Solid Like-for-Like Sales Growth
Full-year like-for-like sales grew +4.5% (Q4 +4.7%), driven by volume/mix (+2.7% FY; +2.5% Q4) and price (+1.8% FY; +2.1% Q4). Reported sales were broadly stable at EUR 27.3bn after currency and scope effects.
Improved Profitability and EPS
Recurring operating margin expanded by +44 basis points to 13.4% and recurring EPS rose +4.6% to EUR 3.80, close to an all-time high.
Strong Cash Generation and ROIC
Free cash flow of EUR 2.8 billion for 2025 and Return on Invested Capital improved to double-digit (10.7%), up ~62 basis points year-on-year.
Category and Platform Momentum
Specialized Nutrition grew +7.4% like-for-like; EDP +3.5%; Waters +1.9%. High-protein platforms performed strongly globally (Oikos PRO exceeded EUR 1bn), Alpro became a EUR 1bn platform, and Fortimel/Nutrison Medical Nutrition reached ~EUR 1bn.
Regional Standouts — CNAO and Emerging Markets
China, North Asia & Oceania (CNAO) delivered exceptional LFL growth of +11.7%, driven by volume (+12%). Latin America grew +6% LFL and AMEA +5.6% LFL, all finishing the year strongly.
Strategic M&A and Portfolio Moves
Acquisition of Kate Farms helped build a US Medical Nutrition platform (~$500m) and an additional 1% stake in Australian JV raised ownership to 51% (financial consolidation). Integration and scale gains already showing strong growth for Kate Farms.
Sustainability & Operations Recognition
Worldwide B Corp certification achieved; CDP Triple A recognition retained. Supply chain ranked 10th in Gartner Top 25 Supply Chains; Industry 5.0 Academy upskilling 20,000 employees and 10 factories piloting digital factory capabilities.
Dividend Increase
Proposed dividend of EUR 2.25 per share, up ~5% versus prior year, aligned with EPS growth.