TSeVndsBR
THONY RUYS
After allowing for the weak dollar and a one-off exceptional gain
of 71 million euros last year, Heineken developed well in the
first six months of this year. A 20% increase in beer sales, higher
sales of Heineken Beer, synergy gains at Brau Union and an
increase of 11% in net turnover were some of the reasons why
Anthony Ruys stated at the press conference that "We have
driven forward the growth of our flagship Heineken brand in the
world beer market and the growth of the Heineken brand has
once again outperformed the premium segment."
Heineken is building for future growth. That was the key message
from the Executive Board during the presentation of the financial
figures for the first half of 2004. A lower net profit compared to
the first half of 2003, in line with Heineken's forecast last
February, does not change that growth ambition.
In the United States sales of the Heineken and Amstel Light brands
rose in volume by 8% and 7% respectively. Unfortunately these
higher sales in the USA were outweighed by the negative impact
of the lower exchange rate of the dollar. The US market grew by
1.6%, with the import segment showing even stronger growth (+3.4%).
Heineken considerably outperformed the market. This is a positive
sign, certainly after the disappointing sales performance in 2003.
Heineken will also improve its US market position in 2005 when the
partnership with FEMSA will add strong Mexican brands to the
portfolio. Better results were reported in Central Eastern Europe.
Thanks to the acquisition of BBAG, net turnover almost doubled
and beer sales were 72% higher. These higher results are
attributable not only to the first-time inclusion of the BBAG results,
but also to synergy gains from the integration of Brau Union and
strong growth in Poland and Russia. In the fast-growing Russian
beer market Heineken is currently the number three player.
Results were also positive in the Far East and can be attributed to
a good performance by Asia Pacific Breweries. Anthony Ruys
explains: "Through our continued focus on the Heineken brand,
the integration of Brau Union, a focus on the USA and on
opportunities in emerging markets and new partnerships, we are
creating a platform for future growth."
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