The ratings on the Unilever group reflect its superior business profile as one of the world's largest and most diversified group of combined companies in the consumer products sector, and its moderate financial policy. These factors are balanced by the group's exposure to the mature and very competitive European market. U.K.-based Unilever PLC and Netherlands-based Unilever N.V. are the joint parent companies of the Unilever group of companies (Unilever). The group is analyzed on a consolidated basis. In the 12 months to Sept. 30, 2007, Unilever had group sales of €40 billion. Foods accounted for 54% of the group's turnover and 53% of operating profits, placing the group among the leading global players in various categories including savoury, dressings, spreads,
