BIC: sales down 0.5% in third quarter, lighters weigh on results, Tangle Teezer advances
The Clichy-based group published on October 28, 2026 revenue of €516 million for the third quarter, compared to €519 million a year earlier, representing a decline of 0.5% on a reported basis. Organic growth stood at -0.6%, after -3.3% over the same period in 2025.
Over nine months, the picture is different: organic sales grew by 1.0%, whereas they had declined by 5.4% a year earlier. The quarter mainly reveals a discrepancy between lighters, which declined, and the razors and brushes division, driven by Tangle Teezer.
€516 million in third quarter, +1.0% organic over nine months
In the third quarter, revenue was influenced by two offsetting effects. The scope effect reduced sales by 1.9%, while the currency effect added 2.0%, of which 0.7 percentage points was related to the US dollar. At constant exchange rates, sales declined by 2.5%.
Over the first nine months, revenue reached €1,556 million, compared to €1,595 million a year earlier, down 2.5% on a reported basis. This difference is explained by a scope effect of -2.6% and a currency effect of -0.9%, with organic growth remaining positive at +1.0%.
By geographic region, the Middle East and Africa grew by 8.8% organically in the third quarter, and Europe by 1.7%. North America declined by 2.0% and Latin America by 7.5%.
Lighters decline by 4.6%, razors and brushes advance by 3.9%
The Flame for Life division (lighters) saw its sales fall by 4.6% organically, to €170 million. All major regions are affected, particularly Europe and Latin America. In North America, the decline is slight, against a comparison base marked by anticipated distributor purchases ahead of the September 2025 price increase.
In Europe, the group cites a decline in France and Germany, linked to the discount retail channel, and in Brazil a competitive environment. Over nine months, the organic decline in the division stands at 0.4%.
Stationery (Human Expression) declined by 1.1% organically, to €183 million, penalized by a scope effect of -5.2% and a positive currency effect of +1.9%. In North America, the decline is notably due to the back-to-school shipment schedule in the United States, with part of the orders having been delivered in the second quarter. Europe as well as the Middle East and Africa showed growth.
Blade Excellence (razors and brushes) grew by 3.9% organically, to €155 million. Tangle Teezer posted organic growth of 29%, driven by North America and Europe. Razors recorded a slight increase, with Europe offsetting North America, where BIC indicates it has lost market share.
BIC confirms targeting adjusted EBIT margin slightly above 14.0%
The group confirmed its 2026 outlook. Under its current assumptions, it anticipates modest organic growth, an adjusted EBIT margin slightly above 14.0% and stable free cash flow year-over-year.
Rob Versloot, Chief Executive Officer, indicated that the contrasting dynamics of the quarter were anticipated at the start of the second half. He also recalled the presentation, during the quarter, of the strategic plan "BIC to the Future", the implementation of which now constitutes the group's priority. The 2026 full-year results are expected on February 24, 2027, a date that remains to be confirmed.
Following the first nine months, cumulative organic growth stands at +1.0%, for revenue of €1,556 million.
