HARTMANN issues earnings warning for 2022

06.12.2021
  • Following an extraordinary economic situation, pandemic effects burden the Group
  • Transformation Program delivers positive earnings contributions
  • Future investments remain secured

Heidenheim, December 6, 2021. The HARTMANN GROUP expects a moderate organic decline in sales for financial year 2022 with an adjusted EBITDA in the range of EUR 180 to 220 million, which corresponds to a decline of approximately EUR 35 million as compared to 2021. The extraordinary boom in personal protective equipment and disinfectants has subsided. In the end, the pandemic has caused the market to shrink due to a decreased utilisation of capacities in hospitals and nursing homes, combined with significant increases in raw material prices and transportation costs.

Measures launched as part of the Transformation Program in 2019 have made strong contributions to earnings, which have largely, but not completely, offset the aforementioned negative effects of the pandemic. The program will therefore continue to be implemented as planned. The Transformation Program aims to boost the competitiveness of the core businesses by increasing the innovation rate and improving the costs position, thereby strengthening the Company in the medium and long-term.

Cost reductions remain a clear focus, but HARTMANN is nevertheless adhering to its extensive investment plans to strengthen the Company. As in 2020 and 2021, investments of 150 million euros are planned for the coming year, which is over twice the amount invested in previous years. This will primarily be used to modernize production facilities and their infrastructure, for example at the Kneipp and KOB subsidiaries in Germany, as well as for core business areas in Germany (Herbrechtingen), France and Poland. Furthermore, HARTMANN is introducing a growing number of innovative products, including: silicone wound dressings that offer clear advantages for nursing staff and patients; products for wound diagnosis based on artificial intelligence; new designs in incontinence products; and highly effective products for disinfection. With these, HARTMANN is increasing its share of innovative products.

About the HARTMANN GROUP

The HARTMANN GROUP is one of the leading European providers of professional medical and care products and associated services. Every day, healthcare professionals and patients rely on HARTMANN brands in the segments of Incontinence Management (e.g. MoliCare®), Wound Care (e.g. Zetuvit®, Cosmopor®) and Infection Management (e. g. Sterillium®). This is expressed in our brand promise of “Helps. Cares. Protects.” HARTMANN generated sales of EUR 2.3 billion in the 2023 financial year. Founded in 1818, the Company sells its products and solutions in 130 countries around the world. For the future, the HARTMANN GROUP is currently implementing its strategic Transformation Program with its high-performance, customer-oriented and passionate team.

To learn more about the HARTMANN GROUP, visit www.corporate.hartmann.info.