DUSSELDORF, GERMANY - The DOUGLAS Group announced on June 18, 2026, that it is revising its financial guidance for the 2025/26 fiscal year, citing weaker-than-expected business performance in the third quarter. The company attributes the shortfall to ongoing macroeconomic uncertainties and heightened price sensitivity among consumers, which have significantly dampened customer confidence and willingness to buy.
Under the revised guidance, the group now expects net sales growth of 0-1%, corresponding to a range of 4.58 to 4.63 billion euros, compared to the previous outlook of “at the lower end of 4.65 - 4.80 billion euros.” The adjusted EBITDA margin is forecast at around 15.0%, down from the earlier projection of approximately 16.0%. Additionally, net leverage is anticipated to be between 3.0x and 3.5x as of September 30, 2026, versus the prior expectation of “at the upper end of 2.5x to 3.0x.”
Sander van der Laan, CEO of the DOUGLAS Group, emphasized that the company is responding decisively to the changing market dynamics by reallocating investments from its store network to its online business, investing in competitive pricing, and further strengthening differentiation and exclusivity. “We act swiftly, with focus and purpose – we are guided by a sustainable medium- to long-term approach,” van der Laan stated in the announcement.
The European premium beauty market is experiencing a shift as consumers remain price-sensitive and often delay purchases in anticipation of promotions. E-commerce is growing faster than physical stores and achieving solid profitability at the EBIT level, while like-for-like store sales are negative. Cross-channel services such as Click-and-Collect are performing strongly, but overall channel mix, category mix, and spending patterns are creating headwinds for revenue and profitability.
Despite these challenges, the DOUGLAS Group remains confident in its omnichannel business model, which it says provides a competitive edge through a curated premium assortment, attractive pricing, and a strong brand. The company has undergone a transformation in recent years to become a true omnichannel retailer, and it benefits from a healthy financial profile that offers flexibility to act.
“In the current market environment, both differentiation and pricing matter more than ever,” van der Laan added. “The management and all colleagues in the company are highly motivated and firmly committed to take on these challenges. We have a clear plan of action, and we are confident that this will put our company on the path to profitable growth.”
The DOUGLAS Group plans to provide further details and an update on strategic measures at its quarterly reporting on August 12, 2026. For more information, visit the DOUGLAS Group Website.
