Birkenstock raises revenue forecast on strong demand, shares jump

The Middle East conflict's impact on the quarter was more contained than initially anticipated, Birkenstock said.

Sales in Asia-Pacific increased 18% on a reported basis during the quarter, while the Americas grew 11% and EMEA rose 15%.

Birkenstock now expects fiscal year 2026 revenue growth of 15% on a constant currency basis, compared with its earlier forecast of a 13% to 15% rise. It maintained its annual profit forecast of 1.90 euros to 2.05 euros per share.

Third-quarter revenue rose 13% to 719.5 million euros ($829.1 million), topping analysts' average estimate of 713.4 million euros, according to data compiled by LSEG. Adjusted earnings per share came in at 0.74 euro, below estimates of 0.76 euro.

($1 = 0.8678 euros)

Aug. 13 (Reuters) - Birkenstock BIRK.N raised its full-year sales growth forecast and beat quarterly revenue estimates on Thursday, banking on resilient full-price demand for its premium sandals from affluent shoppers, sending its shares up about 12% premarket.

Strong pricing power and brand loyalty have helped companies such as Birkenstock that cater to wealthier consumers remain largely insulated from a wider pullback in U.S. discretionary spending affecting much of the apparel and footwear sector.

Demand for the company's high-end sandals, clogs and closed-toe shoes has remained resilient for the quarter, while its expanding direct-to-consumer (DTC) business and retail footprint have helped drive growth across regions.

DTC sales, or sales made via its own stores and website, rose 14% and accounted for nearly 39% of quarterly revenue.

The strategy mirrors a broader push across the footwear industry to sell directly to shoppers, a channel that generally offers higher margins and less reliance on promotional activity.