DOUGLAS Group Adjusts Guidance Amid Market Challenges, Focuses on Strategic Priorities

The DOUGLAS Group announced on June 18, 2026, that it is adjusting its financial guidance for the fiscal year 2025/26, citing disappointing third-quarter business performance and a challenging market environment. The company now expects net sales growth of 0-1%, corresponding to a range of 4.58 to 4.63 billion euros, down from the previous forecast of “at the lower end of 4.65 - 4.80 billion euros.” The adjusted EBITDA margin is projected to be around 15.0%, compared to the earlier expectation of approximately 16.0%, while net leverage is anticipated to be between 3.0x and 3.5x as of September 30, 2026, up from the prior target of “at the upper end of 2.5x to 3.0x.”

The revised outlook reflects a significant shift in consumer behavior, driven by ongoing geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainties. Customers remain highly price-sensitive, often delaying purchases in anticipation of promotions, which has pressured revenues and profitability across the European premium beauty market. The company noted that e-commerce is growing faster than stores with solid profitability at the EBIT level, while like-for-like store sales are developing negatively. Channel-mix, category-mix, and overall spending patterns vary across markets, though cross-channel services like Click-and-Collect are performing strongly.

In response, DOUGLAS Group is refocusing its strategic priorities to navigate the new market reality. Chief Executive Officer Sander van der Laan stated: “Consumer behavior and market dynamics have changed significantly. In this challenging environment, we fully focus on our strategic priorities: we shift investments from our store to our online business; we are investing in competitive pricing, while further strengthening our differentiation and exclusivity; and we are continuing to drive digitalization forward.” The company is reallocating investments, sharpening its focus on exclusivity and pricing, and accelerating digital initiatives—some expected to deliver short-term benefits, while others will take longer to materialize.

Despite the headwinds, the DOUGLAS Group remains confident in its omnichannel business model, which it believes provides a competitive edge. The company benefits from a strong brand, trusted partnerships with premium beauty suppliers, and a healthy financial profile that offers flexibility. “In the current market environment, both differentiation and pricing matter more than ever. Our omnichannel model, our curated premium assortment, an attractive pricing and our excellent brand name give us a clear competitive edge and we are executing on this with focus and discipline,” van der Laan added.

Further details and an update on strategic measures will be published at the DOUGLAS Group quarterly reporting on August 12, 2026. The company, listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, operates around 1,970 stores across Europe and reported sales of 4.58 billion euros in the previous fiscal year. For more information, visit the DOUGLAS Group Website.