Unilever raises prices, warns of more hikes on cost pressures

Unilever, Carlsberg and Pernod Ricard are increasing the pressure on consumers worldwide with higher prices for Dove soap, beer and Havana Club rum, raising the risk that shoppers may start to balk at spending more.

All three firms reported sales growth at about double the pace analysts had expected. Unilever raised prices by over 8 per cent in the first quarter and warned more hikes were on the way. It forecast full-year revenue growth at the top end of its forecast, though warned that profitability may suffer as consumers cut back on purchases.

Consumer-goods makers are walking a tightrope as the war