Unilever: going all commercial

Anglo-Dutch giant Unilever has agreed to a GBP320 million long-term advertising deal with Carlton Communications and Granada. Given the advertising slump, Unilever is likely to have secured a good deal, but the TV broadcasters will still be happy.

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SC Johnson: a fan of innovation

Home hygiene has been one of the most innovative areas of the consumer packaged goods markets in recent years, and SC Johnson's latest inspiration is a built-in fan for its Glade air fresheners. Innovation is only the first step - a GBP3 million advertising and marketing campaign will support the product's launch, but long term success will hinge on its effectiveness.<BR />

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Allied Domecq/Unilever: pension problems cloud the issues

A tense annual meeting earlier this month saw Allied Domecq chairman Gerry Robinson heckled and the company criticized on a range of issues. Unilever too has faced criticism - for taking 'holidays' from contributing to its pension fund. As Mr Robinson pointed out to his shareholders however, the picture for both companies is brighter than it appears.

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Backlash against the rat race worth billions

A growing number of people are becoming fed up with the 'rat race' believing that it makes them lose sight of the things that really matter to them. Datamonitor's Dominik Nosalik investigates how marketers are targeting these consumers with brands that are simple to find, understand and use...

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Rituals: making routine enjoyable

Hoping to open five UK stores before Christmas, the Rituals concept looks set to capitalize on consumers' growing tendency to use sensual personal care products as part of everyday pampering. The success already achieved elsewhere in Europe suggests that the combination of home care and body cosmetics under one roof will be well received by British consumers.

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Reckitt Benckiser: cleaning up in homecare

Following the launch of a host of new products whilst maintaining a rigid cost control regime, Reckitt Benckiser has announced a 23% increase in profits. Reckitt's strong results are all the more impressive given that many of its competitors in the household cleaning industry are feeling the squeeze.

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Henkel: personal care focus should ensure bright future

Following last year's major acquisition of Dial, Henkel [HNKG.BE] is still seeking growth through expansion and acquisitions outside of its important, but sluggish, European market. With health and personal care products generating increasing demand, Henkel's strategy of targeted global expansion looks like it may well pay off.

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New household goods launches Mar-May: something to sniff at

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Product claims: new household goods launches, Mar-May

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Laundry soaps & detergents: top fragrances in new launches

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