Jena, July 22, 2026 – E-commerce specialist Intershop has initiated a return to profitability in the first half of 2026, despite declining revenues. Through consistent cost discipline, the listed Thuringian company achieved a turnaround in its earnings situation.
- Company: Intershop Communications AG, Jena
- Revenue H1 2026: 15.8 million euros (previous year: 17.2 million euros)
- Result after taxes: -54,000 euros (previous year: -1.1 million euros)
- Number of employees: approx. 220 (stabilized)
- Forecast 2026: Balanced EBIT confirmed despite slightly declining revenue
Cost reduction leads to noticeable earnings turnaround
In the first six months of 2026, Intershop recorded a revenue decline from 17.2 million euros in the same period last year to 15.8 million euros. CEO Markus Dränert cited significant reluctance among European customers to make new investments in online retail as the primary reason. Despite lower revenues, the earnings situation improved significantly: after a loss of 1.1 million euros in the first half of 2025, the group closed the current half-year with a nearly balanced result of minus 54,000 euros.
The positive development is primarily due to a strict cost-cutting program. By cutting 40 positions last year, the workforce was reduced to around 220 employees. According to CFO Petra Stappenbeck, the personnel situation has since consolidated, and the number of employees is expected to remain stable in the future.
Future opportunities through AI solutions and international markets
For the second half of the year, the board expects initial signs of recovery, particularly in the US and Australian markets. To further develop its business model, Intershop is increasingly focusing on cloud solutions and the use of artificial intelligence. With the help of AI agents and copilots, complex processes in e-commerce – such as the continuous adaptation and creation of product descriptions – are to be automated. This offers customers significant potential for cost savings.
For the full year 2026, the company management confirmed its forecast: the goal is a balanced result before interest and taxes (EBIT).
Background: Intershop as an East German software pioneer
Intershop is one of Jena’s defining technology companies and was considered one of the pioneers of global online retail in the 1990s. From its headquarters in Jena, the company developed groundbreaking systems for processing B2B internet trade. In recent years, the company has undergone a strategic transformation toward modern subscription and cloud software models.
Source:
Internet trade: Intershop with better earnings despite revenue decline
Transparency note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.