Reported net income was $360.4 million, or $1.85 per share,
compared to $303.1 million, or $1.56 per share, last year. Comparable EPS totaled
$2.14, surpassing estimates of $1.85. Comparable EPS, excluding Canopy Growth
equity losses, amounted to $2.39.
During the quarter, net sales of Beer increased 8.3% to
$1.31 billion. The beer business posted overall depletion growth of 7.3% driven
by Modelo Especial. The launch of Corona Seltzer is planned for the start of
fiscal 2021.
Net sales in the Wine and Spirits division dropped 9.7% to around $689 million. Power Brand depletion volume grew 3.3%.
Also read: Constellation Brands Q3 2020 Earnings Preview
For fiscal year 2020, Constellation raised its earnings
guidance and now expects reported EPS of $0.95-1.05. On a comparable basis,
excluding Canopy, EPS is expected to be $9.45-9.55. This compares to the prior
ranges of reported EPS of $0.55-0.75 and adjusted EPS of $9.00-9.20.
The company expects net sales in Beer to grow 7-8% and net
sales in Wine and Spirits to decline 8-10%.
On January 7, the board of directors declared a quarterly
cash dividend of $0.75 per share of Class A common stock and $0.68 per share of
Class B common stock, payable on February 25, to stockholders of record as of February
11, 2020.
Constellation’s share of Canopy Growth’s equity earnings and related activities totaled a gain of $46.2 million on a reported basis and a loss of $71.1 million on a comparable basis.
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