US: Anheuser-Busch target of takeover bid?

By just-drinks.com editorial team | 11 October 2006

Anheuser-Busch has refused to be drawn on speculation linking the brewer to a takeover bid.

The US-based brewer saw its shares rise yesterday (10 October) following talk of a bid by ESL Investments, a hedge fund based in Connecticut run by billionaire investor Edward Lampert. Rumours suggested that ESL is considering a bid of US$56-per-share, which would value A-B at around US$44bn.

When contacted by just-drinks today, a spokesperson for A-B would not comment on the speculation. "It is our policy to not confirm, deny or speculate on rumours of potential investments, acquisitions, mergers, new business partnerships or other transactions," the spokesperson said.

Sectors: Beer & cider

Companies: Anheuser-Busch