Anheuser-Busch InBev, the brewing giant behind Corona and Stella Artois, has announced a return to sales volume growth in the first quarter of 2026, boosted by a 1.2% increase in beer brand sales. The Belgium-based company, the world's largest brewer, reported a 0.8% rise in overall sales volume, defying expectations and marking a positive start to the year.
Strong Performance Across Key Markets
The group highlighted record beer sales by volume in Mexico, Colombia, Brazil, South Africa, and Peru. Underlying profits reached $1.92 billion (£1.41 billion), up from $1.61 billion (£1.18 billion) in the same period last year. Shares surged nearly 7% on the Euronext Brussels exchange following the announcement.
CEO Optimistic About Category Growth
Michel Doukeris, chief executive of AB InBev, expressed confidence in the beer category's strength. "Cheers to beer – the strength of the category and the consistent execution of our consumer-centric strategy drove continued momentum across our footprint. We are investing behind our megabrands and innovations to lead and grow the category," he said.
World Cup Summer on the Horizon
AB InBev said it is "well positioned" to capitalise on major events, including the upcoming FIFA World Cup, which kicks off on June 11 and will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The company stated, "We are encouraged by our performance in the first quarter and, looking ahead, we are well positioned to activate the category in some of the biggest moments of celebration of the year, including the FIFA World Cup."
Financial Outlook
AB InBev reaffirmed its full-year guidance, targeting underlying earnings growth of between 4% and 8%. The positive quarterly results and optimistic outlook have bolstered investor confidence as the brewer prepares for a summer of sporting events.
