Glaston Corporation reported a challenging start to 2026, as reflected in its interim report for January–March. Market conditions remained soft, impacted by geopolitical uncertainty and cautious customer investment activity, but the company managed to improve relative profitability through disciplined cost control.
During the first quarter, orders received declined to EUR 40.5 million from EUR 47.1 million a year earlier, while net sales fell 21% to EUR 40.9 million. Despite lower volumes, comparable EBITA reached EUR 2.7 million, representing 6.5% of net sales—an improvement from 6.0% in the same period last year. EBIT stood at EUR 1.4 million, up from EUR 1.0 million.
According to CEO Miika Äppelqvist, the quarter was further affected by increased global uncertainty and the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East in March. However, the company’s Services segment remained resilient, with steady demand in EMEA and the Americas and an 8% increase in order intake. Services accounted for 48% of total net sales, underlining its strategic importance.
While equipment demand remained subdued, Glaston secured notable orders, including ULTRA TPS® insulating glass lines and a new automatic loading system designed to improve customer efficiency. Meanwhile, a cost-saving program was accelerated, targeting reductions in personnel, supply chain, and fixed costs, with expected annual savings of approximately EUR 6 million.
Source: Glaston with additional information added by Glass Balkan