Shares of consumer goods giant Unilever PLC (UL) plummeted 6.54% in pre-market trading on Thursday, following the release of its fourth-quarter 2024 financial results. The company reported a 0.1% year-over-year decline in Q4 turnover (revenue) to €14.2 billion ($14.8 billion), missing analyst expectations of €14.46 billion.

While underlying sales grew by a respectable 4% and underlying volume increased by 2.7%, the top-line miss and muted near-term outlook weighed heavily on investor sentiment. Unilever expects underlying sales growth to remain within its multi-year range of 3% to 5% for 2025, and only a "modest improvement" in underlying operating margin.

Analysts expressed concerns about the company's ability to navigate ongoing cost pressures and a tough consumer spending environment, which could further impact margins and profitability. Additionally, Unilever announced plans to separate its Ice Cream division by the end of 2025, a move aimed at maximizing shareholder returns and positioning the business for future success.