AB InBev and SABMiller formalize terms of deal; with MillerCoors stake to be sold

By Rachel Arthur

- Last updated on GMT

AB InBev and SABMiller formalize terms of deal; with MillerCoors stake to be sold

Related tags Molson coors Molson coors brewing company Sabmiller

AB InBev has formalized a £71bn / $107bn offer for SABMiller, which will see SABMiller’s stake in MillerCoors sold off to address regulatory issues.

AB InBev’s proposal to take over SABMiller was agreed in principle​ on October 13. However, the deadline set by UK regulators to formalize the deal was pushed back multiple times as the brewers discussed the details.

The new entity will control around 30% of beer volumes, and the need to meet regulatory approval (particularly in the US and China) is a key issue in its formation.

‘Game-changer’ for Molson Coors in the US

In a transaction valued at $12bn, SABMiller’s 58% stake in MillerCoors will be sold to Molson Coors. The agreement is conditional on AB InBev’s acquisition of SABMiller, which is expected to complete in the second half of next year.

MillerCoors was created in 2008 as a joint venture in the US by SABMiller and Molson Coors, with Molson Coors currently holding a 42% stake. By purchasing SABMiller’s stake, Molson Coors will gain full control of the operations, and retain the rights to all the brands in MillerCoors US portfolio. This includes Redd’s and import brands such as Peroni and Pilsner Urquell.

Mark Hunter, president and CEO for Molson Coors, described the deal as a ‘game-changing opportunity’ for his company. While it will strengthen Molson Coors’ position in the US beer market, the acquisition of the global Miller brand rights will also strengthen its international beer portfolio thanks to powerful American branding, he added.

‘Proactive’ approach to regulatory concerns: AB InBev

As per the agreement made in principle last month​, SABMiller shareholders will be entitled to £44 per share in cash, with a partial share alternative. The figure of £44 per share is around 50% up on SABMiller’s share price before renewed speculation about an approach from AB InBev began (£29.34 on September 14).

While Molson Coors will see its operations in the US strengthen, AB InBev CEO Carlos Brito said his eyes were set on creating ‘the first truly global beer company’ and in particular one that will bring more choices to beer drinkers in markets outside of the US.

“We are pleased to have reached this agreement with Molson Coors to divest SABMiller’s US assets; and we will continue to proactively address any regulatory concerns in other relevant markets,” ​he said.

AB InBev notes that its acquisition of SABMiller will strengthen its position in key emerging regions: with Asia, central and south America, and Africa identified as holding strong growth prospects.

It also believes the combined group can reach significant cost savings, which it emphasises could not have been achieved alone. It estimates around $1.4bn (almost £1bn) can be saved per annum. 

Related news

Related products

Analyzing the unknown threat from Microplastics

Analyzing the unknown threat from Microplastics

Content provided by Agilent Technologies | 06-Nov-2023 | Infographic

Microplastics are any plastic-derived synthetic solid particle or polymeric matrix, ranging in size from 1 µm to 5 mm and insoluble in water.

Mastering taste challenges in good-for-you products

Mastering taste challenges in good-for-you products

Content provided by Symrise | 12-Sep-2023 | White Paper

When food and beverage manufacturers reduce sugar, salt, or fat and add fibers, minerals or vitamins, good-for-you products can suffer from undesirable...

Functional Beverage Market Insights in ASPAC

Functional Beverage Market Insights in ASPAC

Content provided by Glanbia Nutritionals | 06-Jul-2023 | Product Brochure

High growth ahead for protein beverages makes Asia Pacific (ASPAC) the market to watch. Consumer research shows new usage occasions, key consumption barriers,...

The latest plant-based beverage trends in SEA

The latest plant-based beverage trends in SEA

Content provided by Tetra Pak | 27-Mar-2023 | White Paper

Data shows that consumers’ liking and thirst for plant-based beverages is growing rapidly, especially in Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines and Indonesia....

Related suppliers

Follow us

Products

View more

Webinars

Food & Beverage Trailblazers

F&B Trailblazers Podcast