Demand for Bucher Industries’ products and services was at a low level in the first quarter of 2026. After a previously strong pre-order season, Kuhn Group recorded a decline in order intake. Bucher Municipal and Bucher Hydraulics, on the other hand, performed positively. Group sales were lower than in the prior-year period.
Given the low order intake in the previous year, the significant decline in sales at Bucher Emhart Glass came as no surprise, whilst the solid order books at Kuhn Group and Bucher Hydraulics had a stabilising effect on sales for the ongoing year.
Political uncertainties have increased in recent months, but with its strategic approach of local production close to its customer base, Bucher Industries remains well positioned. The cost-saving measures already initiated were consistently continued at locations with low capacity utilisation.
The announced personnel changes in the positions of CEO and chairman of the board of directors went ahead as scheduled in mid-April. Following the end of the share buyback programme, the annual general meeting approved the proposal for a capital reduction.
Bucher Emhart Glass
Bucher Emhart Glass’ customers continued to be cautious with investments in the first quarter of 2026. Order intake was lower than in the prior-year period. The decline in demand is easing, and a bottom may be in sight. Orders for glass forming machines and sections as well as inspection machines remained at a low level. The service and spare parts business was stable. Sales fell significantly due to a lack of major projects and low order intake in previous periods. Production planning was adjusted to the lower order book.
On a comparable basis, Bucher Emhart Glass expects significantly lower sales compared with the prior year. The operating profit margin is expected to be significantly lower than in 2025.
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