Bastei Lübbe Reports Strong Q1 Revenue Growth, Confirms Full-Year Outlook

Bastei Lübbe AG, a leading German publishing group listed in the Prime Standard of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, has reported a robust start to its 2026/2027 financial year, with Group revenues rising to EUR 24.6 million in the first quarter (April-June 2026), up from EUR 23.0 million in the prior year. Despite persistent challenges in the German book market, the company achieved solid growth, particularly in its Book segment, which generated EUR 22.9 million in revenues (previous year: EUR 21.4 million). This performance was driven by successful releases under both new and established imprints, notably the new "Pfaueninsel" imprint, whose top release "Traume aus Feuer" by Florian Illies became a SPIEGEL bestseller and frequently reached the number one spot. The classic "Lübbe" imprint also contributed significantly with titles like Lucy Astner's "Kein Sommer ohne August" and Ken Follett's "The Armour of Light". The Novel Booklets segment saw a slight revenue increase to EUR 1.7 million. Group EBIT stood at EUR 1.1 million, with an EBIT margin of 4.4%. Despite higher costs for materials and personnel, the company confirmed its full-year forecast of revenues between EUR 118-122 million and EBIT of EUR 10-12 million. CEO Soheil Dastyari expressed confidence in the company's trajectory, emphasizing continued progress in profitability. The interim statement is available on the company's website at www.bastei-luebbe.de.

The first quarter results reflect the company's strategic focus on high-quality popular entertainment and its ability to adapt to market conditions. The share of revenues from community-driven business models decreased to 24% (from 31% in the prior year), while digital products accounted for 35% of revenues (down from 38%). This shift indicates a rebalancing towards traditional book formats, which performed well. The company's balance sheet remains stable, with total assets of EUR 107.2 million and equity attributable to shareholders increasing to EUR 66.4 million. Bastei Lübbe continues to be an innovation driver in the industry, owning over 14 imprints and pioneering digital media with thousands of audio and eBooks distributed through all digital channels. The positive start to the year and confirmed guidance underscore the company's resilience and strategic execution amidst a challenging market environment.