The economic activities of the Melitta Group mainly focus on countries in the EU, Brazil, the USA/Canada, and Asia. In its February 2023 outlook, the International Monetary Fund forecast lower economic growth of just 0.7% for the eurozone, 1.4% for the USA, and 1.2% for Brazil in 2023. Total volume growth of 1-2% is expected for the global coffee market.

Due in part to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, we anticipate persistent economic challenges that will continue to impact our business development in 2023. These include in particular the price developments of our procurement markets, depressed consumer sentiment amid high inflation, and supply chains that are still not running smoothly. We are addressing these challenges with careful management of our contribution margins, a heightened awareness of cost efficiency, and a risk-conscious approach to capital expenditures.

At the same time, however, we will continue to pursue our strategy of internationalization, innovation, sustainability, and digitalization in order to make greater use of the many opportunities we see for the further development of our Group.

Based on these assumptions, we expect a slight increase in sales and EBIT, and a slightly higher return on net capital employed for the full year 2023. Net financial debt is expected to be in the range of € 250-275 million with a generally solid balance sheet structure and stable financial position once again. In view of its expected free cash flow in 2023 and available credit lines, the Group’s financing of capital expenditures, business activities, and working capital is secured.

Minden, April 20, 2023