Champion Breweries Plc has reported a profit after tax of N1.79 billion for the 2025 financial year, representing a 119 per cent increase over the previous year.

The Chairman of the Board of Directors, Imo-Abasi Jacob, stated this during the company’s 50th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Lagos, where shareholders commended the board for improved profitability, successful capital market execution and strategic expansion initiatives.

In a statement on Tuesday, Mr Jacob said that the year under review was a defining phase in the company’s evolution.

According to him, the company successfully transitioned from a recovery phase to a stronger growth trajectory driven by improved profitability, disciplined operations, strategic capital raising and expansion initiatives.

“The year under review represents a defining phase in the company’s evolution.

“It is one in which Champion Breweries transitioned from a position of recovery to one of measurable growth, strengthened profitability and strategic repositioning,” he said.

Mr Jacob said the company recorded a 43 per cent increase in revenue to N29.80 billion in 2025, reflecting the success of its margin-led growth strategy.

He added that the company sustained its growth momentum in the first quarter of 2026, posting a 69 per cent year-on-year increase in revenue to N14.36 billion.

According to him, operating profit rose to N3.02 billion during the period, supported by improved operational efficiency and disciplined cost management.

The chairman noted that despite softer consumer demand and lower domestic sales volumes, the company maintained a strong gross profit margin of 48 per cent, while profit after tax stood at N881 million in the first quarter of 2026.

Mr Jacob said the company’s successful Rights Issue strengthened its capital base, broadened shareholder participation and reinforced investor confidence in its long-term strategy.

“Our successful engagement with the capital market during the year was not only a strategic financing milestone but also a strong vote of confidence from shareholders and stakeholders in the future of Champion Breweries Plc,” he said.

He expressed optimism about the company’s outlook amid prevailing macroeconomic challenges, noting that the company now operates from a more stable and resilient platform.

“Champion Breweries now operates from a more stable and resilient platform, characterised by improved profitability, a strengthened capital base and a clearer strategic direction.

“The company is therefore better positioned to navigate future uncertainties and capitalise on emerging opportunities,” he said.

Shareholders at the meeting approved a dividend payout of seven kobo per share for the 2025 financial year in line with the company’s improved earnings performance.

The board also updated shareholders on strategic expansion initiatives, including the acquisition of a controlling interest in the Bullet brand portfolio aimed at diversifying revenue streams and expanding into higher-growth beverage categories. 

(NAN)