Summary Box: SABMiller says lager, soft drink volumes dip 1 percent in 3 months ended in June

Summary Box: SABMiller’s lager, soda sales dip

DRY TIMES: SABMiller, the world’s largest brewer, sold 1 percent less lager and soft drinks over the three months ended in June as gains in emerging markets were offset by declines in richer countries.

WHY: Tax-related price increases, poor weather and events in Poland and Colombia hurt sales volume in certain key markets, SABMiller said. Poland restricted alcohol sales during national mourning for President Lech Kaczynski and other dignitaries who died in a plane crash. Colombian sales were affected by “dry days” surrounding presidential elections.

BEVERAGES: SABMiller brews Grolsch, Pilsner Urquell and Peroni beers. It is a major franchise bottler and distributor for Coca-Cola brands in 18 countries.