In December 2025, PZ Cussons, a company based in Manchester, announced its decision to keep its African business after a lengthy review process. The Imperial Leather maker had previously considered selling this division, which was initially put on the market about 18 months ago due to ongoing challenges and underperformance. However, despite receiving substantial interest from potential buyers, the company's board determined that the offers presented did not reflect the true value of the African portfolio. As a result, PZ Cussons plans to restructure the business instead of proceeding with the sale, aiming to enhance growth prospects. The decision comes after a positive trend in recent trading shows improvement within the African sector, which is seen as having significant long-term potential. Notably, the African population is expected to increase dramatically in the coming decades, with Nigeria alone forecasted to add over 100 million people. This demographic growth, combined with rapid urbanization and the rise of a middle class, suggests a promising market environment. Additionally, PZ Cussons noted that favorable recent economic conditions and positive currency trends have supported an impressive double-digit revenue growth in their African business during the first half of the fiscal year. The company now aims to leverage this positive momentum to strengthen its market position in Africa, where it already holds leading positions in many product categories. Plans to address currency risks and volatility will also be instituted as part of this restructuring effort. Moreover, PZ Cussons previously divested its 50% stake in PZ Wilmar, a substantial palm oil operation in Nigeria, for approximately 70 million US dollars. This sale reflected a strategic shift but now the company sees more potential in its remaining African operations. With strong brand recognition and operational capabilities established over the years, PZ Cussons believes that retaining and restructuring its African business will ultimately create greater value for shareholders, setting the stage for a successful future in the region.