The fan and motor manufacturer ebm-papst increased its revenue to 2.236 billion euros in fiscal year 2025/26 (April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026). Growth for the entire group was approximately six percent. The core Air Technology business grew by about 12 percent.

Consolidated earnings were impacted by the planned exit from the automotive technology (passenger cars) and home appliances business segments, as well as by the transfer of the powertrain business to Siemens in July 2025.

Regional Development Varies

ebm-papst achieved its strongest growth in North and South America. Europe also performed well. In Asia, growth continued despite negative currency effects. The German market, however, remained below the previous year’s level. The company cites ongoing reluctance to invest as well as economic and energy policy uncertainties as the reasons for this.

Data centers are driving demand

A key growth driver was the data center business. According to the company, the expansion of digital infrastructure and the growing demand for AI applications are increasing the demand for energy-efficient cooling solutions. “Without innovative air technology, the further development of AI worldwide will reach its physical limits,” emphasized Jens Löffler, CTO of the ebm-papst Group.

In addition to new fan and pump solutions, the NEXAIRA digital ecosystem is gaining in importance. AI-powered algorithms are designed to enable demand-based control of cooling systems, predictive maintenance, and reduced energy consumption.

AI in Products and Organizations

According to the company, artificial intelligence is used not only in products and systems, but increasingly also in internal processes and the organization. In the past fiscal year, more than 1,500 employees received training on AI-related topics. In addition, ebm-papst collaborates with startups and the Artificial Intelligence Innovation Park (IPAI) in Heilbronn, among others.

Investments in Research and Locations

Research and development expenses totaled 142.7 million euros during the fiscal year. A total of 110.4 million euros was spent on investments in facilities and technologies.

The company continued to expand its international presence. During the reporting period, ebm-papst opened a location in Romania, prepared a new plant in India, and planned to expand production in Telford, U.S.A. In addition, regional Air Technology hubs, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, were further developed.

At the end of the fiscal year, ebm-papst employed 13,055 people worldwide. Despite the portfolio streamlining, the number of employees thus remained virtually stable. Employees from the discontinued business segments were primarily transferred to the core Air Technology division.

Outlook for 2026/27

For the 2026/27 fiscal year, ebm-papst expects revenue growth of more than ten percent in its continuing operations. The company views air technology, data center applications, and the increased use of artificial intelligence as its key growth drivers.