AB Inbev wins market share in the UK

Stella Artois brewer AB Inbev has reported that it has won market share in the United Kingdom.

Its own beer volumes declined 3.4% in the second quarter of 2009 and 4.8% in the first half of 2009 reflecting weak market conditions. A spokesman said: "However, we 

gained market share as a result of the resurgence of Stella Artois.

"Following the launch of the Stella Artois 4% line extension and the new creative strategy, Stella Artois continued to achieve share gains. The brand's volumes grew 6.6% in 2Q09 and 3.7% in HY09." 

Carlos Brito, chief executive, said: "Our second quarter results built off a strong first quarter 

performance despite a more challenging environment characterized by generally weaker demand trends, a tendency to trade down in some countries, and tougher comparisons." 

Stuart MacFarlane, president of InBev UK said: "In the UK we have delivered some encouraging results in the first half of 2009 despite the difficult economic climate and weak industry conditions.

"We have gained market share in the UK as a result of the resurgence of Stella Artois following the launch of Stella Artois 4% and the new creative strategy. Stella Artois has continued to build momentum in the UK, in spite of weak industry conditions, exhibiting strong brand health.

"The Beck's family sales in the On Trade have been up in H1 enjoying the best period of sustained growth for more than three years and Beck's Vier has experienced solid growth across all channels.

"Budweiser is the No 1 packaged lager in the On Trade by volume and has achieved double digit growth in the Take Home market during the first half of the year.

"We have made a promising start to the year but the UK beer market remains very challenging. We are building the foundation for future growth of our brands by continuing to invest in sales and marketing resources."