Lindt has revised its full-year guidance and expects a steep decline for organic sales growth from 4 to 6 per cent to 0 to 2 per cent.
According to the business, the decreased consumer sentiment and growing economic concern have led to weaker-than-expected order volumes in Germany, Switzerland and Austria.
Additionally, the confectionery brand stated that the heatwave in Europe had a negative impact across the entire chocolate industry.
The Group confirmed its EBIT margin guidance for 2026 of a 20 to 40-basis-point improvement compared to last year.
As part of its plan moving forward, the business will adjust its pricing strategy and continue to focus on overall cost management.
Adalbert Lechner, CEO of Lindt & Sprüngli: “While Germany, Switzerland, and Austria have been particularly affected by weaker demand, the Group has experienced robust performance in key markets, including North America and Asia.
“As cocoa prices have eased from historical highs, we expect cost pressure to gradually normalize in the coming months.
“We are confident that our adjusted pricing strategy, increased brand investments, innovations, and ongoing cost savings will materialize, and that demand will improve, contributing to a positive volume growth in 2027.
“This will be supported by our strong balance sheet and ongoing robust free cash flow generation.”
Lindt reiterated its medium- to long-term targets of 6 to 8 per cent organic sales growth and an improvement of the EBIT margin of 20 to 40 basis points per year from 2028 onwards.
Moving forward, the group foresees lower sales but expects the trend toward premium chocolate to strengthen Lindt’s position within the global category.
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