Dabur India Ltd’s Consolidated Net Sales for the first quarter marked a 10.7% growth at Rs 2,064.1 Crore, up from Rs 1,863.9 Crore a year earlier, while net profit rose 23.9% to Rs 261.1 Crore vs Rs 210.8 Crore a year earlier.
Dabur India Ltd said it faced headwinds like subdued demand, geopolitical challenges and currency volatility across some key geographies during the quarter.
“The macro-economic scenario remains challenging. In this subdued environment, we remained watchful, agile and prudent, managing our business dynamically to deliver another quarter of competitive and profitable growth. Our India FMCG business ended the first quarter of 2015-16 with an 11.6% growth, led by an 8.1% Volume growth. Our EBITDA marked a 21.6% growth during the quarter,” Dabur India Ltd Chief Executive Officer Mr. Sunil Duggal said.
“Going forward, we will focus on our cost efficiencies and pursue an aggressive and profitable growth strategy. We continue to strengthen our business for the long term by driving innovation and investing behind our brands. With these initiatives, we are confident of growing ahead of the market and improving our market share,” Mr. Duggal added.
Dabur’s Toothpaste business, led by strong demand for Dabur Red Paste and Dabur Meswak, ended the first quarter with a near 24% growth. The OTC & Ethicals business ended the first quarter with a 16.7% growth, while the Foods category reported a 15.5% growth during Q1. While the Hair Oil category reported a 13% growth during the period, the Shampoo business ended the quarter with an 11.5% growth. The Home Care business grew by nearly 12% during the period.
Dabur’s international business (including acquisitions) reported a steady growth during the quarter, led by Turkey, Nepal and GCC markets. “Despite disruptions in some overseas geographies, we are managing our business dynamically to ensure that we remain competitive and cost efficient. Our Turkey business grew by over 22%, while sales in Nepal grew by over 14% and GCC markets by 10%,” Dabur India Ltd Group Director Mr. P. D. Narang said.
The first quarter of 2015-16 saw Dabur foray into the premium baby care market with the launch of ‘Dabur Baby’, a new brand which will have a range of baby care products, besides the introduction of Real Wellnezz brand with 100% Jamun juice. In the overseas markets, Dabur announced the launch of a host of new products, including DermoViva Saffron Fairness Face Mask and DermoViva Baby Olive Enriched Powder.