Reckitt Benckiser Delivers Strong Q3, Fueled by Emerging Markets

Reckitt Benckiser (LON: RKT), the multinational consumer goods company, announced a robust third-quarter performance, driven by strong growth in its Core Reckitt segment and a rebound in Mead Johnson Nutrition.

The company's results demonstrate continued delivery on its strategic plan, despite a challenging global consumer landscape.

Net revenue for the Group rose to £3.611 billion, a 7.0% increase on a like-for-like (LFL) basis. Core Reckitt, which constitutes the bulk of the company’s business, saw LFL net revenue climb by 6.7%.

This growth was propelled by standout performance in Emerging Markets and a return to growth in both North America and Europe.

Breaking down the numbers further, Emerging Markets led the charge with a 15.5% LFL net revenue increase, reaching £1.080 billion. Europe also posted positive figures, with a 0.8% LFL increase to £865 million. North America showed signs of recovery, achieving a 1.3% LFL increase to £658 million.

Mead Johnson Nutrition also contributed significantly, registering a 22.0% LFL net revenue increase, largely due to lapping the impact of the prior year's tornado.

Shareholder value has been enhanced by the commencement of a £1 billion share buyback program, initiated on July 28, 2025. As of October 21, 2025, the first £250 million tranche had been completed, demonstrating commitment to return capital to investors.

Driver Breakdown:

• Emerging Markets Strength: Sustained outperformance in China and broad-based growth across other Emerging Market regions.
• Volume Growth Momentum: Core Reckitt experienced a 3.4% volume growth, marking a significant improvement from the first half of the year.
• Innovation Impact: Recent innovations in Self Care and Intimate Wellness categories contributed to a balanced growth algorithm.

CEO Kris Licht stated, “We have delivered a strong third-quarter performance with LFL net revenue up 6.7% in Core Reckitt. These results reflect sequential volume improvements and the strength of our Powerbrands. We returned to growth in Developed Markets against a challenging consumer landscape and continued to deliver outsized growth in Emerging Markets.”

“We are pleased with our performance and we are confident in delivering our full year 2025 guidance.”

Reckitt Benckiser maintained its full-year 2025 outlook, expecting LFL net revenue growth above 4% in Core Reckitt.

The company also anticipates low-to-mid single-digit LFL net revenue growth in Mead Johnson Nutrition. However, expectations for Essential Home have been revised to a mid-single-digit decline. Overall, the Group maintains expectations of LFL net revenue growth of +3% to +4%.

The adjusted net finance expense is expected to be in the range of £350m to £370m, while the adjusted effective tax rate is expected to be around 25%. Capital expenditure as a percentage of net revenue is projected to be 3% to 4%.