EABL net profit jumps 49% to US$140.7M in FY2026
Strong spirits sales, lower financing costs and disciplined cost management boosted EABL’s earnings while strengthening the brewer’s balance sheet.
KENYA – East African Breweries Limited (EABL) reported a 49 percent increase in net profit to Kes 18.2 billion (US$140.7M) for the financial year ended June 30, 2026, as strong sales growth, effective cost management and lower financing costs supported earnings across its East African operations.
The brewer’s revenue increased by 13 percent to Kes 146 billion (US$1.13B), driven by higher sales volumes across its beer and spirits portfolio. Total debt declined by Kes 6.2 billion (US$47.93M) during the period, further strengthening the company’s balance sheet.
Profit attributable to ordinary shareholders rose 59 percent to Kes 15.02 billion (US$116.12M), while earnings per share increased to Kes 18.99 from Kes 11.97 in the previous financial year.
Gross profit climbed 14.9 percent to Kes 62.16 billion (US$480.56M), while operating expenses fell by 1.2 percent to Kes 28.87 billion (US$223.19M). Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) rose 27.4 percent to Kes 32.07 billion (US$247.93M), with the operating margin expanding to 22 percent from 19.5 percent.
Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Jane Karuku attributed the results to the company’s broad product portfolio and disciplined execution strategy.
“We delivered one of our strongest performances in recent years, achieving net revenue growth of 13 percent to Kes 146 billion,” Karuku said.
Mainstream spirits emerged as EABL’s fastest-growing category, recording growth of 30 percent, supported by brands such as Kenya Cane, Tzee and Uganda Waragi. Newer categories, including cider, flavoured beverages and ready-to-serve cocktails, expanded by 26 percent, while beer and premium products each recorded growth of 9 percent.
The company also benefited from lower financing costs, with net finance expenses declining 24.7 percent to Kes 4.41 billion (US$34.09M). However, EABL recorded a foreign exchange loss of Kes 1.5 billion during the period.
Tanzania delivered the strongest regional performance, with reported net sales growth of 44 percent and organic growth of 39 percent. Uganda posted reported growth of 16 percent, while Kenya, which accounts for approximately 60 percent of group revenue, recorded growth of 5 percent.
The board recommended a final dividend of Kes 8.70 per share, bringing the total dividend for the year to Kes 12.70 per share, representing a 59 percent increase.
Looking ahead, Karuku said EABL remained optimistic despite continued economic pressures.
“We remain well positioned to deliver sustainable growth through our diversified portfolio, market-leading brands and talented teams,” she said.
“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.”
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