C&C Group revenue drops to €794.9 million in first half

C&C Group reported net revenue of €794.9 million for the six-month period ending in August 2026. This figure represents a 3 per cent decrease from the same period in the previous year. The decline marks the first time in recent records that the group’s half-year sales have fallen below the €800 million threshold.

The drop in total revenue was driven by a contraction in the company’s distribution arm. Distribution revenue fell by 4 per cent during the period. The company attributed this decline to a planned exit from certain lower-margin customer accounts. It also cited continued pressure in specific drinks categories.

Despite the overall revenue dip, the company saw growth in its own brands. Branded revenue increased by 3 per cent. The update cited momentum in sales for Tennent’s and Bulmers as key factors. Favorable summer weather and activity related to the Fifa World Cup also contributed to this segment's performance.

Profitability metrics showed improvement despite lower sales figures. Operating profit rose by 4 per cent to €43.4 million. Underlying free cash flow increased by 18 per cent to €36.9 million. This compares to €31.2 million for the same period last year.

Chief Executive Roger White described the results as a solid first-half financial performance. He noted that the general economic environment remains volatile. White stated that the company has strong trading plans in place for the balance of the year. He pointed to brand initiatives and the delivery of the developing innovation agenda as sources of confidence.

The trading update highlighted specific trends in the Irish market. Consumers are balancing cost-of-living pressures with a desire to maintain social and leisure occasions. Positive summer weather supported trading in pubs, bars, and restaurants, particularly in spirits. Consumer sentiment showed signs of gradual improvement despite ongoing household financial pressure.

Davy analyst Cathal Kenny said the results suggest the business remains on track to meet full-year market expectations. He identified a better-than-expected sequential recovery in distribution margins as a key positive indicator. Distribution margins remained flat at 2.3 per cent in the period, compared with 0.7 per cent in the second half of the previous financial year.