BOBST’s Metallising Business Defies Softer Equipment Market

BOBST continues to attract investment in its metallising technology despite weaker demand across the wider equipment market. The investments span barrier papers, holographic films, optical security and polymer banknote substrates. In the first half of 2026, the Swiss machinery manufacturer recorded consolidated sales of CHF 589.9 million, down 11.6% from CHF 667.4 million in the same period of 2025.

The company attributed the decline primarily to lower equipment sales, while adverse currency movements also affected performance. Group EBIT fell to CHF -25 million from CHF 5.4 million the previous year.

The downturn was particularly evident in BOBST's Printing & Converting business, where sales declined by 21.2% from CHF 332.4 million to CHF 261.8 million.

Despite these challenging market conditions, demand for BOBST metallising systems has remained resilient.