Heineken Reports Strong Q3, Growth in Europe, Americas

28 Oct 2015 --- Heineken N.V. has reported consolidated revenue of +7.5% organically, with revenue per hectolitre +1.8% in Q3. Consolidated beer volume +5.4% organically, with positive growth in Europe, Americas and Asia Pacific and flat volume in Africa, Middle East & Eastern Europe. Heineken volume in premium segment +3.9% driven by Americas and Europe.

Jean-François van Boxmeer, Chairman of the Executive Board & CEO, commented: "Our strong performance in the third quarter is consistent with our earlier 2015 FY guidance that volume would be weighted to the second half of the year. HEINEKEN's well-balanced global footprint, excellent portfolio of brands, including the recent addition of Red Stripe and partnership with Lagunitas, combined with a powerful innovation agenda are expected to continue to deliver positive top and bottom line growth."

Consolidated revenue increased 7.5% organically in the quarter, reflecting a total organic volume increase of 5.7% and revenue per hectolitre up 1.8%. Consolidated revenue increased 8.0% to €5,509 million after a favourable currency impact of €41m and despite a negative consolidation impact of €17 million (mainly from the EMPAQUE disposal completed 18 February 2015).

Consolidated beer volume grew by 5.4% organically in the quarter, led by strong volume in Europe supported by favourable summer weather and continued growth in Americas and Asia Pacific regions. In Africa Middle East & Eastern Europe volume was flat.

Heineken volume in premium segment grew organically by 3.9% in the third quarter and by 4.4% in the first nine months of 2015. In the third quarter Heineken brand growth was particularly strong in Brazil, the Compañía Cervecerías Unidas S.A. (CCU) markets, the UK, Italy and Spain. Heineken was positive in the US supporting early indications of the brand turnaround. Volume in Africa, Middle East & Eastern Europe was subdued given lower volume in Nigeria, and volume in Asia Pacific adversely impacted by lower volume in China, Korea and Taiwan.

Overall volume growth was supported by the successful extension of the Cities campaign as well as sponsorship of the Rugby World Cup. The latest James Bond sponsorship, on which activation has recently stepped up, should enhance Heineken brand equity as well as provide an exciting platform to leverage the brand globally.

Global brands continued to deliver positive volume growth in the third quarter, with Desperados, Sol Premium and Affligem volume all up double digit. Cider volume was also up double digit, with Strongbow performance particularly impressive in Europe and Americas.

Reported net profit for the nine months was €1,776 million compared with €1,091 million for the same period last year. This includes the net exceptional gain on EMPAQUE.