Becle shares drop 4% following weak quarterly sales
Becle shares fell 4% after reporting lower North American sales. Profits dropped 12% as US consumers shifted habits and the Mexican peso remained strong.
Shares in the world's largest tequila producer, BECLE SAB DE CV, fell 4% on Friday after fourth-quarter earnings failed to meet market expectations. Based in Mexico, the company reported a 12% year-on-year decline in net profit for the final quarter of 2025, driven by a 14% drop in net sales and a higher corporate tax rate.
The company's performance was significantly impacted by a downturn in its primary North American markets. While sales grew in other regions, they were insufficient to offset the decline in the United States and Canada, which together account for more than half of the distiller's total revenue. Additionally, the strength of the Mexican peso reduced the value of earnings generated in foreign currencies.
Industry trends suggest a cooling market for spirits across the region. According to trade association data, tequila imports to the U.S. fell by 26% in the first nine months of 2025 compared to the previous year, while overall spirits imports decreased by 17%. Analysts attribute this shift to several factors, including economic pressures and changing lifestyle choices among consumers.
It was a quarter to forget by most measures, and the start of 2026 doesnt look too bright either.
Scotiabank analyst Felipe Ucros noted that the stagnant tequila industry reflects a move toward healthier alternatives and legal marijuana. In the Canadian market, some consumers have reportedly opted for local spirits amid trade tensions and tariff threats from the previous year. Despite the sales decline, the distiller did report an improvement in its profit margins. However, the company's stock has faced significant pressure recently, falling nearly 17% since the start of January.
