Unilever invests US$80M in production of Liquid IV beverage brand

USA – Unilever, a global consumer goods powerhouse, has unveiled plans to invest more than US$80 million in expanding its Jefferson City facility to bolster operations for the production of Liquid I.V., a science-backed hydration brand under its Health & Wellbeing business. 

The expansion includes the integration of automated operations dedicated to manufacturing Liquid I.V. products.  

The brand, renowned as the leading powdered hydration product in the United States, offers powder mixes that Unilever claims enhance water absorption, provide energy, and contribute to healthy sleep cycles. 

Jostein Solheim, CEO of Unilever’s Health & Wellbeing business unit, highlighted the strategic importance of securing the supply chain for Liquid I.V., stating, “Securing supply chain resiliency for Liquid IV is a key factor in continuing to drive growth for the brand.”  

Acquired by Unilever in October 2020, Liquid I.V. has become an integral part of the fast-growing Health & Wellbeing global business.  

Earlier this year, Unilever announced a US$25 million investment to extend storage and warehousing at the Jefferson City site. 

In its annual results statement for 2023, Unilever reported that Liquid I.V. successfully expanded its presence beyond the United States with a notable launch in Canada.  

The company now aims to introduce the brand to additional international markets. 

Unilever CFO Fernando Fernandez emphasized the impressive growth of Liquid I.V., stating, “Liquid IV grew at a double-digit rate in the fourth quarter of the year.”  

He added that Unilever is strategically directing resources towards profitable brands, emphasizing premium segments and fast-growing channels, particularly in the United States. 

Its leading brands in North America include Dove, Hellmann’s, Vaseline, Degree, Axe, TRESemmé, Knorr, Magnum, Ben & Jerry’s, Nutrafol, Liquid I.V., Paula’s Choice, and Dermalogica. 

Unilever’s Climate Emission Goals 

Meanwhile, Unilever has unveiled a comprehensive set of climate emission goals, marking a significant step towards environmental sustainability.  

The updated Climate Transition Action Plan (CTAP), released on March 6, includes near-term reduction targets for Scope 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, encompassing its entire value chain, from suppliers to retail outlets. 

The ambitious plan aims to lower Unilever’s emissions by 2030, aligning with the global goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.  

CEO Hein Schumacher and Chair Ian Meakins emphasized Unilever’s commitment to climate action, stating, “We are determined to play our part and are now driving climate action with greater focus and clarity than ever before.” 

Acknowledging investor concerns, the duo highlighted widespread shareholder approval for the plan’s key elements, emphasizing a shift towards absolute emissions reductions and specific Scope 3 targets influenced by Unilever.  

The company aims to achieve a 100% reduction in operational emissions (Scope 1 & 2) by 2030 against a 2015 baseline. 

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