UK: SABMiller, Molson Coors in talks over US bunk-up - report

By just-drinks.com editorial team | 9 October 2007

Talk of consolidation within the world's brewing industry moved up a gear today (9 October), with reports that SABMiller is in talks with Molson Coors.

The two brewers are in advanced discussions to create a joint company in the US, the Financial Times has claimed. A tie-up would lead to the creation of a company with a valuation in the region of US$10bn, the paper's website claimed, citing people close to the situation.

The deal would help SABMiller make cost savings in the US, where it is the second largest brewer behind Anheuser-Busch. Molson Coors is the third largest. Should the two companies work together in the US, SABMiller would be free to concentrate on its operations in emerging markets, the paper noted, particularly in China and Latin and South America.

No-one was immediately available to provide clarification of the reports at SABMiller or Molson Coors when contacted by just-drinks.

Sectors: Beer & cider

Companies: SABMiller, Molson Coors, Anheuser-Busch