Unilever (UL) increases dividend by 3%

Underlying sales growth of 4.1%, with volumes up 2.6%
Power Brands (~75% of turnover) leading growth with 5.7% USG and volumes up 4.0%
Turnover increased 2.3% to €31.1 billion with (1.1)% impact from currency and (0.7)% from net disposals
Underlying operating margin up 250bps to 19.6%, with gross margin up 420bps
Brand and marketing investment up 180bps to 15.1%, focused on Power Brands
Underlying EPS increased 16.3%, diluted EPS up 5.4%
Quarterly dividend raised by 3%; €1.5bn share buyback commenced
Free cash flow of €2.2 billion, reflecting seasonal working capital outflow
Productivity programme underway and separation of Ice Cream on track