AB InBev sees surprise uptick in beer sales thanks to premiumisation

Anheuser-Busch InBev reported a surprise increase in beer sales in the third quarter despite a profits dip.

The maker of Budweiser, Stella Artois and Corona lagers saw its overall beer and soft drink volumes rise by 1.9 per cent to drive revenues up 4.0 per cent, against expectations of a 4 per cent decline.

Core profit, or EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation), dipped 0.8 per cent, but its global brand portfolio revenue increased by 8.1 per cent (outside of the brands’ home markets).

Its premium division also did well with revenue up by 6.5 per cent. The company also improved its performance in its core portfolio, as consumers gravitated toward established brands including Brahma Duplo Malte in Brazil and Bud Light Seltzer in the US.