AB InBev has announced this week that it has entered into a binding agreement with Asahi Group Holdings, Ltd to sell for 7.3 billion euros ($7.8 billion) its businesses in the Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, Poland, Hungary and Romania and other related assets that were owned by SABMiller plc prior to its combination with AB InBev.
This move further strengthens Asahi’s foothold in Europe after the Japanese brewer agreed to pay 2.55 billion euros for AB InBev’s Peroni and Grolsch brands earlier this year
The agreement between AB InBev and Asahi is subject to approval of Asahi as a suitable buyer by the European Commission and antitrust approval by the European Commission.
EFFAT considers this development as a potential positive news for the future of the factories and the employment in former SABMiller Central and Eastern Europe operations. EFFAT has already asked for an extraordinary meeting of the former (still operating) SABMiller EWC. EFFAT expects from AB Inbev Management a fair information and consultation process with the involvement of Asahi representatives.
Source: Bloomberg
