DHL Group had a successful start to 2026 despite geopolitical disruptions and ongoing trade tensions.

  • DHL Group records organic revenue growth of 2.0 percent; reported revenue, at EUR 20.4 billion, comes in slightly below the prior-year level, primarily due to currency effects (Q1 2025: EUR 20.8 billion)
  • Operating profit increases to EUR 1.5 billion (Q1 2025: EUR 1.4 billion) 
  • Continued improvement in profitability: EBIT margin of 7.3 percent (Q1 2025: 6.6 percent)
  • Operating performance also reflected in free cash flow (excluding M&A) increase to EUR 1.2 billion (Q1 2025: EUR 732 million)
  • Guidance confirmed: EBIT of above EUR 6.2 billion and free cash flow (excluding M&A) of around EUR 3 billion expected for 2026
  • CEO Tobias Meyer: “Especially in times of geopolitical disruptions, the advantages of our strong global footprint and seasoned local leadership teams become clear. Despite blocked sea routes and closed airspace, we keep cargo moving and our customers’ supply chains running.”

DHL Group had a successful start to 2026 despite geopolitical disruptions and ongoing trade tensions. On an organic basis, Group revenue increased by 2.0 percent in the first quarter. Primarily by currency effects, reported revenue declined by 1.9 percent year-over-year to EUR 20.4 billion. Active capacity management, structural cost improvements and yield measures resulted in a significant operating profit (EBIT) increase of 8.3 percent to EUR 1.5 billion. Earnings growth and improved efficiency are also reflected in the EBIT margin, which improved by 0.7 percentage points year-on-year to 7.3 percent.

Capital expenditure on acquired assets (Capex) totaled EUR 518 million, up 12.4 percent year-over-year. Most of the increase reflected investments in the Supply Chain and Post & Parcel Germany divisions.

Free cash flow (excluding M&A) rose 65.0 percent to EUR 1.2 billion. DHL Group reported Group net profit attributable to non controlling interests of EUR 812 million, an increase of 3.3 percent year-over-year. Basic earnings per share were EUR 0.73, up 6.6 percent from EUR 0.68 in the first quarter of 2025.

“After the first three months, we are well on track to achieve our full year targets. Our successful start to the year highlights the resilience of our business model and the impact of our efficiency measures. Especially in times of geopolitical disruptions, the advantages of our strong global footprint and seasoned local leadership teams become clear. Despite blocked sea routes and closed airspace, we keep cargo moving and our customers’ supply chains running.” – Tobias Meyer, CEO DHL Group

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