DOUGLAS Group, Europe's leading omnichannel premium beauty destination, announced on June 18, 2026, that it is adjusting its guidance for the financial year 2025/26 following weaker-than-expected third-quarter business performance. The company now expects net sales growth of 0-1%, translating to a range of 4.58-4.63 billion euros, down from the previous forecast of “at the lower end of 4.65-4.80 billion euros.” Adjusted EBITDA margin is projected at around 15.0%, compared to an earlier expectation of approximately 16.0%. Net leverage is anticipated to be between 3.0x and 3.5x as of September 30, 2026, versus the prior guidance of “at the upper end of 2.5x to 3.0x.”
The revised outlook reflects persistent macroeconomic headwinds and shifting consumer behavior. According to the company, customers remain highly price-sensitive and often delay purchases in anticipation of promotions due to ongoing geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainty. The European premium beauty market continues to evolve, with e-commerce growing faster than stores and achieving 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, but cross-channel services such as Click-and-Collect are performing strongly.
In response, 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. Some of these measures will deliver short-term benefits, while others will take longer to materialize. We act swiftly, with focus and purpose – we are guided by a sustainable medium- to long-term approach.”
The company emphasizes that its omnichannel business model, strong brand, and trusted partnerships with premium beauty suppliers provide a competitive edge. The transformation in recent years into a true omnichannel retailer has given it a head start, and its healthy financial profile 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, an attractive pricing and our 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. The company remains committed to its “Let it Bloom” strategy, which focuses on omnichannel positioning, leading brands, and data capabilities. For more information, visit the DOUGLAS Group Website.
