East African Breweries Limited (EABL) reported a 49 per cent rise in net profit to Sh18.2 billion for the year ended June 30, 2026, driven by strong revenue growth and lower finance costs.
The brewer's net revenue rose 13% to Sh146 billion, driven by higher beer and spirits sales across its markets, while total debt declined by Sh6.2 billion.
Higher sales volumes contributed Sh7 billion, or 87.5 per cent, of the Sh8 billion increase in gross profit, while price mix and lower cost of goods sold added Sh0.5 billion and Sh0.6 billion, respectively.
“We delivered one of our strongest performances in recent years, achieving net revenue growth of 13% to Kshs.146 billion,” Group Managing Director and CEO, Jane Karuku said.
“Profit after tax increased by 49% to Kshs.18.2 billion, supported by volume growth, effective cost management, and lower financing costs, while total debt reduced by Kshs.6.2 billion, further strengthening our balance sheet,” she added.
Dividends
The Board recommended a final dividend of Sh8.70 per share, bringing the total dividend for the year to Sh12.70 per share, a 59 percent increase from the previous financial year.
The dividend will be paid on October 31, 2026, to shareholders on the register as of October 19, 2026.
Update on Diageo-Asahi transaction
EABL said the proposed sale of Diageo's stake to Japan's Asahi Group has secured capital markets approvals in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, as well as antitrust approval in Uganda and Tanzania. The transaction is now awaiting clearance from the Competition Authority of Kenya, the last remaining regulatory approval before completion.
