BUD APAC(HK:01876)2025-05-08 04:32Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the first quarter, total volumes and revenue decreased by 6.1% and 7.5% respectively, with revenue per hectoliter declining by 1.5% due to negative geographic and channel mix [8] - Normalized EBITDA decreased by 11.2%, and the normalized EBITDA margin contracted by 140 basis points [8] - In APAC West, volumes and revenue decreased by 8.6% and 11.7% respectively, with normalized EBITDA decreasing by 17.6% [8] - In China, volumes declined by 9.2%, and revenue declined by 12.7%, with revenue per hectoliter declining by 3.9% [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The in-home channel saw increased volume and revenue contributions, indicating a shift in consumer behavior towards in-home consumption [9] - Marketing investments for Budweiser and Harbin were increased to connect with consumers and drive market share [10] - In APAC East, volumes and revenues increased by 11.9% and 11.7% respectively, with normalized EBITDA increasing by 24.4% [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In South Korea, volume increased by double digits, supported by shipment phasing ahead of a price increase announced in April [12] - The company reported a decrease in cost of sales by 1.5% on a per hectoliter basis, driven by commodity tailwinds and cost management initiatives [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to adapt to evolving market conditions and focus on a winning brand portfolio, premium route to market, and a resilient team to drive sustainable growth [6] - The strategy remains focused on premiumization and digitalization, with an emphasis on market share and in-home channel growth [19][20] - The company is committed to expanding its route to market and enhancing distribution capabilities, particularly in the in-home channel [29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that consumer confidence in China remains low, particularly in key regions, but there are positive indicators from upcoming holidays [17][18] - The company is closely monitoring the impact of tariffs in Guangdong but has not yet seen a significant shift in consumer behavior [44][45] - Future focus will be on executing the strategy effectively and adapting to market conditions as needed [46] Other Important Information - The company is leveraging technology to enhance commercial capabilities and drive value creation for stakeholders [10] - The partnership with Swire Coca-Cola is seen as a significant opportunity for growth in the in-home channel [85] Q&A Session All Questions and Answers Question: Update on Q2 performance in China - Management indicated that consumer confidence remains low, but there are positive signs from upcoming holidays, and pricing strategies will be considered based on market conditions [17][18] Question: Competition in Guangdong province - Management acknowledged the competitive landscape in Guangdong and emphasized the importance of expanding the Harbin brand and enhancing distribution in the in-home channel [25][26] Question: Core plus plus strategy and trade-up volume - Management explained that the core plus plus segment serves as an accessible upgrade for consumers, with a focus on product superiority and brand differentiation [36][38] Question: Impact of tariffs on consumer behavior in Guangdong - Management stated that it is too early to quantify the impact of tariffs, but they are monitoring the situation closely [44][45] Question: On-trade recovery in China - Management remains conservative about on-trade recovery, noting that consumer occasions are still growing in the in-home channel [53][54] Question: Cooperation with Swire Coca-Cola - Management reported positive outcomes from the partnership and expressed optimism for future collaboration in the in-home channel [85][86] Question: Competitive edge of Harbin Beer - Management highlighted Harbin's national brand status and cultural significance, along with ongoing premiumization efforts [91][92]