In a global market shadowed by cautious consumers, Carlsberg has raised the bar, delivering a strong first half of 2025 with standout growth in premium and alcohol-free beers, powered by bold brand moves and the seamless integration of Britvic. The brewer’s knack for balancing innovation with discipline offers a masterclass for the beverage industry navigating choppy waters.
Carlsberg’s core beer portfolio shone brightly, with premium beers growing organically by 5%, proving that even in a competitive landscape, high-quality brews remain a consumer favorite. The Carlsberg brand itself surged 5%, fueled by a Chinese New Year campaign that lit up digital screens across China, reaching a staggering 560 million impressions—nearly a third of the country’s population. Tuborg held its own with a 2% volume increase, driven by strong mainstream demand in India, while 1664 Blanc maintained steady volumes despite softer Asian markets. Alcohol-free brews, a rising star, soared 7% globally and 12% in Western Europe, with brands like Tuborg and 1664 Blanc tapping into the growing thirst for healthier options.
The soft drinks segment, supercharged by the January 16 Britvic acquisition, added significant heft. Britvic contributed 11.2 million hectoliters in volume and DKK 7.3 billion in revenue, with an operating profit of DKK 844 million. In the UK and Ireland, mid-single-digit growth in Q2, fueled by brands like Pepsi Max and 7UP, showcased Britvic’s market strength. Integration is humming along, with joint procurement tenders already cutting costs and Carlsberg on track to deliver GBP 100 million in synergies. “Britvic’s performance strengthens our long-term growth,” said CEO Jacob Aarup-Andersen, signaling confidence in the acquisition’s transformative potential.
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Regionally, Carlsberg showed agility. Western Europe, adjusting for the San Miguel loss, posted 2.4% organic volume growth, with the UK, France, and Poland leading the charge. In Asia, volumes dipped 2.8%, but China bucked the trend with a 1% gain, thanks to premium brands like Wind Flower Snow Moon. India stood out in Central & Eastern Europe and India (CEEI), with low-double-digit growth driven by Carlsberg Elephant and Tuborg Green, defying monsoon challenges.
Brand investments kept Carlsberg in the spotlight. A new UEFA partnership made Carlsberg the Official Beer of National Team Football, igniting passion among fans, while global campaigns for Tuborg and Garage amplified brand buzz. The Chinese New Year activation underscored the power of digital marketing in driving consumer connection.
Carlsberg narrowed its 2025 organic operating profit guidance to 3-5%, reflecting confidence despite a tough consumer outlook. With Britvic expected to contribute GBP 250 million in operating profit and ongoing investments in digital and value management, Carlsberg is brewing resilience. As the beverage industry grapples with shifting tastes, Carlsberg’s blend of premiumization, diversification, and strategic acquisitions sets the standard for the next great pour.
