AB InBev ups SABMiller offer to £68.2bn
Anheuser-Busch InBev has filed yet another offer for Peroni producer SABMiller in a bold gambit which would create the largest brewer in the world.
Following the news that the brewer reportedly turned down a £66.4bn bid earlier this week, AB InBev has upped its offer to around £68.2bn.
The deal, granting SABMiller £42.15 per share in cash, represents a substantial increase upon rejected offers of £38 and £40.
The brand expressed its disappointment at the failed bids in a statement: “AB InBev is disappointed that the board of SABMiller has rejected both of these prior approaches without any meaningful engagement.”
Carlos Brito, chief executive officer of Anheuser-Busch InBev, said: "We have the highest respect for SABMiller, its employees and its leadership, and believe that a combination of our two great companies would build the first truly global beer company.
“By bringing together our rich heritage, brands and people we would provide more opportunities for consumers to taste and enjoy the world’s best beers.”
AB InBev maintains a stable of brands including Budweiser, Stella Artois and Corona whereas SABMiller produces Fosters, Grolsch, Miller, Peroni and Pilsner.
Experts from the industry speculated on the structure the resulting megabrewer could take if the deal goes through.