Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG) has reported a strong start to financial year 2025/26, with first-quarter sales climbing to €466 million, up from €403 million a year earlier, driven by robust growth in Europe and Asia. The adjusted EBITDA improved to €20 million (Q1 2024/25: –€9 million), reflecting higher sales volumes, better capacity utilization, and cost-efficiency measures.
The Print & Packaging Equipment segment emerged as a standout performer, posting a 42% jump in sales to €211 million, underscoring HEIDELBERG’s strategic emphasis on packaging. “Packaging printing remained a growth driver for our business in the first quarter,” said David Schmedding, Chief Technology & Sales Officer. He highlighted the company’s acquisition of Polar Mohr brand rights and technology as part of its goal to boost productivity in packaging and label production.
CEO Jürgen Otto said, “Thanks to our global market position and an improved cost basis, we have made a good start to the new financial year,” adding that the company’s strategic focus on its core business, along with initiatives in technology and defense, builds confidence for the year ahead.
HEIDELBERG has also entered the defense market through a system partnership with VINCORION Advanced Systems GmbH to develop and build power control and distribution systems.
Despite a negative free cash flow of €–68 million, the company narrowed losses significantly compared to the prior year (Q1 2024/25: –€103 million). The net loss after taxes improved to €–11 million (Q1 2024/25: –€42 million).
Confirming its full-year forecast, HEIDELBERG expects sales of around €2.35 billion (FY 2024/25: €2.28 billion) and an adjusted EBITDA margin of up to 8%.