Net profit was euro1.43 billion ($1.88 billion), from euro1.45 billion in 2010, when the company also sold euro199 million in assets. Sales grew 6.2 percent in 2011, boosted by the acquisition of Mexican brands including Dos Equis. Volumes increased 11 percent.
The family-controlled company reports earnings twice annually. Heineken said it expects malted barley costs to rise by 6 percent in 2012, which it hopes to absorb by increasing sales and cutting costs, including an unspecified number of employees.
The company plans to grow sales in developing markets and focus on high-margin brands in Europe.
