Asahi has made a final binding offer of 2.55 billion euros to buy Italian beer brand Peroni, Dutch brand Grolsch and UK’s Meantime from UK-based SABMiller. The deal is subject to the completion of AB InBev’s acquisition of SABMiller and approval from the European Commission.
As part of bid, Asahi has also proposed to acquire the Italian, Dutch and British companies that manufacture and distribute the brands.
AB InBev has agreed to a period of exclusivity with Asahi as they review the deal.
Asahi, which is Japan’s largest brewer, said it aims to expand its growth platform in Europe and become a “global player with a distinct position”, leveraging the distribution network of the brands, maximizing synergies and increasing the presence of its flagship “Asahi Super Dry” brand.
SabMiller bought 60% of Peroni in 2003 by paying 246 million euro plus 165 million euro for the remaining 40% in 2005.