THE WHAT?  DOUGLAS Group has reported a 1.7 percent increase in first-quarter sales, delivering relatively steady performance despite ongoing weakness in parts of the premium beauty market.

THE DETAILS Based on preliminary figures, sales rose to €1.67 billion for the quarter from October to December 2025, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of around 19.9 percent, impacted by margin pressure and customer price sensitivity. Singles’ Day and Black Week performed relatively well, though the company said this contributed to some forward purchasing ahead of Christmas. December trading was weaker than expected in Germany, France and the Netherlands, while Central and Eastern Europe remained strong. Store sales grew 0.4 percent and online sales rose 4.2 percent, supported by a net 13 new store openings.

THE WHY? The results underline shifting dynamics in premium beauty, with promotional intensity and price sensitivity shaping performance across major European markets. DOUGLAS maintained its full-year guidance, signalling confidence in its strategic initiatives and cost control as it navigates uneven consumer demand.

Source: DOUGLAS

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