Samsonite Group reported first-half 2026 net sales of $1.68 billion, up 1.1% as reported but down 0.7% on a constant-currency basis, as softer travel demand and weaker consumer confidence linked to inflationary pressures from the conflict in the Middle East weighed on performance. Excluding the Middle East and India, first-half net sales rose 3.1%, or 0.7% on a constant-currency basis. The company said second-quarter net sales were $851.5 million, down 1.6% as reported and 1.7% on a constant-currency basis, while third-quarter constant-currency sales growth is expected to remain stable and in a similar range to the second quarter. Gross margin improved, helped in part by U.S. tariff refunds received after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling striking down certain tariffs previously imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. Excluding that benefit, first-half gross profit margin was 59.5%, up 30 basis points year over year, and adjusted EBITDA margin was 13.7%. First-half adjusted free cash flow rose to $85.0 million from $11.5 million a year earlier, while net debt fell to $1.069 billion at June 30 from $1.099 billion at the end of 2025. Samsonite also said it paid a $140 million cash dividend on July 15 and completed a $50 million share repurchase in the second quarter. The company said direct-to-consumer e-commerce sales increased 6.4% in the first half, with total e-commerce accounting for 20.7% of net sales and the lifestyle bags category rising to 37.4% of sales. Against that backdrop, Samsonite said it entered into a definitive agreement on Aug. 12 to acquire BÉIS, a digitally native lifestyle and travel brand, in a deal valuing the company at about $210 million on a cash-free, debt-free basis. Samsonite will acquire 85% of BÉIS for $178.5 million, with founder Shay Mitchell retaining a 15% stake after rolling over about half of her existing equity. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and customary conditions.