Adidas Raises 2026 Profit Forecast After Record Quarter

German sportswear giant Adidas has raised its operating profit forecast for 2026 to €2.5 billion from its earlier estimate of €2.3 billion, following a better-than-expected third quarter. The company also benefited from around €200 million in US customs duty refunds, most of which it has now received. Adidas shares rose 2.6 per cent on the Tradegate trading platform following the announcement.

 

According to preliminary figures, Adidas recorded a nine per cent increase in third-quarter revenue to a record €7.25 billion, while currency-adjusted revenue grew seven per cent. Gross margin improved by 2.5 percentage points to 54.3 per cent, supported by strong full-price sales, while operating profit surged 37 per cent to approximately €1 billion. The company maintained its forecast for currency-adjusted revenue growth of nine to ten per cent for the full year, despite negative currency effects.

 

Chief Executive Officer Björn Gulden highlighted strong demand for apparel, which is driving growth in the lifestyle segment, while acknowledging challenges in footwear due to high inventory levels and widespread discounting. Adidas plans to invest an additional €100 million in the fourth quarter while prioritising sustainable and profitable growth over short-term gains. The company is expected to publish its detailed third-quarter financial results on October 29.