Heineken announced plans to acquire the remaining 75% stake in Distribuidora La Florida (FIFCO’s beverage, food, and retail division) for $3.2 billion, marking a major expansion into Central America. The move comes as brewers face slowing demand in Europe and the United States, prompting a pivot to faster-growing emerging markets. Heineken Chief Executive Dolf van den Brink said the deal would unlock “new profit pools” and give the company access to operations across Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras.

The acquisition will give Heineken control of more than 300 retail outlets in Costa Rica and a stronger presence in Central America’s beverage sector. The Dutch brewer already owns a minority stake in the business but will now take full control, consolidating operations in one of the region’s most dynamic consumer markets. The deal reflects a wider industry trend as global players such as Anheuser-Busch InBev also look to expand in Latin America to offset weaker volumes elsewhere.

Heineken said the transaction, expected to close in the first half of 2026, will immediately boost its operating margin and earnings per share before exceptional items. However, the company also noted that net debt will rise by €3.2 billion ($3.77 billion) as a result of the purchase. At the end of June, Heineken’s net debt stood at nearly €15.5 billion, raising questions about balance sheet pressure amid its expansion drive.

FIFCO’s portfolio extends beyond beer to include wines, non-alcoholic beverages, and food products. Its operations span five production plants and 13 distribution centers across Central America, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and the United States. The company also exports to more than 10 international markets, giving Heineken broader reach in the Americas.

Industry analysts say the acquisition will strengthen Heineken’s positioning in emerging markets, where rising disposable incomes and youthful demographics are driving growth in beverage consumption. Still, they caution that execution risks remain, including integration challenges and managing higher debt. For Heineken, however, the deal represents a strategic bet on Central America as a future growth engine.

Source: Reuters.