Sopra Steria Raises 2026 Growth Forecast as AI and Cybersecurity Demand Surges Across Europe

French technology consulting firm Sopra Steria has raised its full-year revenue growth forecast after reporting strong demand for artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and digital sovereignty projects across Europe.

The improved outlook reflects continued investment by governments, defense organizations, and major enterprises in strategic technology infrastructure, despite uneven demand across the broader consulting market.

Sopra Steria Upgrades Revenue Growth Outlook

Sopra Steria now expects organic revenue growth of 2.0% to 2.5% in 2026, up from its previous guidance of 1.0% to 2.0%.

The revised forecast follows stronger business momentum in the second quarter, with underlying revenue growth accelerating to 5.3%, compared with 4.4% in the first quarter.

The company said demand remained particularly strong for mission-critical digital transformation and secure technology solutions.

AI, Cybersecurity and Digital Sovereignty Drive Growth

Chief Executive Rajesh Krishnamurthy said growing adoption of generative AI, agentic AI, cybersecurity, and digital sovereignty initiatives is reshaping customer priorities across Europe.

Organizations are increasingly investing in technologies that enhance security, automate operations, and strengthen control over sensitive digital infrastructure.

These trends have created new long-term business opportunities for companies providing advanced technology and consulting services.

Defense and Aerospace Deliver Strong Performance

Sopra Steria reported some of its fastest growth in sectors tied to Europe's expanding defense and technology capabilities.

During the first half of the year:

• Defense, security, and space revenue increased 10%

• Aeronautics revenue grew 12%

The company attributed the performance to sustained government investment in national security, critical infrastructure, and strategic technology modernization.

France Remains Largest Growth Market

France, which accounts for 44% of Sopra Steria's total revenue, recorded 7.1% organic growth.

The company said the increase was driven by projects involving public services, defense modernization, and strategic infrastructure development.

Business activity also improved in Germany and Belgium, supported by defense-related contracts and stronger customer demand during the second quarter.

Profitability Improves

For the first half of the year, Sopra Steria reported:

• Revenue of €2.96 billion, up 4.1%

• Operating profit of €284.5 million, an increase of 8.8%

• Operating margin improved to 9.6%, compared with 9.2% a year earlier

The results indicate that higher-value technology projects continue to support both revenue growth and profitability.

Outlook

As European governments and enterprises continue investing in AI, cybersecurity, defense technologies, and sovereign digital infrastructure, Sopra Steria expects these strategic markets to remain key drivers of growth.

The company's upgraded forecast signals confidence that demand for secure, AI-powered technology solutions will continue to outpace broader trends in the consulting industry.