PZ Cussons, known for brands such as Imperial Leather, Carex and Original Source, has been around for more than a century, but its shape and focus today are very different from its origins.

The FTSE 250 consumer goods giant is focusing on core brands and expanding overseas, and owns market-leading products in a host of countries around the world.

But M&A deals, both good and bad, have meant there are questions to be asked around the company’s strategy, balance sheet and future priorities, all of which Alex Newman and Lord John Lee put to CEO Jonathan Myers.

The trio discuss PZ Cussons’ expansion overseas, its share price valuation, where it can save costs, the stake owned by one of the founders’ families and much more.

Let us know your thoughts, or if you have any questions or any suggestions for future guests, by emailing alex.newman@ft.com

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Timestamps

00:00 Intro

00:49 What is PZ Cussons?

02:56 Lord Lee's involvement

06:33 Strategic review

10:31 Offers for African business

13:39 Value of the brands

16:02 Is the valuation low?

19:34 Innovation and building new brands

24:32 Manufacturing efficiencies

27:02 Impact of Iran War

29:48 Shareholder register

31:15 Involvement of family owners

40:08 Confidence in future outlook

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