SIKA ACHIEVES GLOBAL GROWTH OF 1.6% IN LOCAL CURRENCIES AND EXPANDS ITS PROFIT MARGIN

Core Insights - Sika achieved a global growth of 1.6% in local currencies during the first half of 2025, despite a challenging economic environment and a significant foreign currency impact due to the weaker US dollar [2][4] - The company reported an increase in its EBITDA margin to 18.9%, supported by stable input costs and efficiency gains, while raising its synergy targets for MBCC by CHF 20 million [5][7] - Sika's strategic investments included acquisitions and the expansion of production capacities, positioning the company for future growth [7][9] Financial Performance - Sika's net sales in Swiss francs amounted to CHF 5.68 billion, a decrease from CHF 5.83 billion in the previous year, reflecting a -2.7% change [4][14] - The EBITDA for the first half of the year reached CHF 1,070.4 million, slightly down from CHF 1,092.9 million the previous year, primarily due to foreign currency effects [5][14] - Operating free cash flow decreased significantly to CHF 181.9 million from CHF 401.3 million, attributed to increased net working capital and higher investments [6][15] Regional Performance - In the EMEA region, Sika experienced a sales growth of 1.9% in local currencies, with a notable recovery in construction markets [10] - The Americas region saw a 3.5% increase in local currency sales, although growth was tempered by mixed signals in US trade policy [11] - The Asia/Pacific region faced a slight decline of -1.7% in local currency sales, mainly due to challenges in the Chinese construction sector [12] Strategic Initiatives - Sika made targeted acquisitions, including Elmich (Singapore), Cromar (UK), HPS (USA), and Gulf Additive (Qatar), to strengthen its market position [7][9] - The company expanded its global production capacity with new factories in multiple countries, enhancing its ability to meet customer demands [7][8] - Sika confirmed its strategic medium-term targets for sustainable, profitable growth by 2028, despite uncertain market conditions [13]