EBITDA for the year was 32% higher at BRR1.99 billion, just short of the company’s goal of BRR2 billion. The improvement was attributed to rises in beer prices. Principal brands such as Skol and Brahma had seen price rises of 15.7% and 14.7% respectively during 2001. However, analysts have suggested there will be little potential for price rises in the coming year.
BRAZIL: AmBev posts strong rise in final quarter
Brazilian drinks group, AmBev, posted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization of BRR761.6 million in the final quarter of 2001 against BRR607.1 million the year before.