Unilever experienced sales growth in 2009

Food manufacturer Unilever has reported sales growth of 3.5 per cent in its end of year financial results.

The firm said that volume growth was experienced in most of its key categories throughout the year and reached five per cent in the fourth quarter.

Earlier this week, analysts told Reuters that Unilever was expected to announce volume growth for the third consecutive quarter in its financial results.

During quarter four Unilever said the Knorr brand experienced success with the stockpots range in Western Europe and seasoning mixes in Brazil, Vietnam and Indonesia.

It added that the new healthier Hellmans mayonnaise product using free range eggs had been received well.

Paul Polman, the chief executive officer of Unilever, said that he was pleased with the company's volume growth in "challenging" economic conditions.

"Our market share improvements were broad-based and improved throughout the year. Our brands are stronger, driven by better quality innovation and a step-change in advertising and promotional expenditure," he explained.

Mr Polman added that Unilever has managed to strengthen its position within emerging markets "made encouraging progress in re-establishing volume growth in Western Europe".

He added that the company would be looking to continue its volume growth over the next 12 months.

Posted by Lauren Cook.