Roquette reported a sharp improvement in first-half 2026 performance, with turnover rising 9% to €2.586 billion and Current EBITDA jumping 18% to €337 million, as its strategic transformation begins to deliver results ahead of target.

 

The plant-based ingredients and pharmaceutical solutions group said performance was supported by stronger volumes and product mix, contributions from an enhanced portfolio and the early impact of its Shift & Lead transformation programme.

 

Current EBITDA margin increased by 101 basis points to 13%, driven by the pharma, food and nutrition businesses and continued cost discipline.

 

“In a market environment that remains challenging, dynamic and competitive, Roquette’s performance was supported by the contribution of new product lines, especially in the pharma and healthcare segment. 

 

"While like-for-like performance remains impacted by the aforementioned market conditions, we are encouraged by the early progress of Shift & Lead, the company’s strategic plan, which is helping us to position the Group for long-term growth," said Thierry Fournier, CEO of Roquette.

 

Roquette said strong sales of cellulose and alginates for pharmaceutical and healthcare applications helped offset continued pressure on its starch and capsule businesses.

 

The Health & Pharma Business Unit continued to face intense competition and pricing pressure, but growth in cellulose and alginates provided a significant counterweight. The company said the performance underscored its strategy of expanding into higher-value products and solutions aimed at changing customer and patient needs.

 

In Nutrition & Bioindustry, market conditions remained difficult, but Roquette said its proteins and fibers businesses continued to perform in line with expectations.

 

The proteins business recorded higher volumes and sales than in the first half of 2025, supported by continued efforts to strengthen its position in high-value pea ingredients.

 

Europe and North America showed strong momentum, while Asia was a particular bright spot. Roquette highlighted strong commercial performance in India and China, with growth in India continuing alongside broader momentum across the region.

 

Launched in early 2026, Shift & Lead is designed to improve competitiveness, accelerate performance and create long-term value.

 

The programme has already delivered more than €60 million in savings and benefits within its first few months, putting it ahead of its initial target, according to Roquette.

 

“In an evolving and demanding market environment, we recognized the need to act decisively and responsibly. This is why we launched Shift & Lead: to ensure Roquette remains well positioned for the future while continuing to create value for customers, employees, partners and shareholders. I have been impressed by the speed and commitment of our teams in bringing this plan to life – it has already delivered more than €60m in just a few months. 

 

"Across the Group, we are fostering new ways of thinking and working, with a clear focus on operational excellence, agility and performance. We remain confident in our ability to capture future opportunities and build on the strengths that have long defined Roquette,” concluded Thierry Fournier.

 

Free cash flow improved substantially to negative €54 million, compared with negative €150 million in H1 2025, excluding the cash impact of the IFF Pharma Solutions acquisition.

 

Roquette also strengthened its financial position through the successful issuance of €600 million in perpetual hybrid bonds in April 2026.

 

The company said the first-half results demonstrate progress in its transformation strategy even as parts of its business continue to operate in challenging market conditions.