Purina PetCare leads Nestlé’s growth in 2022

Sales of Purina PetCare products were the largest contributor to the Swiss company’s growth across all channels, particularly e-commerce and pet specialty stores.

The division saw continued momentum in the premium brands Purina Pro Plan, Purina ONE, Fancy Feast, and their veterinary products.

Sales of Purina products across most regions – North America, Europe, Latin America, and Greater China – grew in double digits.

While in Asia, Oceania, and Africa, the culinary division was Nestlé’s largest growth driver, led by Maggi. Petcare achieved high single-digit growth in these markets, with increased demand for Purina ONE, Felix, and Purina Pro Plan.

Regionally, North America continued to dominate with sales of CHF 26.3 billion (€ 26.6 billion/$ 28.5 billion), followed by Europe with CHF 19.1 billion (€ 19.3 billion/$ 20.7 billion) and Greater China with CHF 5.4 billion (€ 5.4 billion/$ 5.8 billion).

The company’s eCommerce sales increased by 9.2% and reached 15.8% of the group’s total sales.

Tough year

Nestlé’s profit fell 45.2% to CHF 9.3 billion (€9.4 billion/$10 billion) in 2022.

Nestlé CEO Mark Schneider said: “The past year has brought many challenges and tough choices for families, communities, and businesses. Inflation rose to unprecedented levels, cost of living pressures intensified, and the impact of geopolitical tensions was felt worldwide”.

He added that the company aims to “restore” gross margin, increase marketing investment and improve free cash flow in 2023.