Wed, 04 May 2016 | MERGER
London-based brewer SABMiller and US drinks brand Coca-Cola have struck a deal with the South African government to merge their bottling operations in Africa.
The deal was originally agreed in principle back in November 2014, with Coca-Cola agreeing to merge its bottling assets across twelve African nations with those of SABMiller and the privately-held firm Gutsche Family Investments. The merger would generate around 40 per cent of Coca-Cola’s entire output across the continent.
As part of the deal, SABMiller — which is itself about to be acquired by Anheuser-Busch InBev NV — will hold a 57 per cent stake in a newly created company called Coca-Cola Beverages Africa. Coca-Cola itself would retain an 11.3 per cent stake, with Gutsche taking the rest of the shares.
However, the deal had been left in limbo for the last two years, due to the South African government expressing concerns over jobs in the country. But a series of concessions by both SABMiller and Coca-Cola has convinced the government to give the deal the green light.
The concessions include an agreement to keep employment levels stable for at least three years after the deal goes through, with minimal disruption to senior positions. SABMiller also pledged an agriculture and retail investment package worth £37.5 million to South Africa. Additionally, Coca-Cola will make 10 per cent of its fridge space available to smaller drinks manufacturers.
In a recent statement, Alan Clark, the chief executive of SABMiller, said: “I am very happy that we have reached this agreement and hope we now have a clear path to the conclusion of this transaction and the creation of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa.”
For more information on the subject, see the Business Sale Report resources on post merger integration.
An outsourced employment law and HR specialist offering a comprehensive range of services for clients throughout the UK.
LEASEHOLD
The company offers personalised services to a growing client base, ensuring all art mounting, conservation and restoration requirements are met by a team of highly skilled specialists. Serving museums, galleries, Government departments and private co...
LEASEHOLD
Based in north West England. The business supplies, installs and maintains high-quality window and door systems for its clients. The company has developed a strong reputation due to a proven track record of supporting its customers and local communit...
FREEHOLD
26
|
Jan
|
UK M&A down 16 per cent in 2022, but sentiment remains optimistic | BUSINESS NEWS
New analysis from PwC has revealed that UK M&A activity decl...
26
|
Jan
|
Private equity-backed law firm targeting further M&A in 2023 | BUSINESS NEWS
Stowe Family Law, a Leeds-headquartered specialist family la...
25
|
Jan
|
Eastbourne seafront hotel on the market for £2.3m | COMMERCIAL PROPERTY
The Eastbourne Riviera Hotel, located on the town’s po...
Sign up to receive our acquisition alert emails to get your FREE guide
04
|
Oct
|
Third largest merger expected as AB InBev takes over rival SABMiller | MERGER
The third largest merger is set to go ahead with Anheuser-Bu...
01
|
May
|
London brewer hoping to sell its European beer brands | MERGER
If the European Commission approves Anheuser-Busch InB...
09
|
Dec
|
New investment sought for Eco Plastics | BUSINESS SALE
Lincolnshire-based recycling firm Eco Plastics is looking fo...
Business Sale Report is your complete solution to finding great acquisition opportunities.
Join today to receive:
All this and much more, including the latest M&A news and exclusive resources