Kesko's Profit Improved, Driven by Technical Trade
Kesko reported increased net sales and an improved comparable operating profit for the April-June period, with technical trade identified as a key driver. The company released its half-year financial report for January–June 2026.
Finnish retail group Kesko saw a significant improvement in its profit for the first half of 2026 compared to the previous year. The company attributed the positive performance primarily to its technical trade segment.
In the second quarter, April–June, Group net sales reached €3,379.1 million, a 6.0% increase year-on-year. Comparable net sales grew by 4.2%. Comparable operating profit rose to €194.0 million, an increase of €17.3 million from the same period last year.
For the first six months of 2026, from January to June, Kesko's net sales also increased. The company reported comparable earnings per share of €0.32, up from €0.29 in the prior year. Cash flow from operating activities was €362.1 million, showing growth.
The technical trade sector was highlighted as the main contributor to the profit increase. The report did not provide specific forward-looking statements or detailed breakdowns of individual business area performance.