DHL Group achieved significant revenue and earnings growth in the second quarter of 2026. Compared with the prior-year quarter, which was affected by tariffs and other trade-policy conditions, Group revenue increased 13 percent to EUR 22.4 billion. Operating profit (EBIT) rose 30 percent to EUR 1.9 billion, while the EBIT margin improved by 1.1 percentage points to 8.3 percent. Reflecting the positive earnings momentum in the second quarter of 2026, the Group raised its guidance in July, together with the publication of its preliminary results, to an operating profit (EBIT) of more than EUR 6.5 billion for fiscal year 2026 (previously: more than EUR 6.2 billion).
Revenue growth was primarily driven by higher transported shipment weight at DHL Express, capacity constraints in the international air freight market, and the pass-through of higher fuel costs. Disciplined yield and capacity management, along with structural cost improvements achieved through the “Fit for Growth” program, supported earnings growth.
“The strong revenue and earnings performance in the second quarter demonstrates that the consistent execution of our strategic measures is paying off. Higher productivity and efficiency, combined with the strength of our global network, enable us to capitalize on growth opportunities and translate revenue growth into even stronger earnings growth. In an environment that continues to be shaped by geopolitical tensions and shifting trade flows, our customers benefit from our global presence, local expertise, and operational flexibility. This enables us to support them in adapting their supply chains to changing market conditions while ensuring reliable logistics, even in challenging environments," said Tobias Meyer, CEO, DHL Group
DHL Express benefited from increased demand development in the second quarter. The return to growth in transported shipment weight, combined with disciplined yield and capacity management, resulted in a significant increase in operating profit. The division also benefited from temporary capacity constraints in the air freight market, resulting in a positive earnings impact of around EUR 150 million.
DHL Global Forwarding benefited from growing air and ocean freight volumes as well as volatile freight rates in the second quarter of 2026.
DHL Supply Chain continued its growth trajectory in the second quarter of 2026.
Reported revenue development at DHL eCommerce in the second quarter of 2026 continued to be affected by the accounting impact of the merger with Evri and the resulting loss of the revenue contribution from the United Kingdom. Excluding consolidation and currency effects, the division recorded strong revenue growth in the second quarter, supported by the continued structural growth trend in e-commerce.
