Saint-Gobain unveils €12 billion growth plan, boosts shareholder returns under new 2026–2030 strategy
Oct 6 – French construction materials giant Saint-Gobain (SGOB.PA) announced on Monday a sweeping €12 billion ($14 billion) investment plan to drive growth through organic expansion and acquisitions as part of its 2026–2030 strategy, while allocating an additional €8 billion to shareholder returns.
The company said the new strategy focuses on strengthening its construction chemicals division and expanding operations in high-growth markets such as North America and Asia-Pacific, reflecting a strategic pivot toward industrial and non-residential construction.
Global expansion and growth priorities
Saint-Gobain aims to leverage rising urbanization and population growth in Asia and emerging markets, a potential recovery in Europe, and sustained infrastructure demand in North America. Over the long term, it expects high-growth regions to contribute about 60% of total sales, up from roughly 50% today.
“Our roadmap positions Saint-Gobain to capture structural demand for sustainable and efficient construction solutions in the world’s fastest-growing economies,” the company said in its statement.
Financial targets and shareholder rewards
Under the new plan, Saint-Gobain will allocate €6 billion for dividends and €2 billion for share buybacks, reaffirming its commitment to delivering value to investors.
The group also raised its financial guidance compared to its 2021–2025 plan, targeting mid-single-digit average annual sales growth and an EBITDA margin between 15% and 18%, up from the 13%–15% range outlined in its previous strategy.
Market reaction
Shares of Saint-Gobain initially rose more than 1% in early Monday trading but later fell 2.4% by 11:38 GMT, as French markets declined following the unexpected resignation of Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu.
Despite the short-term volatility, analysts view the company’s focus on high-growth regions and specialty chemicals as a strategic step toward long-term resilience and profitability.