Carlsberg reported a 2.8% increase in total volumes in the first half of the year, prompting the company to lift the lower end of its full‑year guidance. The Copenhagen‑based brewer cited synergies from its Britvic acquisition and tight cost control as key drivers.

The integration of Britvic, which Carlsberg bought for 3.3 billion pounds, has propelled a 7.8% organic growth in soft drinks and other beverages, driven by solid performance across multiple markets.

Beer volumes fell 1.0%, mainly due to declines in Poland, China and Ukraine. The company highlighted that China was the clear disappointment of the quarter, with weak demand and challenging weather conditions.

Jyske Bank senior analyst Haider Anjum noted that falling volumes in China reflected a market characterized by weak demand and adverse weather, underscoring the challenges facing the beer category.