El Corte Inglés: A Historic Year Driven by Fashion and Operational Excellence
Spanish retail giant El Corte Inglés has reaffirmed its robust financial health. At the close of its fiscal year on February 28, 2026, the group reported positive financial results, driven by a strategy of moving upmarket and rigorous management of its portfolio. With net income reaching 628 million euros—a spectacular 22.8% increase—the Madrid-based company demonstrates its ability to transform its growth trajectory into lasting success.
Total business volume surpassed the 17.3 billion euro mark, supported by net revenue of 14.9 billion euros. While overall growth stabilized at 1.1%, it is on a like-for-like basis that the group reveals its strength with a 2% increase. This momentum generated an EBITDA of 1.3 billion euros (+4.7%), despite a start to the year marked by unpredictable weather conditions that weighed on seasonal consumption.
Fashion and Beauty at the Heart of the Strategy
In the world of luxury and lifestyle, the “Fashion and Beauty” segment has emerged as the group’s true growth engine. This division, which also encompasses fine watchmaking, jewelry, and cosmetics, saw its sales jump 3.1% to reach 5.8 billion euros. This performance underscores the renewed appeal of department stores for a discerning clientele seeking exclusivity.
The “Food and Dining” division is not to be outdone, with €3 billion in revenue, driven in particular by the success of its iconic “Club del Gourmet,” which has become a must-visit destination for fine foods. At the same time, the travel business, through Viajes El Corte Inglés, posted a robust recovery with revenue of 3.5 billion euros, fueled by the vitality of the vacation sector and the strong comeback of corporate travel.
Restored Financial Strength and Record Investments
One of the highlights of this fiscal year lies in the group’s balance sheet structure. El Corte Inglés achieved the feat of reducing its net financial debt to 1.7 billion euros, its lowest level in nearly two decades. With a debt-to-EBITDA ratio of 1.3 times, the group now enjoys a level of financial agility rarely seen in the European retail sector. This financial strength has also enabled the group to increase the value of its assets by 311 million euros through a sustained investment policy.
Far from resting on her laurels, Chairwoman Cristina Álvarez has already announced an acceleration of growth for the 2026–2027 fiscal year. The investment budget will be increased to 650 million euros, representing a rise of nearly 15%. “These results validate the strength of our model and allow us to approach the coming years with the ambition of making the customer experience ever more unique,” she emphasized.
Digital Acceleration and Diversification
The digital transformation is also bearing fruit: web platforms and mobile apps have surpassed one billion annual visits, with more than 16 million registered customers. This omnichannel presence is accompanied by robust performance in financial services and insurance, with net profits of 56 and 71 million euros, respectively. Through the optimization of its retail spaces (a 14.4% increase in revenue) and excellence in service, El Corte Inglés is shaping the future of accessible luxury and a global lifestyle that is resolutely forward-looking.