Forbo Holding AG

Forbo Holding AG is a Swiss industrial group headquartered in Baar, Canton of Zug, Switzerland, founded in 1928. The company is the global market leader in resilient flooring and a significant player in industrial conveyor systems, generating approximately CHF 1.09 billion in net sales with a workforce of around 5,050 employees across 39 countries and regions.

Core Business

Forbo operates two primary divisions, with Flooring Systems accounting for roughly 68% of total group revenue. Its flagship product line is Marmoleum, a natural linoleum flooring manufactured from linseed oil, pine rosin, and wood flour, positioning the company as the undisputed leader in the global linoleum market with a share exceeding 60%. Beyond linoleum, the Flooring Systems division produces vinyl and luxury vinyl tile (LVT) coverings for high-end commercial applications, alongside specialty offerings such as Flotex electrostatic flocked carpets, entrance mat systems, and construction adhesives. The second division, Movement Systems, serves industrial clients through the Siegling brand, delivering transmission belts and plastic modular conveyor belts for manufacturing and logistics operations. As a fully integrated manufacturer with no outsourcing model, Forbo maintains 25 production and distribution sites worldwide along with six specialized assembly and customization centers.

Global Presence

Forbo maintains an extensive global footprint with 47 wholly owned sales and operational subsidiaries spanning 39 countries and regions. The group operates 25 production and distribution facilities and six dedicated assembly and customization centers, enabling localized manufacturing and rapid delivery across key markets. North America, Europe, and Asia represent the core geographic pillars, with targeted capacity expansions completed in 2025 in both Japan and the United States to strengthen regional supply chain resilience for the industrial conveyor business. The company is publicly listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange under ticker FORN (ISIN: CH0003541510).

Key Strengths

Forbo's dominant position in the niche but high-value linoleum segment, combined with its deep vertical integration and broad geographic reach, creates formidable barriers to entry and ensures pricing power in institutional sectors such as healthcare, education, and commercial construction. The group's 66.8% equity ratio at the close of fiscal year 2025 reflects a robust balance sheet capable of withstanding macroeconomic headwinds, including European energy cost pressures and Swiss franc strength. A new executive leadership team, with Johannes Huber as CEO effective January 1, 2026, has been assembled to drive the next phase of structural growth while maintaining a stable dividend of CHF 25 per share.