Despite Washington’s imposition of steep 39% tariffs on Swiss imports effective August 7, Nestle remains unfazed due to its robust local production in the US. The food giant generated CHF 29.7 billion in US revenue in 2024—roughly a third of its global CHF 91.4 billion turnover—with over 90% of its American sales produced domestically. This strategic localization shields Nestle from tariff impacts, unlike Swiss watchmakers and pharmaceutical firms facing significant pressure.
Localization as a Shield
While competitors grapple with profit warnings, Nestle’s stock edged up 0.11% to CHF 71.18, reflecting investor confidence in its US-centric model. However, broader sector woes persist, highlighted by a major investor’s billion-dollar write-down in a rival food conglomerate. Analysts caution that Nestle’s resilience hinges on sustained local demand, even as trade tensions escalate.
