Price rises boosted beer sales at Chile’s Compania Cervecerias Unidas (CCU) in 2009, with profits lifted by gains from a deal with Nestle Waters.

Net sales for the 12 months to the end of December rose by 9.3% on 2008 to CHP776bn (US$1.5bn), driven by a 4% rise in drinks volume sales and a 7.5% rise in average prices, said CCU yesterday (18 March).

The brewer, wine and soft drinks producer said that net profits rose to CHP128bn, bolstered by a CHP20bn gain on the sale of a 29.9% stake in Aguas CCU-Nestle Chile to Nestle Waters.

Operating profits rose by 11% for the year, to CHP137.4bn.

CCU said it finished the year with a strong balance sheet, showing net debt to ebitda ratio of 0.5.

The group’s domestic beer division survived a 1% sales decline in the fourth quarter to report net sales up 3% for the year, to CHP278bn.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Beer sales in Argentina rose by 19% for the year, with wine sales up 35% and soft drinks sales up nearly 8%. All divisions reported slowdowns in the fourth quarter, apart from spirits, which increased sales by 2.2% in the final three months – compared to 0.1% for the full-year.

CCU, which is 33%-owned by Heineken, also provided an update on damage sustained in the powerful earthquake that struck Chile on 27 February.

Its brewery in Santiago has reopened and is “operating partially”, as is the winery in Isla de Maipo, said CCU.

“Due to the many variables involved, the enormous workload affecting the insurance companies and adjusters and the
time required by this process, the financial impact has not been determined yet.

“The 1st quarter 2010 financial statements, to be published in May, should reflect preliminarily this impact,” said the group.

Subscribe to Just Drinks for just £1 for 1 month

Stay ahead with unbiased news, expert commentary, and in-depth features on global topics.

As a trusted provider of data and insights, Just Drinks collaborates closely with industry leaders and professionals to offer unique thought leadership and analysis. Gain a deeper understanding of the drinks industry’s trajectory and the priorities shaping the profession.

What’s included in your subscription:
  • Personalized Access: Secure login to Just Drinks
  • Industry News & Expert Commentary: Timely updates and exclusive C-level interviews.
  • Case Studies & Deep Dives: Real-world applications and in-depth analyses.
  • Exclusive Subscriber Newsletter: Weekly top features, plus a new thematic report and webinar.

Ready to stay informed?

Subscribe to unlock exclusive content.

Already a subscriber? Sign in to access your account.

Pleasecomplete this form to request more information, and a representative will be in touch shortly.

Just Drinks Excellence Awards - Have you nominated?

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Just Drinks Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

Nominate Now