Lourdes Castañeda, CEO of Unilever Mexico, talks about the challenges of the consumer industry in 2023 and the company’s plans.
AN: Lourdes, what is your vision of the market where Unilever participates?
The economic situation is playing a very important role due to the increase in the cost of living. It is important that each sector has a strategic vision to respond in each of its markets. For the consumer industry, a fundamental aspect is to prioritize the basicsoffering a range of products that are within the reach of people and that, in addition, contribute to their nutrition, health, hygiene and well-being.
The pandemic accelerated long-term strategies and the world evolved abruptly, forcing us to maintain a true connection. We managed to break distances, thanks to digital technology. At Unilever we are experiencing an online shopping boom. That is why we are committed to developing technologies that facilitate multi-channel connection with consumers, who seek to obtain what they need at a good price and with the same quality, without leaving home.
When quality products converge at a good price and with excellent distribution in different sales channels, people choose to choose that brand. More than 3,000 million people use a Unilever product every day in the world.
AN: What are the challenges that the consumer industry will face?
Our sector is not exempt from the global situation or macroeconomic elements, such as the rapid increase in energy and raw material prices or distortions in global distribution chains. We also face different social problems, which were not visible before and on which we must take action.
Unilever will continue to strengthen its position in challenging times, to continue offering the favorite brands of Mexicans: Knorr, Savilé, Sedal, Zest and Dove. Likewise, we will seek to continue growing in the Mexican market with new and better products that contribute to the well-being of consumers.
On the other hand, the hybrid model is a reality in the way of doing business. We have been working on flexible and virtual models since 2011 and we continue to evolve to achieve a better balance between virtuality and physical interaction with our collaborators.
In social and environmental issues, it is no longer optional for business models to base their strategy on sustainability, so it is important not to lose sight of urgent issues, such as the climate change agenda, waste management, gender equality, the gaps in the workplace, as well as the connection with groups and minorities, such as the LGBT+ community.
AN: What plans does the company have for 2023?
The year 2023 will be one of great challenges; Nevertheless, With the foundations that Unilever has created in 2022 we will have a more agile organization adapted to the futureand with a simpler vision focused on categories.
We will continue our win-win approach with our biggest brands, driving their purpose forward. These brands represent more than half of our global turnover and we will continue to strengthen them with constant innovation.
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