LUDWIG BECK AG has released its half-year financial results for the 2026 fiscal year, reporting a decline in gross sales amid a difficult market environment in Munich city centre and subdued consumer sentiment across Germany. The company generated gross sales of EUR 37.1 million in the first six months, down 1.9% from EUR 37.8 million in the same period last year.
The broader fashion retail sector in Germany faced headwinds, with TW-Testclub, the largest panel in brick-and-mortar fashion retail, reporting a 4% decline in sales for the first half of 2026 compared to the prior year. Cool weather in the first quarter dampened demand for spring and summer fashion, and while business picked up in the second quarter, the losses were not fully recouped. Ongoing consumer caution, driven by economic uncertainties and geopolitical risks, further weighed on spending.
For LUDWIG BECK, sales in the textile segment fell to EUR 28.6 million from EUR 29.0 million, while non-textile sales dropped to EUR 8.5 million from EUR 8.8 million. The company's online shop also experienced a decline. Gross profit decreased from EUR 15.5 million to EUR 15.1 million, with the gross profit margin declining slightly to 48.2% from 48.8% due to higher price reductions. Cost of goods sold remained stable at EUR 16.2 million.
Other operating income increased to EUR 2.0 million, while personnel expenses held steady at EUR 8.1 million. Other operating expenses fell to EUR 6.5 million from EUR 6.8 million. EBIT improved to EUR -0.8 million from EUR -1.0 million, and EBT narrowed to EUR -2.3 million from EUR -2.4 million. The net result was a loss of EUR 2.6 million, compared to a loss of EUR 2.7 million in the previous year.
Looking ahead, LUDWIG BECK expressed confidence for the third quarter, citing expected stabilization of macroeconomic conditions and the positive impact of the Munich Oktoberfest, which traditionally boosts sales. The company believes it is well positioned strategically and product-wise for the second half of the year, with a curated assortment balancing classics and trends. The detailed half-year report is available on the company's website at http://kaufhaus.ludwigbeck.de under Investor Relations.
