Nestlé to Sell Remaining Ice Cream Business as CEO Accelerates Massive Turnaround Plan. -

Nestlé is accelerating its strategic transformation under the leadership of CEO Philipp Navratil, who took the helm in September 2025. In a major move to simplify its portfolio, the company confirmed on February 19, 2026, that it is in advanced negotiations to sell its remaining ice cream business to Froneri, its joint venture with PAI Partners.

The “Strategic Reset” and Core Pillars

The divestment of ice cream—which includes brands like D’Onofrio, Real Dairy, and Parlour—marks a shift away from capital-intensive, slower-growth segments. Moving forward, Nestlé will concentrate its resources and capital on four high-potential core businesses:

Coffee: Centered on global leaders like Nescafé and Nespresso.
Petcare: Driven by the strong performance of brands like Purina.
Nutrition: Focused on infant nutrition and health science.
Food & Snacks: Led by iconic household names such as Maggi and KitKat.

2025 Financial Performance and 2026 Outlook

Despite a turbulent year marked by a significant infant formula recall, Nestlé reported resilient financial results:

Organic Growth: Fourth-quarter organic sales rose 4%, surpassing market expectations of 3.4%.
Annual Results: For the full year 2025, total sales reached CHF 89.49 billion (approx. $116 billion).
2026 Guidance: The company expects full-year organic growth of 3% to 4% and an improvement in underlying trading operating profit margins from the 16.1% recorded in 2025.

Massive Restructuring: Job Cuts and Water Divestment

To support its “Fuel for Growth” program, Nestlé is implementing significant operational changes intended to save CHF 3 billion ($3.75 billion) annually by 2027:

Workforce Reduction: The company is cutting 16,000 jobs (approximately 6% of its global workforce) over two years. This includes 12,000 white-collar roles and 4,000 positions in manufacturing and supply chain.
Waters Divestment: Nestlé plans to exit its mainstream waters and premium beverages business—including brands like Perrier and S. Pellegrino—by 2027.
Vitamins Exit: A strategic review of its mainstream vitamin and supplement brands has concluded, with the company now engaging potential buyers.

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes based on Nestlé’s official 2025 financial reports and strategic updates. Corporate restructuring, job cuts, and business divestments are subject to final negotiations and regulatory approvals. Please refer to official company statements for confirmed details regarding brand ownership and employment.