PZ Cussons raises profit outlook after strong third-quarter trading

PZ Cussons (LSE:PZC) reported continued positive trading in the third quarter to 28 February 2026, with like-for-like group revenue increasing 6.3% and reported revenue rising 5.0%. The performance builds on the momentum recorded in the first half of the financial year. With improved stability in the Nigerian naira and disciplined cost management supporting results, the company now expects adjusted operating profit for the year to land toward the top end of its £53m to £57m guidance range. The update points to stronger earnings prospects ahead of the group’s full-year results due in August.

Management noted that steps taken to reduce the business’s exposure to currency volatility in Nigeria are helping lower sensitivity to movements in the naira. However, the final profit outcome will still partly depend on exchange rate movements in the closing weeks of the financial year. The trading update highlights the resilience of PZ Cussons’ portfolio of consumer brands across both emerging and developed markets, an important factor for investors evaluating the company’s operational progress and risk profile in an uncertain macroeconomic environment.

The company’s outlook remains constrained by weaker underlying profitability and the quality of cash flow in the financial statements. Technical indicators remain constructive, with the share price maintaining a clear upward trend, although momentum appears somewhat stretched. Valuation metrics present a mixed picture, combining a strong dividend yield with a negative price-to-earnings ratio. Commentary from the earnings update offers moderate support through upgraded guidance and ongoing deleveraging, though foreign exchange exposure and the execution and timing of second-half performance still represent risks.

More about PZ Cussons

PZ Cussons is a listed consumer goods group headquartered in Manchester, UK, employing around 2,500 people globally. The company focuses on personal care, home care and baby care products across its core markets of the UK, Australia and New Zealand, Nigeria and Indonesia. Its brand portfolio includes Carex, Childs Farm, Cussons Baby, Imperial Leather, Morning Fresh, Sanctuary Spa and St.Tropez.