On just-drinks last week:
- Results season kicked on, with Anheuser-Busch InBev dropping its H1 numbers. While the brewer's operating profits dipped in the six-month period, the outlook remains fair, according to one analyst. Click here to read what the company's CEO had to say on the results conference call.
- Beam Inc also posted its results for the first six months of 2012, which saw the US-based spirits company continue to hold its own. In the conference call, CEO Matt Shattock highlighted the long-term potential for the Tequila category outside of Mexico and the US.
- Staying with spirits, Campari hailed the Americas for driving its first-half figures. The firm is hoping that its Skyy Vodka brand, currently focused more in the US, can emulate the international performance of Wild Turkey.
- In soft drinks, The Coca-Cola Co targeted increased efficiency going forward with last week's announcement that it is streamlining its structure.
- Wine folk can head over here to read what regular commentator Chris Losh has to say about the importance of numbers when it comes to rating wines.
- The biggest story of the week, however, landed on Friday when Heineken got the nod from Fraser & Neave's board to buy up the company's stake in JV Asia Pacific Breweries. Check here for a full round-up of our coverage of the saga, and head here to read my thoughts on the matter.