The Danish Carlsberg Group began 2026 with a strong first quarter, supported by widespread volume and revenue expansion across all major geographic regions, confirming the strength of its multi-category and multi-market model. Specifically, revenues reached €2,77 billion, an increase of 3,6%, while volumes recorded organic growth of 2,8%, a sign of resilient demand despite a still-uncertain macroeconomic environment for consumer goods.
Performance was positive in all three operating regions—Western Europe, Asia, Central and Eastern Europe, and India—highlighting a balanced dynamic between mature and emerging markets, a key element of the group's strategy. In terms of mix, higher value-added categories continued to strengthen: premium beer grew by 3%, soft drinks by 10%, and non-alcoholic beers by 7%, confirming the gradual shift in consumption toward more diversified options.
International brands also showed positive signs, with Carlsberg up 10%, Tuborg up 4%, and 1664 Blanc up 2%, demonstrating the portfolio's ability to address different target audiences and consumption occasions. "We've had a strong start to the year, with organic growth in volumes and revenues in all three regions and positive results across our strategic growth drivers," stated Jacob Aarup-Andersen, highlighting the contribution of the premium and no/low alcohol categories.
This trend is also reflected in the Italian market, where the group operates through Birrificio Angelo Poretti, a historic asset that represents a key presence in the HoReCa and modern distribution channels. "The year started positively thanks to the Group's strategic decisions, which will have a significant impact in Italy as well," commented Alius Antulis, highlighting the ongoing work to expand the offering.
Specifically, the focus is on developing an increasingly broad and inclusive range, from traditional beers to low- and no-alcohol options, in line with evolving consumer preferences and new consumption opportunities. Overall, the first quarter confirms the group's growth trajectory, which continues to focus on product innovation, premiumization, and diversification to support medium- to long-term development, even in the increasingly competitive and quality-oriented Italian market.
