Half Year 2026 Compagnie Generale des Etablissements Michelin SCA Earnings Call

July 27, 2026

Operator 2: I will now hand over to Mr. Florent Menegaux, Chief Executive Officer, and Miss Bénédicte de Bonnechose, Group CFO. Please go ahead.

Operator: I will now hand over to Mr. Florent Menegaux, Chief Executive Officer, and Miss Bénédicte de Bonnechose, Group CFO. Please go ahead.

Speaker #1: And Ms. Bénédicte de Bonnechose, Group CFO. Please go ahead.

Speaker #2: Ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon and good evening. Thank you for joining us for Michelin's first half 2026 results presentation. For this presentation and Q&A session, I am pleased to be with Bénédicte de Bonnechose, our new CFO.

Florent Menegaux: Ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon and good evening. Thank you for joining us for our Michelin's H1 2026 results presentation. For this presentation and Q&A session, I am pleased to be with Bénédicte de Bonnechose, our new CFO. In a context still highly uncertain, shaped by mixed macroeconomic signals, geopolitical tensions, evolving trade dynamics, strong currency headwinds, I am pleased to report that Michelin delivered a solid H1 performance. This performance confirms the strength of our fundamentals, a powerful MICHELIN brand, the resilience of our business model, our tight operational steering, the quality of our business portfolio, and the relevance of our long-term strategy, Michelin in Motion 2030. I will start with some key messages for the H1 and our outlook for 2026. Bénédicte will take you through our markets, our financial performance, our cash generation, our outlook, and our guidance.

Speaker #2: In a context still highly uncertain, shaped by mixed macroeconomic signals, geopolitical tensions, evolving trade dynamics, and strong currency headwinds, I am pleased to report that Michelin delivered a solid first-half performance.

Speaker #2: This performance confirms the strength of our fundamentals: a powerful Michelin brand, the resilience of our business model, our tight operational steering, the quality of our business portfolio, and the relevance of our long-term strategy—Michelin in Motion 2030.

Speaker #2: I will start with some key messages for the first half and our outlook for 2026. Then Bénédicte will take you through our markets, our financial performance, our cash generation, our outlook, and our guidance.

Speaker #2: Let me start with our first-semester performance. What you see on the screen, and if you're aware, to summarize it, I would qualify it as solid.

Florent Menegaux: Let me start with our H1 performance. What you see on the screen, I need to summarize it, I would qualify it as solid. Solid in term of financial performance, as our slight revenue growth translated into a significant segment operating income progression of over EUR 100 million at constant ForEx and scope versus, of course, the H1 2025. Solid in tire activities as our MICHELIN brand posted material growth and gain share in most replacement markets. It reflects our customer's trust, the quality of our product, the strength of our distribution, and the relevance of our value proposition. Q2 marked a turning point. We are back to growing in tires. Solid in Polymer Composite Solutions. We are now integrating our three acquisitions announced in January. Cooley Group and Flexitallic closed in H1, and Tex Tech closed on 1 July.

Speaker #2: Solid in terms of financial performance, as our slight revenue growth translated into a significant segment operating income progression of over $100 million, at constant forex and scope, versus, of course, the first half of 2025.

Speaker #2: Solid entire tire activities, as our Michelin brand posted material growth and gained share in most replacement markets. It reflects our customers' trust, the quality of our products, the strength of our distribution, and the relevance of our value proposition.

Speaker #2: Q2 was marked as a market turning point. We are back to growing in tires. Performance is solid in polymer composite solutions. We are now integrating our three acquisitions announced in January: Coulais Group and Flexitallic closed in H1, and Textec closed on July 1st.

Speaker #2: These transactions are fully aligned with our strategy to build a broader, more diversified, and more resilient portfolio of high-value polymer composite activities. Altogether, they will increase Polymer Composite Solutions revenue by 35% on a full-year basis.

Florent Menegaux: These transactions are fully aligned with our strategy to build a broader, more diversified, and more resilient portfolio of high-value Polymer Composite Solutions activities. All together, they will increase Polymer Composite Solutions revenue by 35% on a full year basis. In summary, our H1 was marked by solid execution, disciplined steering, continued brand momentum, and strategic progress. Our world may be chaotic, our assets are well grounded and grounded and weatherproof. Storm after storm, crisis after crisis, our strategy proves to be effective as it increases the resilience of our group. In 2026, we are growing both in tires and in entire businesses. Operating in an uncertain and chaotic environment has become our new normal. We see uncertainty in demand, in global trade, in exchange rates, in cost of raw materials, in energy, and in geopolitical environment.

Speaker #2: In summary, our first half was marked by solid execution, disciplined steering, continued brand momentum, and strategic progress. While our world may be chaotic, our assets are well-grounded and weatherproof.

Speaker #2: Storm after storm, crisis after crisis, our strategy proves to be effective, as it increases the resilience of our group. In 2026, we are growing both in tires and in entire businesses.

Speaker #2: Operating in an uncertain and chaotic environment has become our new normal. We see uncertainty in demand, in global trade, in exchange rates, in the cost of raw materials, in energy, and in the geopolitical environment.

Speaker #2: In particular, the conflict in the Middle East has created additional risk around energy, logistics, raw materials, and demand. In this context, Michelin’s ability to deliver is supported by four unique and differentiating strengths.

Florent Menegaux: In particular, the conflict in the Middle East has created additional risk around energy, logistics, raw materials, and demand. In this context, Michelin's ability to deliver is supported by four unique and differentiating strengths. First, of course, our teams. Our results are made possible by the engagement, agility, and expertise of Michelin teams all around the world. Their ability to adapt, to serve customers, and to execute transformation project is a decisive competitive advantage. Second, innovation. Michelin's innovation is not limited to tires. We are developing new materials, new polymer technologies, digital twins, data-driven services, and solutions to help customers improve their operational performance. Innovation is at the heart of our competitiveness and remains a key driver of our 2030 ambition. Third, our MICHELIN brand, now worth over EUR 10 billion, is recognized and trusted all around the world.

Speaker #2: First, of course, our teams. Our results are made possible by the engagement, agility, and expertise of Michelin teams all around the world. Their ability to adapt, to serve customers, and to execute transformation projects is a decisive competitive advantage.

Speaker #2: Second, innovation. Michelin's innovation is not limited to tires. We are developing new materials, new polymer technologies, digital twins, and data-driven services and solutions to help customers improve their operational performance.

Speaker #2: Innovation is at the heart of our competitiveness and remains a key driver of our 2030 ambition. Third, our Michelin brand, now worth over $10 billion, is recognized and trusted all around the world.

Speaker #2: Our first-half growth in Michelin brand replacement sales shows that, even in uncertain conditions, customers continue to value performance, reliability, and trust. And lastly, fourth, products and services.

Florent Menegaux: Our H1 growth in MICHELIN brand replacement sales shows that even in uncertain conditions, customers continue to value performance, reliability, and trust. At last, fourth, product and services. Our innovation pipeline remains very strong. We continue to launch products that improve performance for customers with a focus on safety, longevity, energy efficiency, and sustainability. This strength enable us to keep moving towards our Michelin in Motion 2030 ambitions and to confirm our 2026 guidance. At Michelin, we assess our performance through a balanced lens: people, profit, and planet. Let me share with you some examples of our achievements in each of these pillars over the H1. People, as you can see on the screen, we progressed in recognition and attractiveness. Michelin has been ranked seventh European Most Innovative Company in Fortune's 2026 ranking.

Speaker #2: Our innovation pipeline remains very strong. We continue to launch products that improve performance for customers, with a focus on safety, longevity, energy efficiency, and sustainability.

Speaker #2: These strengths enable us to keep moving toward our Michelin in Motion 2030 ambitions and to confirm our 2026 guidance. At Michelin, we assess our performance through a balanced lens: people, profit, and planet.

Speaker #2: Let me share with you some examples of our achievements in each of these pillars over the first semester. People—as you can see on the screen—we progressed in recognition and attractiveness.

Speaker #2: Michelin has been ranked the seventh most innovative European company in the Fortune 2026 ranking. We also stood out in inclusion and fairness, as we obtained the universal fair paycheck certificate from the Fair Pay Innovation Lab, which recognizes gender-equitable compensation on a global scale.

Florent Menegaux: We also stood out in inclusion and fairness as we obtained the UNIVERSAL FAIR PAY CHECK certificate from the Fair Pay Innovation Lab, which recognizes gender equitable compensation on a global scale. Profit. On top of the segment operating income I mentioned earlier, our group delivered positive free cash flow of EUR +282 million, a strong improvement compared with H1 2025. Planet. We continued to reduce our environmental footprint. Water withdrawal decreased by 8% compared with H1 2025, and CO2 emissions on Scope 1 and 2 declined by 9%. These improvements reflect the many initiatives deployed across our sites and operations. In short, Michelin delivered a balanced H1 performance, financially resilient, socially responsible, and environmentally committed. I now hand over to Bénédicte for more details.

Speaker #2: Profit. On top of the segment operating income I mentioned earlier, our group delivered positive free cash flow of $282 million—a strong improvement compared with the first half of 2025.

Speaker #2: Planet. We continued to reduce our environmental footprint. Water withdrawal decreased by 8% compared with the first half of 2025, and CO2 emissions on Scope 1 and 2 declined by 9%.

Speaker #2: These improvements reflect the many initiatives deployed across our sites and operations. In short, Michelin delivered a balanced first-half performance: financially resilient, socially responsible, and environmentally committed.

Speaker #2: I will now hand over to Benedict for more details.

Speaker #3: Thank you, Florent. And good evening and good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. I will have the pleasure of guiding you through our H1 results, starting with the tire market's evolution during the first semester.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: Thank you, Florent, and good evening and good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. I will have the pleasure to guide you through our H1 results. Starting with the tire markets evolution during H1. Overall, OE markets remained weak while replacement was resilient, but the picture was very contrasted between regions. In passenger car, OE market was down 3%, dragged down by China, where domestic demand was less dynamic than in 2025 because incentives for new vehicle purchases have become less generous. Europe and North America remained stable overall, despite pressures from the broader economic environment, such as tariffs and the conflict in the Middle East. Replacement market grew by around 1%. On the one hand, it benefited from China with positive macroeconomics and the replacement effect of the many new vehicles delivered over recent years.

Speaker #3: Overall, OE markets remained weak while replacement was resilient, but the picture was very contrasted between regions. In passenger car, the OE market was down 3%, dragged down by China, where domestic demand was less dynamic than in 2025 because incentives for new vehicle purchases have become less generous.

Speaker #3: Europe and North America remained stable overall, despite pressures from the broader economic environment, such as tariffs and the conflict in the Middle East. The replacement market grew by around 1%.

Speaker #3: On the one hand, it benefited from China, with positive macroeconomics and the replacement effect of the many new vehicles delivered over recent years. On the other hand, the North American market declined, reflecting the progressive reduction of the surplus stock of Asian tires built up in 2025.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: On the other hand, the North American market declined, reflecting the progressive reduction of the surplus stock of Asian tires built up in 2025. Europe was slightly down as well, with up and downs due to swings of import flows. I am taking the opportunity here to remind you that in Europe, anti-dumping measures on passenger car tires produced in China came into force on 8 July, with rates averaging 24% to 45% on the high end. In trucks, OE market excluding China was down 2%. North American demand remained depressed in cumulative terms, but the month of June has turned positive, which is a long-expected turning point. After several months of favorable orders for new trucks, production is set to accelerate.

Speaker #3: Europe was slightly down as well, with ups and downs due to swings in import flows. I am taking the opportunity here to remind you that, in Europe, anti-dumping measures on passenger car tires produced in China came into force on July 8th, with rates averaging 24% to 45% on the high end.

Speaker #3: In trucks, the OE market excluding China was down 2%. North American demand remained depressed in cumulative terms, but the month of June has turned positive, which is a long-expected turning point.

Speaker #3: After several months of favorable orders for new trucks, production is set to accelerate. In Europe, demand maintained good momentum on a low comparison base, and in South America, the Brazilian market was penalized by a difficult economic situation limiting carriers' investment and by competition from truck imports from Asia.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: In Europe, demand maintained good momentum on a low comparison base, and in South America, the Brazilian market was penalized by a difficult economic situation, limiting carriers' investment, and by competition for truck imports from Asia. In replacement, the market grew by 2%. Europe posted an increase reflecting resilient freight demand and stronger imports. In South America, demand rose strongly, driven by the combined effect of high imports and mechanical compensation for the decline in the OE market. The North American market fell sharply by 13% due to lower imports, difficult weather condition early in the year, and a soft freight demand. In specialties, the situation is very contrasted. Mining markets remained well-oriented, thanks to solid structural demand. In aircraft, the year started very strongly until the crisis broke out in the Middle East, which limited demand in the commercial segment in Q2.

Speaker #3: In replacement, the market grew by 2%. Europe posted an increase, reflecting resilient freight demand and stronger imports. In South America, demand rose strongly, driven by the combined effect of high imports and mechanical compensation for the decline in the OE market.

Speaker #3: The North American market fell sharply by 13%, due to lower imports, difficult weather conditions early in the year, and soft freight demand. In specialties, the situation is very contrasted.

Speaker #3: Mining markets remained well-oriented, thanks to solid structural demand. In aircraft, the year started very strongly until the crisis broke out in the Middle East, which limited demand in the commercial segment in the second quarter.

Speaker #3: But overall, the semester was positive. Beyond Road showed a very mixed picture. In agriculture, replacement markets grew slightly, but OE remained depressed, especially in the high-power segment in North America.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: Overall, the semester was positive. Beyond Road showed a very mixed picture. In agriculture, replacement markets grew slightly, but OE remains depressed, especially in the high power segment in North America. Infrastructure was positive, both OE and replacement, in the continuation of 2025. Material handling was flat, with replacement compensating for the decline in OE. Finally, the demand in defense posted growth. Moving to group revenue now, we have reached EUR 12.7 billion in the H1. Reported revenue declined by 2.6% due to currency headwinds. At constant exchange rates, revenue was actually up by 0.5%, demonstrating the resilience of our business model in a still challenging market environment. Looking at the bridge, scope contributed positively by EUR +90 million, reflecting the acquisition of Cooley Group and Flexitallic, partly offset by the disposal of Compagline activities to SEAT completed last year.

Speaker #3: Infrastructure was positive in both OE and replacement in the continuation into 2025. Material handling was flat, with replacement compensating for the decline in OE. Finally, demand in defense posted growth.

Speaker #3: Moving to group revenue now, we have reached €12.7 billion in the first half. Reported revenue declined by 2.6% due to currency headwinds. At constant exchange rates, revenue was actually up by 0.5%, demonstrating the resilience of our business model in a still challenging market environment.

Speaker #3: Looking at the bridge, Scope contributed positively by €90 million, reflecting the acquisition of Coolay Group and Flexitelic, partly offset by the disposal of compact line activities to Seat completed last year.

Speaker #3: Volumes were down 0.9%, mainly reflecting lower original equipment demand and lower sales of tier-three brands. This was partly offset by the strong performance of the Michelin brand in replacement.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: Volumes were down 0.9%, mainly reflecting lower original equipment demand and lower sales of Tier 3 brands. This was partly offset by the strong performance of the MICHELIN brand in replacement. A word about the trend. Along the semester, we saw an improvement in sales momentum in Q2 versus Q1, with June posting significant growth. Price mix remained a strong contributor, adding EUR 150 million. Behind this figure, mix was particularly strong at +1.8%, driven by continued premiumization, a richer product mix with larger rim size, and a favorable channel mix with replacement outperforming OE. The negative pricing effect mainly reflects the impact of index contracts linked to low raw material costs in 2025 and our dynamic pricing approach. This overshadows price increase implemented in Q2 to offset cost inflators triggered by the Middle East conflict.

Speaker #3: A word about the trend. Along the semester, we saw an improvement in sales momentum in Q2 versus Q1, with June posting significant growth. Price mix remained a strong contributor, adding €150 million.

Speaker #3: Behind this figure, mix was particularly strong at plus 1.8%, driven by continued premiumization. A richer product mix with larger rim sizes, and a favorable channel mix with replacement outperforming OE.

Speaker #3: The negative pricing effect mainly reflects the impact of index contracts linked to low raw material costs in 2025 and our dynamic pricing approach. This overshadows price increases implemented in Q2 to offset cost inflators triggered by the Middle East conflict.

Speaker #3: Non-tire businesses had a modest negative impact of €21 million, due mainly to weak demand in conveyors, partly masking the good performance of other Polymer Composite Solution businesses on a comparable basis.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: Non-tire businesses had a modest negative impact of EUR 21 million, due mainly to weak demand in Conveyors, partly masking the good performance of other Polymer Composite Solutions businesses on a comparable basis. Finally, currencies had a very significant negative impact of more than EUR 400 million, largely driven by the depreciation of the US dollar against the euro. In summary, H1 revenue growth at constant exchange rates was supported by mix, MICHELIN brand strengths, and targeted acquisition, with sales gaining momentum over the semester. Zooming now on the detailed view of volume performance. This slide shows how the 0.9% decline results from two opposing trends. While replacement outperformed, driven by MICHELIN brand strength, original equipment remained challenging. In OE, the group continued to face weaker markets, especially in Truck North and South America.

Speaker #3: Finally, currencies had a very significant negative impact of more than €400 million, largely driven by the depreciation of the US dollar against the euro.

Speaker #3: In summary, H1 revenue growth at constant exchange rates was supported by mix, machine brand strength, and targeted acquisition, with sales gaining momentum over the semester.

Speaker #3: Zooming now on the detailed view of volume performance. This slide shows how the 0.9% decline results from two opposing trends. While replacement outperformed, driven by machine brand strength, original equipment remained challenging.

Speaker #3: In OE, the group continued to face weaker markets, especially in Truck in North and South America. In Passenger Car, sales failed to recover due to weak demand.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: In passenger car, sales failed to recover due to weak demand, and unfavorable mix of automakers and vehicle models in some regions. In the H1, MICHELIN brand sales in replacement increased by 5% in tonnage, a strong performance in the context of relatively modest market growth. This was driven by several factors: the strength of our product offering, the success of recent launches such as MICHELIN Primacy 5 Energy, continued growth in 18-inch and larger tires, and good momentum in key markets such as Europe, China, and North America. Regarding Tier 2, brand sales remained flat while Tier 3 brand sales declined, challenged by strong import flows from Asia, which resulted in high inventory levels in distribution in some regions, particularly Europe and North America. Turning now to profitability. Segment operating income reached EUR 1.45 billion, representing an operating margin of 11.4%, an improvement of 0.3 points versus last year.

Speaker #3: An unfavorable mix of automakers and vehicle models in some regions. In the first half, Michelin brand sales in replacement increased by 5% in tonnage—a strong performance in the context of relatively modest market growth.

Speaker #3: This was driven by several factors: the strength of our product offering, the success of recent launches such as Michelin Primacy 5 and Energy, continued growth in 18-inch and larger tires, and good momentum in key markets such as Europe, China, and North America.

Speaker #3: Regarding tier two, brand sales remained flat, while tier three brand sales declined, challenged by strong import flows from Asia, which resulted in high inventory levels in distribution in some regions, particularly Europe and North America.

Speaker #3: Turning now to profitability. Segment operating income reached €1.45 billion, representing an operating margin of 11.4%, an improvement of 0.3 points versus last year.

Speaker #3: At constant scope and FX, SOI rose by €103 million, or 7%, reflecting strong operational execution. Looking at the bridge, lower volumes were a limited €38 million drag, as improved plant utilization helped contain fixed cost absorption.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: At constant scope and FX, SOI rose by EUR 103 million or 7%, reflecting strong operational execution. Looking at the bridge, lower volumes had a limited EUR 38 million drag, as improved plant utilization helped contain fixed cost absorption. Price mix contributed EUR 78 million, driven by premiumization and a favorable shift to replacement and larger rim size. Raw materials delivered a substantial EUR 199 million tailwind following the decline in raw material prices during 2025. This was partly offset by EUR 130 million higher manufacturing and logistic costs, including tariffs and inflationary pressures. Currencies reduced segment operating income by EUR 114 million. Despite the FX headwind, margin improved versus H1 2025, underlining the resilience of our model. Looking now at the business segments. Consumer delivered resilient performance, with revenue increasing by 0.7% at constant exchange rates and an operating margin improving to 12.5%. Volumes growth was supported by automotive replacements and two-wheel sales.

Speaker #3: Price mix contributed €78 million, driven by premiumization and a favorable shift to replacement and larger rim sizes. Raw materials delivered a substantial €199 million tailwind following the decline in raw material prices during 2025.

Speaker #3: This was partly offset by €130 million higher manufacturing and logistics costs, including tariff and inflationary pressures. Finally, currencies reduced segment operating income by €114 million. Despite the FX headwind, margin improved versus H1 2025, underlining the resilience of our model.

Speaker #3: Looking now at the business segments, Consumer delivered resilient performance, with revenue increasing by 0.7% at constant exchange rates and an operating margin improving to 12.5%.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: Looking now at the business segments. Consumer delivered resilient performance, with revenue increasing by 0.7% at constant exchange rates and an operating margin improving to 12.5%. Volumes growth was supported by automotive replacements and two-wheel sales.

Speaker #3: Volume growth was supported by automotive replacement and two-wheel sales. Michelin brand performance was strong in replacement, notably in Europe and China, and market share improved in North America.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: Machine build performance was strong in replacements, notably in Europe and China, and market share improved in North America. Transportation posted a revenue of EUR 2.8 billion. This segment continued to face difficult OE market conditions in H1, leading to lower revenue and margin pressure. Profitability improved slightly with a gain of 0.3 points, thanks to better fixed cost absorption following the restructuring of our manufacturing footprint. Specialties revenue reached EUR 2.2 billion, demonstrating continued resilience with a 1.1% increase at constant exchange rates and a solid operating margin of 14.1%. Mining and aircraft delivered strong growth, while agriculture OE remained depressed. Infrastructure and defense showed encouraging signs of improvement. Polymer Composite Solutions maintained strong momentum, posting 16% revenue growth driven by recent acquisition.

Speaker #3: Transportation posted revenue of €2.8 billion. This segment continued to face difficult OE market conditions in the first half, leading to lower revenue and margin pressure.

Speaker #3: However, profitability improved slightly with a gain of 0.3 points, thanks to better fixed cost absorption following the restructuring of our manufacturing footprint. Specialties revenue reached €2.2 billion, demonstrating continued resilience with a 1.1% increase at constant exchange rates and a solid operating margin of 14.1%.

Speaker #3: Mining and aircraft delivered strong growth, while agriculture OE remained depressed. Infrastructure and defense showed encouraging signs of improvement. Polymer composite solutions maintained strong momentum.

Speaker #3: Posting 16% revenue growth, driven by a recent acquisition. While operating margin was affected by difficult market conditions in conveyors, the segment continued to deliver attractive profitability and remained accretive to the Group’s overall performance.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: While operating margin was affected by difficult market conditions in Conveyor, the segment continued to deliver attractive profitability and remained accretive to the group overall performance. Overall, the group achieved 0.5% revenue growth at constant exchange rates alongside a 0.3 point increase in margin. I would like to give you more details regarding the performance of our Polymer Composite Solutions business. You probably remember that it's made up of 4 main product categories: Conveyor, that accounted for almost 40% of our revenue this semester, Sealing, Coated Fabrics and Films, and Belting. Out of these 4 categories, 3 posted good performance. Sealing recorded strong growth supported by momentum in hydraulic gas compression and aerospace applications. In addition, the integration of Flexitallic from April has been supporting this positive trend and will be fully visible in the results of H2.

Speaker #3: Overall, the group achieved 0.5% revenue growth at constant exchange rates, alongside a 0.3-point increase in margin. Now, I would like to give you more details regarding the performance of our Polymer Composite Solutions business.

Speaker #3: You probably remember that it is made up of four main product categories: Conveyors, that accounted for almost 40% of our revenues this semester; ceiling; coated fabrics and film; and belting.

Speaker #3: Out of these four categories, three posted good performance. Ceiling recorded strong growth, supported by momentum in hydraulic gas compression and aerospace applications. In addition, the integration of Flexitelix from April has been supporting this positive trend and will be fully visible in the results of the second semester.

Speaker #3: Coated fabrics and films growth was driven by the diversification of applications beyond maritime, and the recovery of niche automotive solutions such as impregnated carbon fabrics.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: Coated Fabrics and Films growth was driven by the diversification of applications beyond maritime and the recovery of niche automotive solutions such as impregnated carbon fabrics. The integration of Cooley Group from February is progressing quickly, which enabled the team to focus on the business. Belting posted growth supported by resilient industrial markets, air and food handling solution or bearing liners in aeronautics. On the flip side, Conveyors had to cope with a low demand cycle this semester, with Australia impacted by weak construction activity in China and North America penalized by the stocking and cash management at some distributors and industrial customers. We expect a sequential improvement in the operating margin of this segment in H2 with a rebalancing of our business portfolio resulting from the 3 acquisitions. Moving to cash generation.

Speaker #3: The integration of the cooling group from February is progressing quickly, which enables the teams to focus on the business. Belting posted growth, supported by resilient industrial markets, air and fluid handling solutions, or bearing liners in aeronautics.

Speaker #3: On the flip side, conveyors had to cope with a low demand cycle this semester, with Australia impacted by weak construction activity in China and North America penalized by the stocking and cash management at some distributors and industrial customers.

Speaker #3: Overall, we expect a slight improvement in the operating margin of this segment in the second semester, with a rebalancing of our business portfolio resulting from the three acquisitions.

Speaker #3: Moving now to cash generation. You know that in the tire industry, the pattern is very seasonal, with most of the cash being generated in the second semester of the year.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: You know that in the tire industry, the pattern is very seasonal, with most of the cash being generated in H2 of the year. In H1, starting from an EBITDA of EUR 2.4 billion, or 19.1% of sales, the group was able to generate a positive free cash flow of EUR 282 million over the period. To do so in an inflationary context, we had to steer very closely our operation, especially our working capital and CapEx. We did not cancel or postpone any major projects, and we are maintaining a CapEx ambition of around EUR 2 billion for the year. M&A accounts for around EUR 600 million over the period, with the closing of Cooley and Flexitallic. The closing of Tex Tech will impact the financials of H2.

Speaker #3: In H1, starting from an EBITDA of €2.4 billion, or 19.1% of sales, the group was able to generate a positive free cash flow of €282 million over the period.

Speaker #3: To do so in an inflationary context, we had to steer very closely our operations, especially working capital and capex. We did not cancel or postpone any major projects, and we are maintaining a capex ambition of around €2 billion for the year.

Speaker #3: M&A accounts for around €600 million over the period, with the closing of CoolLing and Flexitali. The closing of Tech Stack will impact the financials of the second semester.

Speaker #3: Looking at net debt now, you can see that our gearing has increased slightly versus last year, going from 22% to 26% at the end of June 2026, reflecting mainly the recent acquisition.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: Looking at now the net debt, you can see that our gearing has increased slightly versus last year, going from 22% to 26% at the end of June 2026, reflecting mainly the recent acquisition. This financial strength give us the flexibility to pursue a balanced capital allocation policy, investing in the business, financing targeted acquisitions, maintaining an attractive shareholder return, and preserving a strong balance sheet. In 2026, around EUR 1.7 billion will be returned to shareholders, including EUR 944 million of dividends paid in May and around EUR 750 million share buyback, of which EUR 300 million were already executed at the end of June. The group continues to benefit from strong long-term credit ratings. All major agencies reaffirmed the group rating of A with stable outlook during H1. Now moving to 2026 outlook. I will start first by sharing our vision of the tire market.

Speaker #3: This financial strength gives us the flexibility to pursue a balanced capital allocation policy: investing in the business, financing targeted acquisitions, maintaining an attractive shareholder return, and preserving a strong balance sheet.

Speaker #3: In 2026, around €1.7 billion will be returned to shareholders, including €944 million of dividends paid in May and around €750 million in share buybacks, of which €300 million were already executed at the end of June.

Speaker #3: The Group continues to benefit from strong long-term credit ratings. All major agencies reaffirmed the Group rating of A, with a stable outlook during the first semester.

Speaker #3: Now, moving to the 2026 outlook. I will start first by sharing our vision of the tire market. In passenger car, we see the situation weakening slightly in the second semester.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: In passenger car, we see the situation weakening slightly in H2. OE markets should be more negative in H2 than they were in H1. Except China, that is expected to remain negative, but to a lesser extent than in H1, all other regions are showing a downward trend. Replacement markets should be similar to H1 at best. The main change here is China, where the strong growth posted in H1 should normalize. In trucks, the situation is contrasted. We are confident that OE markets will improve, driven by the recovery in North America. After the strong pre-order of H1, and EPA 2027 still expected to be a catalyst, tire markets should post significant growth in H2. The situation should be more stable in Europe. Replacement markets should be close to H1, maybe slightly below, due to some normalization of the demand in Europe.

Speaker #3: The OE market should be more negative in H2 than it was in H1. Except for China, which is expected to remain negative but to a lesser extent than in H1, all other regions are showing a downward trend.

Speaker #3: Replacement markets should be similar to H1 at best. The main change here is China, where the strong growth posted in H1 should normalize. In trucks, the situation is contrasted.

Speaker #3: We are confident that OE markets will improve, driven by the recovery in North America. After the strong pre-orders of the first semester, and with EPA '27 still expected to be a catalyst, the tire market should post significant growth in H2.

Speaker #3: The situation should be more stable in Europe. Replacement markets should be close to H1, maybe slightly below, due to some normalization of the demand in Europe.

Speaker #3: In specialties, mining demand is expected to be slightly more supportive sequentially, as the inventory situation is very sound. Aircraft markets depend on the geopolitical situation, but the outlook is positive at this stage.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: In specialties, mining demand is expected to be slightly more supportive sequentially as the inventory situation is very sound. Aircraft markets depend on the geopolitical situation, but the outlook is positive at this stage. Regarding Beyond Road, infrastructure and defense should be growing while material handling and agricultural look contrasted. At Ag OE especially, the market is stuck in an historically long downturn, and there are no signs of a short-term rebound. Before moving to our guidance, I would like to briefly come back to the Middle East situation as shared in our Q1 release and the way we qualified it. As a reminder, in Q1, we shared a scenario to illustrate the potential impact of a prolonged conflict.

Speaker #3: And regarding beyond road infrastructure and defense, those should be growing, while material handling and agricultural Ag OE, especially, the market is stuck in a historically long downturn, and there are no signs of a short-term rebound.

Speaker #3: So before moving to our guidance, I would like to briefly come back to the Middle East situation, as shared in our first quarter release, and the way we qualified it.

Speaker #3: As a reminder, in Q1 we shared a scenario to illustrate the potential impact of a prolonged conflict. The scenario considered was based on a Brent oil price at around $100 per barrel for the rest of the year, along with the related effects on raw material, energy, and logistics costs.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: The scenario considered was based on the Brent oil price around USD 100 per barrel for the rest of the year, along with the related effects on raw material, energy, and logistic costs. Looking at the H1 actuals, the situation has evolved almost in line with the assumptions. Demand has remained resilient overall, and we managed to ensure business continuity toward our customers as well as our supply in raw materials. However, the geopolitical environment remains highly uncertain and triggers high volatility, as illustrated by the swings in Brent price. For this reason, we keep our assumptions broadly unchanged, including the Brent scenario, rather than assuming a normalization that cannot yet be taken for granted. Based on these assumptions, we continue to estimate that a prolonged disruption could generate around EUR 400 million of additional cost inflation, mainly through raw materials, energy, and logistics.

Speaker #3: Looking at the first-half actuals, the situation has evolved almost in line with the assumptions. Demand has remained resilient overall, and we managed to ensure business continuity for our customers as well as our supply in raw materials.

Speaker #3: However, the geopolitical environment remains highly uncertain and triggers high volatility, as illustrated by the swings in Brent price. For this reason, we keep our assumptions broadly unchanged.

Speaker #3: Including the brand scenario, rather than assuming a normalization that cannot yet be taken for granted. Based on these assumptions, we continue to estimate that a prolonged disruption could generate around €400 million of additional cost inflation, mainly through raw materials, energy, and logistics.

Speaker #3: We are steering along this scenario in an agile way, in close contact with each of our markets, and leveraging our brand premium on a SKU-by-SKU basis, thanks to our precision pricing approach.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: We are steering along this scenario in an agile way, in close contact with each of our markets and leveraging our brand premium on a SKU-by-SKU basis, thanks to our precision pricing approach. As you are aware, Michelin has a proven track record of performing well in this environment. Our crisis management process remains in place, while our vertical integration, local-for-local footprint, and disciplined pricing and mix management help mitigate risk and protect profitability. Finally, based on our solid H1 performance and despite the continued uncertainties surrounding currencies and the geopolitical environment, we are confirming our full-year guidance. We continue to expect segment operating income at constant exchange rates and scope to exceed 2025 levels. We also reaffirm our objective of generating more than EUR 1.6 billion in free cash flow before M&A.

Speaker #3: As you are aware, Michelin has a proven track record of performing well in this environment. Our crisis management process remains in place, while our vertical integration, local-for-local footprints, and disciplined pricing and mix management help mitigate risk and protect profitability.

Speaker #3: Finally, based on our solid first-half performance, and despite the continued uncertainties surrounding currencies and the geopolitical environment, we are confirming our full-year guidance.

Speaker #3: We continue to expect segment operating income, at constant exchange rates and scope, to exceed 2025 levels. We also reaffirm our objective of generating more than €1.6 billion in free cash flow before acquisitions.

Speaker #3: Looking ahead, we remain committed to delivering attractive shareholder returns through a balanced capital allocation policy, combining a sustainable dividend with the ongoing share buyback program.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: Looking ahead, we remain committed to delivering attractive shareholder returns through a balanced capital allocation policy, combining a sustainable dividend with the ongoing share buyback program. Before we get into the Q&A session, I would like to conclude by sharing with you the schedule of our upcoming financial milestone. In particular, I wish to inform you that the date for our next Capital Markets Day has been set. It will take place on 28 May 2027. This concludes the presentation. Thank you for your attention, and together with Florent, we are now ready to take your questions.

Speaker #3: Before we get into the Q&A session, I would like to conclude by sharing with you the schedule of our upcoming financial milestones. In particular, I wish to inform you that the date for our next Capital Market Day has been set. It will take place on May 28, 2027.

Speaker #3: This concludes the presentation. Thank you for your attention. Together with Florent, we are now ready to take your questions.

Speaker #1: Ladies and gentlemen, if you wish to ask a question, please press star one on your phone keypad. Please ask your question in English. Please limit yourself to two questions only.

Operator 2: Ladies and gentlemen, if you wish to ask a question, please press star one on your phone keypad. Please ask your question in English. Please limit yourself to two questions only. If you have additional questions, we kindly ask that you rejoin the Q&A queue to allow time for other analysts. The first question is from Martino De Ambroggi with Equita. Please go ahead.

Operator: Ladies and gentlemen, if you wish to ask a question, please press star one on your phone keypad. Please ask your question in English. Please limit yourself to two questions only. If you have additional questions, we kindly ask that you rejoin the Q&A queue to allow time for other analysts. The first question is from Martino De Ambroggi with Equita. Please go ahead.

Speaker #1: If you have additional questions, we kindly ask that you rejoin the Q&A queue to allow time for other analysts. The first question is from Martino de Ambrogie with Equita.

Speaker #1: Please go ahead.

Speaker #2: Thank you. Good evening, everybody. My focus is on the free cash flow. Just on the restructuring costs—I know it is difficult to have a precise estimate—but could you quantify what is the cash out that you have in '26 and '27, roughly embedded in current guidance for this year's free cash flow?

Martino De Ambroggi: Thank you. Good evening, everybody. My focus is on the free cash flow. Just on the restructuring costs, I know it is difficult to have a precise estimate, but could you quantify what is the cash out that you have in 2026 and 2027 roughly embedded in current guidance for this year free cash flow? The second one is on the volume drop-through which was particularly low in this H1. You mentioned higher capacity utilization, higher cost absorption. Could you quantify what is the change in the capacity utilization in the H1? If 31 is achievable also going ahead as a drop-through for volumes? Thank you.

Speaker #2: And the second one is on the volume drop-through, which was particularly low in this semester. You mentioned higher capacity utilization and higher ups cost absorption.

Speaker #2: Could you quantify what is the change in the capacity utilization in the first half, and if 31 is achievable also going ahead as a drop-through for volumes?

Speaker #2: Thank you.

Speaker #3: Okay, so we'll take the first element. Your question about the drop-through and the capacity utilizations: right now, the capacity utilization is slightly overall below 80%, and improving.

Florent Menegaux: Okay. I will take the first element. Your question about the drop-through and the capacity utilizations. Right now, the capacity utilization is slightly overall below 80% and improving month after month. We are confident that the drop-through will improve due to that. Now, as far as the free cash flow, maybe you want to give a-

Speaker #3: Month after month. So we are we are confident that the drop through will will improve due to that. Now as far as the free cash flow we have maybe you want to give a.

Speaker #4: Yeah, absolutely. So, regarding free cash flow restructuring costs for the year 2026, it will be around €400 to €440 million, and for 2027, around €150 million at this stage.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: Yeah, absolutely. Regarding free cash flow, restructuring costs for the year 2026 will be around EUR 400 to 400 million, and for 2027, around EUR 150 million at this stage.

Speaker #2: Okay thank you very much.

Martino De Ambroggi: Okay. Thank you very much.

Operator 2: The next question comes from Thomas Besson with Kepler Cheuvreux. Please go ahead.

Operator: The next question comes from Thomas Besson with Kepler Cheuvreux. Please go ahead.

Speaker #1: The next question comes from Thomas Besson with Kepler Cheuvreux. Please go ahead.

Speaker #2: Thank you, and good evening. I'd like to ask a first question about your SR4, please. You don't disclose the organic loss, gross, of that business.

Thomas Besson: Thank you, and good evening. I'd like to ask a first question about your SR4, please. You don't disclose the organic growth cost of that business. Is it possible to have the number for that? Could you also break down the scope effects in revenues, and adjust a bit between the SR4 acquisitions and the top business you sold last year? That's my first question. The second is about volume growth by segments and by quarter. Is it right that your Q2 volumes were already positive in the SR2 in Q2, but that they turned back to negative in SR3? Is that correct? Can you give us a bit more granularity than the comments you've made to explain specifically the negative figure for SR3 that came as a surprise, at least for me.

Speaker #2: Is it possible to have the number for that? And could you also break down the scope effects in revenues and adjusted EBIT between the SR4 acquisitions and the TAR business you sold last year?

Speaker #2: That's my first question. The second is about gross volume by segment and by quarter. Is it correct that your Q2 volumes were already positive in SR2 in Q2, but that they turned back to negative in SR3?

Speaker #2: Is that correct? Can you give us a bit more granularity than the comments you've made, to explain specifically the negative figure for SR3? That came as a surprise, at least for me.

Speaker #2: And is it fair to believe that you could have, in the second half of the year, SR2 and SR3 volumes eventually positive, given your comments about mining being sequentially better in the second half?

Thomas Besson: Is it fair to believe that you could have, in the H2, SR2 and SR3 volumes eventually positive given your comments about mining being sequentially better in the H2? Thank you.

Speaker #2: Thank you.

Speaker #3: So these are two loaded questions. The first one: in SR4 revenue we had basically a 14% increase, but that included 90% on perimeter.

Florent Menegaux: These are two loaded questions. The first one, in SR4 revenue, we had basically a 14% increase. That included 90% on perimeter due to M&A, and -2% on ForEx. Basically, we didn't grow on the rest of the activities, mainly due, as explained by Benedikt, to the conveyor situation that we think is temporary, especially for our Conveyors North activities. Australia has been struggling in the H1, but improving towards the semester. We are hopeful that the situation will improve in the H2. Now, the conveyor is the main cause of the operating margin decrease. We grew everywhere else. We don't disclose the families inside SR4, but we are still on a growth pattern everywhere. Now, conveyors have some cycles, and we are in a down cycle right now.

Speaker #3: Due to M&A and minus 2% on forex, we basically didn't grow on the rest of the activities, mainly due, as explained by Benedict, to the conveyor situation, which we think is temporary, especially for our conveyor North activities.

Speaker #3: Australia has been struggling in the first semester but improving towards the end of the semester. So we are hopeful that the situation will improve in the second semester.

Speaker #3: Now, the conveyor is the main cause of the operating margin decrease. We grew everywhere else. So, we don't disclose the families inside SR4, but we are still on a growth pattern everywhere.

Speaker #3: Now, we have some conveyors with some cycles, and we are in a dying cycle right now. Now, for the volume in SR2 and SR3.

Florent Menegaux: For the volume in SR2 and SR3, what your comment about SR2 is true. Yes, we have grown in Q2 in SR2, especially replacement. Slightly at OE, but mainly on replacement. For SR3, the main issue is concentrated on ag. We are ramping up production in materials handling, in infrastructure, in defense, mobility, and there we have a good momentum. Ag, especially OE ag, which accounts for more than 60% of our volume in ag, is still stuck, therefore, we have not grown in Beyond Road in volume. In the H2, again, for Beyond Road, it will depend on the ag OE. We have to look at John Deere and the other players in that field to understand better. We think we will have slight growth in the H2.

Speaker #3: What you said about SR2 is true. Yes, we have grown in Q2 in SR2, especially in replacement—slightly at OE, but mainly in replacement.

Speaker #3: Now for SR3 the main issue is concentrated on ag. We are ramping up production in material handling in in infrastructure in defense mobility and and so there we are we have a good momentum ag especially OE ag which accounts for more than 60% of our volume in in ag.

Speaker #3: It is still stuck, and therefore we have not grown in Beyond Road in volume. Now, in the second semester, again, it will depend—for Beyond Road, it will depend on the ag OE, and we have to look at John Deere and the other players in that field.

Speaker #3: To understand better, we think we will have slight growth in the second semester. However, we don't know at this stage because the environmental conditions, especially the farmers' net income in the US, is not very strong.

Florent Menegaux: However, we don't know at this stage because the environmental condition, especially the farmers' net income in the US, is not very strong despite the subsidies that went into the market. We don't know. We have very good perspective in mining, aviation, and for the rest of Beyond Road, excepting ag, for the H2.

Speaker #3: Despite the subsidies that went into the market, we don't know. But we have a very good perspective in mining, aviation, and for the rest of beyond road—excepting ag—for the second semester.

Speaker #2: Thank you very much.

Thomas Besson: Thank you very much, Florent.

Speaker #1: The next question comes from Michael Fundukiris with Odo BHF. Please go ahead.

Operator 2: The next question comes from Michael Foundoukidis with Oddo BHF. Please go ahead.

Operator: The next question comes from Michael Foundoukidis with Oddo BHF. Please go ahead.

Speaker #5: Yes, hi. Two questions also on my side. So, first one on raw materials. I have to admit that, given the full-year guidance of tailwind of around €100 million...

Michael Foundoukidis: Yes, hi. Two questions also on my side. First one on raw materials. I have to admit that given the full-year guidance of tailwind of around EUR 100 million, I was expecting a higher tailwind in H1.

Speaker #5: I was expecting a higher tailwind in H1.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: We can't hear you. Can you speak louder, please?

Speaker #3: We can't hear you. Can you speak louder, please?

Speaker #5: Yes hello. Is it better?

Michael Foundoukidis: Yes. Hello? Is it better?

Speaker #3: We cannot hear you.

Florent Menegaux: We cannot hear you.

Speaker #5: Is it better now? Hello? Okay, sorry. So, what I was saying is, on raw materials, given your full-year guidance—which was, if I'm correct, around €100 million positive—I was expecting a higher tailwind in H1.

Michael Foundoukidis: Is it better now? Hello?

Florent Menegaux: Yes, it's better now.

Michael Foundoukidis: Okay. Sorry. What I was saying is on raw materials, given your full-year guidance, which was, if I'm correct, around EUR +100 million, I was expecting a higher tailwind in H1. Could you explain why it was not higher as you were expecting EUR 400 million full-year tailwind back in February? What do you expect for H2 as a result at current spot? Maybe a second question on price mix, which was lower than expected in Q2, despite the very solid performance of the MICHELIN brand. It seems that mix was broadly similar in Q2 versus Q1, but price was more negative. There's probably some indexation clauses, but would have also expected some initial price increases in the replacement segment. Could you clarify what should we expect on both heading into H2, with pricing likely improving but mix deteriorating? Thank you.

Speaker #5: So could you explain why it was not higher, as you were expecting €400 million for tailwind back in February? And what do you expect for H2 as a result, at current spot?

Speaker #5: And maybe a second question on price mix, which was lower than expected in Q2. Despite the very solid performance of the Michelin brand, it seems that the mix was broadly similar in Q2 versus Q1, but price was more negative.

Speaker #5: There's probably some indexation close, but I would have also expected some initial price increases in the replacement segment. Could you clarify what we should expect on both as we head into H2, with pricing likely improving but mix deteriorating?

Speaker #5: Thank you.

Speaker #3: So, on the prices, and then maybe, Benedict, you can answer on the raw materials. So, for prices first, we would not make detailed comments due to what you understand as the situation.

Florent Menegaux: On the prices and then maybe, Bénédicte, you can answer on the raw materials.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: Yep.

Florent Menegaux: For prices, first, we would not make detailed comments due to what you understand as the situation. What you should factor in the price mix. In Q2, we started to have the index contract to kick in. We had a little effect in Q1, but more effect in Q2. Those effects will be less in the second semester. Of course, we had some price investment, and the price increases we've announced have an effect towards the second semester, not the first semester. That's why you don't see them in the price mix effect. The mix has been very strong and slightly above expectation. For raw materials?

Speaker #3: But you should also factor in the price mix. In Q2, we started to have the index contract kick in. There was a little effect in Q1, but more effect in Q2.

Speaker #3: Those effects will fade and will be less in the second semester. Then, of course, we had some price investment, and the price increases we've announced will have an effect towards the second semester.

Speaker #3: Not in the first semester. So that's why you don't see them in the price/mix effect. But the mix has been very strong and slightly above expectations.

Speaker #3: And for Romat.

Speaker #4: So, for raw materials, initially we were expecting a positive €400 million for the full year. Then, after the Middle East crisis, we said that we would have a decrease in this positive element, roughly around €300 million for raw materials.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: For raw materials, initially, we were expecting EUR +400 million for the full year. After the Middle East crisis, we said that we will have a decrease in this positive element, roughly around EUR 300 million for raw materials. Net for the year of EUR 100 million. You need to have in mind that behind this question of brands and the inflation that we have on all raw materials derivative from oil was much higher than the swing that we have seen for the oil with the barrel. It is why, at the end, we are still expecting a positive around EUR 8,100 million for the year, to less positive than what was initially expected.

Speaker #4: So a net for the year of 100 million euros. So you need to have in mind that behind behind this question of brand and the inflations that we have on all raw materials derivative from oil was much higher than the swings that we have seen regarding the the oil with the barrel.

Speaker #4: So this is why, at the end, we are still expecting a positive result of around €80 to €100 million for the year—so, less positive than what was initially expected.

Speaker #1: The next question comes from Harry Martin with Bernstein. Please go ahead.

Operator 2: The next question comes from Harry Martin with Bernstein. Please go ahead.

Operator: The next question comes from Harry Martin with Bernstein. Please go ahead.

Speaker #2: Hi, good evening. So the first question I have is on the US market. The replacement market trends have been weak in the first half, but from today you should outperform on imports.

Harry Martin: Good evening. The first question I have is on the US market. The replacement market trends have been weak in H1, from today, you should outperform on imports, and also lap the ATD contract non-renewal in Q3 as well. Are you preparing the US business for growth in H2, even if the market outlook is fairly flat? Maybe if you can put the context of the Tuscaloosa plant closure into that outlook as well, in terms of the right size of the US business. The second question is on free cash flow. H1 CapEx was quite a bit lower year-over-year, similar to the discipline we saw in H2 last year. Still expecting EUR 2 billion in total for the year as a big ramp in H2.

Speaker #2: And also lack the ATD contract non-renewal in Q3 as well. So, are you preparing the US business for growth in the second half, even if the market outlook is fairly flat?

Speaker #2: And then maybe if you can put the context of the Tuscaloosa plant closure into that outlook as well in terms of, you know, the right sizing of the US business.

Speaker #2: And then the second question is on free cash flow. H1 capex was quite a bit lower year over year, similar to the discipline we saw in H2 last year.

Speaker #2: So, still expecting $2 billion in total for the year is a big ramp in the second half. So, can you give a bit of color into what that capex is being spent on and, you know, the sort of speed of payback of those projects?

Harry Martin: Can you give a bit of color into what that CapEx is being spent on and the sort of the speed of payback of those projects? Thanks.

Speaker #2: Thanks.

Speaker #3: Okay, so for the US market, we anticipate the second semester will not be buoyant because the US economy—the real economy—is not very strong right now.

Florent Menegaux: For the US market, we anticipate the H2 not to be buoyant because the US economy, the real economy is not very strong right now. You have high inflation in the US. The income is not very strong. Consumer revenue is not very strong. We don't anticipate a sharp rebound for the US volume in the H2. They should be in line with what we were expecting. With the Tuscaloosa, what we are doing is we had two under-optimized plants. We had one in Texas and the other one in Fort Wayne, and the other one in Tuscaloosa. We decided to gradually shut down Tuscaloosa to transfer those production into Fort Wayne for the US consumption.

Speaker #3: You have high inflation in the US. The income is not very strong. Consumer revenue is not very, very strong. So we don't anticipate a sharp rebound for US volume in the second semester.

Speaker #3: But they they should be they should be in line with what we were expecting. Now with the Tuscaloosa what we are doing is we had two under-optimized plants we had one in Texas and the other one in for Fort Wayne and the other one in Tuscaloosa.

Speaker #3: So we decided to shut gradually shut down the Tuscaloosa to transfer those production. Into Fort Wayne for the US consumption and the the the portion that was exported abroad will be transferred to other plants around the world.

Florent Menegaux: The portion that was exported abroad will be transferred to other plants around the world, as we think it's more in line with our local to local policy. In term of share of market, we don't anticipate market share losses due to this gradual closure. The aim of this consolidation is to improve efficiency and productivity. We also are upgrading the Fort Wayne capabilities so that they can produce the big tires that are required for BFGoodrich, especially off-road. As far as the CapEx, as you perfectly noted that the H1 was lower in spending than preceding year. Nothing to read about that. It's more about seasonality of our CapEx, and our investment policy is not really affected, and we didn't change anything in the H1. Maybe you want to add.

Speaker #3: As we think it's it's more in line with our local to local with our local to local policy. Now in terms of share of market we don't anticipate market share losses due to this gradual closure.

Speaker #3: The the the the aim of this consolidation is to improve efficiency and and productivity. We also upgrading the Fort Wayne capabilities so that they can produce the the the big tires that are required for BFG especially off-road.

Speaker #3: Now, as far as the CapEx—as you perfectly noted—the first semester was lower in spending than the preceding year. Nothing to read into that.

Speaker #3: It's it's more about seasonality of our capex and we will have our investment policy is not really affected and we didn't change anything in in the first semester.

Speaker #3: Maybe you want to add.

Speaker #4: Exactly this. When we look at the improvement of the free cash flow, the capex part is really a timing effect, and the other part is better management of our working capital, which explains the improvement at the end of June this year compared to last year.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: Exactly this. When we look at the improvement of the free cash flow, CapEx part is really timing effect, and the other part is a better management of our working capital, which explains the improvement end of June this year compared to last year.

Speaker #1: The next question comes from José Asumandi with JP Morgan. Please go ahead.

Operator 2: The next question comes from José Asumendi with J.P. Morgan. Please go ahead.

Operator: The next question comes from José Asumendi with J.P. Morgan. Please go ahead.

Speaker #2: Thank you. Two questions, please. The first one: can you please quantify roughly how much is the capacity expansion you’re doing in China on SR1?

José Asumendi: Thank you. Two questions, please. First one, can you please quantify roughly how much is the capacity expansion you're doing in China on SR1? When do you expect the capacity to come on stream? If you could comment broadly on the proportion of revenues that China represents within SR1, as I suspect this region drives higher margins than the other regions, if possible to comment. The second question on a group level now. I want to simply just go back again to mix, do you see an opportunity for mix to accelerate in H2 of the year versus H1? Thank you.

Speaker #2: When do you expect the capacity to come on stream? And if you could comment broadly on the proportion of revenues that China represents within SR1.

Speaker #2: As I suspect this region drives higher margins on the other region if possible to comment. And then the second question on a group level now I would just I want to simply just go back again to mix and do you see an opportunity for mix to to accelerate in the second half of the year versus the first half.

Speaker #2: Thank you.

Speaker #3: So about China. So we are expanding our capacity in Shanghai. Therefore we're reducing also the imports to China. So this expansion is also due to to offset some imports that we are still doing from especially Europe into China.

Florent Menegaux: About China. We are expanding our capacity in Shanghai. Therefore, we're reducing also the imports to China. This expansion is also due to offset some imports that we are still doing from especially Europe into China to cover the sales we are doing in China. Again, our strategy is mainly local to local. Now, the revenue that China represents overall at group level is around 6% of our revenue. China is mainly exposed towards passenger car sales. You probably remember that we have shut down our production capacity in truck in China so that we focus more on passenger car. Also we are expanding very fast in two-wheel and in ag and somewhat in mining, but less in truck. The capacity expansion we are doing in Shanghai is basically we are doubling the size of our plant in China.

Speaker #3: To cover the sales we are doing in China. So again, our strategy is mainly local to local. Now, the revenue that China represents overall at group level is around 6%.

Speaker #3: Of our revenue and and China is mainly exposed to what passenger car sales. We have some now we have you probably remember that we had we have shut down our production capacity in truck in China so that we focus more on passenger car but also we are expanding very fast in two wheel and in in ag and somewhat in in mining but less in in truck.

Speaker #3: The capacity expansion we are doing in Shanghai is basically, we are doubling the size of our plant in China. Over time, this capacity is ramping up.

Florent Menegaux: Over time, this capacity is ramping up. It started to ramp up last year, a year ago, we will still be ramping up for the next at least 24 months.

Speaker #3: It started to ramp up last year, a year ago. So we will still be ramping up for at least the next 24 months. And the mix...

Speaker #4: And regarding the mix effect and the split between H2 and H1, yes, we forecast to have a slightly lower mix effect on H2, due mainly to a market mix, and with the rebound of OE that we are expecting for H2 this year.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: Regarding the mix effect and the split between H2 and H1, yes, we forecast to have a slightly lower mix effect on the H2 due mainly to a market mix and with the rebound of OEs that we are expecting for H2 this year.

Speaker #1: The next question comes from Monica Bosio with Intesa Sanpaolo. Please go ahead.

Operator 2: The next question comes from Monica Bosio with Intesa Sanpaolo. Please go ahead.

Operator: The next question comes from Monica Bosio with Intesa Sanpaolo. Please go ahead.

Speaker #5: Yes. Bonsoir. Thank you for taking my question. Sorry. I have two—just to recap on the volume side, given the different trends by segments.

Monica Bosio: Yes. Bonsoir. Thank you for taking my question. I have to just recap on the volume side, given the different trends by segments. Do you still assume that volumes will turn positive in H2? My second question is on the carryover effect of the inflation on raw material and other cost inflation in 2027. I know that it's early to talk about this, but I was wondering if you can give us an indication and if you're confident to recover part of the cost inflation that we will carry over in 2027. If I may, if I can squeeze just a final one. Could you please explain how the introduction of the anti-dumping measures in Europe could benefit the group? If you see any benefit, if these benefits would be basically transitory. Thank you very much.

Speaker #5: Do you still assume that volumes will turn positive in the second half of the year? And my second question is on the carryover effect of inflation on raw material and other cost inflation.

Speaker #5: In 2027, I know that it's early to talk about this, but I was wondering if you can give us an indication, and if you are confident to recover part of the cost inflation that we will carry over in 2027.

Speaker #5: And if I may, if I can squeeze in just a final one: Could you please explain how the introduction of the anti-dumping measures in Europe could benefit the Group, and if you see any benefit, will these benefits basically be transitory?

Speaker #5: Thank you very much.

Speaker #3: So, the first part of your question—the answer is yes. We are expecting to continue to grow; we have had good momentum towards the year.

Florent Menegaux: The first part of your question is the answer is yes. We're expecting to continue to grow. We had a good momentum towards the year. We expect to continue to grow. Especially we are still expecting not a massive rebound but a rebound in OE truck in North America, which should, of course, be beneficial to us. Now, as far as 2027, let's make a deal. If you can predict to me what is going to happen in the Middle East for 2027, I can probably forecast you what the underlying raw material cost and inflation would be in 2027. What we see today is that because of what is happening, the inflation is going to be according to what we were expecting. We will have EUR 400 million additional costs compared to what we were forecasting when we entered the year in 2026 because of what has happened.

Speaker #3: We continue to grow, we expect to continue to grow, and especially we are still expecting—not a massive rebound—but a rebound in OE truck in North America, which would, of course, be beneficial to us.

Speaker #3: Now, as far as 2027, let's make a deal. If you can predict for me what is going to happen in the Middle East in 2027, I can probably forecast for you what the underlying raw material cost and inflation will be in 2027.

Speaker #3: What we see today is that, because of what is happening, inflation is going to be, according to what we were expecting, and we will have €400 million additional costs compared to what we were forecasting when we entered the year, in 2026.

Speaker #3: Because of what has happened, now we have to—right now it's too soon to make any prediction about 2027.

Florent Menegaux: Right now, it's too soon to make any prediction about 2027.

Speaker #4: And perhaps, in addition to what we said regarding 2026, we will protect our margin, and 20% of costs related to this situation will be covered thanks to clauses that we have in the contracts in 2027.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: Perhaps in addition, what we said regarding 2026, we will protect our margin and 20% of costs related to this situation will be covered thanks to a clause that we have in the contract in 2027.

Speaker #3: Now, your question about the anti-dumping measures for Europe—we have already seen the effect. Since they have been enforced, they have been put in place with an effective date.

Florent Menegaux: Your question about the anti-dumping measures for Europe. We have seen already the effect. Since they have been enforced, they have been put in place with an effective date. The volume of imports has sharply declined in Europe. However, the level of inventory of these tires in Europe is still very high, and it will take many months before it's flushed out. Us, we are not that impacted by this because we play on the top of the tier one market, and therefore what is happening below is less affecting us than others.

Speaker #3: The volume of imports has sharply declined in Europe. However, the level of inventory of these tires in Europe is still very, very high, and it will take many, many months before it's flushed out.

Speaker #3: So, for us, we are not that impacted by this because we play at the top of the tier-one market, and therefore what is happening below is affecting us less than others.

Speaker #1: The next question comes from Christophe Laskaoui with Deutsche Bank. Please go ahead.

Operator 2: The next question comes from Christoph Laskawi with Deutsche Bank. Please go ahead.

Operator: The next question comes from Christoph Laskawi with Deutsche Bank. Please go ahead.

Speaker #6: Good evening. Thank you for taking my questions. My first would be regarding your comment that June saw quite strong momentum in volume terms.

Christoph Laskawi: Good evening. Thank you for taking my questions. The first one would be on your comment that June saw quite strong momentum in volume terms. Could you comment what was driving that in particular? Was it comp-based, potentially a pre-buy with volume hike, the prices for the raw mat mitigation, or any comment, really, if it was basically strength in some of the end markets? You mentioned also for price in Q2, price investments that you did. Could you comment on in which region or division you did that mostly? The last question, if I may, just on how you approach purchasing now with the significant raw mat volatility. Have you in any way changed the approach a bit in purchasing your raw materials moving forward?

Speaker #6: Could you comment on what was driving that in particular? Was it comp base, potentially a pre-buy before you hike the prices for the raw material mitigation, or any comment really if it was basically strength in some of the end markets?

Speaker #6: And then you mentioned also for price, in Q2, price investments that you did. Could you comment on in which region or division you did that mostly?

Speaker #6: And then the last question, if I may, just on how you approach purchasing now with the significant raw material volatility. Have you in any way changed the approach a bit in purchasing your raw materials moving forward?

Speaker #6: Did you leave some exposure more open than you usually do, considering the volatility, or is it essentially unchanged and business as usual?

Christoph Laskawi: Did you leave some exposure more open than you would usually do considering the volatility, or is it essentially unchanged and business as usual? Thank you.

Speaker #6: Thank you.

Speaker #3: Okay. So regarding the the the volume impact in the first half yes there was a small pre-buy in the volume we we we've seen in in June but it's it was small.

Florent Menegaux: Okay. Regarding the volume impact in the H1, yes, there was a small pre-buy in the volume we've seen in June, but it was small. We are more capitalizing on the fact that we are rightly priced in the market now. The fact that we have excellent product, we have launched very well-received new products in every product line. It's not only passenger car, it's also in truck, it's also in material handling. We have a big portfolio of launches that have helped. 2025, we had almost zero launches during that year, which also is benefiting our activities. Now, as far as pricing is still very volatile and we anticipate that. Basically, we adapt our pricing to the circumstances, of course, and to the market conditions. We constantly watch what is happening, and we see, and we adapt.

Speaker #3: So, we are more capitalizing on the fact that we are rightly priced in the market now. The fact that we have excellent products, we have launched very well-received new products in every product line.

Speaker #3: So it's not only passenger car, but it's also in trucks, it's also in material handling, and so we have a big portfolio of launches that have helped.

Speaker #3: In 2025, we had almost zero launches during that year, which also is penalizing our activities. Now, as far as pricing—pricing is still very volatile, and we anticipate that we, we basically adapt our pricing to the circumstances, of course, and to the market conditions.

Speaker #3: So we constantly watch what is happening and we see and then we we adapt. And of course I cannot make too many comments on on this we we we we were agile and we will continue to be agile.

Florent Menegaux: Of course, I cannot make too many comments on this. We were agile, and we will continue to be agile.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: Right.

Florent Menegaux: We want to-

Speaker #4: In every business segment.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: In every business segment.

Florent Menegaux: In every business segment. Now, your question about did we change anything in our purchasing policies? The answer is no. We have a very strict business continuity management where we balance the risk of our sourcing all the time. We reassess the situation. We play more on a long-term relationship with our suppliers than on short-term opportunities. We think it's better for our brand, especially for MICHELIN brand. For tier 3 product, sometimes we do spot purchases, but we think we want to capitalize more on long-term relationship. Now as far as balancing the risk on a worldwide basis, of course, we observe what is happening in geopolitics, and we adapt in due course.

Speaker #3: In every business segment. Now, to your question about whether we changed anything in our purchasing policies, the answer is no. We have a very strict business continuity management process, where we balance the risk of our sourcing all the time.

Speaker #3: So we reassess the situation so we are we we we play more on a long-term relationship with our suppliers than on short-term opportunities. So we think it's more it's better for our brand especially for Michelin brand.

Speaker #3: For Tier 3 products, sometimes we do spot purchases, but we think we want to capitalize more on long-term relationships. Now, as far as balancing the risk on a worldwide basis, of course, we observe what is happening in geopolitics and we adapt in due course.

Speaker #1: The next question comes from Ross McDonald with Citi. Please go ahead.

Operator 2: The next question comes from Ross MacDonald with Citi. Please go ahead.

Operator: The next question comes from Ross MacDonald with Citi. Please go ahead.

Speaker #6: Yes, good evening. Thank you for the call. I have three questions, so I'll keep them reasonably brief. The first one, from investors, is actually just looking at IEPA tariff rebates.

Ross MacDonald: Yes, good evening. Thank you for the call. I actually have three questions, so I'll keep them reasonably brief. The first one from investors actually just looking at IEEPA tariff rebates. Question is, just to be clear that you haven't released any IEEPA rebates year to date, and perhaps you can quantify if you were to do so, what the magnitude could be to the group on a full year basis. My second question is on raw materials. I notice a lot of your assumptions seem to be around the conflict and Brent prices specifically. Looking at the natural rubber prices, there seems to be something else happening and quite a big surge in natural rubber specifically.

Speaker #6: So question is just to be clear that you you haven't released any IEPA rebates year to date and perhaps you can quantify if you were to do so you know what the magnitude could be to the group on a full year basis.

Speaker #6: My second question is on raw materials. I notice a lot of your assumptions seem to be around the conflict and brand prices specifically, but looking at natural rubber prices, there seems to be something else happening—and quite a big surge in natural rubber specifically.

Speaker #6: So I'd be interested if you think that's maybe being driven by this El Niño concern, and how Michelin as a group can defend themselves against any potential weather-related shortages.

Ross MacDonald: Be interested if you think that's maybe being driven by this El Niño concern and how Michelin as a group can defend themselves against any potential weather-related shortages for natural rubber. More comments would be appreciated just on how you're thinking about navigating the natural rubber inflation specifically. My final one, just a quick bridge question. You showed very good discipline on SG&A in H1. How should I think about the SG&A and manufacturing headwinds for the full year now, given that peak H1 performance? Thank you.

Speaker #6: For natural rubber, more comments would be appreciated, just on how you're thinking about navigating the natural rubber inflation specifically. And then my final one, just a quick bridge question: you show very good discipline on SG&A in the first half.

Speaker #6: How should I think about the SG&A and manufacturing headwinds for the full year now, given that good first half performance? Thank you.

Speaker #3: Okay. So so about the tariff rebates so we have enjoyed the double impact of tariffs in in North America and the retaliate retaliated activities from from other countries.

Florent Menegaux: Okay. About the tariff rebates. We have enjoyed the double impact of tariffs in North America and the retaliated activities from other countries. We have had some rebates due to the Supreme Court ruling in the US. We had a waiver. We have got back exactly EUR 28 million. We have made claims for more. We don't disclose that information, but we have made claims for more. There is nothing in our accounts because we don't book any provision for positive rebates coming from something that is not in our cash. We wait for the cash. I have a very demanding CFO, and we have to be very careful on this. Now, on raw materials and natural rubber and El Niño. First, today, natural rubber is growing on a band of 200 km north and 200 km south of the equator.

Speaker #3: So we we we have had some rebates due to the Supreme Court ruling in the US we had a waiver we we we have got back exactly 28 million dollars so we we have made claims for more we don't disclose that information but we have made claims for more but we and we there is nothing in our accounts because we don't book we don't book any provision for positive rebates coming from something that is not in our cash.

Speaker #3: So, we wait for the cash. I have a very demanding CFO, and we have to be very careful on this. So now, on raw materials and natural rubber and El Niño.

Speaker #3: First, it’s very important to note that natural rubber is growing in a band of 200 kilometers north and 200 kilometers south of the equator.

Speaker #3: So it means that it is already a hot climate, so I don't perceive—I am not an economist—but I have not read anything saying that the natural rubber price is affected by any El Niño.

Florent Menegaux: It means that it is already hot climate. I don't perceive, I am not an economist, but I have not read anything saying that the natural rubber price is affected by any El Niño. Other things may be affected, but not natural rubber, as far as I know. At this stage, we have seen natural rubber to get back up because it's more the fact that you have trees that have been cut down or inventory movements that happen on a worldwide basis. On SG&A.

Speaker #3: Other things may be affected, but not natural rubber, as far as I know. So at this stage, we have seen natural rubber get back up because it's more the fact that there you have trees that have been cut down or inventory movements that happen on a worldwide basis.

Speaker #3: And on SG&A you.

Speaker #4: So regarding first manufacturing cost, we plan for H2 to deliver a good performance in addition to the restructuring, so slightly better situation in H2 regarding manufacturing.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: Regarding first manufacturing cost, we plan for H2 to deliver a good performance in addition of the restructuring. Slightly better situation in H2 regarding manufacturing. While in SG&A, part of what we had in H1 was a bit of timing. The magnitude of H2 will be not very high, and it's quite a normal trend in terms of SG&A. As you know, we are steering carefully our operations.

Speaker #4: In the SG&A part, what we had in H1 was a bit of timing, but the magnitude in H2 will not be very high, and it's quite a normal trend in terms of SG&A.

Speaker #4: So, as you know, we are steering our operations carefully.

Speaker #1: The next question is from Stephen Benamour with Bank of America. Please go ahead.

Operator 2: The next question is from Stephen Benhamou with Bank of America. Please go ahead.

Operator: The next question is from Stephen Benhamou with Bank of America. Please go ahead.

Speaker #6: Yes, good evening. I have two questions. The first one is a follow-up regarding what you mentioned about the manufacturing and logistics cost. If I'm not mistaken, last time you mentioned a gross headwind of around €300 million for the full year.

Stephen Benhamou: Yes, good evening. I have two questions. The first one is a follow-up regarding what you mentioned for the manufacturing and logistics cost. If I'm not mistaken, last time you were mentioning gross headwind of around EUR 300 million for the full year. Just like you mentioned for the raw mat, is this assumption still valid? If not, what's your latest view on the impact for the full year? The last question is regarding the line orders in the EBIT bridge. It's a kind of black box for me at least. If I'm not mistaken, it mainly corresponds to bonus payments. How we should look at this line for H2, please? Thank you. Given the fact that you've confirmed the guidance, I would assume that this line should turn negative in H2. Thank you.

Speaker #6: So, just like you mentioned for the raw mat, is this assumption still valid? If not, what's your latest view on the impact for the full year?

Speaker #6: And the last question is regarding the line orders in the EBIT bridge. It's kind of a black box for me as well, at least.

Speaker #6: And if I'm not mistaken, it mainly corresponds to bonus payments. So, how should we look at this line for H2, please? Thank you.

Speaker #6: Given the fact that you've confirmed the guidance, I would assume that this line should turn negative in H2. Thank you.

Speaker #3: Okay. So so the let me start with your your second question first. On the bonus of the target we fixed for the bonus is different from the guidance.

Florent Menegaux: Okay. Let me start with your second question first. On the bonus. The target we fixed for the bonus is different from the guidance. We want to outperform the guidance. We are more challenging for our teams for the bonus. What you have seen in the P&L in the first semester is we have adjusted the bonus to what we think can be achieved versus the goal we have fixed to our teams, which are higher than the guidance you have. You cannot read from the bonus provision what targets we had for our teams. Now, for the manufacturing and logistics, it's EUR 400 million. Our estimate is still EUR 400 million, EUR 300 million in manufacturing and EUR 100 million in logistics.

Speaker #3: We want to outperform the guidance and we on the we are more challenging for our teams for the bonus. So what you have seen in in the P&L in the first semester is we have adjusted the the bonus to what we think can be achieved versus the goal we have fixed to our teams.

Speaker #3: Which are higher than the guidance you have. So, and you cannot read from the bonus provision what targets we had for our teams. Now, for the Manufacturing and Logistics, it's €400 million. Our estimate is still €400 million—€300 million in Manufacturing and €100 million in Logistics. But—

Speaker #4: And to complement what you are saying, Florent, regarding manufacturing and logistics costs—compared to the initial headwind of €300 million for the full year, we are now slightly below, around €230 million—meaning that we have been, we think, we will be able to deliver more savings from restructuring for the second part of the year than was initially planned.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: To complement what we are saying, Florent, regarding manufacturing and logistic cost, compared to the initial headwind of EUR 300 million for the full year, we are now slightly below around EUR 230 million, meaning that we think we will be able to deliver more savings from restructuring for H2 that was initially planned.

Speaker #3: But bear in mind that we still have two open conflicts of high intensity in the world today, especially the one in the Middle East, and we are far from understanding the ramifications of that, especially in terms of supply.

Florent Menegaux: Bear in mind that we still have two open conflicts of high intensity in the world today, especially the one in Middle East, and we are far from understanding the ramification of that, especially in terms of supply. I think we are less concerned about the price of raw materials, but more concerned about the availability of supply. We have visibility towards end of September, but that's it.

Speaker #3: I think we are less concerned about the price of raw materials but more concerned about the the availability of supply. And we we have a we have we have visibility towards end of September but that's it.

Speaker #6: Just to make it clear, can you please repeat the number for the manufacturing and logistics cost? You said €230 million net impact for 2026?

Stephen Benhamou: Just to make it clear, can you please repeat the number for the manufacturing and logistic cost? You said EUR 230 million net impact for 2026?

Speaker #3: Yes, so this concludes our call. Thank you very much for being with us, and we wish you a very good second semester. Thank you.

Florent Menegaux: Yes. This concludes our call. Thank you very much for being with us, and we wish us a very good H2. Thank you.

Speaker #4: Thank you.

Bénédicte de Bonnechose: Thank you.

Operator 2: Ladies and gentlemen, this concludes today's Michelin conference call. Thank you for your participation. You may now disconnect.

Operator: Ladies and gentlemen, this concludes today's Michelin conference call. Thank you for your participation. You may now disconnect.

Half Year 2026 Compagnie Generale des Etablissements Michelin SCA Earnings Call

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