Despite a challenging market environment, Nestlé was able to increase its growth momentum in the third quarter of 2025. The confectionery and coffee divisions performed particularly well and made a significant contribution. At the same time, the Group is continuing to focus strategically on high-margin business areas and investing specifically in those markets that offer the greatest long-term potential.
Nestlé sale declines due to exchange rate effects
Published sales for the first nine months amounted to CHF 65.9 billion, a decline of 1.9 percent compared to the previous year. This was mainly due to negative currency effects of 5.4 percent, which partially offset growth in the regions. Acquisitions and divestitures had a slightly positive impact of 0.1 percent.
In the period from January to September 2025, Nestlé recorded organic growth of 3.3 percent. Internal real growth was 0.6 percent, while price adjustments were 2.8 percent. This represents a significant improvement on the previous year. Growth picked up particularly in the third quarter, with organic growth reaching 4.3 percent and internal real growth rising to 1.5 percent.
Nestlé CEO emphasizes efficiency and investment in growth
CEO Philipp Navratil comments on the business performance: "Driving RIG-led growth is our number one priority. We have been stepping up investment to achieve this, and the results are starting to come through. Now we must do more and move faster to accelerate our growth momentum.
As Nestlé moves forward, we will be rigorous in our approach to resource allocation, prioritizing the opportunities and businesses with the highest potential returns. We will be bolder in investing at scale and driving innovation to deliver accelerated growth and value creation."
Planned headcount reduction by 2027
The CEO also announced that Nestlé will reduce its workforce over the next two years. This should significantly reduce costs and contribute to the “Fuel for Growth” cost-cutting program. The savings target is to be increased to CHF three billion by the end of 2027.
Regional development of Nestlé in Europe and growth regions
In Europe, sales rose to CHF 12.8 billion, representing organic growth of 4.3 percent. Coffee, confectionery, and pet food were the main drivers. Turkey, Southern and Eastern Europe, and the Nordic countries performed particularly well.
In the Asia, Oceania, and Africa (AOA) zone, Nestlé achieved organic growth of 2.7 percent with sales of nearly CHF 15.3 billion. The markets in Central and West Africa, South Asia, and the Philippines were particularly dynamic. Overall, organic growth in emerging markets was 5.2 percent.
Nestlé reports robust organic growth in North and South America
Sales in North and South America fell to CHF 25.3 billion. Organic growth was 2.5 percent, driven by pricing measures and product innovations. In North America, market share was gained in soluble coffee, chocolate products, and frozen meals. In Latin America, Nestlé recorded organic growth of 6.8 percent, mainly due to price adjustments in the confectionery and coffee segments.
Outlook: Nestlé confirms annual forecast
Nestlé reaffirms its forecast for the full year 2025. The company expects further improvement in organic growth with an operating profit margin of at least 16 percent. Despite ongoing uncertainties in global markets, Nestlé intends to continue its investments and strengthen its innovative capabilities in all business areas.
