Asahi acquires European beers from AB InBev
Japanese beverage giant, Asahi, has acquired AB InBev’s central and eastern European assets which were previously owned by SABMiller.
The acquisition cost Asahi US $7.8 billion and covers a variety of beers sold in the Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, Poland, Hungary and Romania. Pilsner Urquell, Kozel and Tyskie beers are included in the acquisition.
South African-originated brewer, SABMiller, formerly owned the beers acquired by Asahi. In October 2015 Belgium’s AB InBev proposed to takeover SABMiler for a suspected US $108 billion.
AB InBev is the world’s largest brewer whilst SABMiller is the second largest. Asahi is Japan’s largest brewer.
In a statement issued with the acquisition announcement, Asahi said it entered into the acquisition with the aim “to establish a distinct position as a global player that leverages its strengths originating in Japan.”
AB InBev having acquired SABMiller in October 2016 follows the SABMiller acquisition of Australian Brewery, Fosters, in September 2011.
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