Societe Generale: Colgate, Edgewell could be Unilever acquisition targets

LONDON — Two possible outcomes of Unilever’s strategic review could be an acquisition of either Colgate Palmolive or Edgewell Personal Care, Societe Generale stated in a Thursday research note. The investment firm also upgraded Unilever stock from “hold” to “buy” as well.

The firm also hinted at another possibility, but added this option is less likely.

“Analysts also see the split of the food and personal and home care divisions as an option, but point taking the risk of breaking synergies and a possible takeover by 3G Capital [parent of Kraft Heinz],” Societe General wrote, which was translated to English.

Cost cutting could be another option Unilever chooses to pursue when it next makes an announcement in April.

Unilever on Wednesday said it will conduct a review of strategic options following word that Kraft Heinz dropped its $143 billion acquisition offer for the company.