Unilever US lobbying and political contributions ($280K lobbying Q4 2025; $49,279 contributions 2024 cycle)
Unilever United States Inc. disclosed $280,000 in federal lobbying for Q4 2025, with issues including extended producer responsibility (EPR) for packaging, food ingredients and labeling, animal testing, sunscreen regulations, tax provisions (dividend taxes, base erosion minimum tax, interest deductions), SNAP waivers, artificial colors, ultra-processed foods, dietary guidelines, and tariffs and trade agreements. In the 2024 election cycle, Unilever's PAC and employees gave $49,279 in federal contributions (100% from individuals), with top recipients including Kamala Harris ($16,207), ActBlue Non-Federal ($7,475), Donald Trump ($4,365), and various congressional candidates from both parties. The company spent $610,000 on lobbying in 2024 (OpenSecrets). Unilever has also encouraged trade associations to support stronger climate and plastics policies.
Unilever sold its Graze healthy snacking brand to Katjes International for a reported £35 million. Graze, which Unilever had acquired in 2019, was shifted from direct-to-consumer to retail in the UK; the sale included a London production facility and about 180 employees. Unilever said the divestment was part of focusing its Foods portfolio on condiments, cooking aids, and Unilever Food Solutions.
Unilever sells Kate Somerville to Rare Beauty Brands
Unilever divested the Kate Somerville skincare brand to Rare Beauty Brands as part of its portfolio optimization. The sale aligned with Unilever's focus on Power Brands and scaling in beauty and personal care.
Unilever responds to allegations of migrant worker abuses in Malaysia palm oil supply chain
A report by Koalisi Buruh Migran Berdaulat (a coalition of Indonesian civil society groups) documented labor rights abuses of Indonesian migrant workers on palm oil plantations in Sabah, Malaysia, including below-living wages, wage theft, gender-based wage disparities, fewer than half of workers having formal employment contracts, expired documentation not renewed by management, and precarious working conditions. Unilever, which sources palm oil from the region, responded in August 2025 that it expects all suppliers to comply with its Responsible Partner Policy and People and Nature Policy and stated it has paid all direct employees a living wage since 2020 while expanding that commitment into the supply chain. The Business and Human Rights Resource Centre published the company response alongside the allegations.
Unilever workers in Germany stage warning strike over wage talks
Unilever workers in Germany's Baden-Württemberg region held a three-hour warning strike over wage negotiations. The NGG union demanded a 6.2% wage increase and rejected Unilever's offer of 2.5% in the first year and 2.2% in the second. The action was part of broader collective bargaining in the region.
Unilever agrees to acquire Dr. Squatch for $1.5 billion
Unilever announced an agreement to acquire Dr. Squatch, a U.S. men's personal care brand known for natural soaps and grooming products. The deal was valued at $1.5 billion and aimed to strengthen Unilever's position in men's grooming and premium personal care. The transaction was expected to close later in 2025.
Ivory Coast workers accuse Unilever of violating union rights amid share sale
Workers at Unilever's Ivory Coast subsidiary said the company was violating their collective bargaining agreement during the sale of the unit to a local consortium. The agreement in place since 2004 guarantees severance of one month of average gross salary per year of seniority (max 18 months) and up to six months of medical coverage in case of layoffs. Unilever reportedly argued that severance was "not relevant" because the transaction is a share sale where employment technically continues rather than a termination. The subsidiary employs about 160 people; protesters feared significant job losses because the buyer would take over only domestic brands, losing the international portfolio that accounts for over 60% of revenue. Reuters and other outlets reported on the dispute.
Unilever accused of greenwashing; agrees to drop unsubstantiated sustainability claims in Netherlands
The Dutch Consumers' Association (Consumentenbond) accused Unilever of widespread greenwashing across its food brands, examining over 450 products and finding 247 with incorrect or vague environmental claims. Brands including Calvé, Hellmann's, Knorr, Lipton, Ola, and Unox used terms such as "sustainably grown" or "sustainable packaging" without clear evidence. Unilever had also used misleading custom logos on 118 products. After intervention by the Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM), Unilever agreed to stop using unsubstantiated claims like "sustainably grown peanuts" and "sustainable packaging" and to update most packaging by January 2026.
Court denies Unilever motion to dismiss Vaseline "hypoallergenic" deception lawsuit
A federal judge in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California denied Unilever's motion to dismiss a class action alleging Vaseline Baby Healing Jelly was deceptively marketed as "hypoallergenic" despite containing fragrance, a common allergen. The court rejected Unilever's argument that the claim was too vague, finding that reasonable consumers would understand "hypoallergenic" to mean the product is free from common allergens. The case (plaintiff Lacey Timmins) includes claims for false advertising, misrepresentation, warranty violations, unjust enrichment, and fraud by omission under California law.
UK: Unilever recalls Wall's Mini Milk ice cream lollies over undeclared allergens
Unilever UK recalled Wall's Mini Milk Vanilla Strawberry & Chocolate Ice Cream Lollies because allergens (milk, pistachios, peanuts, and soya) were not declared in English on the label. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) listed affected batch codes (L5123, L5126–L5129, L5141–L5142) with best before date May 2027. The recall was a precaution to protect consumers with allergies.
Unilever acquired Wild, a UK-based refillable deodorant and personal care brand focused on sustainability. The deal was valued at about $297.5 million and supported Unilever's push into premium, eco-focused personal care.
Ben & Jerry's board sues Unilever over CEO ouster and activism; Unilever urges dismissal ahead of spin-off
Ben & Jerry's independent board filed a lawsuit against parent Unilever, accusing it of silencing the brand's progressive activism (including statements on the Gaza war and Trump administration), firing CEO David Stever in March 2025 for supporting that activism, neglecting payments to suppliers and philanthropic partners, and violating the 2000 acquisition agreement that guaranteed Ben & Jerry's an independent board. Unilever denied seeking Stever's ouster, saying he voluntarily resigned despite being offered a pay increase and larger role, and asked the court to dismiss the suit, calling it a vehicle for board chair Anuradha Mittal's "staunchly pro-Palestinian, anti-Israeli stance" that damaged Unilever's reputation. Unilever is spinning off its ice cream division—Ben & Jerry's, Breyers, and Magnum—into a standalone company (Magnum Ice Cream Company) by July 1, 2025.
Unilever agrees to $3.625 million settlement in benzene dry shampoo class action
Unilever agreed to settle a class action alleging that its aerosol dry shampoos (Suave, TIGI, TRESemmé, Dove, and Nexxus brands) contained elevated levels of benzene, a known human carcinogen. Plaintiffs claimed Unilever failed to warn consumers; the case was filed in September 2022 following Valisure's November 2021 lab testing. The $3.625 million settlement covers U.S. purchases from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2022. Class members with proof of purchase receive full refunds per product; those without can receive $3 per product, up to four per household. A joint notice of settlement was filed in February 2025; preliminary approval was considered in May 2025.
Unilever US lobbying and political contributions ($610K lobbying, $49,279 contributions)
Unilever spent $610,000 on federal lobbying in 2024 (down from $620,000 in 2023), ranking 1,175th of 9,200 organizations that reported lobbying. Three of its seven registered lobbyists had previously held government jobs. The company lobbied on bills including H.R.3159 in the 118th Congress. In the 2024 election cycle, Unilever's PAC and employees gave $49,279 in federal contributions (100% from individuals; no PAC money to candidates). Top recipients included Kamala Harris ($16,207), ActBlue Non-Federal ($7,475), Donald Trump ($4,365), Dennis Kucinich ($3,300), Jamaal Bowman ($2,100), the DNC ($1,786), and other congressional candidates from both parties. Unilever reported $0 in outside spending (super PACs, etc.).
Unilever to sell Unox and Zwan (meat and soup) to Zwanenberg Food Group
Unilever announced a binding offer from Zwanenberg Food Group to acquire the Unox (Netherlands) and Zwan (Belgium) brands—iconic meat and soup brands part of Unilever since 1937 and 1928. Unox's Noodles and Cup-a-Soup remain with Unilever as part of its mini meals category. The deal includes soup-in-pouch production in Poznan; completion expected within 2025. Terms were not disclosed.
Unilever sells Conimex (Asian spices and sauces) to Paulig
Unilever sold Conimex, the Dutch Asian spice and sauce brand (part of Unilever since the 2000 Bestfoods acquisition), to Finnish company Paulig. Conimex had strong recognition in the Netherlands. The divestment was part of Unilever's focus on fewer, scalable food brands in cooking aids, condiments, and mini meals.
Unilever completed the sale of its Elida Beauty division to Boston-based Yellow Wood Partners, announced in December 2023 and closed by mid-2024. The portfolio included more than 20 brands such as Q-Tips, Caress, Timotei, and Tigi, with about €0.8 billion (£700 million) in 2022 revenue. Pond's and St. Ives outside North America and Europe remained with Unilever. The sale supported Unilever's focus on core "power" brands.
Ben & Jerry's sues Unilever for silencing it over Gaza stance
Ben & Jerry's filed a lawsuit against parent Unilever alleging it had been silenced on Gaza and Palestinian rights. The complaint said Unilever violated a 2022 settlement by blocking Ben & Jerry's from making four separate public statements in support of Palestinian refugees and cease-fire calls, and that Unilever had threatened to dismantle Ben & Jerry's independent board and sue its members. The dispute built on earlier tensions after Ben & Jerry's announced in 2021 it would stop sales in Israeli-occupied territories. The 2024 suit preceded the April 2025 board lawsuit over CEO ouster and broader activism.
UK regulator ends probe into Unilever's environmental claims
Britain's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) closed its December 2023 investigation into Unilever's environmental and sustainability claims. The regulator had raised concerns that Unilever was overstating how "green" certain products were (e.g. Dove soap). The CMA said it was ending the probe because Unilever had made positive changes to address the issues. The closure did not preclude later action in the Netherlands, where the Dutch Consumentenbond and ACM pursued Unilever over greenwashing in 2025.
Unilever agrees to $8.85 million settlement over Breyers "Natural Vanilla" labeling
Unilever agreed to pay $8.85 million to settle a class action alleging Breyers Natural Vanilla ice cream was misleadingly labeled. Plaintiffs said the packaging implied vanilla flavor came only from the vanilla plant when the product also contained vanilla flavor from non-vanilla plant sources. The settlement covered U.S. purchases from April 2016 through August 2024; claimants could receive $1 per container (with or without proof of purchase, subject to caps). Unilever also committed to reformulating Breyers Natural Vanilla within 12 months to exclude non-vanilla vanilla flavors. The court granted final approval in November 2024. Unilever denied wrongdoing.
X drops Unilever from advertising boycott lawsuit after partnership deal
X (formerly Twitter) removed Unilever from its antitrust lawsuit that had accused several major advertisers of organizing an illegal advertising boycott of the platform. The dismissal came after Unilever and X reached an advertising partnership agreement, resolving the claims against Unilever. Elon Musk's X had sued multiple brands over the boycott; the Unilever settlement left the rest of the case in place.
Unilever US recalls Popsicle Jolly Rancher single-serve pops for undeclared milk allergen
Unilever U.S. issued an allergy alert and recalled approximately 137,000 cases of Popsicle Jolly Rancher single-serve frozen confection pops because milk was not declared on the label, posing a risk of serious allergic reactions. Only single-serve products sold through ice cream trucks and concession stands were affected; multi-packs in grocery stores were not. The company stated two allergic reactions had been reported. The FDA posted the voluntary recall.
NGO report: Unilever's "climate bill" put at €268 billion; Scope 3 and plastic gaps
Milieudefensie (Friends of the Earth Netherlands) commissioned a Profundo report estimating Unilever's share of climate costs at €268 billion. The report criticized gaps in Unilever's Scope 3 emissions targets, plastic sourcing that had not materially declined, and product-related emissions in home care, personal care, and beauty that it said exceeded competitors. It framed Unilever as "a leader in washing clean and 'green'" while falling short on real reductions.
UK: Unilever recalls Magnum Almond ice cream sticks over plastic and metal contamination
Unilever recalled Magnum Almond Ice Cream Sticks (3 pack) in the UK because of the possible presence of plastic and metal in the product. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) listed affected batch codes L3338–L3342 with best before end December 2025. The company said the product was unsafe to eat and asked consumers not to consume it and to return it for a refund.
Unilever announces 7,500 global job cuts and spin-off of ice cream division
Unilever announced plans to cut 7,500 jobs worldwide—about 6% of its then 128,000-strong workforce—as part of CEO Hein Schumacher's cost-cutting overhaul aimed at saving around €800 million over three years. The restructuring coincided with the decision to spin off the ice cream division (Ben & Jerry's, Magnum, Breyers, Wall's) into a separate company by the end of 2025. In Europe, the company initially planned to cut up to 3,200 office-based roles by end 2025; after negotiations with the European Works Council in late 2024, that figure was reduced to around 1,700, with about 1,000 roles created at the new ice cream unit for affected staff. The move drew criticism from unions and focused attention on layoffs and job security alongside the divestment.
Unilever announces spin-off of ice cream division (Magnum, Ben & Jerry's, Breyers, Wall's)
Unilever announced it would spin off its ice cream business into a standalone listed company, The Magnum Ice Cream Company (TMICC), by the end of 2025. The unit includes Magnum, Ben & Jerry's, Breyers, Wall's, and other ice cream brands and represented about 16% of Unilever's global sales. TMICC was expected to list on Euronext Amsterdam, the London Stock Exchange, and the New York Stock Exchange. The move was part of Unilever's portfolio focus and Growth Action Plan.
UK: Unilever recalls Magnum Classic ice cream sticks over possible metal pieces
Unilever recalled Magnum Classic Ice Cream Sticks (3 pack) in the UK because they may have contained pieces of metal. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) listed affected batch codes L3324–L3328 with best before November 2025. Consumers were advised not to eat the product and to return it for a refund.
Unilever US lobbying and political contributions ($620K lobbying, $61,292 contributions 2022 cycle)
Unilever spent $620,000 on federal lobbying in 2023 (slightly more than the $610,000 it would report in 2024). Ten of its 12 registered lobbyists had previously held government jobs. In the 2022 election cycle, Unilever's PAC and employees gave $61,292 in federal contributions (100% from individuals): 88.93% to Democrats ($38,130) and 11.07% to Republicans ($4,746). The company reported no outside spending.
Unilever US recalls select Knorr Sopa soup mix products for undeclared egg allergen
Unilever U.S. voluntarily recalled select Knorr Sopa soup mix products due to the potential presence of an undeclared egg allergen. The recall was coordinated with the FDA. Consumers with egg allergies were advised not to consume the product and to return it for a refund.
UK CMA opens investigation into Unilever over "greenwashing" claims
Britain's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) launched a formal investigation into Unilever over concerns that environmental claims on household and personal care products were misleading. The CMA cited vague or broad claims without substantiation, unclear recyclability statements (e.g. whether claims applied to whole products or parts), and natural-looking imagery and logos that could exaggerate green credentials. Brands under scrutiny included Cif, Dove, Comfort, Lynx, Domestos, and Vaseline. Unilever said it was "surprised and disappointed" and denied the claims were misleading. The CMA closed the probe in November 2024 after Unilever made changes.
Greenpeace accuses Unilever of breaking plastics pledge; 53 billion sachets a year
Greenpeace International reported that Unilever was the world's largest corporate seller of plastic sachets—about 53 billion a year (1,700 per second)—despite pledging since 2010 to tackle sachet waste. Plastic packaging tonnage had risen from 610,000 tonnes (2017) to 698,000–713,000 tonnes (2021–2022); only 0.2% of packaging was reusable and the company had not set a reuse target. Unilever's goal to halve virgin plastic use by 2025 was on track to be missed until at least 2034. Sachets are typically unrecyclable and pollute waterways, especially in the Global South. Greenpeace's "Uncovered" reports (2023–2024) continued to pressure Unilever and regulators.
Unilever acquired Yasso, a U.S. brand of premium frozen Greek yogurt bars. The deal expanded Unilever's presence in frozen treats and healthier snacking within its then ice cream portfolio.
Unilever sells Suave (North America) to Yellow Wood Partners
Unilever completed the sale of its Suave beauty and personal care brand in North America to Yellow Wood Partners, announced in February 2023. Suave (hair care, skin care, body wash, deodorants, styling) continued to be owned by Unilever outside North America. Yellow Wood formed Suave Brands Company (SBC) as a standalone business. Terms were not disclosed.
Allegations of labor abuses in Unilever tea supply chain in India and Sri Lanka
Investigations by the Business and Human Rights Resource Centre documented human rights abuses linked to Unilever's tea supply chain in India and Sri Lanka, including unpaid wages and bonuses (e.g. thousands of workers at Arcuttipore Tea Estate protesting unpaid bonuses in 2022), worker deaths and injuries (fatal incidents at Pabhoi, wildlife-related injuries at Kellyden and other estates), and poor health and safety. Unilever stated it sourced from 9 of 22 named Indian estates in early 2023 and from 12 by September 2023, and said it had raised issues with suppliers and stopped buying from some who did not respond. The company gave explanations for specific incidents (e.g. land clearance at Lepetkata, compensation and medical care for wildlife injuries). Broader industry reports cited unfair wages, poor living standards, and weak implementation of human rights commitments in tea supply chains.
Unilever US lobbying and political contributions ($61,292 contributions 2022 cycle)
In the 2022 election cycle, Unilever's PAC and employees gave $61,292 in federal contributions (100% from individuals): 88.93% to Democrats ($38,130) and 11.07% to Republicans ($4,746). The company files quarterly lobbying reports with Congress under the Lobbying Disclosure Act; OpenSecrets aggregates this data (e.g. $620,000 in 2023, $610,000 in 2024). Unilever reported no outside spending. Detailed lobbying and contribution records can be verified via OpenSecrets, the Senate LDA database, and the FEC.
Unilever issued a voluntary U.S. recall of select dry shampoo aerosol products due to potentially elevated levels of benzene, a human carcinogen. The recall covered Dove, Nexxus, Suave, TIGI, and TRESemmé dry shampoo aerosols produced before October 2021. Unilever stated that benzene came from the propellant and that daily exposure to the levels detected was not expected to cause adverse health consequences, but it recalled the products out of an abundance of caution. The FDA posted the recall.
UK ad regulator bans Persil TV ad for misleading environmental claims
The UK Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) banned a Persil television advertisement that claimed the detergent was "kinder to our planet" and highlighted 50% recycled plastic bottles and cold-wash savings. The ASA found the overall environmental claim was unsubstantiated and that Unilever had not shown the product's full life-cycle benefit versus competitors or prior formulations. Unilever was told to ensure future environmental claims were clearly evidence-based; the ruling was reported alongside broader criticism of Unilever's recycling and green claims.
Unilever lobbied against plastic sachet bans in India, Philippines, Sri Lanka despite CEO calling sachets "evil"
The Telegraph reported that Unilever CEO Alan Jope had publicly called plastic sachets "evil" and said the company "had to" phase them out, while Unilever was lobbying against sachet bans in India, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka. Sachets represent about 10% of Unilever's global sales (e.g. Sunlight, Sunsilk, Surf Excel). India and the Philippines dropped proposed bans after Unilever's lobbying; Sri Lanka's environment ministry accused Unilever of trying to "deceive" the country by repackaging 6 ml sachets as 24 ml four-packs to evade the ban.
Unilever sells ekaterra tea business to CVC for €4.5 billion
Unilever completed the sale of its global tea business, ekaterra, to CVC Capital Partners Fund VIII for €4.5 billion (c. $5.1 billion) on a cash-free, debt-free basis. The portfolio included 34 brands such as Lipton, PG Tips, Pukka, T2, and TAZO, with about €2 billion in 2020 revenue and 11 production sites across four continents. The sale excluded Unilever's tea operations in India, Nepal, and Indonesia and its Pepsi Lipton ready-to-drink joint ventures. Unilever said the divestment reflected a shift into higher-growth areas including plant-based foods, nutrition, and premium beauty.
Unilever acquires majority stake in Nutrafol (hair wellness)
Unilever acquired a majority stake in Nutrafol, a U.S. hair wellness and supplements brand. The deal strengthened Unilever's position in the growing hair care and wellness category.
Unilever recalls Suave 24-Hour aerosol antiperspirants over elevated benzene levels
Unilever issued a voluntary nationwide recall of Suave 24-Hour Protection Aerosol Antiperspirant Powder and Suave 24-Hour Protection Aerosol Antiperspirant Fresh due to slightly elevated levels of benzene in the propellant. Benzene is classified as a human carcinogen. The company stated the recall was undertaken out of an abundance of caution and coordinated with the FDA.
Break Free From Plastic names Unilever top 3 plastic polluter; COP26 sponsor criticism
Break Free From Plastic's 2021 brand audit ranked Unilever as the world's third‑largest corporate plastic polluter (after Coca-Cola and PepsiCo), the first time it reached the top three. The audit used over 330,000 pieces of plastic collected by volunteers in 45 countries; Unilever-branded waste was found in 30 countries. The timing drew criticism because Unilever was a Principal Partner of COP26 in Glasgow. Campaigners said the company produced over 700,000 metric tonnes of plastic packaging yearly (mostly single-use), used non-recyclable sachets in 19% of products, and called for polluters to be removed from UN climate talks.
NGOs and Unilever disclosure on palm oil supply chain impact on forests (Aceh, Leuser)
Rainforest Action Network (RAN) highlighted Unilever's public forest footprint analysis for palm oil in Indonesia's Aceh Province: about 128,700 hectares of forest were destroyed for palm oil expansion (2016–2020), with over 2 million hectares of forest and 200,000+ hectares of peat at risk, and documented harm to communities from at least 12 concessions. RAN had campaigned on Unilever's links to deforestation in the Leuser Ecosystem for years. Unilever later committed to deforestation-free supply chains and landscape programs; NGOs continued to call out ongoing sourcing from protected areas.
A California federal court denied Unilever's motion to dismiss a false-advertising class action over Breyers Natural Vanilla ice cream. Plaintiff Lisa Vizcarra alleged the product was misleadingly labeled and that testing showed the vanilla flavor came mainly from non-vanilla sources despite "natural vanilla" and vanilla-bean imagery. The court held that Vizcarra had satisfied California's pre-suit notice requirement, so the case could proceed. Unilever later settled the litigation in 2024 for $8.85 million and agreed to reformulate.
Class action over Degree, Dove, Axe antiperspirant "slack fill" advances; court rejects Unilever dismissal
A class action filed in August 2020 alleged that Unilever's Degree, Dove, and Axe stick antiperspirants and deodorants used deceptively oversized packaging with roughly 40% nonfunctional "slack fill"—empty space that served no purpose—so consumers believed they were getting more product. Plaintiffs claimed opaque packaging and minimal weight labeling hid the underfill. A California federal court ruled that consumers had stated viable claims and that displaying net weight on the label did not entitle Unilever to dismissal. (An earlier 2014 suit over Degree/Axe packaging was dismissed in 2015 on FDA preemption grounds.)
Break Free From Plastic 2020 brand audit ranks Unilever seventh top plastic polluter
Break Free From Plastic's 2020 global brand audit ranked Unilever as the seventh-largest corporate plastic polluter. The audit used over 346,000 pieces of plastic collected in 575 brand audits across 55 countries by more than 14,000 volunteers. Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Nestlé held the top three spots for the third year running. Unilever's position in the top ten reflected its reliance on single-use and sachet packaging; the following year (2021) Unilever moved into the top three in the same audit.
Unilever recalls Lipton, Knorr, and LeGoût chicken products over Listeria risk
Unilever recalled about 14 chicken-based products from Lipton, Knorr, and LeGoût brands due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes linked to supplier Tip Top Poultry. Affected items included Knorr Ultimate Chicken Base, Soup du Jour varieties (Chicken Tortilla, Gumbo, Noodle, Wild and White Rice, Red Thai Curry), Chicken and Dumpling, and 095 Chicken Base; Lipton Soup Secrets Chicken Noodle, Cup-a-Soup Chicken Noodle, and Hearty Chicken; and LeGoût Chicken base. Listeria can cause serious illness in young children, older adults, and immunocompromised people, and risk of miscarriage. Consumers were advised to discard or return affected products. The recall was coordinated with the FDA.
Greenpeace report criticizes Unilever and others for "false solutions" to plastic crisis
Greenpeace USA and Break Free From Plastic released "Throwing Away the Future," criticizing major FMCG companies including Unilever, Nestlé, Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and P&G for promoting false solutions (paper, bioplastics, chemical recycling) instead of cutting single-use packaging and investing in refill and reuse. Days later Unilever pledged to cut 100,000 tonnes of single-use plastic by 2025; Greenpeace said the commitment was insufficient for a company using around 700,000 tonnes yearly and that focus on collection and recycled content would not deliver the needed systemic change.
Unilever acquires Lenor Japan personal care business
Unilever acquired the personal care business of Lenor Japan, a skincare company with presence in Japan and China. The deal expanded Unilever's Beauty and Personal Care portfolio in Asia. Terms were not disclosed.
Unilever publishes full global tea supplier list in drive for slave-free sourcing
Unilever published its full global list of tea suppliers for the first time, covering 21 countries including India, Bangladesh, China, Argentina, Turkey, Uganda, and Indonesia. The company buys about 10% of the world's tea and owns Lipton, PG Tips, and Brooke Bond. The disclosure followed the Traidcraft Exchange campaign "Who picked my tea?" on worker exploitation in Assam; advocates said the list would help workers push for better pay and conditions and complain to the brand when standards fell short. The list was made available as a downloadable PDF and interactive map, with plans for annual updates.
Class action filed over Axe "Anti Marks Protection" antiperspirant claims
A class action was filed against Unilever (Crepps et al. v. Conopco, Inc. d/b/a Unilever) alleging that Axe Anti Marks Protection antiperspirants were falsely marketed. Plaintiffs claimed the products promised "Anti Marks," "No White Marks," and "No Yellow Stains" with "48HR Anti Marks Protection" when the active ingredient—aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex GLY—actually causes white marks and yellow stains; the "protection" was merely a diluted concentration that reduced staining slightly. The case was originally filed in Missouri state court (Jefferson County) and was removed to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri in October 2019 (Case No. 19-cv-2723). Related claims were later brought over Dove Men + Care "Stain Defense" antiperspirants.
Unilever completes acquisition of Tatcha (prestige skincare)
Unilever completed the acquisition of Tatcha, a U.S.-based prestige Japanese-inspired skincare brand founded in 2009. The deal had been announced in June 2019 and closed in the third quarter. Tatcha added to Unilever's premium beauty portfolio alongside brands such as REN, Kate Somerville, and Dermalogica. Terms were not disclosed.
Unilever recalls Ben & Jerry's Chunky Monkey and Coconut Seven Layer Bar for undeclared tree nuts
Unilever voluntarily recalled limited quantities of Ben & Jerry's Chunky Monkey pints and Coconut Seven Layer Bar bulk products because they may have contained almonds, Brazil nuts, and hazelnuts not declared in the ingredient or allergy information. The issue was attributed to an error by a nut supplier and was discovered during production. Labels stated "Contains Walnuts" and "May contain other tree nuts," but the specific undeclared nuts posed a serious allergy risk. No illnesses were reported. The FDA-coordinated recall was later terminated.
Unilever completed the acquisition of OLLY Nutrition, a U.S. premium wellbeing company known for vitamins, minerals, and supplements in gummy and pill formats. The deal expanded Unilever's presence in the growing health and wellness category. Terms were not disclosed.
Court rules on St. Ives "100% Natural" labeling in Robinson v. Unilever
The U.S. District Court for the Central District of California ruled in Robinson v. Unilever on claims that St. Ives body lotions and washes were misleadingly labeled "100% Natural Moisturizers" or "Made with 100% Natural" ingredients. The court held that pre-2015 labels using unqualified "100% Natural" could mislead reasonable consumers into believing all ingredients were natural. Post-2015 "Made with 100% Natural" language was not misleading because "made with" limited the claim to certain ingredients. The ruling highlighted how natural and environmental-type claims are scrutinized under consumer protection law.
Unilever acquires Graze (healthy snacking) for £150 million
Unilever acquired Graze, the UK healthy snacking brand, for about £150 million. Graze offered nuts, seeds, trail mixes, and snack bars via subscription and retail (e.g. Sainsbury's, Tesco, Boots). The deal was Unilever's first major move into snacking and aimed to capture growth in healthier options and direct-to-consumer capability. Unilever later sold Graze to Katjes International in December 2025.
Unilever acquires Horlicks and GSK Consumer Healthcare nutrition in India and Asia
Unilever agreed to buy GlaxoSmithKline's health food drinks portfolio for about £3.1 billion (c. $3.8 billion). The deal included Horlicks and Boost in India, Bangladesh, and 20 other mainly Asian markets. It involved merging Hindustan Unilever with GSK Consumer Healthcare India and buying an 82% stake in GSK Bangladesh. The portfolio had about €550 million in annual turnover, mostly in India. The acquisition strengthened Unilever's position in health-food drinks and emerging markets.
Court grants Unilever summary judgment in St. Ives Apricot Scrub "micro-tears" class action
U.S. District Judge Andrew J. Guilford (Central District of California) granted Unilever's motion for summary judgment in Browning v. Unilever United States, Inc., dismissing all claims in the St. Ives Apricot Scrub class action. Plaintiffs had alleged that walnut shell powder in the scrub caused "micro-tears" in skin leading to acne, infections, wrinkles, and premature aging, and that Unilever failed to disclose the risk. The court held that plaintiffs did not provide sufficient evidence of a safety hazard or product defect requiring disclosure, and that neither plaintiff had shown they actually suffered harm from the product. The ruling was cited as an example of winning summary judgment before class certification to defeat consumer class actions.
Investors challenge Unilever and 54 companies on climate lobbying alignment with Paris Agreement
The Church of England Pensions Board, Sweden's AP7, and other investors (about $2 trillion in assets) sent letters to 55 major European companies, including Unilever, BP, Volkswagen, and Nestlé, asking them to review trade association and lobbying positions for consistency with Paris Agreement goals. They published "European Investor Expectations on Corporate Lobbying on Climate Change," calling for lobbying in line with limiting warming to below 2°C. Companies were assessed by InfluenceMap on policy influence and trade group alignment with stated climate support.
Unilever scraps plan to move headquarters to Rotterdam after shareholder rebellion
Unilever abandoned its plan to relocate its legal headquarters from London to Rotterdam, announced in March 2018 to simplify its Anglo-Dutch dual structure. At least 10 shareholders holding about 12% of shares opposed the move, mainly because it would have removed Unilever from the FTSE 100 and forced index-tracking and UK-focused funds to sell. The proposal required 75% support from UK shareholders. On 5 October, Unilever said it had not received support from a significant group of shareholders and withdrew the plan; CEO Paul Polman and chairman Marijn Dekkers faced criticism.
KnowTheChain ranks Unilever top of 38 food and beverage companies on forced labour in supply chains
KnowTheChain's benchmark of 38 food and beverage companies on efforts to address forced labour in supply chains ranked Unilever first with a score of 69 out of 100, ahead of Kellogg (66) and Coca-Cola (62). Unilever had retained the top spot since the first KnowTheChain food and beverage report in 2016. The average score across companies was 30; the report noted most firms still did not show enough evidence of policies in practice or of listening to and empowering workers. The benchmark covered recruitment, responsible sourcing of raw materials, and grievance mechanisms.
Brazil fines Unilever R$29.4 million for abuse of dominance in impulse ice cream market
Brazil's competition authority (CADE) fined Unilever R$29.4 million (c. $8 million) for abusing its dominant position in the impulse ice cream market. Unilever's Kibon brand had imposed exclusivity and rebate schemes on retailers, restricted competitor access to distribution and points of sale, and offered discounts in exchange for exclusive sales and use of refrigerators. The probe followed a 2006 complaint by competitor Della Vita and focused on Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Nestlé was also investigated for similar conduct but was not convicted for lack of dominance.
Unilever becomes first major FMCG to disclose full palm oil supply chain
Unilever published its entire palm oil and palm kernel oil supply chain: more than 1,400 mills and over 300 direct suppliers. It was the first large consumer goods company to do so. The company used about 1 million tonnes of crude palm oil and 0.5 million tonnes of palm kernel oil annually (roughly 8% of global production). Chief supply chain officer Marc Engel said "complete transparency is needed for radical transformation" to tackle deforestation and human rights risks; CEO Polman told the World Economic Forum that companies could not "outsource your responsibilities" along the value chain.
Unilever announces plan to move legal headquarters to Rotterdam
Unilever announced it would move its main legal headquarters from London to Rotterdam, ending 88 years of dual Anglo-Dutch structure. The company would simplify into a single legal entity incorporated in the Netherlands; Beauty & Personal Care and Home Care would remain based in London, Foods & Refreshment in Rotterdam. Chairman Marijn Dekkers said the decision was "not about Brexit" but about simplifying the group for agility and M&A. Unilever would remain listed in London, Amsterdam, and New York but was not expected to stay in the FTSE 100. UK and Dutch jobs were unaffected. The plan was scrapped in October 2018 after shareholder rebellion.
Unilever sells spreads business (Flora, Stork, Becel, I Can't Believe It's Not Butter) to KKR for £6 billion
Unilever sold its global margarine and spreads business to KKR for £6 billion (c. $8 billion). The portfolio included Flora, Stork, Becel, I Can't Believe It's Not Butter, ProActiv, Blue Band, Rama, and Country Crock, with about 7% of Unilever's global operations and 2,300 employees. The sale followed a strategic review after Kraft Heinz's takeover approach in February 2017; Unilever said it would return proceeds to shareholders via buybacks and dividends and focus on higher-growth categories as the spreads category declined.
Italy fines Unilever €60.6 million for abuse of dominance in ice cream market
Italy's competition authority (AGCM) fined Unilever €60.6 million (c. $70 million) for abuse of dominant position in the single-serve out-of-home ice cream market. The AGCM found Unilever had used single-branding and cabinet exclusivity obligations and loyalty and portfolio rebates that excluded competitors from bars, beach resorts, and petrol stations. The probe began in 2015 after a complaint from Italian competitor La Bomba. Unilever rejected the accusations, saying the market was highly competitive and fragmented, and said it would appeal.
Unilever acquires Carver Korea (AHC skincare) for $2.7 billion
Unilever acquired a 95.39% stake in South Korean cosmetics company Carver Korea for about €2.27 billion ($2.7 billion). Carver's AHC brand had strong sales in China and Asia; the deal was then the largest M&A in South Korea's cosmetics industry. Unilever aimed to expand in North Asian skincare.
Unilever acquired Sundial Brands, a U.S. maker of hair and skincare products with brands including SheaMoisture, Nubian Heritage, and Madam C.J. Walker. The company had expected turnover of about $240 million in 2017. The deal expanded Unilever's presence in diverse and natural personal care. Terms were not disclosed.
Rainforest Action Network accuses Unilever, PepsiCo, Nestlé of complicity in illegal Leuser deforestation
The Rainforest Action Network reported that palm oil from illegally deforested land in Indonesia's Leuser ecosystem—critical habitat for Sumatran elephants, orangutans, rhinos, and tigers—was flowing to major brands including Unilever, PepsiCo, Nestlé, McDonald's, Mars, Kellogg's, and P&G via mill PT Ensem Sawita and traders such as Wilmar, Musim Mas, and Cargill. PT Agra Bumi Niaga (ABN) had continued clearing rainforest despite a prior RAN exposure; satellite imagery showed forest in its concession falling from 420 hectares (June 2016) to 88 hectares (April 2017). RAN criticized brands' failure to trace palm oil to the mill level.
Unilever suspended sourcing from Indonesian palm oil supplier Sawit Sumbermas Sarana (SSMS) after determining it had breached Unilever's Sustainable Palm Oil Sourcing Policy. Chain Reaction Research had documented ongoing deforestation and peatland clearance by SSMS subsidiaries using satellite imagery; Unilever had become a significant buyer (about 8% of SSMS palm oil sales in Q1 2017). Unilever required SSMS to produce a remedial action plan and said it would not resume sourcing until it saw clear progress. Other traders including Wilmar had already suspended SSMS in prior years.
Unilever acquires Sir Kensington's (specialty condiments)
Unilever acquired Sir Kensington's, a U.S. specialty condiment maker known for premium ketchup and other sauces. It was Unilever's first acquisition after fending off the Kraft Heinz takeover bid in February 2017 and helped refocus the food portfolio on condiments, ice cream, and tea. Terms were not disclosed.
Unilever recalls Ben & Jerry's Chocolate Fudge Brownie Pint Slices for undeclared peanut
Unilever voluntarily recalled a limited quantity of Ben & Jerry's Chocolate Fudge Brownie Pint Slices because the outer packaging did not declare peanut. Some boxes contained Vanilla Peanut Butter Cup Pint Slices (correctly labeled on the individual wrappers), creating an allergy risk. The recall followed one consumer complaint; no illnesses were reported. Affected product was distributed nationwide in the U.S.; Unilever offered replacement coupons and asked consumers with peanut allergies to discard the product.
Class action filed over Unilever "natural" claims on shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
Consumer Craig Hain filed a class action against Conopco Inc. (Unilever) in U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, alleging fraud and negligent misrepresentation. Hain claimed he was harmed by buying shampoo, conditioner, and body wash products advertised as "natural" that contained synthetic ingredients. The suit sought compensatory and punitive damages, injunctive relief, restitution, and attorney fees. It was part of a wave of "natural" marketing litigation against consumer brands in the late 2010s.
South Africa refers Unilever and Sime Darby cartel case to Competition Tribunal
South Africa's Competition Commission referred a cartel case against Unilever South Africa and Sime Darby Hudson Knight to the Competition Tribunal for prosecution. The Commission found that from at least 2004 to 2013 the two firms had divided markets in the manufacture and supply of bakery and cooking products, including edible oils and margarine. Unilever agreed not to supply industrial customers with Flora branded edible oils; Sime Darby agreed not to supply retail customers with margarine under 15 kg or Crispa branded oils. Sime Darby had already settled in 2016 (R35m fine). Unilever settled in July 2023 (R16m and commitments).
Kraft Heinz bids $143 billion for Unilever; Unilever rejects, Kraft withdraws within days
Kraft Heinz made an unsolicited $143 billion (£115 billion) takeover offer for Unilever, which would have been one of the largest mergers in history. Unilever's board rejected it on 17 February, stating there was "no merit, strategic or financial." Within 48 hours Kraft Heinz withdrew the offer. Factors included Unilever's insistence that shareholders had no appetite for a deal, the bid's heavy leverage (c. £70 billion debt) and risk to Unilever's credit rating, and political sensitivity in the UK after Theresa May's criticism of Kraft's Cadbury takeover. Unilever later launched a strategic review that led to the sale of the spreads business to KKR in December 2017.
Class action filed over St. Ives Apricot Scrub "micro-tears" and marketing claims
Kaylee Browning and Sarah Basile filed a class action against Unilever United States in federal court, alleging St. Ives Apricot Scrub was falsely advertised as "dermatologist tested" and "non-comedogenic" and that crushed walnut shell exfoliant caused "micro-tears" leading to acne, infection, and wrinkles. The suit sought to represent a class of U.S. purchasers. Unilever later won summary judgment in December 2018; the Ninth Circuit affirmed in 2020.
Unilever acquires Dollar Shave Club for $1 billion
Unilever acquired U.S. subscription shaving brand Dollar Shave Club for about $1 billion in cash. Dollar Shave Club had 3.2 million members and roughly $152 million in 2015 revenue. The deal gave Unilever a direct rival to Procter & Gamble's Gillette and a strong position in the U.S. subscription male-grooming market. Founder Michael Dubin stayed on as CEO; the deal closed in the third quarter of 2016.
"Marmitegate": Unilever–Tesco price row after Brexit sterling fall; resolved within days
Unilever sought price increases of about 10% on products including Marmite, PG Tips, Hellmann's, Ben & Jerry's, and Persil to offset sterling's sharp fall after the Brexit vote. Tesco, the UK's largest supermarket, refused. Unilever products were marked unavailable on Tesco's website and removed from some shelves; the Marmite shortage drew the most attention and gave the dispute its nickname. The standoff lasted roughly 24 hours before both sides announced a resolution without disclosing terms. The episode highlighted post-Brexit currency and supply-chain tensions between retailers and multinational suppliers.
Court approves $3.25 million settlement in TreSemmé Naturals "natural" claims class action
A U.S. court granted final approval of a $3.25 million settlement in Morales v. Conopco Inc. (Unilever), a class action alleging TreSemmé Naturals shampoos and conditioners were falsely marketed as "natural" while containing synthetic ingredients such as ammonium laureth sulfate and DMDM hydantoin. The suit had been filed in 2013. Class members could receive up to $5 per bottle for up to 10 bottles without proof of purchase. Over 225,000 claims were later paid in February 2017. Unilever did not admit wrongdoing.
KnowTheChain first Food & Beverage benchmark ranks Unilever top on forced labour
KnowTheChain released its first Food & Beverage Benchmark, assessing 20 major global food and beverage companies on efforts to address forced labour in supply chains. Unilever scored highest with 65 out of 100, ahead of Coca-Cola (58) and Nestlé (57). The industry average was 30; recruitment practices were the weakest area. Unilever retained the top position in subsequent KnowTheChain reports (e.g. 2018).
Unilever warns UK staff company would be "negatively impacted" by Brexit; objects to logo use in Vote Leave materials
Days before the EU referendum (23 June), Unilever sent a letter to its 7,500 UK employees signed by CEO Paul Polman and former chairmen and CEOs (Sir Michael Perry, Patrick Cescau, Niall FitzGerald), stating the company would be "negatively impacted" if the UK left the EU and that "the way we run the company may be fundamentally different." The letter stressed dependence on the single European market and said it was not telling staff how to vote but had a duty to explain risks. Separately, Unilever joined GE and Airbus in objecting to the unauthorized use of their logos in pro-Brexit "Vote Leave" campaign materials and threatened legal action.
Unilever acquires Seventh Generation (plant-based cleaning and personal care)
Unilever agreed to acquire Seventh Generation, a Vermont-based maker of plant-based household cleaning and personal care products, with 2015 turnover exceeding $200 million and strong growth. The deal expanded Unilever's portfolio in sustainable and natural-positioned brands. Terms were not disclosed.
Unilever announced it would acquire Blueair, a Sweden-based maker of premium air purifiers with annual turnover of about $106 million and presence in China, the U.S., Japan, South Korea, and India. The deal added to Unilever's home care and air-quality portfolio. Terms were not disclosed.
Unilever disengages from palm oil supplier IOI after RSPO suspension for deforestation and peat violations
The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) suspended IOI Group's certification (effective 4 April) after finding deforestation and peatland destruction in Ketapang, Kalimantan, Indonesia, and labor rights violations. Unilever announced on 6 April that it was disengaging from IOI—one of its major certified sustainable palm oil suppliers—and would complete the move within three months, citing breach of Unilever's updated Sustainable Palm Oil Policy. Unilever was the first major customer to drop IOI; Kellogg and Mars followed. The suspension was among the RSPO's most significant interventions in its history.
Hindustan Unilever settles with workers over Kodaikanal mercury contamination
Hindustan Unilever (HUL) reached a settlement with 591 former workers and families from its former thermometer factory in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, after a long dispute. The factory had operated from 1983 to 2001; mercury-contaminated glass scrap was sold to a local dealer in 2001, and the site caused lasting environmental and health concerns. Workers had sought rehabilitation and compensation in the Madras High Court from 2006. HUL made ex gratia payments for "livelihood enhancement and skill enhancement" and did not admit liability; it stated the settlement was on "humanitarian" grounds. Site remediation trials began in 2017 under Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board oversight. NGOs and activists criticized the delay in addressing contamination and worker welfare.
Guardian readers' editor: Unilever was removed from Monbiot's palm oil "laggards" column before publication
The Guardian's readers' editor, Chris Elliott, disclosed that George Monbiot's October 2015 column on Indonesia's fires and palm oil had originally named Unilever alongside Starbucks, PepsiCo, and Kraft Heinz as companies moving "more slowly and opaquely" on palm oil sustainability. Unilever's name was removed before the column was published; Monbiot only learned of the change afterward and raised concerns about the Guardian's commercial relationship with Unilever. Elliott said none of those involved in the edit were aware of that relationship at the time and called it an editorial error. The episode highlighted ongoing scrutiny of both palm oil supply chains and media independence.
Hindustan Unilever withdraws Knorr Chinese noodles in India pending FSSAI approval
After the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published a list of approved noodle, pasta, and macaroni brands (8 June), HUL's Knorr Chinese range (e.g. Hot & Spicy, Schezwan) was not on the list. FSSAI had instructed state commissioners to ensure recall and destruction of unlisted products. HUL said it would stop production and sale of the Chinese range until its pending application was approved, and stressed the move was not due to any safety or quality concern. The move came amid the broader Maggi noodles crisis, in which Nestlé's Maggi was banned for lead and MSG issues.
Unilever acquired Kate Somerville Skincare LLC, a U.S. prestige skincare brand founded in Los Angeles and known for products such as Exfolikate and Dermal Quench. The brand was distributed through prestige retailers in the United States with growing presence in Asia. Unilever did not disclose the price. The deal, together with REN (acquired in March 2015), strengthened Unilever's prestige and dermocosmetic skincare portfolio; Kate Somerville continued in an ambassadorial and product-development role.
Unilever acquired REN Clean Skincare, a UK-based premium skincare brand focused on clean, sustainable formulations. The deal expanded Unilever's premium personal care portfolio. Terms were not disclosed. (Unilever later announced in 2025 that it would close the REN business by end of Q3 2025.)
Unilever acquired Talenti Gelato & Sorbetto, a Minneapolis-based gelato brand and then the best-selling packaged gelato in the U.S., with projected 2014 sales over $120 million. The deal added artisanal gelato and sorbetto to Unilever's ice cream portfolio (Ben & Jerry's, Breyers, Good Humor, Klondike, Magnum, Popsicle). Terms were not disclosed.
Unilever European Foods reaches 100% traceable and certified sustainable palm oil
By the end of 2014, Unilever's European Foods business achieved 100% traceable and certified sustainable palm oil. Group-wide, about 58% of palm oil was traceable to known mills, with visibility of roughly 1,800 crude palm oil mills. The milestone followed Unilever's November 2013 commitment with WWF to trace all palm oil it sources. Unilever aimed to go beyond RSPO certification alone by ensuring traceability to exclude deforestation and peatland conversion from its supply chain.
Unilever sold the Slim-Fast weight-management and meal-replacement brand to Kainos Capital, a Dallas-based private equity firm. The deal included the Slim-Fast trademark and global business (North America, UK, Ireland); Unilever retained a minority stake. Terms were not disclosed. The sale was part of Unilever's focus on core personal care and foods; Slim-Fast had faced declining sales.
Court approves $10.25 million settlement in Suave Keratin Infusion hair loss class action
A federal court in the Northern District of Illinois approved a $10.25 million settlement in Reid et al. v. Unilever United States, Inc., consolidating class actions over Unilever's Suave Professionals Keratin Infusion 30-Day Smoothing Kit. Plaintiffs alleged the product, which contained thioglycolic acid, caused hair loss and scalp burns; the kit had been recalled in May 2012. The settlement included a $250,000 reimbursement fund ($10 per purchase) and a $10 million injury fund (up to $40 without receipts, up to $800 with receipts, up to $25,000 for significant injury). The Seventh Circuit later affirmed the settlement against an objector's appeal in 2016.
Unilever recalls Slim-Fast meal bars for undeclared allergens (wrong packaging)
Unilever recalled three Slim-Fast Meal Bar varieties (Chocolate Crunch, Chocolate Peanut, Summer Berry) because bars had been packed into incorrect outer boxes, leading to wrong or missing allergen labelling. Wheat, oats (gluten), and peanuts were not properly declared on some packs, posing a risk to people with those allergies. All date and batch codes were affected; distribution included the UK, Spain, and Malta. Unilever withdrew the products and contacted allergy organisations. Unilever sold the Slim-Fast brand to Kainos Capital in July 2014.
Unilever recalls Popsicle Orange, Cherry, and Grape ice pops for undeclared milk
Unilever issued an allergy alert and voluntary recall of 20-count boxes of Popsicle Orange, Cherry, and Grape ice pops because the product may have been inadvertently exposed to milk, which was not declared on the label. The recall followed one report of two milk-allergic reactions. Approximately 17,922 cases were recalled; distribution was nationwide in the U.S. Consumers were advised to discontinue use and contact Unilever for replacement coupons. The recall was conducted with FDA knowledge and classified as Class I.
Oxfam reports on labor rights in Unilever's Vietnam supply chain
Oxfam published a study of labor issues in Unilever's Vietnam operations and supply chain, documenting challenges including workers unable to earn a living wage without excessive overtime, limited freedom of association and weak collective bargaining, widespread use of temporary and insecure contracts, and poor working conditions despite Unilever's sustainability commitments. The report, produced with Unilever's cooperation, urged moving "from compliance to good practice." A 2016 follow-up found some progress—including wage increases and bringing manufacturing in-house—but ongoing concerns on gender equality and supplier standards.
Unilever recalls Suave Professionals Keratin Infusion 30-Day Smoothing Kit after hair loss and scalp burn reports
Unilever recalled the Suave Professionals Keratin Infusion 30-Day Smoothing Kit after receiving far more complaints than expected. Consumers reported severe hair loss, bald spots, breakage, discoloration, and burned scalps. The product contained thioglycolic acid and was marketed as "formaldehyde free," though plaintiffs later alleged it contained formaldehyde-releasing ingredients. More than 380,000 units had been sold in roughly five months. Unilever voluntarily withdrew the product; class actions were consolidated and settled for $10.25 million (court approval July 2014).
UK Unilever workers stage first national strikes in 80 years over pension cuts
Around 5,000 Unilever workers in the UK voted to strike after the company moved to scrap the final-salary pension scheme for existing members and replace it with a career-average scheme that unions said could cut retirement benefits by up to 40%. In December 2011 about 2,500 workers took part in the first strike; rolling strikes of up to 12 days followed from January 2012, affecting eight sites including Port Sunlight, Purfleet, Warrington, and Leeds. Production of Marmite, PG Tips, Persil, and Dove was disrupted. Unite, GMB, and USDAW led the action, with 85% of Unite members and 75% of GMB members voting to strike. Unilever described the changes as necessary to keep the pension fund sustainable.
Unilever acquires Alberto-Culver (TRESemmé, VO5, Nexxus, St. Ives, Simple) for $3.7 billion
Unilever acquired Alberto-Culver for $3.7 billion in cash ($37.50 per share). The deal brought hair and skin brands including TRESemmé, VO5, Nexxus, St. Ives, and Simple, with about $1.6 billion in annual sales across nine countries. It made Unilever the global leader in hair conditioning and strengthened its position in North American hair care. The transaction closed in 2011.
Unilever sells prestige fragrance business (Calvin Klein, Cerruti, Chloe, Vera Wang, Lagerfeld) to Coty for $800 million
Unilever sold its prestige fragrance business—Unilever Cosmetics International (UCI)—to Coty Inc. for $800 million in cash, with potential deferred payments tied to future sales. The business included perfume licenses for Calvin Klein, Cerruti, Vera Wang, Chloe, and Lagerfeld, with 2004 sales over $600 million and about 1,300 employees (manufacturing in New Jersey and Lille, France). The sale completed Unilever's exit from the fragrances market to focus on core categories.
Unilever sells North American oral care (Mentadent, Pepsodent, Aim, Close-Up) to Church & Dwight for $104 million
Unilever sold its North American oral care portfolio to Church & Dwight Co. (Arm & Hammer) for $104 million cash at closing, with $5–12 million in possible performance-based payments. The brands—Mentadent, Pepsodent, Aim, and exclusive licensing rights to Close-Up—had first-half 2003 sales of $61 million. The sale was part of Unilever's "Path to Growth" strategy to shrink from about 1,600 brands to 400 core brands.
Unilever sells Mazola and 18 food brands to ACH Food Companies (ABF) for $360 million
Unilever sold 19 food brands in North America to ACH Food Companies, a subsidiary of Associated British Foods, for $360 million (£248 million). The portfolio included Mazola cooking oil, Argo and Kingsford's corn starches, Karo and Golden Griddle syrups, Henri's salad dressings, Purlite, and Canadian brands (Benson's, Canada starches, Crown, Bee Hive syrups, Old Colony maple syrup, etc.), with 2001 net sales of $310 million. The brands had come from the 2000 Bestfoods acquisition; Unilever divested them under "Path to Growth." About 200 employees and sites in Illinois, New Jersey, and Puerto Rico transferred to ACH.
Unilever sells European soup and sauce brands (Oxo, Batchelors, Royco) to Campbell Soup for €1 billion
Unilever sold its European soup and sauce businesses to Campbell Soup Company for approximately €1 billion (c. $950 million). The deal, required by the European Commission for approval of the Bestfoods acquisition, included Oxo bouillon (UK), Batchelors (UK), Royco (France/Belgium), Heisse Tasse (Germany), and operations in Belgium, France, Ireland, Sweden, Finland, and the Netherlands. Combined annual sales exceeded $400 million; six manufacturing sites and about 1,300 employees transferred to Campbell.
Unilever sells Elizabeth Arden to FFI Fragrances for approximately $225 million
Unilever agreed to sell its Elizabeth Arden business (fragrances, color, skincare, White Shoulders, and licenses for Elizabeth Taylor's White Diamonds and Passion) to Miami-based FFI Fragrances for about $225 million. The deal closed in early 2001; some 1,500 employees transferred. Unilever kept its prestige designer fragrance business (Calvin Klein, Cerruti, Lagerfeld, Chloe, Valentino), which it later sold to Coty in 2005.
Unilever acquires Bestfoods for $20.3 billion (c. $24.3B with debt)
Unilever acquired Bestfoods for $20.3 billion in cash ($73 per share), plus about $4 billion in assumed debt (total deal value c. $24.3 billion). The deal brought major food brands including Hellmann's and Best Foods mayonnaise, Knorr soups and bouillons, Skippy peanut butter, and in various markets Marmite, Entenmann's baked goods, Thomas' English muffins, and Mueller's pasta. It made Unilever the world's largest food and consumer goods company by revenue at the time and added scale with U.S. retailers. The transaction closed October 4, 2000; Unilever projected about $750 million in annual cost savings from the merger.
Unilever acquired Ben & Jerry's Homemade, Inc. for $326 million. The merger agreement preserved an independent board for Ben & Jerry's to protect the brand's social mission and activism—a structure that later became the focus of the 2025 lawsuit when the board accused Unilever of undermining that independence.
Unilever acquires Kraft ice cream business (Breyers, Sealtest)
Unilever agreed to acquire the ice cream division of Kraft General Foods (a Philip Morris subsidiary). The deal included Breyers—then the U.S.'s best-selling ice cream brand—and Sealtest, plus licenses for Light n' Lively and Knudsen. Kraft's ice cream division had annual sales of about $500 million and a 15.6% U.S. market share; it operated six manufacturing sites and employed around 2,000 people. Combined with Unilever's earlier 1993 purchase of Isaly Klondike and its 1989 Gold Bond/Popsicle acquisition, Unilever became the world's largest marketer of ice cream. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Unilever acquires Isaly Klondike Company (Klondike bar, Popsicle Canada) for $155 million
Unilever acquired the Isaly Klondike Company for $155 million, gaining the Klondike bar brand and Popsicle Industries Ltd. of Canada. Combined with Unilever's 1989 acquisition of Gold Bond (which included Popsicle in the U.S.) and the later 1993 Kraft/Breyers deal, Unilever consolidated its position as the leading U.S. ice cream and frozen novelties marketer.
Unilever acquires Gold Bond Ice Cream (includes Popsicle brand)
Unilever acquired Gold Bond Ice Cream, then the largest U.S. frozen novelties manufacturer. Gold Bond had bought Popsicle Industries from Sara Lee in 1987; the Unilever deal brought the Popsicle brand and other frozen novelty operations into Unilever's portfolio, paving the way for further ice cream consolidation (Isaly Klondike in 1993, Kraft Breyers in 1993). Terms were not disclosed.
Unilever acquires Chesebrough-Pond's for $3.1 billion (Vaseline, Pond's, Ragu)
Unilever N.V. agreed to acquire Chesebrough-Pond's Inc. for $3.1 billion ($72.50 per share) in a "white knight" deal that ended a hostile bid by American Brands. The Connecticut-based company brought Vaseline and Pond's skincare, Ragu pasta sauce, Prince Matchabelli cosmetics, and Bass shoes. The deal strengthened Unilever's U.S. presence and skincare portfolio; the tender offer closed in late December 1986.
Unilever acquires Naarden (fragrances and food flavours)
Unilever acquired Naarden, a Netherlands-based international supplier of fragrances and food flavours. The acquisition doubled Unilever's international fragrances and flavours business. Naarden operated in 24 countries and had absorbed UOP Fragrances; it offered a broad line of natural and synthetic materials for flavours and fragrances. The deal supported Unilever's in-house fragrance and flavour capabilities.
Unilever acquires Brooke Bond (PG Tips tea) for £376 million
Unilever acquired Brooke Bond, gaining the PG Tips tea brand and a strong position in the UK and global tea market. The £376 million deal was part of Unilever's focus on core categories with strong brands. PG Tips remained a flagship tea brand until Unilever later sold its global tea business (ekaterra, including PG Tips) to CVC in 2022.
Unilever acquires full Lipton tea business for £18.5 million
Unilever completed its acquisition of the full Lipton tea business after an independent adjudicator set the repurchase price at £18.5 million. Unilever had sold its shares in Allied Suppliers (the Lipton holding company) to Cavenham Foods and agreed to repurchase Lipton's tea business. The deal gave Unilever global control of the Lipton brand; the U.S. and Canadian Lipton business had been acquired earlier (1938). Lipton later became a cornerstone of Unilever's tea portfolio until the 2022 sale of ekaterra to CVC.
Unilever acquires Good Humor (ice cream) for $10.5 million
Unilever acquired Good Humor through its U.S. subsidiary Thomas J. Lipton for $10.5 million. Good Humor, famous for the ice cream bar on a stick and ice cream trucks, had been founded in Youngstown, Ohio in 1920. The brand became part of Unilever's expanding U.S. ice cream business, which later included Popsicle (via Gold Bond 1989), Klondike (1993), Breyers (1993), Ben & Jerry's (2000), and Talenti (2014), before the 2024 spin-off of the ice cream division.
Unilever Bestfoods hazardous waste cleanup (Montville, New Jersey)
The 27-acre Unilever Bestfoods site at 24 Taylortown Road, Montville, NJ, is under long-term hazardous waste remediation overseen by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) under an Administrative Consent Order. Historic leaks and spills from drum storage, tanks, and a lagoon left soils contaminated with volatile organics, pesticides, metals, and semi-volatile organics, and groundwater with benzene, toluene, phenol, and chromium. Cleanup has included biosparge systems, air sparge and soil vapor extraction, and removal of contaminated soils; groundwater monitoring continues. Human exposure is reported as controlled.
