Beiersdorf maintains outlook as first quarter sales rise

Nivea owner Beiersdorf has reported a rise in sales for the first quarter ending 31 March 2025, as innovation fuelled double-digit growth across its derma brands. 

The German multinational company saw sales reach €2.7 billion (£2.3 billion), representing organic growth of 3.6%.

All regions contributed to growth, with Europe rising 1.3% to €1.1 billion (£942 million). Meanwhile, Americas was up 3.5%, and Africa, Asia and Australia grew 7.4%.

The consumer business segment generated sales of €2.3 billion (£1.9 billion) and growth of 2.3%, boosted by the success of its derma brands Eucerin and Aquaphor.

Nivea sales increased 2.5%, helped a "strong" performance in skincare globally, partially offset by a tough comparison base with growth of 12.6% in the first quarter of 2024.

However, skincare brand La Prairie saw sales decline 17.5% against a stronger prior-year baseline. It was also impacted by a "challenging" market environment in China.

In contrast, Chantecaille delivered "remarkable" sales growth of 15.9%, driven by the luxury brand's roll-out in mainland China and its successful expansion across Asia.

Looking ahead, Beiersdorf continues to expect sales growth of 4-6% for the consumer business segment in FY25.

Vincent Warnery, CEO of Beiersdorf, said: "In a dynamic market environment, Beiersdorf’s performance in the first quarter of 2025 was fully in line with our expectations. It was driven by our ongoing commitment to expanding into white spaces and delivering breakthrough innovations.

"In addition, we are putting our house in order in China to set the foundation for future growth. Excluding the effects of our proactive measures in this key market, our consumer quarterly performance was within our guidance.

"As we look ahead into this year, we confirm our guidance for 2025 to deliver sustainable growth."