EABL profit jumps 49pc on strong revenue growth in full year 2026
East African Breweries PLC (EABL) has reported a 49 percent jump in profit after tax for the year ended June 30, 2026, as the regional brewer posted double-digit revenue growth across its beer and spirits portfolio despite a challenging consumer environment.
The Group’s net revenue rose 13 percent year-on-year to Kshs 146 billion, while profit after tax climbed 49 percent to Kshs 18.2 billion, driven by volume growth, productivity gains and lower finance costs following debt reduction and reduced interest rates during the year.
Jane Karuku, Group Managing Director and CEO, said the results marked one of the company’s strongest performances in recent years. “We delivered one of our strongest performances in recent years, achieving net revenue growth of 13 percent to Kshs 146 billion. Profit After Tax increased by 49 percent to Kshs 18.2 billion, supported by volume growth, effective cost management, and lower financing costs, while total debt reduced by Kshs 4.8 billion, further strengthening our balance sheet,” she said.
EABL said the macroeconomic environment across East Africa remained broadly stable through the year, supported by steady currencies, contained inflation and favourable interest rates, though inflationary pressures picked up modestly toward year-end on higher energy and food costs. The company said it stayed focused on unlocking growth through the breadth of its portfolio and disciplined execution, while flagging rising concern over illicit alcohol consumption and the need for closer collaboration with governments and regulators to curb it.
The strong performance was mirrored in shareholder returns. EABL’s share price rose 43 percent to close at Kshs 269 as at June 30, 2026. The Board has recommended a final dividend of Kshs 8.7 per share, subject to withholding tax, bringing the total dividend for the year to Kshs 12.70 — a 59 percent increase on the prior financial year.
Looking ahead, Karuku said the company remains confident in its strategy despite persistent affordability pressures and fiscal challenges facing consumers. “We remain well positioned to deliver sustainable growth through our diversified portfolio, market-leading brands and talented teams. As we continue to invest in our business and our communities, we are confident in our ability to create long-term value for shareholders while contributing positively to the socio-economic development of East Africa,” she said.
EABL is a regional beverage alcohol leader with operations concentrated in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, and products sold in more than 10 countries. Its brand portfolio includes Tusker, Guinness, Bell Lager, Serengeti, Kenya Cane, Johnnie Walker, Captain Morgan and Smirnoff.
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