Nigerian Breweries Embarks on Strategic Recovery Plan, to Undertake ₦600 Billion Rights Issue

Foremost brewer, Nigerian Breweries Plc, has begun the implementation of its strategic Business Recovery Plan aimed at securing a resilient and sustainable future for its shareholders and other stakeholders by notifying the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) of its intention to raise capital of up to ₦600 billion (six hundred billion naira) by way of Rights Issue.

This move comes after the company recorded a net loss of approximately N106 billion in its 2023 full year results.

The loss follows a combination of challenging economic factors ranging from heightened operational costs, continued pressure on consumer disposable income, escalating inflation rates, FX volatility, and high cost of debts, amongst others.

The Rights Issue which will be proposed to the company’s shareholders at the Annual General Meeting scheduled for 26 April 2024, is a measure to restore the company’s balance sheet to a healthy position following the net finance expenses of N189 billion recorded in 2023 driven mainly by a foreign exchange loss of N153 billion resulting from the devaluation of the naira. The proceeds from the Rights Issue would help to reduce the debt burden, paving the way for a more robust financial position. Coupled with ongoing efforts in cost-saving initiatives and operational efficiencies, the board is optimistic about steering the company back towards sustainable profitability in the near future.

Speaking on this development, Managing Director/CEO Nigerian Breweries Plc, Hans Essaadi, described the Rights Issue as the first of its actions in its strategic recovery plan for business continuity and future growth, in the face of a persistently challenging operating environment.

“Despite taking significant mitigating actions, the recent acceleration of the devaluation of the Naira, the lack of access to hard currency, and high interest rates has led to significant pressure on the net profit of Nigerian Breweries. This is not sustainable and now is the appropriate time to repair the balance sheet by using the proceeds of the rights issue to reduce the company’s debt.

“This Rights Issue will allow Nigerian Breweries to deliver on its strategic objectives in line with our recovery plan, and give all our shareholders a unique opportunity to increase the number of shares they hold”, he said.

Essaadi also stated that this process was part of the company’s recovery plan to sustain value for its stakeholders and return the business to profitability, commenting “We have been here in Nigeria for more than 77 years and, while it has been challenging in recent times for many Nigerian businesses, we believe in the long-term growth of the Nigerian market as evidenced by our decision to offer this Rights Issue.”

“We remain wholly committed to having a positive impact on our host communities and our consumers; leveraging our strong supply chain footprint; excellent execution of our route to market strategy; and our rich portfolio of longstanding and innovative beverage brands across the Lager, Stout, Non-Alcoholic Malt, Soft drinks, and Energy drinks categories, catering to the varied preferences of our esteemed consumers”, he added.

It would be recalled that Nigerian Breweries recently added to its broad portfolio with the acquisition of an 80% business stake in Distell Wines and Spirits Limited, a local business in the wines and spirits category, as a demonstration of its resilient and forward-thinking strategy to deliver long-term value creation for its shareholders and other stakeholders.

Nigerian Breweries Plc (NB), proudly stands as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s brewing industry, dedicated to producing and promoting a diverse range of high-quality beverages. With a rich heritage dating back to 1946, its 77 years of operations demonstrates an enduring commitment to the Nigerian market and its people.