Champion Breweries Plc has recorded an impressive first-half revenue of N35.73 billion for 2026, marking a major milestone in the company’s growth journey following the successful acquisition of an 80 per cent stake in Dutch beverage company EnjoyBev B.V. The strategic move has significantly strengthened the brewer’s market position and expanded its operations beyond Nigeria, although the financing costs associated with the deal placed pressure on overall profitability.
According to the company’s unaudited financial results for the six months ended June 30, 2026, Champion generated N21.37 billion in revenue during the second quarter alone. The brewer also reported an operating profit of N6.17 billion and a group profit after tax of N2.65 billion, with N1.76 billion earned in the second quarter. The figures highlight resilient operational performance despite the financial obligations tied to its expansion strategy.
The acquisition represents a significant turning point for Champion Breweries, transforming the company from a locally focused brewing business into a diversified international beverage group. As a result, the brewer presented its first consolidated financial statements under IFRS 10, reflecting the inclusion of EnjoyBev’s financial performance and underscoring its ambition to compete on a broader global stage.
To finance the landmark acquisition, Champion successfully completed a capital-raising exercise that increased shareholders’ equity to N69.08 billion while expanding its free float to 25.72 per cent. The move ensures the company remains compliant with Nigerian Exchange (NGX) listing requirements and provides a stronger financial foundation for future investments and long-term growth initiatives.
Speaking on the company’s performance, Acting Managing Director Rasheed Adebiyi described the first half of 2026 as a defining period for Champion Breweries. He acknowledged that acquisition-related finance costs affected short-term profitability but maintained that the company’s core business remains healthy and resilient. With its expanded portfolio and stronger capital base, Champion is now better positioned to compete more aggressively with industry leaders such as Nigerian Breweries and International Breweries, setting the stage for a new era of growth in Nigeria’s highly competitive beverage market.
source: The guardian
