#Italy #revenue growth #EBITDA #illycaffè #Trieste

Illycaffè’s Record-Breaking Performance in H1 2026

In an impressive showcase of resilience and strategic execution, illycaffè announced its financial results for the first half of 2026, reporting consolidated revenues of €373 million. This marks a notable increase of 19% at constant exchange rates compared to the same period in the previous year. The company's success can be attributed to significant volume growth across major markets, particularly in Italy and the United States.

Despite dealing with ongoing inflationary pressures, particularly due to the rising prices of raw materials—green coffee costs surged by approximately 20%—illycaffè managed to achieve an EBITDA of €53 million, reflecting a 10% year-on-year increase. This growth was primarily driven by organic factors, showcasing the company's ability to adapt and thrive even in challenging economic conditions.

Cristina Scocchia, the Chief Executive Officer of illycaffè, expressed pride in the results: "We closed an extraordinary first half, with revenues and EBITDA both increasing by double digits. This result reflects the quality of our strategic decisions and the value of our people, demonstrating the Group's ability to grow even in a particularly challenging market environment.” In addition to these robust financial results, illycaffè is embarking on a significant expansion initiative, having partnered with Westrock Beverage Company LLC in the United States. This strategic agreement aims to develop and package products tailored for the North American market.

Simultaneously, illycaffè has been scaling up operations at its primary production facility in Trieste, which recently saw the launch of a new roasting plant. This facility is pivotal in doubling the production capacity, readying the company to meet future demand and growth expectations.

The growth trajectory is promising, as all major markets showed double-digit growth rates. In Italy, the premium segment witnessed a 19% increase in revenues, while the U.S. market, now the second largest for illy, matched this performance with a 19% growth rate at constant exchange rates. Europe, showcasing stronger performance, saw revenues ascend by 21%.

Reflection on the success across all distribution channels reveals that both physical and online channels have recorded impressive growth. The Ho.Re.Ca. sector and Modern Trade benefitted from increased distribution and market penetration, while online sales flourished, buoyed by strategic partnerships with leading e-commerce platforms and strong consumer loyalty fostered through subscription services.

Since its establishment in 1933, illycaffè has sought to produce the finest coffee globally, offering a single 100% Arabica blend made from nine different coffee varieties. The company’s products are enjoyed daily by millions—a testament to its enduring commitment to quality. Operating in more than 140 countries, illycaffè’s ethos has been steeped in sustainability, a vision fortified by achieving B Corp certification and adopting the status of Benefit Corporation in recent years.

The company emphasizes the fusion of coffee and art, epitomized by the illy Art Collection created by over 135 international artists. To support its mission of cultivating a culture of quality coffee, illycaffè established the University of Coffee, which offers specialized courses in 24 countries across the globe. In 2025, the firm reported consolidated revenues of €700 million, underlining its robust market presence and growth potential.

In closing, illycaffè’s performance in the first half of 2026 is a resounding validation of its strategic direction and market position, setting a solid foundation for future expansion and success.