Brewing giant AB InBev is heading into the upcoming football World Cup in a position of strength after getting off to a flying start in 2026.
The group outperformed market expectations in every region during the first quarter.
Organic sales increased by 5.8% to $15.3bn thanks to higher volumes and prices.
Volumes at AB InBev in the first three months of the year rose 0.8%, with beer volumes up 1.2%.
Global megabrands Corona, Stella Artois and Michelob Ultra drove the performance, with revenues up 16%, 14% and 39% respectively outside their home markets.
Group underlying profits jumped from $1.6bn a year ago to $1.9bn in the latest quarter.
“Cheers to beer,” CEO Michel Doukeris said. “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. With strong execution by our teams and major moments of celebration ahead, we are well positioned for 2026.”
Volumes grew by low-single digits in Europe, outperforming competitors in the majority of the markets, with Corona leading the way. The brand, and its zero-alcohol version, accounted for 60% of the drinks sold at the venues for the Winter Olympics in Milan.
AB InBev said its consistent performance and the strength of the beer category reinforced its confidence to meet it full-year expectations, with EBITDA forecast to grow in line with the medium-term outlook of 4-8%.
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