Koenig & Bauer Reports Strong Q3 Performance, Confirms 2025 Outlook

Printing technology group Koenig & Bauer AG has confirmed its full-year 2025 outlook after a strong third quarter marked by significant earnings and cash flow improvements.

Operating EBIT rose by €37.6 million to €6.4 million after nine months, driven by the “Spotlight” efficiency program and strong Q3 performance of €16.0 million (previous year: €-0.1 million). Group revenue increased 5.0% to €860.9 million, while free cash flow turned positive at €21.8 million in the third quarter.

Order intake reached €856.8 million, down 13.3% year-on-year due to prior-year highs in Banknote Solutions, yet the order backlog remains at a historically high €1.04 billion.

CEO Dr. Stephen Kimmich said the results represent “a significant step towards operational turnaround” and confirm the company’s strategic direction despite a weakening global economy. The company expects to meet its EBIT target in the lower half of the €35–50 million guidance range.

The Paper & Packaging Sheetfed Systems segment reported a strong rebound with €7.4 million EBIT in Q3, while Special & New Technologies showed similar gains thanks to higher revenue and margin improvements.

Koenig & Bauer continues to expand in growth regions such as India and the Middle East & Africa, and is strengthening its technological leadership with product launches like “protected at print”, offering integrated product protection solutions, and AURAVEO, a digital tool that links printed packaging with interactive digital experiences.

CFO Dr. Alexander Blum highlighted improved profitability and working capital efficiency, noting that “the strong Q3 result reduced the concentration of expected year-end performance on Q4 and smoothed the earnings trend.”