Barmag integration is delivering measurable results for Rieter, as the Winterthur-based spinning technology group reported a 56% surge in order intake for the first half of 2026. The acquisition of Barmag — completed on February 2, 2026 — is the largest in Rieter's history. It positions the combined group as the world's leading system supplier for natural and man-made fiber processing. Stay current with the latest developments in our textile news section.
Barmag Integration Reshapes Rieter's Market Standing
The acquisition created Rieter's new Man-Made Fiber Division, enabling entry into the high-growth man-made fiber segment. Though the division contributed only five months of results in H1 2026, its impact on group performance was immediate. Rieter now leads globally as a system supplier covering both natural and man-made fiber technologies.
Initial cost savings in material costs and operating expenses have already been realized. Targeted synergies are expected to reach at least CHF 20 million by the end of the 2028 financial year. The integration remains on schedule as further structural measures roll out.
H1 2026 Financial Results
Order intake climbed to CHF 554.1 million in H1 2026, up from CHF 355.4 million in H1 2025 — a year-on-year increase of around 56%. Barmag's Man-Made Fiber Division alone contributed CHF 261.3 million to this growth. Sales reached CHF 576.7 million, a 72% increase versus the prior year (H1 2025: CHF 336.2 million).
The order backlog stood at approximately CHF 760 million as at June 30, 2026, up from CHF 510 million a year earlier. Operating EBIT came in at CHF -6.3 million, reflecting fixed costs against a still-recovering sales base. Rieter posted a net loss of CHF 54.9 million (H1 2025: CHF -20.0 million), attributable to low sales volume, higher interest costs, and purchase price allocation effects. Free cash flow was CHF -96.3 million (H1 2025: CHF -36.7 million), driven by the net loss and increased net working capital for H2 2026 deliveries.
Strategic Moves, Recovery Signals, and 2026 Outlook
In June 2026, Rieter entered a strategic partnership with Recycling Powerhouse to industrialize and scale textile recycling. Rieter contributes expertise in tearing textile waste and spinning short fibers. The collaboration targets scalable circular solutions as global textile waste volumes grow and demand for sustainable products rises.
Early market recovery signals are emerging in the India region and the Components & Technology Division. Demand for consumables, wear & tear parts, and spare parts rose by 3%, pointing to improving spinning mill utilization and potential future capital investment.
Rieter confirmed its full-year 2026 sales guidance in the range of CHF 1.3 to CHF 1.5 billion, with a positive operating EBIT margin of 0 to 3% expected. Management anticipates higher sales in H2 2026, supported by a strong order backlog. The Barmag integration strengthens Rieter's foundation for long-term growth across both natural and man-made fiber markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Rieter complete the Barmag acquisition?
Rieter completed the Barmag acquisition on February 2, 2026. Because of this mid-period close, Barmag's Man-Made Fiber Division contributed only five months of results to Rieter's H1 2026 figures.
What synergies does Rieter target from the Barmag integration?
Rieter targets at least CHF 20 million in synergies by the end of the 2028 financial year. Initial savings in material costs and operating expenses were already realized in the first half of 2026.
What is Rieter's sales guidance for full-year 2026?
Rieter expects full-year 2026 sales of CHF 1.3 to CHF 1.5 billion, with a positive operating EBIT margin in the range of 0 to 3%.
