Fourlis Group reports 7.6% sales growth amid profitability pressures

Fourlis Group reported a 7.6% increase in sales for the first half of 2026, reaching €284 million, driven by network expansion and positive like-for-like performance. However, profitability faced significant pressure. EBITDA fell to €27.7 million from €30.8 million in the previous year, and EBIT dropped to a loss of €1.6 million, compared to a €6 million profit in the same period of 2025.

Management attributed the decline in profitability to inflationary pressures on operating costs—including wages, energy, and transport—as well as a challenging business environment in Romania and costs related to a major structural transformation. The group is currently undergoing a reorganization to create a technologically advanced retail platform, aiming for recurring annual benefits exceeding €9 million starting in 2027.

Sector-specific performance showed a 3.7% increase in home equipment and furniture (IKEA) sales, while sporting goods (Intersport and Foot Locker) saw a 14.2% rise. To strengthen its financial position, the group also announced the sale of its stake in the Sofia South Ring Mall, which is expected to yield a net profit of €9.3 million.