Cabka H1 2025 Results on Track: Delivering on Key Milestones with Improved Visibility for H2

Core Insights - Cabka N.V. has reported its unaudited results for the first half of 2025, indicating a slight decline in total sales but early signs of improved commercial momentum, particularly in the US market [1][4][26] Financial Performance - Total sales for H1 2025 amounted to €90.0 million, a decrease of 2% compared to H1 2024 [7][10] - Gross operating margin improved to 51.7%, up 220 basis points from 49.5% in H1 2024 [7][8] - Operational EBITDA decreased to €9.1 million, down 13% year-on-year, primarily due to a deliberate reduction in inventory [7][16] - The net result for H1 2025 was a loss of €4.7 million, compared to a loss of €1.9 million in H1 2024, reflecting a 147% decline [7][30] Sales Breakdown - Sales in Europe were €57.7 million, an 8% decrease from €62.8 million in H1 2024, attributed to market volatility and customer hesitance [11] - US sales increased by 9% to €12.0 million, supported by a new commercial strategy and improved capacity utilization [12] - Customized solutions sales remained steady, while contract manufacturing saw a significant rebound, increasing by 24% [11] Cost Management - The company achieved a €5.8 million inventory reduction as part of its Shift program, which also contributed to improved cash flow from operations [5][13] - Operating expenses decreased by €0.5 million year-on-year, with notable savings in personnel expenses [14] Cash Flow and Debt Management - Cash from operating activities improved to €0.2 million, a significant recovery from a cash outflow of €4.4 million in H1 2024 [17] - Total cash balance as of June 30, 2025, was €3.0 million, down from €4.7 million at the end of 2024 [20] Capital Expenditures - CAPEX for H1 2025 was €5.4 million, a 42% decrease from €9.3 million in H1 2024, reflecting a disciplined approach to capital expenditures [9][24] - Investments were split between replacement & maintenance and expansion & automation initiatives [25] Strategic Outlook - The company remains confident in its guidance for 2025, expecting sales and EBITDA to be at least in line with 2024, bolstered by a strengthening order book [26][28] - The Shift program is yielding tangible results, contributing to a leaner cost base and improved operational efficiency [27] Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) - Cabka's commitment to circularity is evident, with 87% of raw material intake sourced from recycled materials [32] - The company received a Platinum Medal from EcoVadis, reflecting its leadership in sustainability management [33][34]