Brewery giant Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev) posted an 8.2 per cent increase in EBITDA in the first quarter of 2019, but Australian revenues dropped over the same period. According to the company’s report, total volumes grew by 1.3 per cent, with own beer up by 1.0 per cent and non-beers up 4.9 per cent.
A "low single digit revenue decline" in Australian revenues was "driven by lower volumes due to the later timing of the Easter holiday as well as a softer industry performance amidst declining consumer confidence," it says.
In Brazil, beer and non-beer volumes grew by double digits, and the US delivered its best quarterly market share trend since the end of 2012.
“Segment mix shift to easy drinking and premium products continues, with our Great Northern franchise as well as our craft portfolio of 4 Pines and Pirate Life delivering double digit volume growth. Corona saw continued volume growth underpinned by stronger brand health metrics,” the company said.
AB InBev also noted continued success in its environmental initiatives. “We continue to make good progress toward our ambitious 2025 sustainability goals, reducing carbon emissions across our value chain by 4.5 per cent over the last year.”
