Unilever has increased prices on iconic brands including Marmite and Dove, citing higher input costs and marketing expenses linked to the World Cup. The consumer goods giant said the price rises reflect persistent inflation in raw materials and logistics.
Cost pressures mount
The company reported that commodity prices, particularly for vegetable oils and packaging, have risen sharply over the past quarter. Unilever also noted that its sponsorship and advertising spend during the World Cup added to overall costs.
Marmite, a yeast extract spread with a cult following, saw a price increase of around 5% in UK supermarkets. Dove, the personal care brand, also faced similar rises across its soap and shampoo ranges.
Impact on shoppers
Retailers confirmed that the price adjustments have been passed on to consumers. A spokeswoman for a major supermarket chain said: “We are seeing increases across a number of Unilever products, reflecting the wider inflationary environment.”
Unilever’s move comes as other food and household goods manufacturers also raise prices. The company said it is “committed to absorbing as much cost as possible” but added that “some increases are unavoidable.”
