Unilever NV, one of the world’s largest makers of consumer products such as Dove soaps, Lipton teas and Ben & Jerry’s ice creams, Thursday reported third-quarter earnings rose 19 percent to $1.75 billion on sales growth, cost-cutting, and the weak euro, which more than offset higher raw materials costs.

Unilever said it expects to close a $1,85 billion purchase of Sara Lee’s personal care products division, which is being examined closely by European regulators, in the fourth quarter. It has also agreed to buy Alberto Culver, the U.S. maker of Noxzema, TRESemme and V05, for $3.7 billion. Get the full story »