Margin Pressure, Solid Organic Growth, Disciplined M&A

Research evidence excerpt

Margin Pressure, Solid Organic Growth, Disciplined M&A

(MM)

creates a headwind to reported organic growth, while several recently won contracts are still

in the implementation phase. Food services, offshore hospitality and maritime catering remain

the fastest-growing areas. Several offshore platform contracts are currently being ramped up, GPS Earnings Yield | Brazil Bond Yield

generating upfront mobilization costs that are weighing on margins but should contribute more

meaningfully to earnings over the coming quarters. We maintain high-single-digit organic growth

and EBITDA margins of 10-11% over time.

M&A Discipline in a Higher Rates Environment. After a period of caution driven by sharply higher

interest rates, GPS is gradually re-engaging in acquisitions. We believe GPS is targeting lower

multiples (from 6-6.5x EBITDA in 2024 to around 5-5.5x currently), with a higher CoE in Brazil. The

company continues to see a robust pipeline and faces limited competition for assets, allowing it .Source: Jefferies, FactSet

to remain selective. Recent acquisitions of Uniflex and SEI fit GPS's long-standing consolidation

strategy, expanding its presence in offshore catering, maritime hospitality, security and facilities

management.

Sistema S Litigation and Tax Reform. A final ruling is expected during 3Q26 following favorable

legal outcomes to date. GPS currently carries approximately R$750m in provisions, with c45% linked

to the 2024 case. Brazil's tax reform is a near-term challenge but potentially positive longer term.

While the transition could pressure margins initially, a more transparent tax system should reduce

competitive distortions from smaller players and strengthen the advantages of scale, compliance

and outsourcing, supporting industry consolidation over time.