Informa PLC Posts Strong First Half 2026 Financial Performance
Informa PLC H1 2026 Results highlight another solid financial performance, with the global exhibitions and events leader reporting strong growth across its business portfolio. The company’s B2B Live Events division continued to be the primary growth engine, supported by resilient customer demand, strong forward bookings, and ongoing investments in digital capabilities and first-party data.
For the first half of 2026, Informa achieved 6.8% underlying revenue growth and 6.9% underlying operating profit growth, demonstrating the resilience of its international business despite challenges caused by event rescheduling in certain conflict-affected regions. The company also reaffirmed its full-year financial guidance, reflecting confidence in continued business momentum.
B2B Live Events Business Continues to Lead Growth
The B2B Live Events segment remained one of the strongest performers within Informa’s portfolio. Its globally recognized exhibition and conference brands continued to attract exhibitors, visitors, and industry professionals across multiple sectors.
Growth in the Live Events business was supported by increasing customer engagement, higher participation levels, and strategic investments in technology and data-driven services. The company said these investments are helping strengthen customer relationships while enhancing the overall event experience.
Alongside Live Events, Informa’s Academic Markets division also delivered a strong performance, contributing significantly to the company’s overall financial results.
Strong Revenue Visibility for 2026
A key highlight of the Informa PLC H1 2026 Results is the company’s strong revenue visibility for the remainder of the year.
According to Informa, approximately 80% of its targeted 2026 revenue is already committed or visible through subscriptions, contracted business, advance bookings, and long-term customer agreements. This high level of revenue visibility provides greater confidence in delivering its financial objectives despite ongoing global economic uncertainties.
The company noted that its diversified international portfolio and recurring customer relationships continue to provide a stable foundation for long-term growth.
Full-Year Growth Guidance Reaffirmed
Despite temporary disruptions caused by event schedule changes in certain international markets, Informa maintained its full-year outlook.
The company continues to expect approximately 6% underlying revenue growth for the full year, reflecting confidence in demand across its exhibitions, conferences, academic publishing, and specialist information services.
Management believes the combination of strong event brands, international market presence, and recurring customer revenues positions the business well for sustained growth throughout 2026 and beyond.
Share Buyback Programme Increased to £350 Million
Reflecting its strong financial position, Informa announced an increase in its 2026 share buyback programme.
The company has raised the programme from £250 million to £350 million, demonstrating confidence in its cash generation capabilities and long-term business outlook. The expanded buyback programme forms part of Informa’s broader strategy to create value for shareholders while continuing to invest in future growth opportunities.
Interim Dividend Raised by Nearly 7%
In addition to the enhanced share buyback programme, Informa also rewarded shareholders with a higher interim dividend.
The Board approved an interim dividend of 7.48 pence per share, representing a 6.9% increase compared with the previous year. The dividend increase reflects the company’s strong financial performance and confidence in its future earnings potential.
CEO Highlights Strength of Global Portfolio
Commenting on the Informa PLC H1 2026 Results, Stephen A. Carter, Group Chief Executive of Informa PLC, said the company’s market-leading brands, diversified international presence, and continued investment in first-party data capabilities are supporting sustained growth across both the B2B Live Events and Academic Markets businesses.
He noted that Informa remains well positioned to achieve its full-year objectives while continuing to invest in expanding its global portfolio, strengthening customer engagement, and developing new growth opportunities.
Positive Outlook for the Global Events Business
The latest Informa PLC H1 2026 Results reinforce the company’s position as one of the world’s leading organisers of exhibitions, conferences, and specialist B2B events. With strong financial performance, healthy forward bookings, increased shareholder returns, and continued investment in innovation, Informa enters the second half of 2026 with positive momentum.
As demand for international business events continues to grow, the company is expected to further strengthen its leadership position across key global markets while delivering sustainable long-term value for customers, partners, and shareholders.
