Reckitt Benckiser, the global consumer goods company known for brands such as Dettol and Durex, announced price increases across multiple markets to offset rising costs linked in part to the ongoing conflict in Iran. Chief Executive Kris Licht described the adjustments as “moderate” and emphasized the company’s efforts to manage input cost pressures amid volatile conditions.

In its half-year financial results released Thursday, Reckitt reported a 4.2 percent increase in like-for-like sales of its core brands during the second quarter, surpassing analyst expectations. The group maintained its full-year revenue growth forecast between 4 percent and 5 percent. Shares in the company rose 4.33 percent in trading following the announcement.

Despite the sales growth, underlying operating profits for the group declined by 14.3 percent to £1.47 billion in the six months ended June 30. Licht attributed the profit decline primarily to the decision last year to divest a 70 percent stake in its Cillit Bang and Calgon home-cleaning products business, a transaction valued at up to $4.8 billion (£3.6 billion). Excluding this divestment, first-half earnings remained broadly flat and exceeded market expectations.

The company also noted that while oil prices remain volatile, they have moderated since April, resulting in an expected reduced impact on input costs in 2026. Reckitt continues to implement measures aimed at mitigating these cost pressures.

In addition to financial results, Reckitt disclosed plans for a new share buyback program of up to £500 million, supplementing the £1 billion share repurchase completed during the first half of the year. The company’s cautious pricing strategy and ongoing cost management efforts reflect its approach to navigating the uncertain economic environment influenced by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.