Islamabad: Murree Brewery Company Limited, a key player in the Pakistan beverage sector, has reported a significant surge in profitability for the nine-month period ending March 31, 2025, achieving a 38% increase compared to the same period last year. This was highlighted in the company's financial report presented by its Board of Directors.

The company's net sales revenue rose by 20%, climbing from Rs. 16,043 million to Rs. 19,290 million. Gross profit saw a notable increase of 30%, reaching Rs. 5,262 million from Rs. 4,058 million. The profit before taxation grew by 38%, amounting to Rs. 4,044 million, while profit after taxation also increased by 38%, totaling Rs. 2,466 million. Earnings per share rose by 38%, from Rs. 64.72 to Rs. 89.16.

According to information available from the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), Murree Brewery has achieved record profits due to effective cost management and enhanced marketing strategies, particularly within its Tops Division. Despite macroeconomic challenges, including a stable exchange rate and low inflation, the company has maintained its profitability.

Legal issues persist for the company, particularly concerning the tax on water consumption. The Supreme Court of Pakistan imposed a tax of Re. 1 per liter on the beverage industry, later reduced to Re. 0.25 per liter by provincial legislation in Punjab and KPK. Murree Brewery has paid Rs. 3.5 million under this tax regime while a review petition remains pending before the Supreme Court.

The company also faces ongoing legal battles regarding the imposition of a super tax. For the fiscal year 2024-25, a super tax of Rs. 404.40 million was levied, slightly lower than the Rs. 405.50 million imposed for 2023-24. Murree Brewery successfully contested the super tax imposition for previous fiscal years, with the Islamabad High Court ruling in its favor. However, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has filed appeals, and the cases have been transferred to the Supreme Court for further proceedings.

In terms of shareholder returns, the company declared a third interim cash dividend of 100% (Rs. 10 per share) for the year ending June 30, 2025. This follows previous interim dividends totaling 170% (Rs. 17 per share). Murree Brewery contributed Rs. 8,020 million to the national exchequer in duties and taxes during the reported period, up from Rs. 6,512 million the previous year.

Murree Brewery remains committed to corporate social responsibility, donating Rs. 5.75 million to charitable organizations and supporting vocational training for disabled women. Additionally, the company continues to operate a Social Security Dispensary for its workers and their families.

Despite economic uncertainties, the company plans to adapt to changing conditions, aiming to enhance shareholder value and maintain its financial performance. The Board of Directors expressed appreciation for the dedication of its management team and employees, as well as the support from stakeholders, government authorities, and shareholders.