Heineken Posts Rise In Profit, Raises Dividend

reported an 11% gain in its net profit last year and increased its dividend by 24%. Heineken's profit for the period surged to EUR1.52 billion euros ($1.72 billion), versus a year-ago profit of EUR1.36 billion. Profit before some items climbed 11% to 1.76 billion euros ($2 billion). Its revenue gained 0.1% to EUR21.2 billion. Heineken also declared a dividend of EUR1.10 per share, compared to EUR0.89 last year. Jean-François van Boxmeer, Chairman of the Executive Board & CEO, said, "We remain committed to our medium term margin guidance, underpinned by a continued focus on efficiency and further cost savings. Whilst we expect further volatility in emerging markets and deflationary pressures in 2015, we are confident that we will deliver further top and bottom line growth in the year ahead." Heineken shares rose 0.38% to close at $36.54 yesterday.