In its annual report, Diageo said Guinness continued to gain market share and significantly outperform the wider beer category, building on momentum seen earlier this year when the brand helped drive third-quarter sales growth. The brand’s performance helped drive a 3.4% increase in sales across Europe, with Guinness also continuing to grow in Ireland. Globally, Guinness sales rose 12%, making it one of Diageo’s strongest-performing brands. Reflecting that success, chief executive Dave Lewis said Diageo would step up investment in Guinness. Ready-to-drink products also continued their rapid growth, with sales rising 25%.