DFDS raises 2026 EBIT outlook after strong start to the year

FinanceDFDS has upgraded its full-year 2026 earnings guidance following better-than-expected performance in the first quarter. The company now expects EBIT for 2026 to land between DKK 1,000 million and 1,400 million, up from the previous range of DKK 800–1,100 million. The raise reflects stronger progress on five of its six key operational “turning points”, with the Mediterranean ferry network delivering the largest positive contribution.

Supporting the improved outlook, DFDS reported continued good momentum in traffic volumes for March. Total freight volumes reached 3.919 million lane metres, a 4.2% increase on March 2025 (or 3.0% when adjusted for route changes). Growth was particularly notable on routes between the Continent and the UK, the Dover Strait, the Baltic Sea, and the Strait of Gibraltar. Passenger numbers also rose strongly, with 269,000 passengers carried in March – an 11.3% increase on an adjusted basis, driven mainly by higher Dover Strait traffic.

One temporary headwind emerged in March due to sharply higher oil prices and the spread between high- and low-sulphur fuel, which had a negative financial impact. However, DFDS expects this to reverse into a positive effect in the second quarter.

The upgraded outlook signals confidence in the group’s strategic initiatives. DFDS is scheduled to release its full Q1 2026 interim report on 5 May 2026.

apr 16 2026