Henkel announced solid organic sales growth for the first quarter of 2026, demonstrating resilience in a challenging global market environment and continued momentum across both of its business units. Group sales for the quarter reached approximately 5.0 billion euros, with organic growth of 1.7 percent driven by positive pricing and volume performance.
Chief Executive Officer Carsten Knobel said the company achieved balanced growth across Adhesive Technologies and Consumer Brands while continuing to advance its strategic investment agenda. He highlighted the company’s recent acquisitions in both business units, which together are expected to contribute nearly 1.6 billion euros in additional annual sales. Three of the five announced transactions have already been successfully completed.
Henkel confirmed that its outlook for 2026 remains unchanged and reiterated confidence in its strategy for sustainable and profitable growth. Total Group sales for the first quarter stood at 4.952 billion euros, compared with 5.242 billion euros in the same period last year. Nominal sales declined by 5.5 percent due primarily to negative foreign exchange effects and portfolio changes. Currency movements reduced sales by 5.2 percent, while acquisitions and divestments lowered sales by 2.1 percent overall.
The Adhesive Technologies business unit generated sales of 2.627 billion euros. Organic sales growth reached 1.7 percent, supported by gains in both pricing and volume. The strongest performance came from the Mobility & Electronics business area, which recorded organic growth of 6.7 percent, driven largely by Electronics and Industrial businesses. The Asia-Pacific and IMEA regions delivered particularly strong growth, including double-digit increases in electronics-related sales in China.
Consumer Brands posted sales of 2.285 billion euros and achieved organic growth of 1.8 percent. The Hair business area emerged as a major growth driver, recording a strong 5.1 percent increase led by hair colorants and professional salon products. The Laundry & Home Care segment remained stable overall, while Home Care products, particularly hand dishwashing solutions, delivered double-digit growth.
Henkel is a global leader in both industrial and consumer markets, driven by a strong portfolio of brands, innovations, and technologies. Its Adhesive Technologies business unit is the worldwide leader in adhesives, sealants, and functional coatings, while the Consumer Brands division holds leading positions across many international markets, especially in Laundry & Home Care and Hair Care. The company’s most recognized brands include Loctite, Persil, and Schwarzkopf.
In fiscal year 2025, Henkel generated sales of approximately €20.5 billion and achieved an adjusted operating profit of around €3.0 billion. The company’s preferred shares are listed on the DAX. Sustainability has long been a core part of Henkel’s identity, supported by a clearly defined strategy and measurable targets. Founded in 1876, Henkel today employs around 47,000 people worldwide, united by a strong corporate culture, shared values, and a common purpose: “Pioneers at heart for the good of generations.”
