Q4 2025 Fagron NV Earnings Call

February 12, 2026

Ignacio Artola: Full Year 2025 Results Webcast. I'm joined today by our CEO, Rafael Padilla, and our CFO, Karin de Jong. We will open the floor for questions at the end of the session. With that, I will hand it over to Rafael.

Constantin Artola: Full Year 2025 Results Webcast. I'm joined today by our CEO, Rafael Padilla, and our CFO, Karin de Jong. We will open the floor for questions at the end of the session. With that, I will hand it over to Rafael.

Speaker #1: Year 2025 results webcast. I'm joined today by our CEO, Rafael Padilla, and our CFO, Karin De Jong. We will open the floor for questions at the end of the session, and with that, I will hand over to Rafael.

Speaker #2: Thanks, Ignacio, and good morning all. We are very pleased to report another outstanding set of results with full-year revenues reaching 952 million euros. This translates into a 9.1% organic revenue growth at constant exchange rates driven by all regions and segments.

Rafael Padilla: Thanks, Ignacio, and good morning, all. We are very pleased to report another outstanding set of results, with full year revenues reaching EUR 962 million. This translates into a 9.1% organic revenue growth at constant exchange rates, driven by all regions and segments. Profitability increased 10.9% to EUR 193 million, which represents a margin of 20.3%, 30 basis points higher than in 2024. Main contributors were our operational excellence initiatives and a positive sales mix. As you already know, during the year, we also accelerated our M&A efforts and announced 12 transactions across our regions and segments, always maintaining a disciplined approach. Additionally, we have proposed a dividend of EUR 0.40 per share, reflecting a 14.3% increase compared to last year.

Speaker #2: Profitability increased 10.9% to 193 million euros, which represents a margin of 20.3%, 30 basis points higher than in 2024. Main contributors were our operational excellence initiatives and a positive sales mix.

Speaker #2: As you already know, during the year we also accelerated our M&A efforts and announced 12 transactions across our regions and segments, always maintaining a disciplined approach.

Speaker #2: Additionally, we have proposed a dividend of 40 euro cents per share reflecting a 14.3% increase compared to last year. Looking ahead, in 2026, assuming no major changes in current market conditions, we expect mid to high single-digit organic sales growth at CR and slight improvement in profitability year on year.

Rafael Padilla: Looking ahead in 2026, assuming no major changes in current market conditions, we expect mid- to high single-digit organic sales growth at CER, and a slight improvement in profitability year-on-year. Going on to the regions. In EMEA, we had a solid performance. Brands and Essentials benefited from underlying demand, improved availability, and our diversified footprint, while Compounding Services was supported by demand in both sterile and non-sterile compounding, as well as new customer wins. In LatAm, we benefited from strong execution in Brazil. Innovation and targeted commercial actions supported growth. We have also received clearance from the Competition Authority, CADE, for the acquisition of Dipakum. Finally, in North America Pacific, we continue to see strong underlying demand. Brands and Essentials improve on the back of operational improvements and availability, while Compounding Services continue to benefit from demand trends in both health and wellness and hospital outsourcing.

Speaker #2: Going on to the regions, in EMEA we had a solid performance. Brands and Essentials benefited from underlying demand, improved availability, and our diversified footprint, while Compounding Services was supported by demand in both sterile and non-sterile compounding, as well as new customer wins.

Speaker #2: In LATAM, we benefited from strong execution in Brazil, innovation and targeted commercial actions supported growth. We have also received clearance from the Competition Authority CADE for the acquisition of DEPACOM.

Speaker #2: Finally, in North America, Pacific, we continue to see strong underlying demand, brands and essentials improve on the back of operational improvements and availability, while compounding services continue to benefit from demand trends in both health and wellness and hospital outsourcing.

Speaker #2: Also, very happy to share that our expansion projects in Wichita and Las Vegas are progressing as planned. Turning to M&A, our strategy remains consistent.

Rafael Padilla: Also, very happy to share that our expansion projects in Wichita and Las Vegas are progressing as planned. Turning to M&A, our strategy remains consistent. We acquire businesses we know well, often partners, where we kind of strengthen local positions, enter new markets, or expand product capabilities. During 2025 and year to date, we announced 12 acquisitions across all regions and segments, as well as completing two further deals we had announced previously in 2024. As you would have noted, most of the deals we announced in 2025 have already been completed, with Injeplast, Ambar, and Dipakum pending completion. We all remain disciplined and have a clear integration playbook to capitalize synergies in an 18 to 24 months period, being the key levers: procurement, portfolio breadth, operational, and commercial synergies. And with that, Karin for the financial review.

Speaker #2: We acquired businesses we know well, often partners, where we can strengthen local positions, enter new markets, or expand product capabilities. During 2025 and year to date, we announced 12 acquisitions across all regions and segments, as well as completing two further deals we had announced previously in '24.

Speaker #2: As you would have noted, most of the deals we announced in '25 have already been completed, with INGEPLAST, AMBER, and DEPACOM pending completion. We all remain disciplined and have a clear integration playbook to capitalize synergies in an 18 to 24-month period, being the key levers: procurement, portfolio breadth, operational and commercial synergies.

Speaker #2: And with that, Karin, for the financial review.

Speaker #3: Thank you, Rafa. Good morning, everyone. Let me walk you through our full-year 2025 results and share more details about our 2026 outlook. In 2025, revenue increased 9.2% on a reported basis to €952.2 million.

Karin de Jong: Thank you, Rafa. Good morning, everyone. Let me walk you through our full year 2025 results and share more details about our 2026 outlook. In 2025, revenue increased 9.2% on a reported basis to EUR 952.2 million. In organic terms, at constant exchange rates, the group grew 9.1%. Gross margin increased by 30 basis points to 62.6%, supported by sales mix, procurement, and manufacturing savings. Operating expenses increased to support volume growth. At group level, our profitability expanded 30 basis points year on year to 20.3%, demonstrating our improved operational capabilities and synergies from acquisitions. Moving on to the next slide. The bridge shows our revenue development for the full year. EMEA delivered 4.2% organic growth at CER, supported by broad-based demand and contributions across segments.

Speaker #3: In organic terms, at constant exchange rates, the group grew 9.1%. Gross margin increased by 30 basis points to 62.6%, supported by sales mix and procurement and manufacturing savings.

Speaker #3: Operating expenses increased to support volume growth. At group level, our profitability expanded 30 basis points year on year to 20.3%, demonstrating our improved operational capabilities and synergies from acquisitions.

Speaker #3: Moving on to the next slide, the bridge shows our revenue development for the full year. EMEA delivered 4.2% organic growth at CER, supported by broad-based demand and contributions across segments.

Speaker #3: Latin America delivered 14.1% organic growth at CER, driven mainly by strong performance in Brazil. North America, Pacific, delivered 10.8% organic growth at CER, supported by compounding services and continued progress in essentials.

Karin de Jong: Latin America delivered 14.1% organic growth at CER, driven mainly by strong performance in Brazil. North America Pacific delivered 10.8% organic growth at CER, supported by compounding services and continued progress in essentials. M&A contributed to reported growth, while FX was a headwind. On the right side in the table, you can see the non-recurring items. They were limited at EUR 0.3 million, mainly acquisition-related costs, partly offset by an earn-out release. Depreciation and amortization increased, mainly reflecting purchase price allocations from acquisitions, and the financial result was a cost of EUR 28.6 million higher than last year. This was mainly driven by an increase in currency differences of EUR 1 million due to volatility of the US dollar throughout the year. The remaining is spread of the different categories, such as interest on leasing, and other financial costs.

Speaker #3: M&A contributed to reported growth, while FX was a headwind. On the right side in the table, you can see the non-recurring items that were limited at €0.3 million, mainly acquisition-related costs, partly offset by an earnout release.

Speaker #3: Depreciation and amortization increased, mainly reflecting purchase price allocations from acquisitions. And the financial result was a cost of 28.6 million, higher than last year.

Speaker #3: This was mainly driven by an increase in currency differences of €1 million due to volatility of the US dollar throughout the year. The remaining amount is spread over different categories, such as interest on leasing and other financial costs.

Speaker #3: The effective tax rates were stable at 22.2% versus 22.3% last year. And as a result, net profit increased to 91.5 million and earnings per share increased to 1.25 euros, a 13.6% increase on the prior year.

Karin de Jong: The effective tax rate was stable at 22.2% versus 22.3% last year, and as a result, net profit increased to EUR 91.5 million, and earnings per share increased to EUR 1.25, a 13.6% increase on the prior year. Moving to EMEA. Revenue increased to EUR 355.1 million, with 4.2% organic growth at CER, supported by underlying demand and contribution from acquisitions. REBITDA increased to EUR 77.9 million, and the margin improved to 21.9%. The margin improvement reflects operational excellence benefits and sales mix. As highlighted by Rafa, we also strengthened the region through acquisitions. Turning to LatAm. Revenue increased to EUR 183 million, with 14.1% organic growth at CER, partly offset by FX.

Speaker #3: Moving to EMEA. So revenue increased to 355.1 million, with 4.2% organic growth at CER, supported by underlying demand and the contribution from acquisitions. Rebeda increased to 77.9 million and the margin improved to 21.9%.

Speaker #3: The margin improvement reflects operational excellence benefits and sales mix. And as highlighted by Rafa, we also strengthened the region through acquisitions. Turning to LATAM.

Speaker #3: Revenue increased to 183 million, with 14.1% organic growth at CER, partly offset by FX. Performance was supported by strong underlying demand and new product launches, particularly in brands.

Karin de Jong: Performance was supported by strong underlying demand and new product launches, particularly in brands. Brands revenues this year represent 38.1% of LatAm's total revenue, an increase of 360 basis points. REBITDA increased to EUR 33.6 million, with a margin slightly higher at 18.3%. The margin in the second half of 2025 was 19.2%, reflecting the seasonality effect in this region. We also made progress on M&A execution, firstly with the completion of Purifarma, and we also received CADE clearance for Dipakum, and expect that to complete soon. Injeplast is still to be completed. Moving to North America Pacific, revenue increased to EUR 414.1 million, with 10.8% organic growth at CER. Brands and essential performance remained strong and was mainly supported by improvements in product availability and supply chain.

Speaker #3: Brands' revenues this year represent 38.1% of LATAM's total revenue, an increase of 360 basis points. Rebeda increased to 33.6 million with a margin slightly higher at 18.3%.

Speaker #3: The margin in the second half of 2025 was 19.2%, reflecting the seasonality effect in this region. We also made progress on M&A execution, firstly with the completion of Beauty Pharma, and we also received CADE clearance for FEPACOM and expect that to complete soon.

Speaker #3: INGEPLAST is still to be completed. Moving to North America, Pacific, revenue increased to 414.1 million, with 10.8% organic growth at CER, brands and essential performance remained strong and was mainly supported by improvements in product availability and supply chain.

Speaker #3: Compounding services remained strong despite the absence of GOP1 shortages during the second half of the year. The higher operating expense is mainly related to the need to accommodate the growing volumes coming from high market demand, while the Rebeda margin expanded by 20 basis points to 19.7% as we continue to improve our operational excellence activities.

Karin de Jong: Compounding services remained strong despite the absence of GLP-1 shortages during the second half of the year. The higher operating expense is mainly related to the need to accommodate the growing volumes coming from high market demand, while the REBITDA margin expanded by 20 basis points to 19.7%, as we continue to improve our operational excellence activities. We also expanded the business through the acquisitions of CareFirst and UCP, and also including entry into Australia through Belacorp. Looking at our cash flow now. A high level of cash conversion remains as one of the main strengths of our business model. Operating working capital increased by 10 basis points to 12.1% as a percentage of analyzed revenue. Operating cash flow increased by 41.3% to EUR 155.3 million.

Speaker #3: We also expanded the business through the acquisitions of Care First and UCP and also including entry into Australia through BellaCorp. Looking at our cash flow now, a high level of cash conversion remains as one of the main strengths of our business model.

Speaker #3: Operating working capital increased by 10 basis points to 12.1% as a percentage of annualized revenue. Operating cash flow increased by 41.3% to 155.3 million euros.

Speaker #3: Normalized CAPEX, adjusted for one-offs, ended at 3.1% of revenue, in line with our guidance. And lastly, free cash flow conversion reached 65.3%, reflecting continued discipline on CAPEX and working capital.

Karin de Jong: Normalized CapEx, adjusted for one-offs, ended at 3.1% of revenue, in line with our guidance. Lastly, free cash flow conversion reached 65.3%, reflecting continued discipline on CapEx and working capital. Our net debt evolution for the year shows a modest increase to EUR 283.3 million, reflecting acquisition and investments during the year. Despite this, leverage improved with net debt to EBITDA at 1.2x, and we remain well below our internal threshold of 2.8x. This keeps sufficient headroom to pursue opportunities while maintaining a prudent balance sheet. Finally, our outlook. For 2026, assuming no significant changes in market conditions, we expect a mid- to high-single-digit organic growth at CER. We also expect a slight year-on-year increase in profitability, with the second half expected to be stronger than the first half.

Speaker #3: Our net debt evolution for the year shows a modest increase to 283.3 million, reflecting acquisition and investments during the year. Despite this leverage improved with net debt to EBITDA at 1.2 times and we remain well below our internal threshold of 2.8 times.

Speaker #3: This keeps sufficient headroom to pursue opportunities while maintaining a prudent balance sheet. Finally, our outlook. For 2026, assuming no significant changes in market conditions, we expect a mid to high single-digit organic growth at CER.

Speaker #3: We also expect a slight year-on-year increase in profitability with the second half expected to be stronger than the first half. CAPEX is expected to remain at around 3.5% of revenue, excluding one-off projects.

Karin de Jong: CapEx is expected to remain at around 3.5% of revenue, excluding one-off projects, and our midterm guidance remains unchanged. With that, I will hand back to Rafa for the conclusion.

Speaker #3: And our mid-term guidance remains unchanged. And with that, I will hand back to Rafa for the conclusion.

Speaker #2: Thanks, Karin. 2025 once again shows the resilience of our business model, consisting of predictable growth, strong cash generation, and continued progress on quality and operational excellence.

Rafael Padilla: Thanks, Karin. 2025 shows again the resilience of our business model, consisting of predictable growth, strong cash generation, and continued progress on quality and operational excellence. We also accelerated M&A in a disciplined way and are now heavily focused on integration and value creation. This performance builds on a long-term track record, with EPS growing at around 9% CAGR since 2017. We remain confident in the underlying drivers of our end markets and in our ability to deliver the midterm targets. With that, let us open the line for questions.

Speaker #2: We also accelerated M&A in a disciplined way and are now heavily focused on integration and value creation. This performance builds on a long-term track record with EPS growing at around 9% CAGR since 2017.

Speaker #2: We remain confident in the underlying drivers of our end markets and in our ability to deliver the mid-term targets. With that, let us open the line for questions.

Speaker #3: Ladies and gentlemen, if you wish to ask a question, please dial pound key five on your telephone keypad. If you'd like to withdraw your question, please dial pound key six on your telephone keypad.

Operator: Ladies and gentlemen, if you wish to ask a question, please dial pound key five on your telephone keypad. If you'd like to withdraw your question, please dial pound key six on your telephone keypad. The first question comes from Michael Heider, from Berenberg Bank. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

Speaker #3: The first question comes from Michael Haider from Berenberg Bank. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

Speaker #4: Good morning. Good morning, Karin, Rafael, and Ignacio. Congrats on the strong execution. I have four questions, please. First of all, your growth accelerated in the fourth quarter in North America.

Michael Heider: Good morning. Good morning, Karin, Rafael, and Ignacio. Congrats on the strong execution. I have four questions, please. First of all, your growth accelerated in Q4 in North America, so in the US market, despite a stronger headwind from the GLP-1 revenues. Can you give a little bit more light on what were the main drivers here, please?

Speaker #4: So in the US market, despite a stronger headwind from the GOP1 revenues can you give a little bit more light on what were the main drivers here, please?

Speaker #2: Yes, sure. Good morning, Michael, and thanks for the complimentary results for been across all the segments. Of course, we're starting with ANSEO where we had the headwind, the core business also grew.

Rafael Padilla: Yes, sure. Good morning, Michael, and thanks for the compliment on the results. We're also very happy. Regarding the US growth, you see that has been across all the segments. Of course, we're starting with Brazil, where we had the headwind, the core business also grew, so that shows the resilience of the business, of course, and the trend. We have spoken also in your last conference of the prevention and lifestyle products. Then Brands and Essentials was also, we saw good results ahead of our own expectations as well. We have been improving our operations and supply chain. As you also know, we also discussed this one.

Speaker #2: So that shows the resilience of the business, of course, and the trend we have spoken about also in your last conference regarding the prevention and lifestyle products.

Speaker #2: Then B&E was also we also saw good results ahead of our own expectations as well. We have been improving our operations and supply chain, as you also know.

Speaker #2: We also discussed this one. And then regarding FSS or the hospital outsourcing, we also explained during our Q3 trading update call that at that time we were adding the 25 million extra capacity that door-to-door, right?

Rafael Padilla: And then regarding FSS or the hospital outsourcing, we also explained during our Q3 trading update call that at that time, we're adding the EUR 25 million extra capacity, that door-to-door, right? Therefore, in Q3, we had a lesser growth at FSS, hospital outsourcing, and with the visibility we had, we would see a strong Q4. Thanks a lot for the question, Michael.

Speaker #2: Therefore, in Q3, we had a lesser growth at FSS, hospital outsourcing, and with the visibility we had, we would see a strong Q4. Thanks a lot for the question, Michael.

Speaker #4: And then secondly, on the capacity expansions, can you yeah, elaborate what were the focuses in 2026 and how much CAPEX can we expect on that?

Michael Heider: And then, secondly, on the capacity expansions, can you elaborate what, where the focus is in 2026 and how much CapEx can we expect on that?

Speaker #2: Yes, sure. That's a very important question for this year and also for 2027 because here we have announced last year we announced the expansion across the street.

Rafael Padilla: Yes, sure. That's a very, very important question for this year and also for 2027, because here we have announced—Last year, we announced the expansion across the street. That's the new capacity that we're getting, will be online during 2027. What we explained in Q3 was an extra capacity added wall to wall, so upgrading the current facility to support growth. And for 2026, as we also have explained many times, there's this new opportunity for us at the 503B to 503A, where a 503B can compound for a 503A. That would be the same as we have here in the Netherlands with the Doorgeleverde bereidingen, where a compounding center can compound for other compounders.

Speaker #2: The new capacity that we're getting will be online during 2027. What we explained in Q3 was an extra capacity added wall-to-wall, so upgrading the current facility to support growth.

Speaker #2: And for 2026, as we also have explained many times, there's this new opportunity for us that's the B2A where a 503B can compound for a 503A.

Speaker #2: That would be the same as we have here in the Netherlands with the door-to-door berijding, where a compounding center can compound for other compounders.

Speaker #2: And of course, as we can understand, the sterile products are the most important because of the difficulty made and all the quality requirements, needed, and investments.

Rafael Padilla: Of course, as we can understand, the sterile products are the most important because of the difficulty to make and all the quality requirements needed and investments. Of course, therefore, we see a good opportunity for us, of course, at the 503B facility in Vegas, but also at the 503B facility in Wichita, because now we started bringing the portfolios together, having one R&D cost, one quality control cost, streamlining also the operational part on our final three 503Bs.

Speaker #2: Of course, therefore we see a good opportunity for us, of course, at the B facility in Vegas, but also at the B facility in Wichita, because now we started bringing the portfolios together, having one R&D cost, one quality control cost, streamlining also the operational part on our 503Bs.

Speaker #3: Yeah. And maybe to add on to that, on the financials for the expansion project, we had three projects: the Las Vegas expansion, the Wichita expansion, and the Netherlands.

Karin de Jong: Yeah, and maybe to add on that on the financials for the expansion project. So we have three projects, the Las Vegas expansion, the Wichita expansion, and the Netherlands. In total, roughly EUR 73 million expansion CapEx. In 2025, the amount spent was limited to a couple of million EUR, and then for 2026, we expect to spend approximately 75% of that amount and the rest in 2027. The timing, however, is depending on ordering and billing, so it could deviate a bit. However, this does not indicate any delay in timing, so we remain on track to complete the investment in 2027, which was in line with the original plan.

Speaker #3: In total, roughly 73 million expansion CAPEX. In 2025, the amount spent was limited to a couple of million. And then for 2026, we expand expect to spend approximately 75% of that amount and the rest in 2027.

Speaker #3: The timing, however, is dependent on ordering and billing, so it could deviate a bit. However, this does not indicate any delay in timing. So we remain on track to complete the investment in 2027, which is in line with the original plan.

Speaker #4: All right. Yeah. Thanks a lot. Then on the on your tax rate, it was stable in 2025 was 24. Now looking at your acquisitions, do you think there will be an impact going forward?

Michael Heider: All right. Yeah, thanks a lot. Then, on your tax rate, it was stable in 25, was 24. Now, looking at your acquisitions, do you think there will be an impact going forward? So maybe with more exposure to the Brazilian market, maybe we have to expect a slightly higher tax rate going forward.

Speaker #4: So maybe with more exposure to the Brazilian market, maybe have to expect to slightly higher tax rates going forward?

Speaker #3: Yeah. So we were around 22% this year and last year. We are funding part of the Brazilian acquisitions in the US. To mitigate a bit this risk, so we expect a slight step up but not a major one going forward.

Karin de Jong: Yeah, so we were around 22% this year and last year. We are funding part of the Brazilian acquisitions in the US to mitigate a bit this risk. So we expect a slight step up, but not a major one, going forward.

Speaker #4: Okay, and then last one. Just generally, I mean, you had a fantastic run on acquisitions with 12 acquisitions announced. Do you see any limits to that, on your capacity to integrate so many acquisitions?

Michael Heider: Okay. And then last one, just generally, I mean, you had a fantastic run on acquisitions with 12 acquisitions announced. Do you see any limits to that, on your capacity to integrate so many acquisitions?

Speaker #3: Yeah, indeed. We did a number of deals in 2025. They were all spread across the different continents. So we have a global coordinator, we have an M&A lead, and we have the regional teams that are responsible for the integration.

Karin de Jong: Yeah, indeed. We did a number of deals in 2025. They were all spread across the different continents. So we have a global coordinator, so we have an M&A lead, and we have the regional teams that are responsible for the integration, and they are supported by the global back office and roles such as finance, tax, treasury, IT. The integration plan is already prepared during the acquisition process and discussed with the area leaders and executive leadership team to accelerate the integration as of day one. So important levers, as Rafa mentioned, for the synergies are the procurement and the product breadth, and we have an experienced team to execute on this. So we are very confident that we are well prepared to integrate the acquisitions.

Speaker #3: And they are supported by the global back office and roles such as finance, tax, treasury, IT. The plan, so the integration plan is already prepared during the acquisition process and discussed with the area leaders and executive leadership team to accelerate the integration as of day one.

Speaker #3: So, important levers, as Rafa mentioned, for the synergies are the procurement and the product breadth. And we have an experienced team to execute on this.

Speaker #3: So, we're very confident that we are well prepared to integrate the acquisitions.

Speaker #4: thanks. Thanks for me.

Michael Heider: Mm-hmm. Okay. Well, many thanks.

Speaker #2: Thank you, Mike and.

Karin de Jong: Thank you.

Rafael Padilla: Thank you, Michael.

Speaker #1: The next question comes from Stein Demester. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

Operator: The next question comes from Stijn Demeester. The line is open. Please go ahead.

Speaker #5: Yes. Good morning, Rafa, Karen, and Ignacio also. Congrats on the results from my end, and thanks for taking my question. I have three—in your outlook, you guys guide for a slight profitability improvement.

Stijn Demeester: Yes, good morning, Rafa, Karin, and Ignacio. Also, congrats on the results from my end, and thanks for taking my question. I have three. In your outlook, you guys, for a slight profitability improvement, I think we are all banking on somewhat lower margins because of the dilution of Purifarma. Does it mean that you see cost synergies in Brazil more positive versus earlier, or has it to do with an offset from some higher margin acquisitions such as Injeplast? Maybe a bit of light here. Then the second question, given the strong underlying growth in the US compounding segment, will there be a point in the next quarters where you will be pushing against the limits of your capacity in Wichita before the new capacity provides additional headroom in 2027?

Speaker #5: I think we are all banking on somewhat lower margins because of the dilution of purifier. Does it mean that you see cost synergies in Brazil more positive versus earlier?

Speaker #5: Or has it to do with the offset from some higher margin acquisitions such as Vapec and maybe a bit of light here? Then the second question, given the strong underlying growth in the US compounding segment, will there be a point in the next quarters where you will be pushing against the limits of your capacity in Wichita?

Speaker #5: Before the new capacity provides additional headroom in 2027. And then related to the previous question, was indeed a very busy year for your M&A team.

Stijn Demeester: Related to the previous question, it was indeed a very busy year for our M&A team. Could you imagine that at one point there is a change in your capital allocation policy, whereby you would, for example, favor buyback over M&A, considering your sufficient free cash flow and your underlying valuation at this point? These are my questions.

Speaker #5: Could you imagine that at one point there is a change in your capital allocation policy whereby you would, for example, favor buyback over M&A—considering your sufficient free cash flow and your underlying valuation at this point?

Speaker #5: These are my questions.

Speaker #3: Yeah. Thank you, Stein. Maybe to start with the guidance on profitability. So yeah, in profitability, we indeed saw a nice step up in 2025 with 30 basis points which was driven by operational excellence.

Karin de Jong: Yeah, thank you, Stijn. Maybe to start with the guidance on profitability. So yeah, in profitability, we indeed saw a nice step up in 2025 with 30 basis points, which was driven by operational excellence, the operational benefits and innovation. While ex-acquisitions are expected to have a modest dilutive impact in 2026, as synergies are realized, we anticipate a slight improvement in profitability versus 2025. We also expect a stronger second half compared to the first half, reflecting the phasing out of the GLP-1's headwinds, as you all know, and the integration of newly acquired businesses. Maybe to break it down per region, LatAm. LatAm will have a small dilutive impact due to the acquisition of Purifarma. This will be partly offset by the Fufamon.

Speaker #3: The operational benefits and innovation. While acquisitions are expected to have a modest dilutive impact in 2026, as synergies are realized, we anticipate a slight improvement in profitability versus 2025.

Speaker #3: We also expect a stronger second half compared to the first half reflecting the phasing out of the GLP-1 headwinds as we all know and the integration of newly acquired businesses.

Speaker #3: And maybe to break it down per region, lots on, lots on will have a small dilutive impact due to the acquisition of Purifarma. This will be partly offset by Verpacking.

Speaker #3: So from H2 onwards, we expect synergies to start contributing to margin improvements at Purifarma. If we look at North America, North America will be slightly impacted by the UCP acquisition.

Karin de Jong: So from H2 onwards, we expect synergies to start contributing to margin improvements at Purifarma. If we look at North America, North America will be slightly impacted by the UCP acquisition, though the overall effect on the margin development is expected to be limited, and North America will continue to benefit from operational leverage and operational excellence initiatives, and therefore, we expect a margin improvement in 2026. EMEA, I said, delivered a very strong performance in 2025, and we anticipate to be broadly in line with that or slightly improved compared to 2025 in 2026. So that's basically on your first question.

Speaker #3: Though the overall effect on the margin development is expected to be limited. And North America will continue to benefit from operational leverage and operational excellence initiatives.

Speaker #3: And therefore, we expect a margin improvement in 2026. And I may, as I said, delivered a very strong performance in 2025. And we anticipate to be broadly in line with that or slightly improve compared to 2025 in 2026.

Speaker #3: So that's basically on your first question.

Speaker #5: Sure. On your second one, Stein, and good morning as well. You are totally right. And this is also what we explained during the Capital Market Day last year.

Rafael Padilla: Sure. On your second one, Stijn, and good morning as well. You are totally right, and this is also what we explained during the capital market day last year, that Wichita is coming to its max capacity. Therefore, we are at least EUR 25 million extra capacity for 2026 and the first semester of 2027. And then during 2027, we will see the new capacity going online. As we said, we are totally on track for timing and also on budget, so that's good to remark. And of course, we have the Boston facility, and this one is giving us the possibility to capture the underlying trends that we see in the hospital sourcing.

Speaker #5: That Wichita is coming to its max capacity. Therefore, we are at this 25 million extra capacity for '26 and the first semester of '27.

Speaker #5: And then, during 2027, we will see the new capacity going online, as we said. We are totally on track, quite timely, and also on budget.

Speaker #5: So that's good to remark. And of course, we have the Boston facility. And this one is giving us the possibility to capture the underlying trend that we see in the hospital outsourcing.

Speaker #5: And that, as you know very well, is because the high-quality standards that are being asked in the industry and also the B2A opportunity that we see now.

Rafael Padilla: And that, as you know very well, is because the high quality standards that are being asked in the industry and also the 503A opportunity that we see now. That's when I will remind myself of the first question, when a 503A can compound for 503B, mainly on sterile products.

Speaker #5: That's when I remind myself of the first question. When a 503(b) can compound for 503(a), mainly on the sterile products.

Speaker #3: Last question on the capital allocation. So our capital allocation is focused on growth—organic growth and inorganic growth. And indeed, we had a very good year on M&A in 2025.

Karin de Jong: Last question on the capital allocation. So our capital allocation is focused on growth, organic growth and inorganic growth, and indeed, we had a very good year on M&A in 2025. We have a solid pipeline to continue that M&A strategy. We see opportunities in the different regions, in the different margins, markets, and we wanna be able to act on those. So, for now, our capital allocation strategy will not change, and we're focused on that growth. We did have a small dividend and a small dividend increase also, and that's reflecting off the strong performance we had on our cash flow and our earnings.

Speaker #3: We have a solid pipeline to continue that M&A strategy. We see opportunities in the different regions, in the different margins, markets, and we want to be able to act on those.

Speaker #3: So for now, our capital allocation strategy will not change, and we're focused on that growth. We did have a small dividend, and a small dividend increase also.

Speaker #3: And that's reflecting off the strong performance we had on our cash flow and our earnings.

Speaker #5: Okay, thank you very much. That's all clear.

Speaker #3: Thanks, Stein.

Speaker #2: Thanks, Stein.

Rafael Padilla: Okay, thank you very much. That's all clear.

Stijn Demeester: Okay, thank you very much. That's all clear.

Karin de Jong: Thank you. Bye.

Rafael Padilla: Thanks, Stijn.

Speaker #1: The next question comes from Tibo Linnaeus from Please go ahead.

Operator: The next question comes from Thibault Leneeuw from KBC Securities. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

Speaker #6: Good morning, everyone. Congrats on the results. First question, with respect to EMEA and the compounding services: you reported 1.9% organic growth at CER.

Thibault Leneeuw: Good morning, everyone. Congrats with the results. First question is with respect to EMEA and the Compounding Services. You reported 1.9% organic growth at CER. You talked about volume growth in sterile and non-sterile business. So does that mean that there was some pricing pressure? That's the first question. Thank you.

Speaker #6: You talked about volume growth in sterile and non-sterile business. So does that mean that there was some pricing pressure? That's the first question. Thank you.

Speaker #5: Yes. Thanks, Tibo. Good morning. And what we have explained, if you recall, years ago, that how normally, and of course, the Dutch situation, the Netherlands, is accounting for more than 90% of this performance.

Rafael Padilla: Yes, thanks, Thibault. Good morning. What we have explained, if you recall years ago, that the how normally, and it's, of course, the diet situation, you know, the Netherlands is accounting for more than 90% of this performance. So how does it work? There is a product portfolio in compounding. We have the product portfolio, the biggest one in the whole industry after so many years, of course, and some of the bigger compounds are getting registered, so then we cannot sell. This we explained, if you remember, in 2021, at that year. Then this means also that we introduced new compounds, and we also registered some of them. So it's a dynamic portfolio.

Speaker #5: So, how does it work? There is a product portfolio in compounding. We have the product portfolio—the biggest one in the whole industry. After so many years, of course, and some of the bigger compounds are getting registered.

Speaker #5: So then we cannot sell. This was explained, if you remember, in 2021 at that year. And then this means also that we introduced new compounds.

Speaker #5: And we also registered some of them. So it's a dynamic portfolio. So, all in all, you see that almost 2% demand comes from this dynamic portfolio.

Rafael Padilla: So all in all, you see that the almost 2% demand comes from this dynamic portfolio, some products coming in, some products coming out. And also, as we explained, I believe it was last year also, there was one question regarding this topic, is that prices in this market are somehow flattish. So therefore, you see that all the growth that you see from Compounding Services in the region comes from volume.

Speaker #5: Some products coming in, some products coming out. And also, as we explained, I believe it was last year also, there was one question regarding this topic.

Speaker #5: Is it that prices in this market are somehow flattish? So therefore, you see that all the growth that you see from compounding services in this region comes from volume.

Speaker #6: Very clear. And maybe as a small follow-up, maybe it has been explained in the past a bit, which we said gently. To remind me, as for North America, the compounding services there—when you look at the growth outlook—has there been some price increases included in the long-term outlook of the low to mid double-digit revenue growth?

Thibault Leneeuw: Very clear. And maybe as a small follow-up, maybe it has been explained in the past, but would you be so gentle to remind me. As for North America, the compounding services there, when you look at the growth outlook, has there some price increases been included in the long-term outlook of like the low to mid-double-digit revenue growth? Is there some price increases included in that, or do you basically assume stable prices in that outlook? Thank you.

Speaker #6: Is there some price increases included in that? Or do you basically assume stable prices in that outlook? Thank you.

Speaker #3: Yeah, so historically, growth in the US, and mainly in compounding services, is driven by volume. So, we are capturing market share, and that was historically the case.

Karin de Jong: Yeah, so we historically, where growth in the US and mainly in Compounding Services is driven by volume. So we are capturing market share, and that was historically the case. Currently, we see that it's more volume than price, but price is a very small part of that growth level, and that's also embedded in our growth numbers going forward.

Speaker #3: Currently, we see that it's more volume than price. But price is a very small part of that growth level. And that's also embedded in our growth numbers going forward.

Speaker #6: Okay. Thank you. That's all.

Speaker #3: Thank you.

Speaker #2: Thank you very much.

Speaker #1: Thank you, Tibo. The next question comes from Osama Tariq from Abenomal Auto BHF. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

Thibault Leneeuw: Okay. Thank you. That's all.

Karin de Jong: Thank you.

Rafael Padilla: Thank you very much. Thank you, Thibault.

Operator: The next question comes from Uzma Tariq, from Oddo BHF. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

Speaker #7: Hi. Good morning, team. Thank you for the opportunity. And congratulations on the strong results. I have just two questions initially. The first being, would you clarify on the cash outflow expected, especially with regards to M&A in 2026?

Usama Tariq: Hi, good morning, team. Thank you for the opportunity and congratulations on the strong results. I have just two questions initially. The first being, would you clarify on the cash outflow expected, especially with regards to M&A in 2026? So you've already indicated the CapEx, does that include it? But that's, I think that is only with regards to the expansion CapEx. So any pointer on the amount of cash you expect with regards to M&A next year? And secondly, do you see any impact with regards to the Trump healthcare plan? I do understand that the Fagron is outside the insurance policy-based mechanism, so 80 to 90 percent cash settled. Do you still see some positive or negative impact in the short to medium term because of policy changes?

Speaker #7: So, you've already indicated the capex. Does that include it? But I think that is only with regards to the expansion capex. So, any pointer on the amount of cash you expect with regards to M&A next year?

Speaker #7: And secondly, do you see any impact with regards to the Trump healthcare plan? I do understand that Fagron is outside the insurance policy-based mechanism.

Speaker #7: So 80, 90 percent cash settled. Do you still see some positive or negative impact in the short to medium term because of policy changes?

Speaker #7: Thank you.

Speaker #3: Yeah. Good morning, Osama. Starting with your first question, indeed, the answer that I gave on the previous. Break it down with regards to the acquisition.

Usama Tariq: Thank you.

Karin de Jong: Yeah, good morning, Uzma. Starting with your first question, indeed, the answer that I gave, gave on the previous break it down, with regards to the acquisition. At the end of 2025, there's EUR 14 million at the balance sheet to be paid. As you know, we announced a number of deals in 2026, which also resulted in a cash out. The cash out in 2026 is around EUR 80 million for those three acquisitions. There are three additional acquisitions pending closing. That's for Fagron, Ambar, and Injeplast, and that's roughly around EUR 17 million. If we combine those amounts, then it's the EUR 150 million and the EUR 14 million that was still open, so that's EUR 164 million that has to be paid.

Speaker #3: So at the end of 2025, there's 14 million at the balance sheet to be paid. And so on top of that, as you know, we announced a number of deals in 2026, which also resulted in a cash out.

Speaker #3: And the cash out in 2026 is around 80 million for those three acquisitions. So there are three additional acquisitions pending closing. That's for Parking Umbra and Engine Plus.

Speaker #3: And that's roughly around 70 million. So if we combine those amounts, then it's the 150 and the 14 that were still open. So that's 164 that has to be paid.

Speaker #3: And if we analyze the EBITDA, the acquisitions, and look at pro forma net debt to EBITDA including those, we would still be between the 2 to 2.5 times net debt to EBITDA.

Karin de Jong: And if we analyze the EBITDA, the acquisitions, and look at pro forma net debt EBITDA, including those, we would still be between 2 to 2.5 times net debt EBITDA. So within our, our sweet spot and below our internal max of 2.8 times. So we have sufficient room there, but also on the liquidity side, as you know, we have a new facility at the end of 2025, the US notes for $125 million. So on the liquidity side, we're also good to continue our M&A strategy.

Speaker #3: So within our sweet spot and below our internal max of 2.8 times. So we have sufficient room there. But also on the liquidity side, as you know, we have a new facility at the end of 2025, the US nodes for 125 million US dollars.

Speaker #3: So on the liquidity side, we're also good to continue our M&A strategy.

Speaker #2: And for the second one, and good morning, Osama. You are totally right. So there is no action on the policy because our business is out of pocket.

Ignacio Artola: For the second one, and good morning, Uzma. You are totally right. So there is no action on the policy because our business is out of pocket, so totally right, Uzma.

Constantin Artola: For the second one, and good morning, Uzma. You are totally right. So there is no action on the policy because our business is out of pocket, so totally right, Uzma.

Speaker #2: So totally right. Spot on.

Speaker #7: Okay. Thank you. Thank you for the opportunity. That will be all.

Speaker #3: Thank you.

Speaker #2: Thank you, Osama.

Usama Tariq: Okay. Thank you. Thank you for the opportunity. That would be all.

Karin de Jong: Thank you.

Ignacio Artola: Thank you, Uzma.

Constantin Artola: Thank you, Uzma.

Speaker #1: The next question comes from Frank Klasser from Degroof Petercam, your line is open. Please go ahead.

Operator: The next question comes from Frank Claassen from the Degroof Petercam. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

Speaker #2: Hello, Frank. Can you hear us? Okay. Let's move on.

Ignacio Artola: Hello, Frank, can you hear us? Okay, let's, let's move on.

Constantin Artola: Hello, Frank, can you hear us? Okay, let's, let's move on.

Speaker #3: Yeah. There you are.

Usama Tariq: Yeah, ca-

Karin de Jong: Yeah, there you are.

Speaker #2: Okay. We'll try to add Frank. Let's continue with the Q&A.

Ignacio Artola: Okay, we'll try, we'll try to add Frank. Let's continue with the Q&A.

Constantin Artola: Okay, we'll try, we'll try to add Frank. Let's continue with the Q&A.

Speaker #1: The next question comes from Eric Wilmer from Kempen Research. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

Operator: The next question comes from Erik Wilmer, from Kempen & Co. Your line is open. Please go ahead.

Speaker #8: Hi. Good morning, everyone. Thanks for taking my question. I wanted to press a bit on the profitability guide, which indeed screens abide a bit confident, perhaps.

Eric Wilmer: Hi, good morning, everyone. Thanks for taking my question. I wanted to press a bit on the profitability guide, which indeed screams to be a bit confident, perhaps. I believe your largest two acquisitions last year, which should add 5% of sales at a margin profile below the group, which you will now need to implement. I hear what you say with regards to the H1 profitability commentary this year. But at the same time, I always had the impression that your Dutch compounding business is margin accretive, which I believe saw a bit of a tougher Q4. So are you actually anticipating a change regarding the latter, and do you also see further room with regards to further operational efficiencies?

Speaker #8: I believe your largest two acquisitions last year, which should add 5% to sales, had a margin profile below the group, which you will now need to implement.

Speaker #8: And I hear what you say with regards to the H1 profitability commentary this year. But at the same time, I always had the impression that your Dutch compounding business is margin accretive.

Speaker #8: Which, I believe, saw a bit of a tougher Q4. So, are you actually anticipating a change regarding the letter? And do you also see further room with regards to further operational efficiencies?

Speaker #8: Maybe some color on the letter as well to help understand the qualitative margin bridge from '25 to '26. Thank you.

Eric Wilmer: Maybe, maybe some color on the latter as well to help understand the qualitative margin bridge from 2025 to 2026. Thank you.

Speaker #3: Yeah. Good morning, Eric. Maybe indeed to start, so the acquisitions overall have a modest dilutive impact. We added the Brazilian Verpakking because we have CADA approval.

Karin de Jong: Yeah. Good morning, Erik. Maybe, indeed, to start, so the acquisitions overall have a modest dilutive impact. We added the Brazilian Depakum because we have CADE approval, so competition clearance for that acquisition. So that's added. That acquisition is above group average EBITDA levels. So that compensates partly for the dilutive impact for Purifarma. And then overall, the acquisitions, some are below, others are above. So in general, if you sum it all up, it's below group average. However, we do anticipate synergies coming in at, as of H2 on the back of the plans that we're having. So that's one on the acquisitions. If we look organically, we do expect to see benefits from the strategy that we initiated on operational excellence initiatives.

Speaker #3: So, competition clearance for that acquisition—so that's added. That acquisition is above group average EBITDA levels, so that compensates partly for the dilutive impact of Puri Pharma.

Speaker #3: And then overall, the acquisitions some are below, others are above. So in general, if you sum it all up, it's below group average. However, we do anticipate synergies coming in as of H2 on the back of what the plans that we having.

Speaker #3: So that's one on the acquisitions. If we look organically, we do expect to see benefits from the strategy that we initiated on operational excellence initiative.

Speaker #3: So we also already see that translated into procurement savings. So better gross margins. We see operational leverage coming through, especially in the US. Where we continue our growth path.

Karin de Jong: So we also already see that translated into procurement savings, so better gross margins. We see operational leverage, coming through, especially in the US, where we continue our growth path. So on the back of that, we also expect the business excluding acquisitions to make good progress in 2026.

Speaker #3: So on the back of that, we also expect the business excluding acquisitions to make good progress in 2026.

Speaker #8: That's helpful. Thanks, Karen.

Speaker #3: Thanks, Eric.

Speaker #2: Thanks, Eric.

Operator: That's helpful. Thanks, Karin.

Karin de Jong: Thanks, Eric.

Ignacio Artola: Thanks, Eric.

Constantin Artola: Thanks, Eric.

Speaker #1: As a reminder, if you'd like to ask a question, please dial pound key 5 on your telephone keypad. If you'd like to withdraw your question, please dial pound key 6 on your telephone keypad.

Operator: As a reminder, if you'd like to ask a question, please dial pound key five on your telephone keypad. If you'd like to withdraw your question, please dial pound key six on your telephone keypad.

Speaker #2: Well, it's end the session. Thank you very much for your participation today. I will remain at your disposal should you have any further questions.

Ignacio Artola: Well, let's end the session. Thank you very much for your participation today. I will remain at your disposal should you have any further questions. Thank you very much, and goodbye.

Constantin Artola: Well, let's end the session. Thank you very much for your participation today. I will remain at your disposal should you have any further questions. Thank you very much, and goodbye.

Speaker #2: Thank you very much. And goodbye.

Speaker #8: Thank you.

Speaker #3: Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

Karin de Jong: Thank you.

Ignacio Artola: Bye-bye.

Constantin Artola: Bye-bye.

Q4 2025 Fagron NV Earnings Call

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