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Nigerian Breweries grows H1 profit by 142.8% to N19.08bn

Shareholders approve Nigerian Breweries N600bn rights issue as devaluation risk weighs

Nigerian Breweries Plc recorded N274.03billion revenue in the first half (H1) of 2022 ended June 30, 2022. The foremost brewing company in Nigeria also recorded Profit After Tax (PAT) of N19.08 billion during the H1 period.

According to the unaudited report and provisional results filed with the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), the company grew revenue by 31percent compared to N209.22 billion it recorded in the corresponding H1 period in 2021.

The results also revealed Profit After Tax for the six-month period under review rose by 142.8percent, from N7.86billion to N19.08billion. Similarly, basic earnings per share in H1 2022 was 237 kobo as against 97 kobo that was recorded in H1 last year.

According to a statement signed by the company secretary/Legal Director, Uaboi Agbebaku, the company’s increase in profit was driven mainly by top line growth resulting from its pricing strategy and better mix.

Further analysis of the results revealed that the Cost of Sales increased by 18.3percent, from N131.34 billion in H1’2021 to N155.35 billion in H1’2022. Marketing, Distribution, and Administrative expenses also rose by 44.6percent, from N58.42 billion in H1, 2021 to N84.45 billion in H1, 2022, driven by the increase in commercial activities post-COVID, rising diesel prices and higher wages arising from collective labour agreements.

Read also: NMRC’s profit before tax rises 11.1% to ₦3.39bn amid economic headwinds

Uaboi also noted that although interest expenses were lower, the net finance cost was higher due to foreign exchange losses arising from a higher cost of meeting foreign obligations to overseas partners.

“Despite these challenges, our business continues to build momentum and deliver consistent profitable growth even in the context of a very challenging operating environment. Our best-in-class portfolio of brands provides a unique platform that positions us well to lead and grow the beer and malt category and drive superior long-term value creation,” the statement added.

The company assured its stakeholders that it would continuously evaluate its financial position and business performance to ensure a strong balance sheet, while remaining dynamic in its response to operational challenges vis-à-vis the economy.