Accenture is partnering with Unilever to leverage generative AI, specifically through Accenture’s GenWizard platform, to streamline Unilever’s digital infrastructure and boost operational efficiency. This collaboration is expected to drive cost reductions, enhance agility, and position Unilever for competitive advantage in the market.
Accenture and Unilever have announced a strategic partnership to revolutionize Unilever’s digital infrastructure and leverage the power of generative AI for enhanced efficiency and agility across its global operations. The multi-year program aims to set a new industry benchmark for productivity powered by generative AI, building upon Unilever’s successful initial AI implementations.
European stock markets exhibited a mixed performance on Thursday as investors weighed a deluge of significant corporate earnings. Notable movements included a 0.4% decline in Germany’s DAX, a 0.3% drop in France’s CAC 40, and a 0.4% gain in the U.K.’s FTSE 100. The banking sector was in focus, with Deutsche Bank reporting a better-than-expected profit increase, while Barclays’ profit fell less than anticipated. Unilever’s sales surpassed expectations, while Nestle’s sales declined due to a downturn in the North American market. M&A activity was also evident, with Anglo American’s stock surging 13% after BHP Group offered to acquire the miner. Elsewhere, Meta Platforms’ gloomy earnings outlook weighed on the European session, sparking a sell-off in tech stocks. German consumer confidence improved slightly, suggesting a gradual recovery for the Eurozone’s largest economy. Finally, oil prices rebounded after U.S. crude inventories unexpectedly dropped, while gold and EUR/USD edged higher.
Ben & Jerry’s independent board has asserted its unwavering commitment to overseeing the brand’s social mission, even in the event of a potential sale or spin-off by parent company Unilever Plc. This assurance comes amidst Unilever’s announcement of its intention to divest its ice cream division, which includes Ben & Jerry’s, as part of a broader strategic shift to enhance performance. The board, led by Anuradha Mittal, emphasized the importance of maintaining a robust framework to safeguard the brand’s progressive values and highlighted its instrumental role in driving Ben & Jerry’s impressive growth trajectory.
