KWS Reports Robust First Quarter Results, Affirms Annual Outlook

KWS SAAT AG has published its financial results for the first quarter of the 2024/2025 fiscal year, demonstrating strong sales growth and confirming its annual forecast. Sales surged by 18%, driven by early sales, notably in the Sugarbeet Segment. The company also reported a one-time gain of €110 million from divesting its South American corn and sorghum businesses.

Net debt saw a substantial reduction of €500 million compared to the previous year. Key earnings figures showed improvement despite the typical seasonality of the business leading to negative operating income. EBITDA improved to €-10.0 million, while net sales reached €248.6 million.

The company maintains its forecast for the fiscal year with expected net sales growth of 2% to 4% and an EBIT margin between 14% and 16%. The equity ratio rose to 55.1%, underpinning KWS's strengthened financial position as it continues to tackle market challenges in the seed industry.