Royal Swinkels achieves sustainable growth and robust profit in challenging market

Robust profitability in challenging year
Challenging market conditions, geopolitical developments, devaluation of the Ethiopian currency, and poor weather conditions in Western Europe, made 2024 a challenging year for Royal Swinkels. Through careful cost management and strategic investments, the company managed to remain financially sound and to continue building a sustainable future. Apart from achieving €1,113.5 million in sales (up from €1,128.2 million in 2023) and EBITDA at €127.2 million (€127.1 million in 2023), circularity remained a high priority. At the end of 2024, Royal Swinkels furthermore acquired Global Beer Georgia and Georgia Distribution and Logistics to reinforce its sustainable growth strategy. 

"At Royal Swinkels, we don't just think about today, but especially about tomorrow. As a family business, we are building a more sustainable world with a long-term vision. We look back on a year during which we once again made progress, which as always, we achieved together," said Peer Swinkels, CEO of Royal Swinkels.

"Our strength lies in diversification - from our product offerings and investments to our global presence. Royal Swinkels produces and sells a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for consumers worldwide, supplies various malts to brewers and whiskey producers, and invests in real estate. By continuing to actively innovating, investing strategically and entering new markets, we are building a future-proof company. The acquisition of Global Beer Georgia and Georgia Distribution and Logistics serves as a good example. Operating multiple production sites in Europe and elsewhere, we are reducing our dependence on one location and increasing our flexibility in a constantly changing world."

Commitment to circularity
Royal Swinkels has been a leader in circular management for years and is committed to using raw materials and energy as efficiently as possible. In 2024 the Swinkels Circularity Index (SCI) rose to 64%, a major milestone in its circular ambition.

Another major milestone in 2024 was the opening of the completely renovated malting plant in Eemshaven, which became the world's first emission-free malting plant. This innovation sets a new standard in the malting and brewing industry and emphasizes Royal Swinkels' commitment to sustainable production, reducing its carbon footprint and embracing environmentally friendly technologies.

Other key 2024 achievements in respect of circularity include:

• Nearly 80% of crops were sustainably sourced, despite the impact of extreme weather conditions on harvests.
• All packaging now used is 100% recyclable and consists approximately of 80% recycled or renewable material
• Royal Swinkels has further reduced its carbon footprint in transport by expanding the use of electric road transport and using more biodiesel (HVO)

Sustainable growth and market expansion
Royal Swinkels continues to grow and innovate at various levels. Its growth brands, including Bavaria 0.0, Cornet and La Trappe, performed well last year and posted strong results. Several new propositions were launched, including 8.6 Cherry, the second 0.0 Trappist beer La Trappe Epos, and the repositioning of Bavaria Smalt in the Middle East and Africa. 

Recognition for sustainable impact
Royal Swinkels' resilience and focus on sustainability led to receiving multiple awards in 2024. The family business was named Sustainable Brewery of the Year for the second year running and it received the prestigious EY Family Business Legacy Award. Both awards highlight Royal Swinkels' commitment to sustainable operations and impact within the industry.

Sustainability and inspiration in a new look
This year, Royal Swinkels publishes a new online annual report, which focuses on sustainability and inspiring project stories. It contains more information about the family business's circular ambitions as well as stories that show how the company is contributing to a better world. 

You can read Royal Swinkels' 2024 online annual report here.