Symrise (SY1) Q4 2025 (Media) earnings summary

Executive summary

• Achieved 2.8% organic sales growth in 2025, with total revenue reaching €4,929 million, surpassing market growth, especially in the Flavor & Fragrance business, despite negative currency and portfolio effects.

• Implemented the ONE Symrise transformation strategy, driving sustainable, profitable growth and realizing €50 million in savings in 2025, with €100 million in structural savings over 2024–2025.

• Adjusted EBITDA margin improved by 120 bps to 21.9%, the highest profitability in a decade, with adjusted EBITDA rising to €1,081 million.

• Business Free Cash Flow reached a record €780 million, margin up 220 bps to 15.8%.

• Announced first share buyback program up to €400 million and proposed the 16th consecutive dividend increase to €1.25 per share.

Financial highlights

• Revenue reached €4,929 million, up 2.8% organically year-over-year, but down 1.4% reported due to FX and portfolio effects.

• Adjusted EBITDA rose to €1,081 million (21.9% margin), up 4.6% year-over-year, with margin expanding by 120 bps.

• Adjusted net income attributable to shareholders increased to €513 million, up €35 million year-over-year.

• Business Free Cash Flow increased 14.6% to €780 million, with BFCF margin up 220 bps.

• Adjusted EPS rose to €3.67, and dividend per share proposed at €1.25, marking the 16th consecutive increase.

Outlook and guidance

• For 2026, organic sales growth is forecast at 2–4%, adjusted EBITDA margin at 21.5–22.5%, and BFCF margin above 14%.

• Mid-term (to 2028) targets: 5–7% CAGR in organic sales, EBITDA margin of 21–23%, and BFCF margin above 14%.

• Q1 2026 expected to see a slight organic sales decline due to high prior-year comparables.