As we mentioned in a
previous post, the folks at Cantos Communications Ltd. have posted
an interview with InBev SA chief executive Carlos Brito talking about a possible InBev-Anheuser-Busch Cos. combination. He says plenty about the advantages and addresses concerns, but if you aren't able to watch it for yourself, here's some of what Brito had to say:
On synergies: A merged company would be better positioned to sell InBev brands in the U.S. and take A-B brands global, negotiate better deals with suppliers and distributors, and excel in an increasingly competitive market.
On foreign ownership of an American icon: The combined company's North American headquarters would be in St. Louis, A-B's hometown. Senior management of both companies would be retained, and Bud and A-B's other brands would continue to be brewed in the same breweries, by the same people using the same recipes.
On cultural integration: InBev has closed three major cross-border deals in the past eight years, and each was integrated successfully. What's important is that there be a culture of high performance.
Brito also talks about distribution, brand management and future prospects for a combined company, and the interview is well worth watching.
- Suzanne Stevens
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