At the 98th Ordinary General Meeting of Forbo Holding Ltd in Zug, shareholders approved all proposals from the Board of Directors by clear majorities, demonstrating strong support for the company's leadership and strategic direction. The meeting, attended by 158 shareholders representing 71.73% of issued share capital, resulted in key decisions affecting corporate governance, executive compensation, and shareholder returns.
Shareholders approved the Annual Report, annual statements, consolidated financial statements, and Sustainability Report for the 2025 business year, granting discharge to the responsible governing bodies. They also voted in favor of distributing earnings through a dividend of CHF 25 per share, payable from April 13, 2026. This dividend approval signals confidence in Forbo's financial health and commitment to returning value to investors.
The 2025 Remuneration Report received approval in a consultative vote, while shareholders approved maximum total remuneration for the Board of Directors for 2027, maximum fixed remuneration for the Executive Board for 2027, short-term variable remuneration for the Executive Board for 2025, and maximum long-term equity participation for the Executive Board for 2026. These compensation approvals align executive incentives with long-term shareholder interests.
All current Board members were re-elected for another one-year term, including Chairman Bernhard Merki and members Michael Pieper, Claudia Coninx-Kaczynski, Jorg Kampmeyer, Dr. Eveline Saupper, and Vincent Studer. Dr. Ilias Laber was elected as an independent member by an overwhelming majority, bringing fresh perspective to the board. Current remuneration committee members were also re-elected for another year.
Shareholders extended the mandate of KPMG Ltd as auditors for another year and re-elected Rene Peyer as independent proxy. These decisions maintain continuity in financial oversight and shareholder representation.
This shareholder meeting is important because it reflects strong governance practices and investor confidence in Forbo's leadership during a period of global economic uncertainty. The approval of all board proposals, including substantial executive compensation packages and a significant dividend, indicates alignment between management and shareholders on strategic priorities. The election of a new independent director adds diversity to board perspectives while maintaining experienced leadership.
The implications extend beyond Forbo to the broader manufacturing and construction sectors where the company operates. As a leading producer of floor coverings, building adhesives, and industrial belts with net sales of CHF 1,085.4 million in 2025, Forbo's stable governance and shareholder support suggest resilience in its markets. The dividend payout provides immediate value to investors, while the compensation structures incentivize management to deliver sustainable long-term performance.
For industry observers, this meeting demonstrates how established European manufacturing companies maintain investor confidence through transparent governance and balanced attention to both immediate returns and long-term strategy. The overwhelming approval rates across all proposals suggest shareholders view Forbo's current trajectory positively despite challenging global economic conditions.
