The Management Board of Leifheit AG, with Supervisory Board approval, has resolved the objectives and key elements of the FOCUS performance program, aimed at sustainably improving the Group's competitiveness, profitability, and resilience. The program includes position reductions, a new operating model, streamlined structures, and targeted digitalization to reduce complexity, shorten decision-making, and lower the cost base. Expected annual cost savings of approximately EUR 7.5 million are anticipated from 2028, with initial positive effects in 2027.
The organizational changes will involve a Group-wide reduction of up to 70 positions, implemented in stages and in consultation with employee representatives. Leifheit currently employs about 960 people, with around 360 in Germany. The total cost of implementing these measures is estimated at up to EUR 9.6 million, of which approximately EUR 5.4 million will impact earnings in 2026.
Preliminary figures for the first half of 2026 show Group turnover of EUR 116.3 million (H1 2025: EUR 123.4 million) and earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) of EUR -2.7 million (H1 2025: EUR 2.0 million). The company cites a declining market and weak consumer sentiment. CEO Alexander Reindler commented: “Our business development in the second quarter fell short of our expectations. This makes it even more important for us to act decisively now: With FOCUS, we are improving the Group’s operational efficiency and resilience. At the same time, we are consistently driving forward our strategic growth initiatives - through innovations in our core segments, such as the expansion of our successful Black Line and the launch of the Pegasus Rock Solid standing dryer, as well as enhanced marketing activities in collaboration with our retail partners.”
As a result of the weaker first half and the impact of special items from the FOCUS program, the Board of Management has adjusted its forecast for the full year 2026. Group turnover is now expected to be slightly below the previous year’s EUR 236.2 million, compared to previous expectations of slight growth. Group EBIT is now forecast at EUR 0 million, down from the prior year's EUR 10.0 million, and free cash flow is expected at EUR 0 million, compared to EUR 6.4 million in 2025. Excluding special items from FOCUS, EBIT before special items is expected at EUR 5.4 million. The company emphasizes that the performance program lays the foundation for sustainable profitability improvement.
Leifheit AG, founded in 1959, is a leading European brand supplier of household items, operating in Household, Wellbeing, and Private Label segments. More information is available at www.leifheit-group.com and www.leifheit.de.
