First quarter profits at Filipino food manufacturer Universal Robina Corp. (URC) have been driven by lower commodity prices and better cost management.

For the quarter, net profits rose 47% to PHP4.79bn (US$101.1m) while operating profits rose 16% to PHP5.14bn.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

Profits were lifted by lower costs in the quarter.

Group sales also rose during the period by 11% to PHP29.9bn and were driven by sales of ready-to-drink tea and noodles thanks to growth of Nissin Cup Noodles.

Snacks showed mixed results with domestic consumers downtrading to cheaper brands in salty snacks, and shifting to other formats for candies and biscuits, URC said.

URC reiterated topline guidance of 8-9% growth in sales and said it remained “cautiously optimistic given challenges that affect consumer sentiment and overall demand” such as El Nino, slower remittance growth and a weaker macro in Thailand.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Q1 sales by region

  • Philippines branded consumer foods: +6% to PHP16bn.
  • International branded consumer foods: +19% to PHP8bn

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now