Douglas planning a brilliant stock market comeback before Easter

A scent of optimism is wafting through the financial world: The venerable perfumery chain Douglas is eyeing a triumphant return to the trading floor. In circles of insiders, it is rumored that an official announcement of the Initial Public Offering (IPO) could be made as early as February. With this news, if everything goes smoothly, the company might offer its securities to adorn the market even before the spring holidays. Reports indicate that Douglas plans to raise fresh capital of approximately one billion euros. This ambitious project is favored by the company's dynamic past. After Douglas was taken private in 2013 by its main shareholders, financial investor Advent and the founding Kreke family, to reposition itself, the perfumery chain now shines in full splendor. The business performance speaks for itself: Market leadership combined with robust growth and strong profitability—attributes that make investors' eyes sparkle. However, the conditions for a successful IPO are not only of an internal nature. The general market condition must be right and is being closely monitored by decision-makers. Volker Bosse of Baader Bank aptly illustrates the situation. An economic-friendly constellation, free of geopolitical tensions and crises, is decisive for the success of the IPO. New unrest would significantly impact market sentiment—not desirable conditions for Douglas. Nonetheless, according to Bosse’s assessment, Douglas has a very good chance of capturing the hearts of the stock market on its second attempt. A return to core elements, the successful expansion of the online segment, and a smart portfolio composition today distinguish Douglas—even despite the generally subdued consumer sentiment. Entrepreneurial success was most recently reflected in extraordinary business figures: Revenue increase to a record-breaking four billion euros and net results in the black testify to a remarkable resilience. Douglas is setting high goals and aiming for five billion euros in revenue by 2026. As part of the expansion, new stores are planned, especially in Central Eastern Europe. This stands in stark contrast to the coronavirus crisis, which required hard decisions regarding the branch network. The planned return to the stock market marks a turning point for Douglas—after a tentative cancellation in 2015 and the recent turbulence. With renewed vigor and a distribution strategy that increasingly targets the internet, Douglas stands on the threshold of a new chapter.