Omolabake Fasogbon
Guinness Nigeria Plc has cut its net debt nearly in half while growing its half-year (H1) profit after tax by 53 percent to N25.3 billion. The firm disclosed that achievement was driven by operational efficiencies and margin expansion, even amid inflation and currency volatility.
During its H1 2026 investors and analysts call, the company reported approximately N265 billion in revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2026. Net sales value grew by nearly 12 percent, while operating profit rose 15 percent.
Likewise, its gross profit and operating margins settled at approximately 37 percent and 16 percent, respectively.
A highlight of the company’s performance was the reduction in net debt from about N37 billion to N19 billion, while shareholders’ equity rose from N43.3 billion to N64.2 billion.
Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Guinness Nigeria, Girish Sharma said the company had made significant progress in strengthening its financial position while maintaining investment in the business.
“The days of operating with a weak balance sheet are behind us. Today, we are in a much stronger position to pursue growth, improve returns and create sustainable value for our shareholders and other stakeholders,” he said.
Alongside debt reduction, the company said it deployed roughly N20 billion in capital expenditure toward manufacturing capacity, infrastructure, and brand expansion. It also distributed about N20 billion in dividend payouts to shareholders.
Guinness attributed its upward path to targeted portfolio extensions, including new 440ml pack formats for Guinness FES and Guinness Smooth, wider distribution of Malta Guinness, PET packaging for Orijin, and continued traction in ready-to-drink options under Smirnoff Ice.
It explained it would continue to leverage its national distribution network, comprising 390 key distributors, breweries in Lagos and Benin, as well as distribution and logistics infrastructure across the country.
“Our focus is not simply on growing bigger, but on building a stronger, more efficient and more sustainable business. With a healthier balance sheet, strong brands, an extensive route to market and continued investment behind our growth priorities, we are better positioned to navigate the operating environment and capture the opportunities ahead,” declared Sharma.