Air Liquide launches BEYOND strategic plan to 2030
- A recurring net EPS CAGR target of +10% (+/−2%) from end‑2025 to end‑2030.
- A recurring ROCE target above 11% in 2030 while increasing industrial investments.
- Capital allocation of over €40bn for 2026–2030, including ~€24bn of industrial investments and a €4bn share buyback in 2027–28.
- Environmental targets: −33% Scope 1 & 2 CO2 by 2035 vs 2020 and carbon neutrality by 2050, plus −10% water withdrawal by 2030 vs 2025.
Plan objectives
BEYOND sets financial targets to 2030: a recurring net EPS CAGR of +10% (+/−2%), a recurring ROCE above 11% in 2030, and an operating margin improvement of +400 to +600 basis points over the period. Capital allocation exceeds €40 billion for 2026–2030, with more than half earmarked for higher industrial investments, bolt‑on and strategic acquisitions.
Growth levers
The group will deploy three flexible levers: sales growth (CAGR +5% ±1%), margin improvement, and disciplined capital allocation. Growth investments include approximately €24 billion of industrial project decisions focused on long‑term contracts and major basins, plus a reinforced acquisition strategy and a €4 billion share buyback program planned for 2027–2028 alongside sustained dividend and annual employee share purchase plans.
Strategic markets and innovation
Air Liquide targets four high‑value markets: Electronics & AI, Energy Transition, Healthcare and Space. Innovation and frontier technologies (advanced materials for semiconductors, extreme cryogenics, Cryocap™, PEM electrolyzers, ammonia cracking, hydrogen liquefaction, electronic precursors) underpin new applications and accelerated industrialisation of proprietary technologies.
Performance, governance and sustainability
Performance actions extend ADVANCE initiatives: organisational streamlining, global efficiencies (GBS, centralised procurement), local operational excellence and accelerated AI rollouts. Environmental commitments include −33% Scope 1&2 CO2 by 2035 vs 2020, carbon neutrality by 2050, and −10% water withdrawal by 2030 vs 2025.
Source: Air Liquide