Heineken proves a good sport after profits beat expectations
Dutch brewer Heineken is counting on its sponsorship of the Rugby World Cup to help boost sales in the second half after posting better-than-expected profits in the first six months of the year.
Organic revenues rose two per cent to €10.9bn (£7.7bn) thanks to double-digit volume growth of higher-margin brands including Desperados and Sol Premium.
As a result, net profit jumped 81 per cent to €1.1bn compared with €631m the same time last year, beating analysts’ forecasts.
Heineken said beer volume growth slowed following tough comparatives on last year when the football World Cup took place. However, its premium beers performed well and it also benefitted from its sponsorship of the UEFA Champions League.
Heineken’s UK managing director, David Forde, said: “In challenging market conditions and against strong comparatives, the Heineken brand delivered solid volume growth in the UK.”
“Our sponsorship of the Rugby World Cup represents a significant opportunity for us in the second half. Such a premium event will help us win new fans,” he added.