"Operational Momentum" Buoys Schindler Despite Challenges

In the first quarter (1Q), Schindler “maintained strong operational momentum, driving margin expansion with operating cash flow at a high level,” CEO Paolo Compagna said in an April 23 press release on the Swiss lift maker’s 1Q 2026 earnings. Schindler’s Earnings Before Interest and Taxes margin — the profitability ratio indicating how well a company manages core business costs — increased 13% to CHF337 million (US$430.1 million), driven primarily by operational efficiencies, pricing adjustments and changes in the product mix. Compagna said the company is encouraged by the traction new products are gaining, noting that Schindler received an ESG Award at the recent MIPIM 2026 international real estate tradeshow in France for an elevator made from low carbon emissions steel. With the company facing foreign exchange and China headwinds, order intake, backlog and revenue declined slightly by 4.1%, 3.5% and 5.1%, respectively. Net profit margin, meanwhile, increased by 10.1% to CHF262 million (US$334.4 million) versus the previous year. New installation growth held stable, modernization grew strongly and service continued its steady growth. “Despite a volatile macro environment, we remain committed to our strategic agenda of accelerating profitable growth,” Compagna said.