SABMiller praises World Beer success

SABMiller’s UK subsidiary Miller Brands UK (MBUK) is leading the World Beer category, as it reports 11% post-tax revenue growth for the six months to September.

SABMiller brand Peroni Nastro Assurro has performed well in the on-trade (Photo: Peroni)

MBUK’s volumes also grew by 5% across the UK, which the company claims is “a result of increased rate of sale, impactful marketing initiatives and good weather over the summer period”.

Gary Haigh, managing director of MBUK, said of the results, which were announced on Thursday (13 November): “Today’s performance is testament to the choices UK beer drinkers are making for genuine and authentic tasting beer.

The success of Italian beer brand Peroni Nastro Azzurro in the on-trade has also been well received by the company, as figures show it leading the World Beer category with a 33% share.

Czech brand Pilsner Urquell also strengthened its position in the UK with volume growth of 19%. Again, marketing presence has been credited for its growth. At the success of Taste of London food festival this summer the brand sold 10,500 pints.

Another Czech offering in the Miller Brands portfolio, Kozel, experienced a strong first half with 27% volume increase.

“The industry has long suffered declining volumes and it’s great to be supporting the recovery of this with brands such as Peroni Nastro Azzuro, Pilsner Urquell and Kozel,” continued Haig.

“These brands carry heritage whilst continuing to innovate therefore driving the category forward and exciting new consumers to world beer.”