This puts us well on track towards our savings target of EUR6 billion, and a targeted underlying operating margin of 20% by 2020. The faster delivery seen in the first half of the year enables a step-up in the level of reinvestment behind growth in the remainder of this year and beyond. The holistic '5-S' gross margin improvement programme is being rolled out from Home Care into all categories and realising savings across the supply chain. Zero based budgeting ('ZBB') is improving our productivity in brand and marketing investment as we reduce the cost of advertising production. ZBB is also eliminating waste in those areas where we have over-saturated traditional channels, as well as reducing low-added value costs in overheads. The new organisation is simpler and more agile and we are progressing plans for the integration of Foods and Refreshment into a single business.

At the same time we have been active in managing our portfolio to ensure we have the platforms in place for long-term growth. In the first half year we announced the acquisitions of Hourglass in prestige Personal Care in the United States, the Quala home and personal care brands in Latin America, and a joint venture with Europe & Asia Commercial Company Ltd to build our operations in Myanmar.

USG, UVG, UPG, UOP, UOM, underlying EPS, constant underlying EPS, underlying effective tax rate, FCF and net debt are non-GAAP measures (see pages 6 to 9)

The preparation for the exit from spreads via a sale or de-merger is well underway. The review of the dual-headed legal structure is also progressing well and we expect the Board to decide the outcome before the end of the year.

In the first half of the year we have bought back shares to the value of EUR1.4 billion, putting us on track to complete the announced EUR5 billion programme by the end of the year.

Personal Care

Personal Care continued to grow the core while expanding in high-growth segments and building in premium positions. Challenging market conditions in some of the key markets, such as India, Brazil and Indonesia weighed on the overall growth rate. Oral care performed well, supported by innovations in premium segments such as the new Signal Enamel Repair and Signal White Now Care Correction range with blue light technology in France. In skin, Baby Dove has now been introduced to 19 markets, while the new Lifebuoy with Activ Silver formula for enhanced germ-protection was rolled out across Asia. In Indonesia we are launching Hijab Fresh, a new brand, that provides a solution to the specific needs of the Muslim population. Continued growth in deodorants was driven by new variants of dry sprays in North America and Dove antiperspirants with an improved, particularly skin-friendly formulation that have been rolled out to 65 countries. In hair, growth was driven by Sunsilk, helped by the expansion into natural propositions that has driven increased penetration among millennials. Dermalogica performed well and our recent acquisitions Dollar Shave Club and Living Proof, which will contribute to underlying sales growth from next quarter and next year respectively, continued to grow strongly.

Underlying operating margin was up 240bps reflecting both brand and marketing efficiencies from zero based budgeting and the phasing of brand and marketing investment.

Home Care

Home Care delivered good growth despite a strong comparator, enabled by continued market development and benefit-led innovations that address emerging needs, including the growing trend towards natural products. In laundry, growth was driven by strong performances of the fabric conditioner Comfort in our Asian markets and the value brand Brilhante in Latin America. The roll-out of Surf into Central and Eastern Europe continued to perform well, while in the United Kingdom Persil Powergems, the laundry detergent with 100% active ingredients delivering superior stain-removal as well as care and intense freshness, were introduced. In household care, Domestos grew strongly helped by the successful roll-out of toilet blocks, which have reached 25 countries, and by Cif's premium sprays with improved formulation now in more than 20 countries. The air purification brand Blue Air grew strongly in China, while Seventh Generation with its naturals proposition, was introduced to the United Kingdom.

Underlying operating margin improved by 110bps driven by higher gross margin and brand and marketing efficiencies.

Foods

Foods continued to modernise the portfolio while building its presence in emerging markets and sustaining a strong performance in the food service channels. However the overall growth was adversely affected by declines of some of our non-core brands in Europe. Knorr, our largest brand, performed well by responding to key needs such as nutrition deficiency or time-saving cooking products. The successful Knorr Mealmakers with 100% natural ingredients have now been extended into 100% natural seasonings. In dressings, Hellmann's relaunched the brand with strengthened naturalness claims while the organic variants have been rolled out from North America into Europe. In spreads, the new margarines with specialty oils and the roll-out of the dairy-free variants are performing well. The rate of decline in spreads has slowed to 3.7% as sales growth in emerging markets partially offset the continued market contraction in developed countries.

Underlying operating margin was up 100bps mainly due to brand and marketing efficiencies.

Refreshment

Ice cream delivered strong growth driven by margin-accretive innovations behind our premium brands, such as Ben & Jerry's pint range 'Topped', that takes ice cream indulgence to a new level, and the 'Wich sandwich. Magnum grew at double-digit rates, helped by the new Magnum pints that deliver the ultimate chocolate and ice cream experience in a tub, as well as the coconut and raspberry variants. We have extended our less than 50 calories offering under Solero and launched vegan and gluten-free variants under Cornetto. Leaf tea showed good growth as we are increasingly seeing the benefits of our innovations in specialty and premium tea segments. Lipton was launched in Brazil and Argentina, and is successfully extending its presence in the faster-growing green and matcha segments, while T2 continued to show strong growth.

Underlying operating margin was up 230bps primarily driven by higher gross margins in both ice cream and tea, reflecting the premiumisation of the portfolio and savings delivery.

USG, UVG, UPG, UOP, UOM, underlying EPS, constant underlying EPS, underlying effective tax rate, FCF and net debt are non-GAAP measures (see pages 6 to 9)

 
 FIRST HALF OPERATIONAL REVIEW GEOGRAPHICAL AREA 
------------------------------------------------ 
 
 
                                 Second Quarter                        First Half 2017 
                                       2017 
                            =========================  =============================================== 
                            Turnover  USG   UVG   UPG  Turnover   USG    UVG     UPG        Change 
                                                                                         in underlying 
                                                                                           operating 
              (unaudited)                                                                   margin 
==========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  =====  =====  =======  ============== 
                             EURbn     %     %     %    EURbn      %      %       %          bps 
==========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  =====  =====  =======  ============== 
  Unilever                      14.4  3.0     -   3.0      27.7   3.0      -      3.0              180 
==========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  =====  =====  =======  ============== 
  Asia/AMET/RUB                  6.2  4.3  (0.6)  4.9      12.1   5.5    0.8      4.8              260 
  The Americas                   4.7  3.7   0.9   2.8       9.0   2.5   (0.6)     3.1              180 
  Europe                         3.5  0.3   0.1   0.1       6.6  (0.8)  (0.6)    (0.1)              20 
==========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  =====  =====  =======  ============== 
 
 
                               Second Quarter               First Half 2017 
                                     2017 
                          =========================  ============================= 
            (unaudited)   Turnover  USG   UVG   UPG  Turnover   USG    UVG     UPG 
========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  =====  =====  ===== 
                           EURbn     %     %     %    EURbn      %      %       % 
========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  =====  =====  ===== 
  Developed markets            6.1  0.7   0.2   0.4    11.5    (0.4)  (0.4)    0.1 
  Emerging markets             8.3  4.8  (0.1)  5.0    16.2     5.5    0.3     5.1 
========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  =====  =====  ===== 
  North America                2.5  1.4   0.6   0.9    4.8      0.3   (0.2)    0.5 
  Latin America                2.2  6.3   1.2   5.1    4.2      5.0   (1.0)    6.0 
========================  ========  ===  =====  ===  ========  =====  =====  ===== 
 

The table below provides information on our second quarter 2017 and first half 2017 performance excluding sales related to spreads.

 
                                 Second Quarter            First Half 2017 
                                       2017 
                             =======================  ========================= 
            (unaudited)      Turnover  USG  UVG  UPG  Turnover  USG  UVG   UPG 
===========================  ========  ===  ===  ===  ========  ===  ===  ===== 
                              EURbn     %    %    %    EURbn     %    %     % 
===========================  ========  ===  ===  ===  ========  ===  ===  ===== 
  Developed markets 
   excluding spreads              5.6  1.2  0.8  0.5      10.5  0.3  0.2   0.1 
===========================  ========  ===  ===  ===  ========  ===  ===  ===== 
  Europe excluding spreads        3.2  1.0  0.9  0.1       5.8  0.1  0.2  (0.1) 
===========================  ========  ===  ===  ===  ========  ===  ===  ===== 
  North America excluding 
   spreads                        2.4  1.8  0.8  0.9       4.5  0.9  0.3   0.6 
===========================  ========  ===  ===  ===  ========  ===  ===  ===== 
 

Asia/AMET/RUB

Underlying sales growth was 5.5% in the first half as pricing has increased in Asia in response to rising commodity costs. Volumes in the second quarter were adversely affected by some trade destocking ahead of the Goods and Services Tax implementaton in India and by fewer trading days in Indonesia. China demonstrated a good first half performance, driven by rapid e-commerce sales and modest growth in other channels, while Australia returned to volume-led growth.

Underlying operating margin was up 260bps driven by increased gross margin and brand and marketing efficiencies.

The Americas

Latin America grew underlying sales by 5.0% with volumes returning to growth in the second quarter. Mexico demonstrated strong volume-driven growth and Argentina delivered positive volume growth. Sales continued to decline in our largest market, Brazil, as consumers and retailers reacted to the impact of the harsh economic environment.

Underlying sales improved in North America driven by a strong delivery of our innovations in deodorants, hair care and skin cleansing which helped offset continued soft market conditions. Sales in spreads were lower due to continued market declines in the first half.

Underlying operating margin improved by 180bps reflecting higher gross margin in North America as well as ZBB savings and phasing of brand and marketing investment.

Europe

In Europe consumer demand remained weak and the retail environment challenging. Refreshment delivered strong volume-driven growth, while the competitive intensity remained particularly high in Home Care. The margarine market contraction continued to weigh on the overall growth, particularly in the United Kingdom and Germany. We saw strong momentum in Central and Eastern Europe and Spain, following on from good growth in prior years.

Underlying operating margin was up 20bps primarily due to brand and marketing efficiencies.

USG, UVG, UPG, UOP, UOM, underlying EPS, constant underlying EPS, underlying effective tax rate, FCF and net debt are non-GAAP measures (see pages 6 to 9)

ADDITIONAL COMMENTARY ON THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - FIRST HALF 2017

Finance costs and tax

Net finance costs increased by EUR6 million to EUR290 million in the first half of 2017. This included a slightly higher cost of financing net borrowings at EUR241 million, which was driven by the increase in net debt while the average interest rate on net debt was 3.1% versus 3.3% in 2016. Pensions financing was a charge of EUR49 million compared to EUR47 million in the prior year.

The effective tax rate was 28.9% versus 26.0% in the same period last year. The change was mainly driven by the tax impact of the AdeS disposal in 2017 and favourable tax audit settlements in 2016. The effective tax rate on underlying profit was 27.9% compared to 26.2% in the prior year which included favourable tax audit settlements.

Joint ventures, associates and other income from non-current investments

Net profit from joint ventures and associates contributed EUR75 million compared with EUR72 million in the first half of 2016 mainly due to growth in profits from the Pepsi Lipton joint venture. Other income from non-current investments was zero versus EUR61 million in the prior year which included a gain of EUR68 million from the revaluation of a financial asset.

Earnings per share

Underlying earnings per share in the first half increased by 14.4% to EUR1.13, including a positive currency impact of 2.6%. Constant underlying earnings per share increased by 11.8% primarily driven by underlying sales growth and improved underlying operating margin, and partially offset by a higher tax rate. These underlying measures exclude the post-tax impact of business disposals, acquisition and disposal-related costs, restructuring costs, impairments, one-off items within operating profit and any other significant unusual items within net profit but not operating profit.

Diluted earnings per share for the first half was up 24.1% at EUR1.09. We recorded a gain on disposal of EUR0.3 billion for the AdeS soy beverage business in Latin America.

Free cash flow

Free cash flow in the first half of 2017, which included the usual seasonal increase in inventory and receivables, improved by EUR0.6 billion to EUR1.4 billion despite a one-off injection of EUR0.6 billion to our pension funds. The step-up was primarily driven by the higher underlying operating profit and further improvements in both working capital and net capital expenditure.

Net debt

Closing net debt was EUR13.8 billion compared with EUR12.6 billion as at 31 December 2016, mainly reflecting the share buy-backs of EUR1.4 billion we have undertaken so far in May and June 2017. Total financial liabilities amounted to EUR19.6 billion compared to EUR16.6 billion at the year-end. Cash and other current financial assets increased by EUR1.8 billion to EUR5.8 billion compared to 31 December 2016.

Pensions

The pension liability net of assets reduced to EUR1.6 billion at the end of June 2017 versus EUR3.2 billion as at 31 December 2016. The decrease in the net pension liability was driven by strong investment returns and cash contributions that included a one-off cash injection of EUR0.6 billion.

Finance and liquidity

On 30 January 2017, we announced the issuance of GBP350 million 1.125% fixed rate notes due February 2022. On 9 February 2017, we issued EUR1.2 billion in bonds, equally split between 0.375% fixed rate notes due February 2023 and 1.0% fixed rate notes due February 2027. On 2 May 2017, we issued a quadruple-tranche $3.15 billion bond, comprising of $800 million 1.8% fixed rate notes due May 2020, $850 million 2.2% fixed rate notes due May 2022, $500 million 2.6% fixed rate notes due May 2024 and $1 billion 2.9% fixed rate notes due May 2027.

The following bonds matured and were repaid: (i) February 2017 Renminbi 300 million 2.95% fixed rates notes and (ii) June 2017 GBP400 million 4.75% bonds.

Reporting of spreads business

Our spreads business is not reported as a discontinued operation or held for sale as it does not meet the relevant accounting criteria at 30 June 2017.

USG, UVG, UPG, UOP, UOM, underlying EPS, constant underlying EPS, underlying effective tax rate, FCF and net debt are non-GAAP measures (see pages 6 to 9)

CHANGES TO THE LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN TARGETS

Following the 6 April 2017 announcement of our plans to accelerate sustainable shareholder value creation and the introduction of new performance metrics, the targets of the long-term incentive plans have been adjusted. Further information can be found at www.unilever.com/Images/compensation-committee-statement-alignment-performance-measures-for-incentives-2017_tcm244-508726_en.pdf .

COMPETITION INVESTIGATIONS

As previously disclosed, along with other consumer products companies and retail customers, Unilever is involved in a number of ongoing investigations by national competition authorities, including those within Italy and South Africa. These proceedings and investigations are at various stages and concern a variety of product markets. Where appropriate, provisions are made and contingent liabilities disclosed in relation to such matters.

Ongoing compliance with competition laws is of key importance to Unilever. It is Unilever's policy to co-operate fully with competition authorities whenever questions or issues arise. In addition the Group continues to reinforce and enhance its internal competition law training and compliance programme on an ongoing basis.

BRAZIL TAX LITIGATION

In common with many other businesses operating in Brazil, Unilever has a number of open legal proceedings related to indirect taxes. In Q4 2016, we noted that there had been an adverse court judgment in respect of a Brazilian PIS and COFINS indirect tax case, which we had included in our contingent liabilities, and that we were likely to make a judicial deposit equating to the potential amount owing during 2017. In Q1 2017, the Brazilian Supreme Court ruled in favour of the taxpayer in the leading case on this matter and we now expect this ruling to be applied to our case. As a result, we have not made a judicial deposit. Since this matter was considered to be a contingent liability, there is no impact on profit as a result of this development.

NON-GAAP MEASURES

Certain discussions and analyses set out in this announcement include measures which are not defined by generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) such as IFRS. We believe this information, along with comparable GAAP measurements, is useful to investors because it provides a basis for measuring our operating performance, ability to retire debt and invest in new business opportunities. Our management uses these financial measures, along with the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures, in evaluating our operating performance and value creation. Non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered in isolation from, or as a substitute for, financial information presented in compliance with GAAP. Wherever appropriate and practical, we provide reconciliations to relevant GAAP measures.

Unilever uses 'constant rate', and 'underlying' measures primarily for internal performance analysis and targeting purposes. We present certain items, percentages and movements, using constant exchange rates, which exclude the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. We calculate constant currency values by translating both the current and the prior period local currency amounts using the prior period average exchange rates into euro.

The table below shows exchange rate movements in our key markets.

 
                                  First half  First half 
                                    average     average 
                                    rate in     rate in 
                                     2017        2016 
================================  ==========  ========== 
 Brazilian Real (EUR1 = BRL)           3.429       4.203 
 Chinese Yuan (EUR1 = CNY)             7.433       7.295 
 Indian Rupee (EUR1 = INR)            71.111      75.011 
 Indonesia Rupiah (EUR1 = IDR)         14409       14990 
 UK Pound Sterling (EUR1 = GBP)        0.860       0.778 
 US Dollar (EUR1 = US $)               1.081       1.116 
================================  ==========  ========== 
 

Underlying sales growth (USG)

Underlying Sales Growth or "USG" refers to the increase in turnover for the period, excluding any change in turnover resulting from acquisitions, disposals and changes in currency. The impact of acquisitions and disposals is excluded from USG for a period of 12 calendar months from the applicable closing date. Turnover from acquired brands that are launched in countries where they were not previously sold is included in USG as such turnover is more attributable to our existing sales and distribution network than the acquisition itself. We believe this measure provides valuable additional information on the underlying sales performance of the business and is a key measure used internally. The reconciliation of changes in the GAAP measure turnover to USG is provided in notes 3 and 4.

Underlying volume growth (UVG)

Underlying Volume Growth or "UVG" is part of USG and means, for the applicable period, the increase in turnover in such period calculated as the sum of (1) the increase in turnover attributable to the volume of products sold; and (2) the increase in turnover attributable to the composition of products sold during such period. UVG therefore excludes any impact to USG due to changes in prices. The measures and the related turnover GAAP measure are set out in notes 3 and 4.

Underlying price growth (UPG)

Underlying price growth or "UPG" is part of USG, and means, for the applicable period, the increase in turnover attributable to changes in prices during the period. UPG therefore excludes the impact to USG due to (1) the volume of products sold; and (2) the composition of products sold during the period. The measures and the related turnover GAAP measure are set out in notes 3 and 4.

Free cash flow (FCF)

Within the Unilever Group, free cash flow (FCF) is defined as cash flow from operating activities, less income taxes paid, net capital expenditures and net interest payments and preference dividends paid. It does not represent residual cash flows entirely available for discretionary purposes; for example, the repayment of principal amounts borrowed is not deducted from FCF. Free cash flow reflects an additional way of viewing our liquidity that we believe is useful to investors because it represents cash flows that could be used for distribution of dividends, repayment of debt or to fund our strategic initiatives, including acquisitions, if any.

The reconciliation of net profit to FCF is as follows:

 
 EUR million                                           First Half 
                                                    ================ 
 (unaudited)                                         2017     2016 
==================================================  =======  ======= 
 Net profit                                           3,317    2,710 
 Taxation                                             1,315      928 
 Share of net profit of joint ventures/associates 
  and other income 
   from non-current investments                        (75)    (133) 
 Net finance costs                                      290      284 
                                                    =======  ======= 
 Operating profit                                     4,847    3,789 
                                                    =======  ======= 
 Depreciation, amortisation and impairment              763      681 
 Changes in working capital                         (1,436)  (1,554) 
 Pensions and similar obligations less 
  payments                                            (794)    (223) 
 Provisions less payments                                68       32 
 Elimination of (profits)/losses on 
  disposals                                           (299)      117 
 Non-cash charge for share-based compensation           158      105 
 Other adjustments                                        -        8 
                                                    =======  ======= 
 Cash flow from operating activities                  3,307    2,955 
                                                    =======  ======= 
 Income tax paid                                    (1,122)  (1,136) 
 Net capital expenditure                              (672)    (759) 
 Net interest and preference dividends 
  paid                                                (148)    (235) 
==================================================  =======  ======= 
 Free cash flow                                       1,365      825 
==================================================  =======  ======= 
 Total net cash flow (used in)/from 
  investing activities                                (460)    (644) 
 Total net cash flow (used in)/from 
  financing activities                                  138    (518) 
==================================================  =======  ======= 
 

Underlying operating profit (UOP), underlying operating margin (UOM) and non-underlying items

Underlying operating profit and underlying operating margin mean operating profit and operating margin before the impact of business disposals, acquisition and disposal related costs, restructuring costs, impairments and other one-off items, which we collectively term non-underlying items, due to their nature and/or frequency of occurrence. Underlying operating profit represents our measure of segment profit or loss as it is the primary measure used for making decisions about allocating resources and assessing performance of the segments. The reconciliation of operating profit to underlying operating profit is as follows:

 
   EUR million                           First Half 
                                       ============== 
   (unaudited)                          2017    2016 
=====================================  ======  ====== 
   Operating profit                     4,847   3,789 
   Non-underlying items (see note 2)       79     418 
=====================================  ======  ====== 
   Underlying operating profit          4,926   4,207 
=====================================  ======  ====== 
   Turnover                            27,725  26,283 
   Operating margin (%)                  17.5    14.4 
   Underlying operating margin (%)       17.8    16.0 
=====================================  ======  ====== 
 

Underlying EPS

Underlying earnings per share (underlying EPS) is calculated as underlying profit attributable to shareholders' equity divided by the diluted combined average number of share units. In calculating underlying profit attributable to shareholders' equity, net profit attributable to shareholders' equity is adjusted to eliminate the post-tax impact of non-underlying items in operating profit and any other significant unusual items within net profit but not operating profit. This measure reflects the underlying earnings for each share unit of the Group. Refer to note 2 on page 16 for reconciliation of underlying profit to net profit attributable to shareholders' equity.

Underlying effective tax rate

Underlying effective tax rate is calculated by dividing taxation excluding the tax impact of non-underlying items in operating profit and any other significant unusual items by profit before tax excluding non-underlying items in operating profit, other significant unusual items and share of net profit/(loss) of joint ventures and associates. This measure reflects the underlying tax rate in relation to profit before tax, non-underlying items, other significant unusual items within net profit but not operating profit and share of net profit/(loss) of joint ventures and associates. Tax impact on non-underlying items is calculated as the sum of each non-underlying item multiplied by the corporate tax rate of the respective jurisdictions in which tax on that item is payable.

The reconciliation of taxation to taxation before non-underlying items and other significant unusual items is as follows:

 
   EUR million                                  First Half 
                                             ================ 
   (unaudited)                                2017     2016 
===========================================  =======  ======= 
   Taxation                                    1,315      928 
   Tax impact of non-underlying items           (21)      114 
===========================================  =======  ======= 
   Taxation before non-underlying items 
    and other significant unusual items        1,294    1,042 
===========================================  =======  ======= 
   Profit before taxation                      4,632    3,638 
   Non-underlying items before tax                79      418 
   Share of net profit /loss of joint 
    ventures and associates                     (75)     (72) 
===========================================  =======  ======= 
   Profit before tax, non-underlying 
    items, other significant unusual items 
    and joint ventures and associates          4,636    3,984 
===========================================  =======  ======= 
   Underlying effective tax rate               27.9%    26.2% 
===========================================  =======  ======= 
 

Constant underlying EPS

Constant underlying earnings per share (constant underlying EPS) is calculated as underlying profit attributable to shareholders' equity at constant exchange rates and excluding the impact of translational hedges divided by the diluted combined average number of share units. This measure reflects the underlying earnings for each share unit of the Group in constant exchange rates.

The reconciliation of underlying profit attributable to shareholders' equity to constant underlying earnings attributable to shareholders' equity and the calculation of constant underlying EPS is as follows:

 
   EUR million                                    First Half 
                                               ================= 
   (unaudited)                                   2017     2016 
=============================================  ========  ======= 
   Underlying profit attributable to 
    shareholders' equity (see note 2)             3,206    2,812 
   Impact of translation of earnings 
    between constant and current exchange 
    rates and translational hedges                 (41)      156 
---------------------------------------------  --------  ------- 
   Constant underlying earnings attributable 
    to shareholders' equity                       3,165    2,968 
=============================================  ========  ======= 
   Diluted combined average number of 
    share units (millions of units)             2,845.7  2,853.5 
=============================================  ========  ======= 
   Constant underlying EPS (EUR)                   1.11     1.04 
=============================================  ========  ======= 
 

In calculating the movement in constant underlying EPS, the constant underlying EPS for 2017 is compared to the underlying EPS for 2016 as adjusted for the impact of translational hedges, which was EUR1.00.

Net debt

Net debt is defined as the excess of total financial liabilities, excluding trade payables and other current liabilities, over cash, cash equivalents and other current financial assets, excluding trade and other current receivables. It is a measure that provides valuable additional information on the summary presentation of the Group's net financial liabilities and is a measure in common use elsewhere.

The reconciliation of total financial liabilities to net debt is as follows:

 
   EUR million                            As at       As at      As at 
   (unaudited)                           30 June   31 December  30 June 
======================================= 
                                           2017       2016        2016 
=======================================  ========  ===========  ======== 
 Total financial liabilities             (19,633)     (16,595)  (16,371) 
     Current financial liabilities        (5,081)      (5,450)   (5,759) 
     Non-current financial liabilities   (14,552)     (11,145)  (10,612) 
 Cash and cash equivalents as per 
  balance sheet                             5,016        3,382     3,119 
     Cash and cash equivalents as 
      per cash flow statement               4,860        3,198     2,937 
     Add bank overdrafts deducted 
      therein                                 156          184       182 
 Other current financial assets               825          599       678 
=======================================  ========  ===========  ======== 
 Net debt                                (13,792)     (12,614)  (12,574) 
=======================================  ========  ===========  ======== 
 

PRINCIPAL RISK FACTORS

On pages 37 to 41 of our 2016 Report and Accounts we set out our assessment of the principal risk issues that would face the business through 2017 under the headings: brand preference; portfolio management; sustainability; climate change; customer relationships; talent & organisation; supply chain; safe and high quality products; systems and information; business transformation; economic and political instability; treasury and pensions; ethical; and legal and regulatory. In our view, the nature and potential impact of such risks remain essentially unchanged as regards our performance over the second half of 2017.

OTHER INFORMATION

This document represents Unilever's half-yearly report for the purposes of the Disclosure and Transparency Rules (DTR) issued by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (DTR 4.2) and the Dutch Act on Financial Supervision, section 5:25d (8)/(9) (Half-yearly financial reports). In this context: (i) the condensed set of financial statements can be found on pages 11 to 21; (ii) pages 2 to 10 comprise the interim management report; and (iii) the Directors' responsibility statement can be found on page 22. No material related parties transactions have taken place in the first six months of the year.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT

This announcement may contain forward-looking statements, including 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements related to underlying sales growth and underlying operating margin. Words such as 'will', 'aim', 'expects', 'anticipates', 'intends', 'looks', 'believes', 'vision', or the negative of these terms and other similar expressions of future performance or results, and their negatives, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon current expectations and assumptions regarding anticipated developments and other factors affecting the Unilever Group (the "Group"). They are not historical facts, nor are they guarantees of future performance.

Because these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, there are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Among other risks and uncertainties, the material or principal factors which could cause actual results to differ materially are: Unilever's global brands not meeting consumer preferences; Unilever's ability to innovate and remain competitive; Unilever's investment choices in its portfolio management; inability to find sustainable solutions to support long-term growth; customer relationships; the recruitment and retention of talented employees; disruptions in our supply chain; the cost of raw materials and commodities; the production of safe and high quality products; secure and reliable IT infrastructure; successful execution of acquisitions, divestitures and business transformation projects; economic and political risks and natural disasters; the effect of climate change on Unilever's business; financial risks; failure to meet high and ethical standards; and managing regulatory, tax and legal matters. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this announcement. Except as required by any applicable law or regulation, the Group expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Group's expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based. Further details of potential risks and uncertainties affecting the Group are described in the Group's filings with the London Stock Exchange, Euronext Amsterdam and the US Securities and Exchange Commission, including in the Annual Report on Form 20-F 2016 and the Unilever Annual Report and Accounts 2016.

ENQUIRIES

 
 Media: Media Relations Team                        Investors: Investor Relations 
                                                     Team 
       +44 79 1727                                  +44 20 7822 
 UK     1819         treeva.fenwick@unilever.com     6830         investor.relations@unilever.com 
 or    +44 78 2504   louise.phillips@unilever.com 
        9151 
 NL    +31 10 217    els-de.bruin@unilever.com 
        4844 
 or    +32 494       freek.bracke@unilever.com 
        60 4906 
 

There will be a web cast of the results presentation available at:

www.unilever.com/investor-relations/results-and-publications/latest-results/

INCOME STATEMENT

(unaudited)

 
 EUR million                                      First Half 
                                     ==================================== 
                                       2017    2016        Increase/ 
                                                           (Decrease) 
===================================  =======  ======  =================== 
                                                       Current   Constant 
                                                        rates      Rates 
===================================  =======  ======  ========  ========= 
 Turnover                             27,725  26,283      5.5%       3.8% 
 
 Operating profit                      4,847   3,789     27.9%      24.7% 
 
  After (charging)/crediting 
   non-underlying items                 (79)   (418) 
 
 Net finance costs                     (290)   (284) 
 Finance income                           90      66 
 Finance costs                         (331)   (303) 
 Pensions and similar obligations       (49)    (47) 
 
 Share of net profit/(loss) 
  of joint ventures and associates        75      72 
 Other income/(loss) from 
  non-current investments 
  and associates                           -      61 
 
 Profit before taxation                4,632   3,638     27.3%      24.2% 
 
 Taxation                            (1,315)   (928) 
 
 Net profit                            3,317   2,710     22.4%      18.3% 
 
 Attributable to: 
===================================  =======  ======  ========  ========= 
   Non-controlling interests             207     198 
   Shareholders' equity                3,110   2,512     23.8%      19.6% 
===================================  =======  ======  ========  ========= 
 
 
 Combined earnings per share 
=============================  ========================== 
 Basic earnings per share 
  (euros)                      1.10  0.88   24.1%   19.9% 
 Diluted earnings per share 
  (euros)                      1.09  0.88   24.1%   19.9% 
=============================  ====  ====  ======  ====== 
 

STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(unaudited)

 
 EUR million                                      First Half 
                                                ============== 
                                                 2017    2016 
==============================================  =====  ======= 
 Net profit                                     3,317    2,710 
 
 Other comprehensive income 
 Items that will not be reclassified to 
  profit or loss: 
    Remeasurements of defined benefit pension 
     plans net of tax                             641  (1,356) 
 
  Items that may be reclassified subsequently 
   to profit or loss: 
    Currency retranslation gains/(losses) 
     net of tax                                 (694)    (140) 
     Fair value gains/(losses) on financial 
      instruments net of tax                       51     (18) 
 
 Total comprehensive income                     3,315    1,196 
==============================================  =====  ======= 
 Attributable to: 
     Non-controlling interests                    170      177 
     Shareholders' equity                       3,145    1,019 
==============================================  =====  ======= 
 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

(unaudited)

 
 EUR million                       Called     Share       Other     Retained   Total        Non-        Total 
                                     up      premium     reserves    profit              controlling    equity 
                                   share     account                                      interest 
                                  capital 
===============================  =========  =========  ==========  =========  =======  =============  ======== 
 First half - 2017 
                                 =========  =========  ==========  =========  =======  =============  ======== 
 1 January 2017                        484        134     (7,443)     23,179   16,354            626    16,980 
                                 =========  =========  ==========  =========  =======  =============  ======== 
 Profit or loss for 
  the period                             -          -           -      3,110    3,110            207     3,317 
 Other comprehensive 
  income net of tax: 
     Fair value gains/(losses) 
     on financial instruments            -          -          52          -       52            (1)        51 
     Remeasurements of 
      defined benefit 
      pension plans net 
      of tax                             -          -           -        641      641              -       641 
     Currency retranslation 
      gains/(losses)                     -          -       (633)       (25)    (658)           (36)     (694) 
                                 =========  =========  ==========  =========  =======  =============  ======== 
 Total comprehensive 
  income                                 -          -       (581)      3,726    3,145            170     3,315 
 Dividends on ordinary 
  capital                                                            (1,925)  (1,925)              -   (1,925) 
 Repurchase of shares(a)                 -          -     (1,368)          -  (1,368)              -   (1,368) 
 Movements in treasury 
  stock(b)                               -          -        (54)      (146)    (200)              -     (200) 
 Share-based payment 
  credit(c)                              -          -           -        158      158              -       158 
 Dividends paid to 
  non-controlling 
  interests                              -          -           -          -        -          (184)     (184) 
 Currency retranslation 
  gains/(losses) net 
  of tax                                 -        (3)           -          -      (3)              -       (3) 
 Other movements 
  in equity                              -          -          31         11       42              3        45 
===============================  =========  =========  ==========  =========  =======  =============  ======== 
 30 June 2017                          484        131     (9,415)     25,003   16,203            615    16,818 
===============================  =========  =========  ==========  =========  =======  =============  ======== 
 
 First half - 2016 
                                 =========  =========  ==========  =========  =======  =============  ======== 
 1 January 2016                        484        152     (7,816)     22,619   15,439            643    16,082 
                                 =========  =========  ==========  =========  =======  =============  ======== 
 Profit or loss for 
  the period                             -          -           -      2,512    2,512            198     2,710 
 Other comprehensive 
  income net of tax: 
     Fair value gains/(losses) 
     on financial instruments            -          -        (18)          -     (18)              -      (18) 
     Remeasurements of 
      defined benefit 
      pension plans net 
      of tax                             -          -           -    (1,356)  (1,356)              -   (1,356) 
     Currency retranslation 
      gains/(losses)                     -          -       (141)         22    (119)           (21)     (140) 
                                 =========  =========  ==========  =========  =======  =============  ======== 
 Total comprehensive 
  income                                 -          -       (159)      1,178    1,019            177     1,196 
 Dividends on ordinary 
  capital                                -          -           -    (1,775)  (1,775)              -   (1,775) 
 Movements in treasury 
  stock(b)                               -          -        (73)      (182)    (255)            (4)     (259) 
 Share-based payment 
  credit(c)                              -          -           -        105      105            (1)       104 
 Dividends paid to 
  non-controlling 
  interests                              -          -           -          -        -          (195)     (195) 
 Currency retranslation 
  gains/(losses) net 
  of tax                                 -       (14)           -          -     (14)              -      (14) 
 Other movements 
  in equity                              -          -        (16)       (19)     (35)              2      (33) 
===============================  =========  =========  ==========  =========  =======  =============  ======== 
 30 June 2016                          484        138     (8,064)     21,926   14,484            622    15,106 
===============================  =========  =========  ==========  =========  =======  =============  ======== 
 
 

(a) Repurchase of shares reflects the cost of acquiring ordinary shares as part of the share buyback programme announced on 6 April 2017. At 30 June 2017 these shares have not been cancelled and are recognised as treasury shares (see note 8).

(b) Includes purchases and sales of treasury stock, and transfer from treasury stock to retained profit of share-settled schemes arising from prior years and differences between exercise and grant price of share options.

(c) The share-based payment credit relates to the non-cash charge recorded against operating profit in respect of the fair value of share options and awards granted to employees.

BALANCE SHEET

(unaudited)

 
 EUR million                             As at        As at        As at 
                                         30 June    31 December    30 June 
                                          2017         2016         2016 
                                       =========  =============  ========= 
 
 Non-current assets 
 Goodwill                                 16,974         17,624     15,977 
 Intangible assets                         9,481          9,809      8,531 
 Property, plant and equipment            11,063         11,673     11,048 
 Pension asset for funded schemes 
  in surplus                               1,334            694        408 
 Deferred tax assets                       1,255          1,354      1,458 
 Financial assets                            685            673        602 
 Other non-current assets                    615            718        898 
                                          41,407         42,545     38,922 
                                       =========  =============  ========= 
 Current assets 
 Inventories                               4,162          4,278      4,649 
 Trade and other current receivables       6,215          5,102      6,291 
 Current tax assets                          328            317        319 
 Cash and cash equivalents                 5,016          3,382      3,119 
 Other financial assets                      825            599        678 
 Non-current assets held for sale             52            206        197 
                                       =========  =============  ========= 
                                          16,598         13,884     15,253 
                                       =========  =============  ========= 
 
 Total assets                             58,005         56,429     54,175 
=====================================  =========  =============  ========= 
 Current liabilities 
 Financial liabilities                     5,081          5,450      5,759 
 Trade payables and other current 
  liabilities                             13,322         13,871     14,216 
 Current tax liabilities                     992            844        974 
 Provisions                                  424            390        360 
 Current liabilities held for 
  sale                                         1              1          1 
                                       =========  =============  ========= 
                                          19,820         20,556     21,310 
                                       =========  =============  ========= 
 Non-current liabilities 
 Financial liabilities                    14,552         11,145     10,612 
 Non-current tax liabilities                 116            120        114 
 Pensions and post-retirement 
  healthcare liabilities: 
   Funded schemes in deficit               1,277          2,163      2,563 
   Unfunded schemes                        1,619          1,704      1,677 
 Provisions                                1,001          1,033        951 
 Deferred tax liabilities                  2,053          2,061      1,542 
 Other non-current liabilities               749            667        300 
                                          21,367         18,893     17,759 
                                       =========  =============  ========= 
 
 Total liabilities                        41,187         39,449     39,069 
                                       =========  =============  ========= 
 Equity 
 Shareholders' equity                     16,203         16,354     14,484 
 Non-controlling interests                   615            626        622 
                                       =========  =============  ========= 
 Total equity                             16,818         16,980     15,106 
                                       =========  =============  ========= 
 
 Total liabilities and equity             58,005         56,429     54,175 
=====================================  =========  =============  ========= 
 

CASH FLOW STATEMENT

(unaudited)

 
 EUR million                                            First Half 
                                                    ================== 
                                                      2017      2016 
==================================================  ========  ======== 
 
 Net profit                                            3,317     2,710 
 Taxation                                              1,315       928 
 Share of net profit of joint ventures/associates 
  and other income 
  from non-current investments and 
   associates                                           (75)     (133) 
 Net finance costs                                       290       284 
                                                    ========  ======== 
 Operating profit                                      4,847     3,789 
                                                    ========  ======== 
 Depreciation, amortisation and impairment               763       681 
 Changes in working capital                          (1,436)   (1,554) 
 Pensions and similar obligations less 
  payments                                             (794)     (223) 
 Provisions less payments                                 68        32 
 Elimination of (profits)/losses on 
  disposals                                            (299)       117 
 Non-cash charge for share-based compensation            158       105 
 Other adjustments                                         -         8 
                                                    ========  ======== 
 Cash flow from operating activities                   3,307     2,955 
                                                    ========  ======== 
 Income tax paid                                     (1,122)   (1,136) 
 
 Net cash flow from operating activities               2,185     1,819 
==================================================  ========  ======== 
 Interest received                                       104        55 
 Net capital expenditure                               (672)     (759) 
 Other acquisitions and disposals                        154      (92) 
 Other investing activities                             (46)       152 
 
 Net cash flow (used in)/from investing 
  activities                                           (460)     (644) 
==================================================  ========  ======== 
 Dividends paid on ordinary share capital            (1,911)   (1,768) 
 Interest and preference dividends 
  paid                                                 (252)     (290) 
 Change in financial liabilities                       3,613     1,859 
 Repurchase of shares                                (1,071)         - 
 Other movements on treasury stock                     (199)     (260) 
 Other financing activities                             (42)      (59) 
 
 Net cash flow (used in)/from financing 
  activities                                             138     (518) 
 
 
 Net increase/(decrease) in cash and 
  cash equivalents                                     1,863       657 
==================================================  ========  ======== 
 Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning 
  of the period                                        3,198     2,128 
 
 Effect of foreign exchange rate changes               (201)       152 
 
 Cash and cash equivalents at the end 
  of the period                                        4,860     2,937 
==================================================  ========  ======== 
 

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

   1   ACCOUNTING INFORMATION AND POLICIES 

The accounting policies and methods of computation are in compliance with IAS 34 'Interim Financial Reporting' as issued by the International Accounting Standard Board (IASB) and as adopted by the EU; and except as set out below are consistent with the year ended 31 December 2016. The condensed interim financial statements are based on International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the EU and IFRS as issued by the IASB. With effect from 1 January 2017 we have implemented amendments to IAS 7 'Statement of Cash Flows'. The impact on the Group is not material.

After making appropriate enquiries, the Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Group has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Accordingly, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the half year financial statements.

The condensed interim financial statements are shown at current exchange rates, while percentage year-on-year changes are shown at both current and constant exchange rates to facilitate comparison. The income statement on page 11, the statement of comprehensive income on page 11, the statement of changes in equity on page 12 and the cash flow statement on page 14 are translated at exchange rates current in each period. The balance sheet on page 13 is translated at period-end rates of exchange.

The condensed interim financial statements attached do not constitute the full financial statements within the meaning of section 434 of the UK Companies Act 2006. The comparative figures for the financial year ended 31 December 2016 are not Unilever PLC's statutory accounts for that financial year. Those accounts of Unilever for the year ended 31 December 2016 have been reported on by the Group's auditor and delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The report of the auditor on these accounts was (i) unqualified, (ii) did not include a reference to any matters to which the auditor drew attention by way of emphasis without qualifying their report, and (iii) did not contain a statement under section 498 (2) or (3) of the UK Companies Act 2006.

Change in reporting of performance measures

Following our strategic review earlier this year, we announced that we would be accelerating savings programmes and being more active in the development of our portfolio, including exiting from our spreads business. This will mean spending significant funds on restructuring costs. In order to provide a clear picture of our performance against the objectives set out in the announcement of the outcome of the review, where relevant, our non-GAAP measures will now exclude restructuring costs as well as any other significant unusual items within net profit but not operating profit.

Our non-GAAP measures have therefore changed from 'core operating profit', 'core operating margin', 'core earnings per share', 'core effective tax rate' and 'constant core earnings per share' to 'underlying operating profit', 'underlying operating margin', 'underlying earnings per share', 'underlying effective tax rate' and 'constant underlying earnings per share' respectively.

Underlying operating profit and underlying operating margin exclude the impact of business disposals, acquisition and disposal-related costs, restructuring costs, impairments and other one-off items, which we collectively term non-underlying items.

Underlying earnings per share, underlying effective tax rate and constant underlying earnings per share exclude post-tax impact of non-underlying items and post-tax impact of other significant unusual items within net profit but not operating profit.

The definitions of underlying operating profit, underlying operating margin, underlying earnings per share, underlying effective tax rate and constant underlying earnings per share are provided on pages 8 and 9. Note 2 explains non-underlying items for the first half year 2017 and 2016.

   2   SIGNIFICANT ITEMS WITHIN THE INCOME STATEMENT 

In our income statement reporting we disclose the total value of non-underlying items that arise within operating profit. These are costs and revenues relating to business disposals, acquisition and disposal related costs, restructuring costs, impairments and other one-off items, which we collectively term non-underlying items, due to their nature and/or frequency of occurrence.

 
 EUR million                                    First Half 
                                              ============== 
                                               2017    2016 
============================================  ======  ====== 
 Acquisition and disposal related costs         (69)    (43) 
 Gain/(loss) on disposal of group companies      308   (101) 
 Restructuring costs                           (318)   (258) 
 Impairments and other one-off items(a)            -    (16) 
                                              ======  ====== 
 
 Non-underlying items before tax                (79)   (418) 
 Tax impact of non-underlying items             (21)     114 
============================================  ======  ====== 
 Non-underlying items after tax                (100)   (304) 
 
 Attributable to: 
============================================  ======  ====== 
 Non-controlling interests                       (4)     (4) 
 Shareholders' equity                           (96)   (300) 
============================================  ======  ====== 
 

(a) 2016 relates to foreign exchange losses arising from remeasurement of our Argentinian business at a rate of 14 pesos per US dollar.

The following table shows the impact of non-underlying items on profit attributable to shareholders.

 
 EUR million                                  First Half 
                                            ============== 
                                             2017    2016 
==========================================  ======  ====== 
 Net profit attributable to shareholders' 
  equity                                     3,110   2,512 
------------------------------------------  ------  ------ 
 Post tax impact of non-underlying 
  items                                         96     300 
==========================================  ======  ====== 
 
 Underlying profit attributable to 
  shareholders' equity                       3,206   2,812 
==========================================  ======  ====== 
 
   3   SEGMENT INFORMATION - CATEGORIES 
 
  Second Quarter    Personal                 Home Care    Foods  Refreshment   Foods and    Total 
                      Care      Home Care   and Personal                       Refreshment 
                                                Care 
==================  ========  ===========  =============  =====  ===========  ============  ====== 
  Turnover (EUR 
   million) 
    2016               5,027        2,501          7,528  3,073        3,134         6,207  13,735 
    2017               5,340        2,688          8,028  3,148        3,230         6,378  14,406 
  Change (%)             6.3          7.5            6.7    2.4          3.0           2.8     4.9 
  Impact of: 
    Exchange rates 
     (%)                 2.0          2.3            2.1    1.2        (1.7)         (0.3)     1.0 
    Acquisitions 
     (%)                 2.0          3.0            2.3    0.1            -           0.0     1.3 
    Disposals (%)      (0.1)        (0.4)          (0.2)      -        (1.7)         (0.9)   (0.5) 
 
  Underlying sales 
   growth (%)            2.2          2.5            2.3    1.2          6.7           3.9     3.0 
==================  ========  ===========  =============  =====  ===========  ============  ====== 
    Price (%)            2.5          2.4            2.5    2.5          4.8           3.7     3.0 
    Volume (%)         (0.3)          0.1          (0.1)  (1.3)          1.8           0.2       - 
==================  ========  ===========  =============  =====  ===========  ============  ====== 
 
 
     First Half        Personal                 Home Care    Foods  Refreshment   Foods and    Total 
                         Care      Home Care   and Personal                       Refreshment 
                                                   Care 
=====================  ========  ===========  =============  =====  ===========  ============  ====== 
 Turnover (EUR 
  million) 
   2016                   9,822        4,950         14,772  6,169        5,342        11,511  26,283 
   2017                  10,481        5,398         15,879  6,297        5,549        11,846  27,725 
 Change (%)                 6.7          9.1            7.5    2.1          3.9           2.9     5.5 
 Impact of: 
   Exchange rates 
    (%)                     2.5          3.0            2.7    1.6        (1.1)           0.3     1.7 
   Acquisitions 
    (%)                     1.6          2.9            2.0      -            -             -     1.1 
   Disposals (%)          (0.1)        (0.4)          (0.2)  (0.2)        (1.0)         (0.6)   (0.4) 
 
 Underlying sales 
  growth (%)                2.6          3.3            2.8    0.6          6.1           3.1     3.0 
=====================  ========  ===========  =============  =====  ===========  ============  ====== 
   Price (%)                2.6          2.5            2.6    2.4          4.9           3.5     3.0 
   Volume (%)                 -          0.8            0.3  (1.7)          1.2         (0.4)       - 
=====================  ========  ===========  =============  =====  ===========  ============  ====== 
 
 Operating profit 
  (EUR million) 
   2016                   1,640          476          2,116  1,048          625         1,673   3,789 
   2017                   2,068          573          2,641  1,167        1,039         2,206   4,847 
 
 Underlying operating 
  profit (EUR 
  million) 
   2016                   1,840          533          2,373  1,154          680         1,834   4,207 
   2017                   2,207          643          2,850  1,242          834         2,076   4,926 
 
 Operating margin 
  (%) 
   2016                    16.7          9.6           14.3   17.0         11.7          14.5    14.4 
   2017                    19.7         10.6           16.6   18.5         18.7          18.6    17.5 
 
 Underlying operating 
  margin (%) 
   2016                    18.7         10.8           16.1   18.7         12.7          15.9    16.0 
   2017                    21.1         11.9           17.9   19.7         15.0          17.5    17.8 
 
 

Turnover growth is made up of distinct individual growth components namely underlying sales, currency impact, acquisitions and disposals. Turnover growth is arrived at by multiplying these individual components on a compounded basis as there is a currency impact on each of the other components. Accordingly, turnover growth is more than just the sum of the individual components.

Underlying operating profit represents our measure of segment profit or loss as it is the primary measure used for the purpose of making decisions about allocating resources and assessing performance of segments. Underlying operating margin is calculated as underlying operating profit divided by turnover.

   4   SEGMENT INFORMATION - GEOGRAPHICAL AREA 
 
      Second Quarter        Asia /       The      Europe   Total 
                             AMET /    Americas 
                              RUB 
=========================  ========  ==========  =======  ====== 
 
   Turnover (EUR million) 
   2016                       5,817       4,302    3,616  13,735 
   2017                       6,163       4,707    3,536  14,406 
 Change (%)                     5.9         9.4    (2.2)     4.9 
 Impact of: 
   Exchange rates (%)           0.9         3.3    (1.7)     1.0 
   Acquisitions (%)             1.0         3.4    (0.9)     1.3 
   Disposals (%)              (0.3)       (1.2)        -   (0.5) 
 
 Underlying sales growth 
  (%)                           4.3         3.7      0.3     3.0 
=========================  ========  ==========  =======  ====== 
   Price (%)                    4.9         2.8      0.1     3.0 
   Volume (%)                 (0.6)         0.9      0.1       - 
=========================  ========  ==========  =======  ====== 
 
 
          First Half             Asia /      The     Europe  Total 
                                  AMET /   Americas 
                                   RUB 
===============================  =======  =========  ======  ====== 
 
   Turnover (EUR million) 
  2016                            11,281      8,278   6,724  26,283 
  2017                            12,085      9,077   6,563  27,725 
 Change (%)                          7.1        9.7   (2.4)     5.5 
 Impact of: 
  Exchange rate (%)                  1.2        5.0   (1.9)     1.7 
  Acquisitions (%)                   0.5        2.7     0.3     1.1 
  Disposals (%)                    (0.3)      (0.8)   (0.0)   (0.4) 
 
 Underlying sales growth 
  (%)                                5.5        2.5   (0.8)     3.0 
===============================  =======  =========  ======  ====== 
 Price (%)                           4.8        3.1   (0.1)     3.0 
 Volume (%)                          0.8      (0.6)   (0.6)       - 
===============================  =======  =========  ======  ====== 
 
 Operating profit (EUR million) 
  2016                             1,668        999   1,122   3,789 
   2017                            2,070      1,704   1,073   4,847 
 
 Underlying operating profit 
  (EUR million) 
 2016                              1,766      1,252   1,189   4,207 
 2017                              2,211      1,538   1,177   4,926 
 
Operating margin (%) 
  2016                              14.8       12.1    16.7    14.4 
  2017                              17.1       18.8    16.3    17.5 
 
 Underlying operating margin 
  (%) 
  2016                              15.7       15.1    17.7    16.0 
 2017                               18.3       16.9    17.9    17.8 
===============================  =======  =========  ======  ====== 
 
   5   TAXATION 

The effective tax rate for the first half was 28.9% compared to 26.0% in 2016. The tax rate is calculated by dividing the tax charge by pre-tax profit excluding the contribution of joint ventures and associates.

Tax effects of components of other comprehensive income were as follows:

 
 EUR million                        First Half 2017                First Half 2016 
                             ============================  =============================== 
                              Before      Tax       After   Before       Tax        After 
                                tax     (charge)/    tax      tax      (charge)/     tax 
                                         credit                         credit 
===========================  =======  ===========  ======  ========  ===========  ======== 
 Fair value gains/(losses) 
  on financial instruments        63         (12)      51      (76)           58      (18) 
 Remeasurements of defined 
  benefit pension plans          751        (110)     641   (1,814)          458   (1,356) 
 Currency retranslation 
  gains/(losses)               (723)           29   (694)     (140)            -     (140) 
===========================  =======  ===========  ======  ========  ===========  ======== 
 Other comprehensive 
  income                          91         (93)     (2)   (2,030)          516   (1,514) 
===========================  =======  ===========  ======  ========  ===========  ======== 
 
    6   COMBINED EARNINGS PER SHARE 

The combined earnings per share calculations are based on the average number of share units representing the combined ordinary shares of NV and PLC in issue during the period, less the average number of shares held as treasury stock.

In calculating diluted earnings per share and underlying earnings per share, a number of adjustments are made to the number of shares which principally includes the exercise of share options by employees.

Earnings per share for total operations for the six months were calculated as follows:

 
 
                                                     2017      2016 
=================================================  ========  ======== 
 Combined EPS - Basic 
=================================================  ========  ======== 
 Net profit attributable to shareholders' 
  equity (EUR million)                                3,110     2,512 
 
 Average number of combined share units 
  (millions of units)                               2,834.4   2,841.1 
 
 Combined EPS - basic (EUR)                            1.10      0.88 
=================================================  ========  ======== 
 
 Combined EPS - Diluted 
=================================================  ========  ======== 
 Net profit attributable to shareholders' 
  equity (EUR million)                                3,110     2,512 
 
 Adjusted average number of combined share 
  units (millions of units)                         2,845.7   2,853.5 
 
 Combined EPS - diluted (EUR)                          1.09      0.88 
=================================================  ========  ======== 
 
 Underlying EPS 
=================================================  ========  ======== 
 Underlying profit attributable to shareholders' 
  equity (see note 2) (EUR million)                   3,206     2,812 
 
 Adjusted average number of combined share 
  units (millions of units)                         2,845.7   2,853.5 
 
 Underlying EPS - diluted (EUR)                        1.13      0.99 
=================================================  ========  ======== 
 

In calculating underlying earnings per share, net profit attributable to shareholders' equity is adjusted to eliminate the post-tax impact of non-underlying items in operating profit and any other significant unusual items within net profit but not operating profit.

During the period the following movements in shares have taken place:

 
                                               Millions 
============================================   ======== 
 Number of shares at 31 December 2016 
  (net of treasury stock)                       2,839.7 
---------------------------------------------  -------- 
 Shares repurchased under the share buyback 
  programme                                      (27.5) 
---------------------------------------------  -------- 
 Net movement in shares under incentive 
  schemes                                           0.3 
=============================================  ======== 
 Number of shares at 30 June 2017               2,812.5 
=============================================  ======== 
 
   7   ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSALS 

The Group completed the following business acquisitions and disposals in the first six months of 2017.

 
 Deal completion   Acquired/Disposed business 
       date 
================  ============================================== 
   1 February      Acquired Living Proof Inc., an innovative 
       2017         premium hair care business. 
================  ============================================== 
    28 March       Sold AdeS soy beverage business in Latin 
       2017         America to Coca Cola FEMSA and The Coca Cola 
                    Company. 
================  ============================================== 
   1 May 2017      Acquired Sir Kensington, a premium condiments 
                    business. 
================  ============================================== 
 

The total consideration for acquisitions completed in the first half of 2017 was EUR304 million (first half of 2016: EUR40 million).

   8   SHARE BUYBACK PROGRAMME 

On 6 April 2017 Unilever announced a share buyback programme of EUR5 billion in 2017. At 30 June 2017 the group has repurchased 27,537,570 ordinary shares as part of the programme for EUR1,368 million. Cash paid for the repurchase of shares was EUR1,071 million and EUR297 million is shown within current financial liabilities. These shares have not been cancelled and are recognised as treasury shares with the cost reported within other reserves.

   9   FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS 

The Group is exposed to the risks of changes in fair value of its financial assets and liabilities. The following tables summarise the fair values and carrying amounts of financial instruments and the fair value calculations by category.

 
 EUR million                                 Fair value                        Carrying amount 
==============================  ===================================  =================================== 
                                  As at        As at        As at      As at        As at        As at 
                                  30 June    31 December    30 June    30 June    31 December    30 June 
                                   2017         2016         2016       2017         2016         2016 
==============================  =========  =============  =========  =========  =============  ========= 
 Financial assets 
 Cash and cash equivalents          5,016          3,382      3,119      5,016          3,382      3,119 
 Held-to-maturity investments         152            142        138        152            142        138 
 Loans and receivables                304            398        344        304            398        344 
 Available-for-sale 
  financial assets                    655            509        544        655            509        544 
 Financial assets at 
  fair value through 
  profit and loss: 
   Derivatives                        293             91        130        293             91        130 
   Other                              106            132        124        106            132        124 
                                =========  =============  =========  =========  =============  ========= 
                                    6,526          4,654      4,399      6,526          4,654      4,399 
 Financial liabilities 
 Preference shares                  (125)          (125)      (129)       (68)           (68)       (68) 
 Bank loans and overdrafts          (829)        (1,147)    (1,181)      (825)        (1,146)    (1,179) 
 Bonds and other loans           (19,031)       (15,844)   (15,475)   (18,353)       (15,053)   (14,308) 
 Finance lease creditors            (153)          (165)      (175)      (134)          (143)      (149) 
 Derivatives                        (253)          (185)      (144)      (253)          (185)      (144) 
 Other financial liabilities            -              -      (523)          -              -      (523) 
                                =========  =============  =========  =========  =============  ========= 
                                 (20,391)       (17,466)   (17,627)   (19,633)       (16,595)   (16,371) 
==============================  =========  =============  =========  =========  =============  ========= 
 
 
                              Level    Level   Level    Level    Level   Level    Level    Level   Level 
  EUR million                   1        2       3        1        2       3        1        2       3 
                            =======  =======  ======  =======  =======  ======  =======  =======  ====== 
                                  As at 30 June           As at 31 December           As at 30 June 
                                       2017                      2016                      2016 
                            ========================  ========================  ======================== 
 Assets at fair 
  value 
 Other cash equivalents           -      724       -        -       90       -        -      211       - 
 Available-for-sale 
  financial assets              277        8     370      138       98     273       93        1     450 
 Financial assets 
  at fair value 
 through profit 
  or loss: 
      Derivatives(a)              -      376       -        -      226       -        -      349       - 
      Other                       -      104       2        -      131       1        -      121       3 
 Liabilities at 
  fair value 
 Derivatives(b)                   -    (392)       -        -    (331)       -        -    (394)       - 
 Contingent Consideration         -        -   (413)        -        -   (380)        -        -   (102) 
==========================  =======  =======  ======  =======  =======  ======  =======  =======  ====== 
 

(a) Includes EUR83 million (December 2016: EUR135 million) derivatives, reported within trade receivables, that hedge trading activities.

(b) Includes EUR(139) million (December 2016: EUR(146) million) derivatives, reported within trade payables, that hedge trading activities.

There were no significant changes in classification of fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities since 31 December 2016. There were also no significant movements between the fair value hierarchy classifications since 31 December 2016.

The fair value of trade receivables and payables is considered to be equal to the carrying amount of these items due to their short-term nature. The instruments that have a fair value that is different from the carrying amount are classified as Level 2.

Calculation of fair values

The fair values of the financial assets and liabilities are defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair values are consistent with those used in the year ended 31 December 2016.

   10   DIVIDENDS 

The Boards have determined to pay a quarterly interim dividend for Q2 2017 at the following rates which are equivalent in value between the two companies at the rate of exchange applied under the terms of the Equalisation Agreement:

 
 Per Unilever N.V. ordinary 
  share:                       EUR 0.3585 
 Per Unilever PLC ordinary     GBP 0.3183 
  share: 
 Per Unilever N.V. New York    US$ 0.4140 
  share: 
 Per Unilever PLC American     US$ 0.4140 
  Depositary Receipt: 
 

The quarterly interim dividends have been determined in euros and converted into equivalent sterling and US dollar amounts using exchange rates issued by WM/Reuters on 18 July 2017.

US dollar cheques for the quarterly interim dividend will be mailed on 6 September 2017 to holders of record at the close of business on 4 August 2017. In the case of the NV New York shares, Netherlands withholding tax will be deducted.

The quarterly dividend calendar for the remainder of 2017 will be as follows:

 
             Announcement    NV NY and          NV and          Record       Payment 
                 Date          PLC ADR      PLC ex-Dividend      Date          Date 
                             ex-Dividend         Date 
                                Date 
==========  =============  =============  =================  ===========  ============ 
 Quarterly     20 July        2 August         3 August        4 August    6 September 
  dividend       2017           2017             2017            2017          2017 
  - for Q2 
    2017 
 Quarterly    19 October     1 November       2 November      3 November   13 December 
  dividend       2017           2017             2017            2017          2017 
  - for Q3 
    2017 
==========  =============  =============  =================  ===========  ============ 
 
   11   EVENTS AFTER THE BALANCE SHEET DATE 

There were no material post balance sheet events other than those mentioned elsewhere in this report.

DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT

The Directors declare that, to the best of their knowledge:

-- this condensed set of interim financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 'Interim Financial Reporting', as issued by the International Accounting Standard Board and endorsed and adopted by the EU gives a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of Unilever; and

-- the interim management report gives a fair review of the information required pursuant to regulations 4.2.7 and 4.2.8 of the Disclosure and Transparency Rules (DTR) issued by the UK Financial Conduct Authority and section 5:25d (8)/(9) of the Dutch Act on Financial Supervision (Wet op het financieel toezicht).

Unilever's Directors are listed in the Annual Report and Accounts for 2016, with the exception of Professor Louise Fresco who retired as a Non-Executive Director following the Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC 2017 AGMs.

Details of all current Directors are available on our website at www.unilever.com.

By order of the Board

   Paul Polman                                          Graeme Pitkethly 
   Chief Executive Officer                            Chief Financial Officer 

20 July 2017

This information is provided by RNS

The company news service from the London Stock Exchange

END

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