AkzoNobel delivered a resilient third-quarter performance for 2026, recording its sixth consecutive quarter of margin expansion despite ongoing economic and market challenges. The results reflect the company's continued focus on pricing discipline, operational efficiency and strategic portfolio optimisation.
For the quarter, AkzoNobel achieved organic sales growth of 2%, while revenue remained stable at €2.54 billion. Adjusted EBITDA increased to €388 million, resulting in an EBITDA margin of 15.3%, underlining the effectiveness of the company's profitability initiatives.
According to CEO Greg Poux-Guillaume, the business continues to benefit from a combination of targeted pricing actions and cost-saving measures that are helping offset a difficult trading environment.
“We continue to successfully execute our pricing and efficiency programmes, allowing us to strengthen profitability while navigating challenging market conditions,” he said.
A significant development during the quarter was the agreement to sell AkzoNobel’s Decorative Paints business in South East Asia for $1.35 billion. The transaction, valued at 21 times FY25 EBITDA, represents a major milestone in the company’s strategy to streamline its portfolio and focus on higher-value growth opportunities.
The disposal completes the strategic review of AkzoNobel’s Asian paints operations and follows the earlier divestment of its liquid coatings businesses in India. Together, these moves form part of the company’s broader effort to sharpen its operational focus and strengthen long-term shareholder value.
Looking ahead, AkzoNobel remains confident in its outlook for the remainder of 2026. The company expects full-year adjusted EBITDA of approximately €1.47 billion, equivalent to around R27.2 billion at current exchange rates, and continues to target an EBITDA margin above 16% over the medium term.
Another key strategic priority remains the planned merger with Axalta. AkzoNobel confirmed that the transaction is progressing according to schedule, with regulatory approval processes advancing as expected. Completion of the merger remains targeted for early 2027.
The combination is expected to create a stronger global coatings business with enhanced scale, broader market reach and additional opportunities for operational synergies. Management believes the transaction will support future growth while reinforcing the company's competitive position across key international markets.
With profitability continuing to improve, strategic portfolio restructuring nearing completion and the Axalta merger progressing steadily, AkzoNobel enters the final quarter of the year focused on delivering sustainable growth and further strengthening its financial performance.
