EABL has delivered one of its strongest half-year performances in recent periods.
The reporting period was marked by encouraging macroeconomic recovery across the region. Inflationary pressures eased in most markets, interest rates began to trend downward, and currencies stabilised or strengthened, supporting improved consumer sentiment and business confidence. While household disposable incomes remained under pressure and input costs stayed elevated, the overall operating environment showed signs of recovery.
Jane Karuku, Group Managing Director and CEO of EABL, said “We delivered one of our strongest half-year performances in recent periods. Net revenue grew by 11% to Kshs. 75.5 billion, supported by strong volume growth of 8% and effective revenue management. Profit After Tax increased by 38% to Kshs. 11.2 billion, underpinned by disciplined cost control, margin expansion, and reduced financing costs. We also strengthened our balance sheet, with total debt reducing by Kshs. 2.3 billion. Despite ongoing pressures on consumers, our teams executed with agility and precision across our markets, reflecting the strength of our brands, the relevance of our portfolio, and the clarity of our strategy.”
The Board of Directors has recommended an interim dividend of Ksh 4.00 per share, subject to withholding tax. This represents an increase of Kshs. 1.50 per share over the prior year, reflecting confidence in the Group’s performance and outlook.
EABL continued to advance its strategic priorities during the period, with sustained investment in innovation, commercial execution, digital capability, and sustainability. These initiatives are strengthening the business’s ability to respond to evolving consumer preferences while building long-term resilience.
Commenting on the outlook, Jane Karuku added: “Global and regional trends are increasingly working in our favour. Consumers are gravitating towards trusted brands, local relevance, and quality experiences, while East Africa’s youthful demographics and accelerating digital adoption continue to unlock new growth opportunities, enabling us not only to respond to change, but to shape it.”
With regard to the proposed EABL – ASAHI transaction, on 17 December 2025, Diageo announced the sale of its shareholding in EABL to Asahi Group Holdings, Ltd. Subject to regulatory approvals, completion is expected in the second half of calendar year 2026. The Group continues to engage with all stakeholders and remains confident that the transaction will further strengthen the business and support long-term value creation.
