SABMiller lager sales offset by cost hike in UK

Brewer SABMiller today said half-year lager sales volumes rose by 12% across the UK and Europe but cautioned revenue growth would be “partially” offset by higher costs.

The group, which last week announced a tie-up with Molson Coors in the US, saw an 11% hike group-wide in lager volumes in the six months to the end of September.

SAB – the brewing giant behind lagers including Pilsner Urquell and Miller Genuine Draft – said higher input and business investment costs would counteract the increase, but added interim results were set to be in line with management expectations.