Beer maker Carlsberg sees 2019 profits rise on strong sales

COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) - Danish brewer Carlsberg says its 2019 net profit rose nearly 24 % to 6.6 billion kroner ($977 million) on strong beer sales in major markets, but noted it had lost market share in Russian due to tough competition.

The company said Tuesday its revenue increased 5.4% to 65.9 billion kroner ($9.76 billion).

The brewer said it 'œdelivered well'ť despite 'œexperiencing a continued difficult competitive environment in Russia.'ť The Russian market saw low-single-digit growth and Carlsberg said it had lost market share, adding the total volumes were down by 8%.

'œAt the same time, we are facing a more volatile business environment including the current coronavirus outbreak in China, of which the full impact is not yet known,'ť the group said, adding its Chinese business continued to deliver strong performance.

CEO Cees 't Hart said he was 'œpleased with our results in 2019'ť and said its operating profit outlook for 2020 was 'œmid-single-digit percentage organic growth.'ť