Unilever (NYSE: UL) appears to be on sale. The British consumer goods giant currently offers investors a historically high yield of 4.2%, a level last seen during the 2007-2009 recession.Now, there are some good reasons. But with an incredible history, this dividend stock is worth a closer look as the future is starting to look bright again.

Consumer products companies are really driven by the brands they own. And with a history that dates back to the 1800s, Unilever has a pretty strong portfolio with iconic names like Hellmann's, Dove, and Ben & Jerry's, among many others.

This provides a solid foundation for the company's business, since consumer staples like these are purchased on a regular basis in just about every economic condition. While customers might trade down to lower-priced fare, which Unilever also offers, they just can't stop buying things like soap and deodorant. 

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Source Fool.com