E-Malt.com News article: 3370

Canada: Canadian brewing force, Molson Inc., announced on September 30 that, on the basis of preliminary results compiled for the second quarter ending September 30, 2004, earnings before non-recurring items, such as the charges related to the proposed merger with Coors, will be below the current range of estimates published by financial analysts. Molson is making an early announcement as part of its reporting obligation to inform shareholders of this earnings shortfall.

This unfavourable variance was driven by lower profitability in Brazil and lower volumes in Canada. In Brazil, estimated volume was approximately 10% lower than a year ago and compounded by the high cost structure associated with the sales centers put in place over the last nine months. In Canada, a much cooler summer season in most regions across the country and the continued strength of the value segment in certain regional markets led to industry and market share declines.

"From an EBIT standpoint, we expect results in Brazil to be slightly below Q1 levels, while the volume shortfall in Canada points to a mid single-digit percentage decrease in domestic EBIT", indicated Brian Burden, Chief Financial Officer of Molson Inc.

In light of the continuing challenge presented by the Brazilian beer market, Molson is performing an impairment test of assets in the region. Though the impairment test is not completed, preliminary findings could justify a write-down of approximately CA$200 million. In addition, Molson is re-evaluating the business model in an effort to drive sustainable profitability in Brazil and specific cost reduction initiatives are being implemented.

Last July, Molson indicated that the lower first quarter performance would make the attainment of the annual 10% EBIT growth target a challenge. Current quarter performance has confirmed that this will not be achieved in Fiscal 2005. Molson will provide more detail when it issues second quarter results which have been rescheduled for Thursday, October 28th, 2004.

In response to suggestions made by some shareholders, Molson is currently reviewing and evaluating legally available alternatives with respect to compensation and option issues related to the proposed Molson-Coors merger transaction.

Molson Inc. is one of the world's largest brewers of quality beer with operations in Canada, Brazil and the United States. A global brewer with $3.5 billion in gross annual sales, Molson traces its roots back to 1786 making it North America's oldest beer brand. Committed to brewing excellence, Molson combines the finest natural ingredients with the highest standards of quality to produce an award-winning portfolio of beers including Molson Canadian, Molson Export, Molson Dry, Rickard's, Marca Bavaria, Kaiser and Bavaria.


01 October, 2004