Berger Paints India , one of the country's leading paint manufacturers, has reported a mixed set of financial results for the second quarter of fiscal year 2025-26. The company delivered high single-digit volume growth but experienced muted value growth, reflecting the challenges faced by the paint industry during an extended monsoon season.

Volume and Value Growth

For Q2FY26, Berger Paints India reported a volume growth of 8.8% despite extended monsoon and flooding across key markets including Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, West Bengal, North-East, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. However, value growth remained muted at 1.6% due to mix dynamics with higher contribution from tile adhesives, admix and putty, and lower sales of high-value products like exterior emulsions.

Financial Performance

The company's total income from operations reached ₹2,872.40 crores compared to ₹2,830.70 crores in the previous year, representing a modest increase of 1.5%. The gross margin remained stable at 39.6%, while PBDIT margin moderated due to subdued value growth resulting in lower operating leverage and higher brand building spends.

Segment Performance

The decorative business saw a marginal shift from premium/luxury to economy emulsions. However, the Construction Chemicals segment registered robust growth. The company continues expanding its retail network with over 1,600 outlets and has installed over 5,500 tinting machines toward its FY26 target of 10,000.

Factors Affecting Performance

Several factors contributed to the company's performance in Q2FY26:

• Extended monsoon season leading to subdued demand across most markets
• Mix dynamics favoring lower-value products
• Increased investments in brand-building efforts
• Shift in consumer preferences within the decorative segment

Future Outlook

Management expects demand revival post-Diwali supported by improving weather conditions and release of pent-up demand. The company remains optimistic about future prospects, citing gradual improvement in domestic demand indicators across segments.

Strategic Focus

Berger Paints India plans to continue its efforts on:

• Network expansion
• Innovation
• Brand building

These initiatives aim to build value for investors and stakeholders in the coming quarters.

The company's performance reflects the broader challenges faced by the Indian paint industry, with factors like extended monsoons and shifting consumer preferences impacting short-term results. However, Berger Paints India's focus on key growth segments, retail network expansion, and strategic initiatives may position it well for potential market improvements in the future.

Berger Paints India Limited , a leading paint manufacturer, has announced the untimely passing of Mr. Rajesh Kumar Tiwari, Vice President & Group Head Manufacturing, on September 13, 2025. Mr. Tiwari, who was a key member of the company's Core Management Team and a Designated Person, passed away suddenly, leaving the organization in a state of shock and grief.

A Significant Loss for Berger Paints

The company, in its official communication to the stock exchanges, described Mr. Tiwari's demise as an "irreparable loss." As the VP & Group Head Manufacturing, Mr. Tiwari played a crucial role in overseeing the company's manufacturing operations, contributing significantly to Berger Paints' production capabilities and efficiency.

Company-wide Condolences

The news of Mr. Tiwari's passing has resonated throughout the organization. The Chairman, Vice Chairman, Managing Director & CEO, Board Members, and employees of Berger Paints India Limited have collectively expressed their deep sympathy and condolences to Mr. Tiwari's family during this difficult time.

Official Disclosure

In compliance with Regulation 30 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, Berger Paints India Limited promptly informed the stock exchanges about this unfortunate event. The company's Vice President & Company Secretary, Arunito Ganguly, issued the official statement, which included relevant details as required by SEBI regulations.

Impact on Company Operations

While the company has not provided immediate information on succession plans or interim arrangements for Mr. Tiwari's role, the loss of a senior executive in charge of manufacturing operations could potentially have short-term implications for the company's management structure and operational oversight.

Berger Paints India Limited, known for its wide range of decorative and industrial paint products, will undoubtedly feel the impact of losing a key member of its leadership team. As the company navigates this challenging period, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how it manages the transition and maintains its operational excellence in the manufacturing sector.

The sudden loss of Mr. Rajesh Kumar Tiwari serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of robust succession planning in corporate structures. Berger Paints India Limited now faces the task of honoring Mr. Tiwari's contributions while ensuring continuity in its manufacturing leadership.