Barry Callebaut reports decline in volume and earnings
Barry Callebaut today released its half-year results for fiscal year 2025/26 (September to February). Sales volume fell by 6.9 percent compared to the prior-year period to around 1.01 million tonnes – however, the second quarter showed an improvement to minus 3.6 percent, driven by growth in Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa as well as Latin America.
Recurring operating profit (EBIT recurring) came in at CHF 310.9 million, a decline of 4.2 percent. Headwinds included volume decreases, supply disruption in North America and competitive pressure in the Gourmet segment. Nevertheless, recurring net profit jumped 66.1 percent to CHF 108.9 million – thanks to significantly lower interest and tax expenses as a result of the substantial debt reduction.
Free cash flow reached CHF 801.8 million (prior year: minus CHF 2.1 billion), while net debt fell from CHF 6.1 to CHF 3.6 billion. The net debt to EBITDA ratio improved to 3.9x, down from 6.5x in the prior-year period.
New CEO Hein Schumacher announced the „Focus for Growth" programme, the details of which will be presented in June 2026. For the full year, Barry Callebaut now expects a volume decline of only 1 to 3 percent – with a return to growth anticipated in the second half.