Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Estée Lauder Reports Deeper Q4 Loss, Issues Tepid 2026 Outlook as China and Travel Retail Weigh

Weak Asia travel retail plus subdued China demand forced a cautious sales outlook.

Image
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • Fourth-quarter net sales fell 12% to $3.4 billion, with a net loss of $546 million and a diluted loss per share of $1.51.
  • Full-year fiscal 2025 net sales declined 8% to $14.3 billion, with an operating loss reported for the year.
  • For fiscal 2026, the company guides to flat to 3% sales growth and adjusted EPS of $1.90 to $2.10, and it forecasts about a $100 million tariff hit to profitability.
  • Skincare and makeup were the weakest categories in Q4, with skincare down 17% and makeup down 12%, while fragrance rose 2% on strength from Le Labo and Jo Malone London.
  • Management is executing a restructuring that will eliminate 5,800 to 7,000 roles and has begun a portfolio review, as shares fell roughly 5% to 6% on the results and outlook.