Is beer back? Maybe

This week, we review the pleasantly robust results from global beer companies during the first quarter of 2026. More importantly, we bid adieu to a dear friend and longtime contributor, Francois Sonneville.  For those wanting to thank Francois for years of fantastic industry coverage, please reach out: [email protected].  We discuss individual company results at the following timestamps:  Heineken (7:32): Results are stable heading into a leadership transition. AB InBev (15:44): Revenue, volumes, and EBITDA are all well ahead of expectations. RTDs, Michelob, and Busch are filling the gap left by Bud Light.  Constellation Brands (24:20): Business is stabilizing following a tough year in 2025. Royal Unibrew (32:22): Despite strong results from a highly diversified business, the headline was the loss of the PepsiCo business in Denmark, Finland, and the Baltic states, which account for nearly one-sixth of company revenue.   Carlsberg (38:40): Both volume and revenues grew, with strong performance in the UK as the integration of Britvic goes forward. The headline is the switch from Coca-Cola to PepsiCo in Denmark and Finland and taking on the Baltic states from Royal Unibrew.  Molson Coors (48:20): Volume is down, but revenues are flat with improved EBITDA, though costs pressures – aluminum in particular – remain a headache.      Have a question, qualm or story to tell, reach out via email: [email protected] Sign up to access our written research: RaboResearch sign-up   Note: The content and opinions presented within this podcast are not intended as investment advice, and the opinions rendered are that of the individuals and not Rabobank or its affiliates and should not be considered a solicitation or offer to sell or provide services.   Disclaimer: Please refer to our global RaboResearch disclaimer at https://www.rabobank.com/knowledge/disclaimer/011417027/disclaimer for information about the scope and limitations of the material published on the podcast.