SABMiller's Africa lager volumes up
Global brewing giant SABMiller said on Thursday, 15 october 2009, that for the first six months Africa delivered lager volume growth of 3% on an organic basis. Soft drinks sales in Africa grew 5% on an organic basis with good performances across the region.
The group noted that Uganda continued its strong performance with lager volumes 18% ahead of the prior year supported by capacity commissioned during the second quarter, while lager volumes in Zambia grew 23% assisted by the excise reduction in March 2009. Mozambique lager volumes grew 7% reflecting increased distribution and marketing initiatives.
Tanzania held market share although lager volumes were 6% below the prior year as the group cycled strong comparative growth and the effects of a soft economy were compounded by drought in the north. Botswana continued to be impacted by the 30% social levy on alcohol introduced in November 2008 which, combined with an economic slowdown, drove lager volumes down 47%.
The group noted that Uganda continued its strong performance with lager volumes 18% ahead of the prior year supported by capacity commissioned during the second quarter, while lager volumes in Zambia grew 23% assisted by the excise reduction in March 2009. Mozambique lager volumes grew 7% reflecting increased distribution and marketing initiatives.
Tanzania held market share although lager volumes were 6% below the prior year as the group cycled strong comparative growth and the effects of a soft economy were compounded by drought in the north. Botswana continued to be impacted by the 30% social levy on alcohol introduced in November 2008 which, combined with an economic slowdown, drove lager volumes down 47%.
