Guinness Posts N25.3bn Profit as Debt Plummets in H1 2026
Omolabake Fasogbon Guinness Nigeria Plc has cut its net debt nearly in half while growing its half-year (H1) profit after tax by 53 percent to N25.3 billion. The firm disclosed
Guinness Nigeria Plc reported a remarkable rise in profitability, posting a net profit of N25.3 billion in the first half of 2026, a 53 percent increase from the previous period. The company's net debt was slashed nearly in half, falling from N37 billion to N19 billion. This financial turnaround was accomplished amidst inflationary pressures and currency fluctuations.
Guinness Nigeria disclosed that its half-year revenue reached approximately N265 billion, marking a 12 percent increase from the prior period. Operating profit also climbed by 15 percent, reaching N40 billion. The gross profit and operating margins held steady at 37 percent and 16 percent, respectively. The reduction in net debt and increase in shareholders' equity were significant highlights of the company's performance.
Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Guinness Nigeria, Girish Sharma, expressed satisfaction, stating that the company had made substantial strides in fortifying its financial standing while simultaneously allocating resources back into the business. Guinness Nigeria's investments in capital expenditure amounted to roughly N20 billion, focusing on expanding manufacturing capacity, infrastructure, and brand presence.
The company also returned N20 billion to shareholders via dividends. Guinness Nigeria credited its financial progress to strategic product extensions, including the introduction of new 440ml pack formats for Guinness FES and Guinness Smooth, wider distribution of Malta Guinness, PET packaging for Orijin, and continued success in ready-to-drink offerings under Smirnoff Ice.
The company's future strategy involves leveraging its extensive distribution network, comprising 390 key distributors, breweries in Lagos and Benin, and logistics infrastructure across Nigeria. Sharma emphasized that the company's aim is not merely to expand its operations, but to build a stronger, more efficient, and sustainable business.
With a healthier balance sheet, strong brand portfolio, and expansive reach, Guinness Nigeria is better positioned to navigate the current market conditions and seize upcoming opportunities.
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