The DOUGLAS Group announced on June 18, 2026, that it is adjusting its financial guidance for the fiscal year 2025/26, citing weaker-than-expected third-quarter business performance and a challenging macroeconomic environment that has dampened consumer confidence and spending. The European premium beauty retailer now projects net sales growth of 0-1%, corresponding to revenue between €4.58 billion and €4.63 billion, down from its previous forecast of “at the lower end of €4.65-€4.80 billion.” Adjusted EBITDA margin is expected around 15.0%, compared to the earlier estimate of approximately 16.0%. Net leverage as of September 30, 2026, is anticipated to be between 3.0x and 3.5x, versus the prior guidance of “at the upper end of 2.5x to 3.0x.”
CEO Sander van der Laan attributed the revision to significant changes in consumer behavior and market dynamics, noting that ongoing geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainties have made customers highly price-sensitive, often delaying purchases in anticipation of promotions. The European premium beauty market continues to shift, with e-commerce growing faster than physical 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, the DOUGLAS Group is accelerating its strategic measures to safeguard profitable growth. Key actions include reallocating investments from physical stores to the online business, sharpening differentiation and exclusivity, investing in competitive pricing, and driving digitalization forward. “We act swiftly, with focus and purpose – we are guided by a sustainable medium- to long-term approach,” van der Laan said. Some initiatives are expected to deliver short-term benefits, while others will take longer to materialize.
The company emphasized that its omnichannel business model, strong brand, and trusted partnerships with premium beauty suppliers provide a solid foundation. “In the current market environment, both differentiation and pricing matter more than ever. Our omnichannel model, our curated premium assortment, attractive pricing and our excellent brand name give us a clear competitive edge,” van der Laan stated. The group benefits from a healthy financial profile that provides flexibility to act.
Further details and an update on strategic measures are scheduled for release at the DOUGLAS Group quarterly reporting on August 12, 2026. The DOUGLAS Group, which operates commercial brands including DOUGLAS, NOCIBE, Parfumdreams, and Niche Beauty, is the number one omnichannel premium beauty destination in Europe, with approximately 1,970 stores and a robust online presence.
