Danone sales rise 3.5% on high-protein product demand French group lifts operating margin and confirms full-year guidance29 July 2026 29 July 2026 1 minute read 1 minute read By: By: Global Ag Media EuropeDanone reported 3.5% like-for-like sales growth in the first half of 2026, driven by strong demand for high-protein, medical nutrition and plant-based products, with recurring operating margin rising to 13.3%, according to Reuters. Recurring earnings per share were up 0.9% for the period, supported by productivity gains that offset inflationary pressure. The French dairy and nutrition group cited progressive recovery in specialised nutrition across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and improved trends in North American dairy. Danone confirmed its 2026 guidance for like-for-like sales growth of between 3% and 5%, and said it expects recurring operating income to grow faster than sales. The group also highlighted recent acquisitions in the Asia-Pacific region as part of its growth strategy.