KUALA LUMPUR: Nestle (Malaysia) Bhd is reiterating a solid outlook for 2026 as it announced positive earnings in the third quarter ended Sept 30, 2026, underpinned by higher sales, softer commodity costs as well as the group's operational efficiencies and digitalisation initiatives.
In the group's latest financial review, CEO Juan Aranols acknowledged a high comparative base for the coming fourth quarter as it registered a "very strong period" in 2025.
"Our focus is on sustaining growth by staying closely attuned to evolving consumer needs and preferences, sharpening execution across channels and expanding the reach of our brands across consumption occasions. While the operating environment remains dynamic, investments in digitalisation, automation and productivity will help us operate more efficiently and respond with greater speed and agility.
"With our local manufacturing capabilities, broad distribution network and our committed teams, these efforts will further reinforce our competitiveness and position us for sustainable growth over the long term," he said.
In 3Q26, Nestle Malaysia posted a net profit of RM197.51mil against a net profit of RM114.04mil in the year-ago quarter. Quarterly revenue rose to RM1.86bil from RM1.76bil in the comparative quarter.
Over the nine-month period, the group's net profit jumped to RM557.64mil from RM387.5mil in 9MFY25, while revenue climbed to RM5.55mil from RM5.2mil previously.
"The year-to-date performance reflects the Company’s ability to balance growth with financial discipline, while sustaining investment in its brands and reinforcing the competitiveness of its operations," said Aranols.
The board of directors declared an interim dividend of 80 sen per share, going ex on Nov 10, 2026, and payable on Dec 9, 2026.
