Global brewing giant SABMiller said today its half-year worldwide beer volumes rose 11 per cent.
The world's number two brewer said growth in its half year (April-September) was similar to the 11 per cent in the five months to end-August, but down from its first first-quarter (April-June) rise of 13 per cent.
SABMiller added growth in revenue was partially offset by higher input costs, such as barley, glass and aluminium, and increases in investment across the business.
The brewer showed a sharp slowdown in one of its most profitable regions, Latin America, however.
Latin America, which earns a quarter of group profits, reported half-year volumes rose 8 percent, after a first-quarter 12 per cent rise, implying 4 per cent growth in the second quarter, analysts said.