Tony Loeb

📍 The World Travel & Tourism Council's Economic Impact Research (EIR) predicts in 2025, travel and tourism will contribute $11.7 trillion (10.3% of global GDP) to the global economy. Visitor spending is expected to reach a historic high of $2.1 trillion, surpassing 2019's peak of $1.9 trillion. Employment in the sector will grow by 14 million, totaling 371 million jobs worldwide. By 2035, the sector is forecasted to inject $16.5 trillion (11.5% of global GDP) into the economy, with an annual growth rate of 3.5%, and create 460 million jobs, with international spending reaching $2.9 trillion.

📈 RATIONAL's Q4 2024 revenue increased by 9% to €318.0 million; full 2024 revenue up by 6%, or €68 million. Sales in Europe (excluding Germany) and North America grew by 7% each, while Latin America saw a 17% increase. Asian sales slightly declined after a strong previous year. The multifunctional iVario equipment's revenue grew by 16%, and the iCombi professional combi ovens by 5%. Celebrating 25 years on the stock market in 2025, RATIONAL's share value has increased 38-fold, with current price at €867.50. The company boasts a 26% EBIT margin, close to a 50% global market share, and a Net Promoter Score of 60. Gross margin improved by 2.5 percentage points to 59.2%, with a 13% increase in EBIT to €314 million. As of December 31, 2024, RATIONAL employed 2,736 people, focusing on expanding its sales team. No global price increases are predicted for 2025, but investments in strategic projects and sales structure expansion will continue, aiming for a stable 26% EBIT margin.