Marico, a prominent name in India’s consumer goods industry with a strong emphasis on haircare and wellness, has revealed its financial results for the March quarter. The announcement, made on May 2, showcases a blend of positive and challenging indicators. Notably, the company achieved a 7% volume growth in its Indian operations, surpassing analysts’ expectations of 5-6%. Additionally, the international segment saw a remarkable 16% growth in constant currency terms.

Strong Performance in India’s Business

Marico’s India business showed encouraging signs of sequential improvement in volume growth during the quarter. Despite facing the short-term challenges of hyperinflation and significant price increases in key product lines, the company maintained strong momentum in its new ventures. Here are some highlights:

• 95% of the business either gained or maintained market share.
• 80% of products sustained or improved penetration rates, based on Moving Annual Total (MAT) data.
• Revenue from India reached ₹2,068 crore, marking a 23% year-over-year increase, primarily driven by strategic price hikes in response to rising input costs.

International Business Thrives

Marico’s international operations also had a stellar quarter, exceeding the company’s internal targets. However, there was a notable contraction in gross margin, which decreased by 300 basis points year-over-year. This was largely due to the rising costs of copra and vegetable oils, although pricing strategies in key portfolios helped mitigate some of the impact.

Strategic Investments and Financial Highlights

Advertising and promotion (A&P) expenditures surged by 35% year-over-year in Q4, aligning with Marico’s strategy to enhance its brand presence and diversify its offerings. The company’s EBITDA rose by 4% to reach ₹458 crore, with an EBITDA margin of 16.8%, reflecting a 260 basis point drop. In terms of net profit, Marico reported an 8% year-over-year increase, totaling ₹343 crore.

For the fiscal year 2025, Marico’s revenue from operations stood at ₹10,831 crore, a 12% increase compared to the previous year. The underlying volume growth in the Indian segment was 5%, paired with a 14% growth in the international market. The net profit for the year reached ₹1,629 crore, reflecting a 10% year-over-year increase. Additionally, the Board of Directors has proposed a final dividend of ₹7 per equity share on the paid-up equity capital of approximately ₹129.5 crore.

Looking Ahead: Optimism for Core Categories

Marico anticipates a gradual recovery in its core business segments, buoyed by easing retail and food inflation, as well as a promising monsoon forecast. The company is optimistic that these trends will be supported by its initiatives to enhance partnerships with General Trade (GT) channel partners and expand its direct reach through Project SETU.

Marico remains confident in its robust offtakes, penetration, and market share gains in key portfolios. The focus will be on driving distinctive growth in urban-centric and premium segments through organized retail and e-commerce channels, positioning the brand for continued success in a competitive landscape.

For more insights on Marico’s strategic initiatives and market outlook, visit the official website.