Africa

"Diageo Africa’s strong routes to market and leading brands have harnessed the growth opportunities presented by the region.  This has delivered another year of double digit net sales growth with particularly strong growth in East Africa, Ghana and Cameroon. While it was a further year of strong net sales growth in beer, spirits are now making a meaningful contribution, driving over 40% of total growth and representing 25% of net sales in the region. This increased breadth together with price increases was reflected in operating margin improvement. Fiscal 2012 was another year of investment for growth.  We invested in marketing our brands, primarily Guinness, Tusker and Johnnie Walker, and behind innovations such as the launch of Harp Lime in Nigeria.  We invested in capital expenditure to expand capacity in Nigeria and East Africa and we broadened our presence across Africa, with the acquisition of the Meta Abo Brewery in Ethiopia.  I am particularly proud of our investment in the communities in which we operate, through our flagship Water of Life programme and also through our sustainable business model, supporting the development of local enterprise."

Nick Blazquez, president, Diageo Africa

* Organic equals reported movement for volume except for: Africa 8%, East Africa 11%, Africa Regional Markets 14%, beer 8% and Smirnoff 26% reflecting the acquisition of Serengeti and Meta Abo Breweries.

** Spirits brands excluding ready to drink.