IDEAL Holdings is off to a strong start in 2026, with its portfolio of investments showing improved financial and operational performance for the first quarter of the year.
According to the relevant announcement, the steady upward trend in figures reflects the effectiveness of IDEAL Holdings’ investment strategy.
By combining strategic investments and the organic strengthening of its portfolio companies, the optimal utilization of available capital, and an attractive dividend policy for its shareholders, IDEAL Holdings reaffirms its growth momentum as well as its ability to consistently generate high economic value.
Key Financial Figures for the First Quarter of 2026
- Financial figures across all IDEAL Holdings companies showed an increase.
- Comparable EBITDA amounted to €11.8 million, up 7% compared to the first quarter of 2025.
- EBITDA under IFRS amounted to €15.8 million, up 36% compared to the same period last year.
- Comparable Earnings Before Taxes amounted to €7.2 million, up 15% compared to the first quarter of 2025.
- A capital return of €0.15 per share was paid during the first quarter, and the Board of Directors of IDEAL Holdings recommended an additional return of €0.70 per share.
Commenting on the results, Mr. Lambros Papakonstantinou, Chairman of the Board of Directors of IDEAL Holdings, emphasized: “The steady upward trend in our figures at the start of the year validates our investment strategy, reflects the momentum of our investments, and lays the groundwork for another strong year. At the same time, the potential listing of ATTIKA Department Stores shares on Euronext Athens, as a natural extension of our strategy, opens a new chapter for this dynamic and profitable company.
At IDEAL Holdings, we are proving in practice that we can translate our strategy into tangible financial results, while ensuring the continued reward of our shareholders.”
Strategic momentum with an upward trajectory for attica Department Stores
As part of a multidimensional growth strategy, attica Department Stores continued its upward trajectory, posting positive performance in key metrics and commercial activity indicators.
Specifically, and compared to the first quarter of 2025:
- Revenue increased by 8% to €53.0 million.
- Comparable EBITDA increased by 2% to €3.6 million.
- Comparable Earnings Before Taxes (EBT) rose by 7% to €2.0 million.
- Net cash and cash equivalents amounted to €12.3 million (March 31, 2026), taking into account debit and credit card receivables of €9.2 million.
During the first quarter of 2026, despite the challenges, physical stores welcomed 1.6 million visitors. At the same time, the online store (attica eshop), with continuous growth and expansion of its product range, recorded a 40% increase in revenue.
High backlog at the Byte IT group
The Byte Group of companies, IDEAL Holdings’ investment platform in the IT sector, recorded double-digit growth in comparable results and profitability compared to the corresponding quarter last year.
Specifically:
- Revenue increased by 13% to €27.2 million.
- Comparable EBITDA amounted to €4.7 million, up 17%.
- Comparable Earnings Before Taxes (EBT) rose by 24% to €4.3 million.
- The project backlog stood at €90 million (as of March 31, 2026), ensuring high margins on future cash flows.
- Net cash and cash equivalents amounted to €15.3 million.
Double-digit increase in profitability and market share growth for BARBA STATHIS
BARBA STATHIS and its subsidiary HALVATZIS MAKEDONIKI continued to deliver strong operating performance, confirming their momentum and prospects for further growth. Specifically:
- Revenue stood at €36.0 million, marking a 12% increase compared to the first quarter of 2025.
- Comparable EBITDA stood at €3.6 million, marking a 13% increase.
- Comparable Earnings Before Taxes (EBT) rose by 51% to €2.5 million.
- Net debt amounted to €32.9 million (March 31, 2026).