Germany: Online food delivery company Delivery Hero raised its 2026 financial forecasts on Thursday, citing stronger demand, accelerating growth and better-than-expected profitability during the first half of the year.
The German company now expects its gross merchandise value (GMV), the total value of goods sold through its marketplace, to increase by 9% to 11% in 2026, up from its previous forecast of 8% to 10%.
The upgraded outlook comes after Delivery Hero reported stronger-than-expected first-half earnings. Its adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) rose 3.9% to €427 million, exceeding the €396 million average estimate from analysts polled by the company.
Why did Delivery Hero raise its 2026 forecast?
Delivery Hero said accelerating GMV growth and improved profitability had strengthened its confidence in achieving higher full-year results.
Analysts had expected annual GMV growth of about 9.1%, equivalent to approximately €51.63 billion ($60.17 billion).
The company also reported a significant improvement in cash generation during the first half of the year, alongside stronger operating performance.
Finance Chief Marie-Anne Popp said the company had delivered a strong first half, with accelerating GMV growth, adjusted EBITDA above expectations and increased cash generation.
How has Delivery Hero performed amid takeover interest?
The stronger-than-expected results indicate that Delivery Hero had gained operational momentum before Uber’s latest takeover approach in July.
The improved financial outlook covers the company’s key full-year metrics and reflects management’s increased confidence following the first-half performance.
Delivery Hero’s upgraded guidance comes as competition and consolidation continue to shape the global food-delivery sector, with major technology and delivery companies seeking stronger positions in key markets.