NIQ Global Intelligence plc reported financial results for the nine months ended September 30, 2026, showing revenue growth and positive earnings for the first time since its IPO. The company reported total revenue of $1,119.1 million for the third quarter of 2026, representing a 6.3% year-over-year increase. On an organic constant currency basis, revenue grew 5.8%. The company achieved positive net income of $35.8 million, or $0.12 per basic and diluted share, marking the first time NIQ has reported GAAP net income since its IPO. Adjusted net income improved to $87.8 million, or $0.30 per basic and diluted share.
Operating metrics showed significant improvement, with Adjusted EBITDA increasing 17.8% year-over-year to $263.6 million. The Adjusted EBITDA margin expanded by 230 basis points to 23.6%. The company generated $181.2 million in Levered free cash flow for the quarter. For the nine months ended September 30, 2026, Levered free cash flow increased by $187.2 million compared to the prior year.
NIQ raised its full-year 2026 financial guidance. The company now expects OCC revenue growth of 5.5% to 5.7%, Adjusted EBITDA margin of 23.6% to 23.8%, Levered free cash flow of $249 million to $257 million, and Adjusted EPS of $1.16 to $1.20.
On November 12, 2026, the Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program authorizing the repurchase of up to $150.0 million of the company’s ordinary shares. The company also announced that it reached a net leverage ratio of 2.9x, achieving its sub-3.0x target one quarter ahead of plan.
