The DOUGLAS Group, Europe's leading omnichannel premium beauty destination, has adjusted its financial guidance for the 2025/26 fiscal year following weaker-than-expected third-quarter business performance. The company now forecasts net sales growth of 0-1% (€4.58-4.63 billion), down from the previously anticipated lower end of €4.65-4.80 billion. Adjusted EBITDA margin is expected at around 15.0%, compared to the prior estimate of approximately 16.0%, and net leverage is projected at 3.0x to 3.5x as of September 30, 2026, up from the earlier target of 2.5x to 3.0x.
The revision reflects a challenging market environment characterized by ongoing geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainties, which have significantly impacted customer confidence and willingness to buy. Consumers remain price-sensitive, often delaying purchases in anticipation of promotions. The European premium beauty market is experiencing a shift, with e-commerce growing faster than stores and delivering solid profitability at the EBIT level, while like-for-like store sales have turned negative. Channel-mix, category-mix, and overall spending patterns vary across markets, though cross-channel services such as Click-and-Collect are performing strongly.
In response, the DOUGLAS Group is refocusing its strategic priorities. CEO 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.' He emphasized that some measures will deliver short-term benefits, while others will take longer to materialize, guided by a sustainable medium- to long-term approach.
The company's omnichannel business model, strong brand, and partnerships with premium beauty suppliers position it well to navigate the current headwinds. The DOUGLAS Group has already undergone a transformation into a true omnichannel retailer, providing a clear head start and a healthy financial profile that offers flexibility to act. Van der Laan added, 'In the current market environment, both differentiation and pricing matter more than ever. Our omnichannel model, our curated premium assortment, attractive pricing, and excellent brand name give us a clear competitive edge, and we are executing on this with focus and discipline.'
Further details and an update on strategic measures will be published at the DOUGLAS Group quarterly reporting on August 12, 2026. For more information, visit the DOUGLAS Group Website.
