Anheuser-Busch InBev reports revenue grew 15.6% to $54.304 billion in fiscal 2021 on a 9.6% rise in volume. Profit rose to $5.774 billion from $5.022 billion a year earlier.
In North America, revenue rose 3.3% with no growth in volume. Compared to pre-pandemic levels, top-line revenue grew more than 10%.
ABI’s global brands (Budweiser, Stella Artois and Corona) saw revenue growth of 22.9% outside their home markets.
The company’s earnings release contained an extensive summary of its growth strategy going forward. It projects a 4% to 8% rise in core profit in 2022, a result in part of consumers having more opportunities to drink outside their homes. You can find the release here.
In an interview with Reuters, CEO Michel Doukeris said that inflation would impact consumers but expressed confidence that occasions such as Chinese New Year “that were not part of last year will be back in play this year.” In the U.S., easing of restrictions meant 35% more beer was sold in bars and restaurants during Super Bowl week than in 2021. That was 6% more beer being sold on-premise than before the pandemic.