Kofola reports strong quarterly profit growth
The Kofola Group, a leading Central European producer of non-alcoholic beverages, posted a 7.7% revenue increase for the first half of its 2026 financial year, totaling CZK 5.58 billion (€230.5 million). Nearly 60% of this came from its core Czech and Slovak markets, while EBITDA climbed 16% to CZK 782 million (€32 million). The company maintained a net debt-to-EBITDA ratio of 3.35, demonstrating disciplined financial management amid expansion.
Executives credited the results to ideal summer conditions, sustained demand in domestic markets, and stronger sales in fresh-food and beverage categories. However, net profit fell slightly to CZK 132 million (€5.4 million), compared with CZK 148 million (€6.1 million) in the same period last year.
Product innovation drove much of the growth. The zero-sugar Kofola Nulka, functional waters like Rajec 321, and sugar-free Korunní Etera responded to evolving consumer tastes. The company also broadened its premium Boccetta syrups line, capitalizing on demand for artisanal lemonades in the restaurant sector. In the Adriatic region, early tourism gains lifted revenue by 4% in Slovenia and 3% in Croatia, with the HoReCa channel—hotels, restaurants, and cafés, expanding by 5%.
The Ugo convenience-store chain stood out as a top performer, with gross revenues up nearly 14% and EBITDA rising 35%. Increased customer traffic, new locations in Prague’s Zličín and Europark areas, and a 22% revenue surge in Slovakia’s quick-service restaurants supported this growth. Meanwhile, the brewing division saw weaker export demand but compensated with domestic strength: Zubr beer sales increased by 13.9%, Litovel grew by 5.9%, and canned-beverage sales jumped 27.4%. Herbal and specialty brands like Leros and Premium Rosa remained stable, with Premium Rosa adopting cost efficiencies ahead of the fourth-quarter peak.
Looking forward, Kofola anticipates sustained momentum through year-end, bolstered by summer performance and recent strategic acquisitions. These include mineral and therapeutic water assets in Bílina and Mariánské Lázně, as well as a stake in the CØKAFE coffee chain. The moves indicate a shift toward higher-margin segments beyond traditional beverages, though success will depend on effective integration and market adoption.
