Restaurant India News: United Breweries Reports Rs 184 Crore Profit in Q1, Driven by Premium Beer Growth

United Breweries Ltd., the maker of Kingfisher beer, reported a 6 percent year-on-year increase in profit after tax (PAT) at Rs 184 crore for the first quarter of FY26, compared to Rs 173.80 crore in the same quarter of the previous fiscal year.

The company attributed the growth to strong overall volumes, higher sales in the premium segment, and double-digit revenue expansion. For the June quarter, total volumes rose 11 percent, while premium volumes jumped 46 percent, reflecting a growing consumer shift toward higher-priced offerings.

Net sales for the quarter climbed 16 percent year-on-year, and earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) rose 10 percent over the same period. However, gross margins came in at 42.5 percent, down 50 basis points from the previous year, indicating some pressure on input costs.

United Breweries stated, “rising disposable income, favourable demographics, and increasing consumer preference for premium offerings” continue to support its long-term outlook. The company reiterated its focus on revenue management and cost initiatives to help improve margins, while investing in brand-building and capacity expansion.

Looking ahead, the company aims to maintain its growth momentum in the beer category and further increase the share of premium products in its portfolio, even as it navigates short-term margin challenges.

On the stock market, United Breweries shares have shown mixed performance. Over the past year, the stock gained 1.10 percent. Year-to-date, it is down 2.60 percent. In the last six months, the stock declined 1.27 percent and fell significantly by 8.73 percent over three months. However, it gained 4.83 percent in the past month.

On Tuesday, shares closed 0.74 percent higher at Rs 2,036.90 on the BSE, ahead of the earnings release.