Bastei Lübbe AG Exceeds Earnings Forecast for 2023/2024

Bastei Lübbe AG has reported robust financial results for the 2023/2024 fiscal year. The company achieved a 10.3% increase in group revenues, reaching EUR 110.3 million, surpassing the previously adjusted forecast. Group EBIT nearly doubled to EUR 14.0 million, with the EBIT margin rising to 12.7% from 7.2% last year. A dividend of 30 cents per share has been proposed, up from 16 cents last year, indicating a confident outlook for sustained profitability.

Growth was driven by the Book segment, which saw revenues increase to EUR 102.9 million. This was largely due to the success of the LYX imprint and gains in the children’s book sector. The Novel Booklets segment also performed well, with revenues stable at EUR 7.4 million and EBIT increasing to EUR 1.0 million from EUR 0.2 million the previous year.

Bastei Lübbe attributes its profitability to stabilized costs and higher revenues. Material costs rose to EUR 55.9 million, corresponding to revenue growth. Personnel expenses grew to EUR 21.5 million, a marginal increase. Operating expenses increased slightly, while amortization and depreciation decreased.

The company forecasts continued growth for the 2024/2025 financial year, with projected revenues of EUR 111-115 million and an EBIT of EUR 13-14 million. The focus remains on community-driven business models and digital channels.