Dutch brewing major Heineken N V has posted a sharp jump in profits at 1.02 billion euros in 2009, bolstered by higher revenues and cost reductions.
The brewer, which had a profit of 209 million euros in 2008, today said the deals in India and Mexico have increased its exposure to fast growing, developing markets.
In a statement, Heineken said last year, 18 per cent organic net profit growth fuelled by higher revenue per hectolitre and cost reductions, offset lower beer volumes.
"Platform for future growth (has been) transformed via the planned acquisition of FEMSA Cerveza in Mexico, a new partnership with United Breweries in India and the completion of the Sedibeng Brewery in South Africa," it noted.
According to the company, last year there was excellent progress in improving the profitability of its new markets, particularly in Russia, South Africa and the UK.
"In one of the most challenging trading environments ever witnessed in our industry, we have delivered an outstanding financial performance...," Heineken CEO Jean-Francois van Boxmeer said.
Jean-Francois van Boxmeer, who is also the chairman of the executive board, pointed out that the deals in India and Mexico have increased its "exposure to fast growing, developing markets".
"These agreements together with our new, fully operational brewery in South Africa will materially enhance the growth profile of Heineken," the CEO added.