An American institution and icon may be no more. The family operated American company for generations have approved a merger. InBev, a Belgian brewery will acquire its arch competitor and U.S. based Anheuser-Busch.
In 2004 the company of InBev was created when the Belgian based Interbrew purchased the Latin American AmBev. The two merged and hence the name, “In-Bev.” InBev employs 86,000 people throughout the world.
When InBev does acquire Anheuser-Busch it will allow InBev to position itself as the largest brewery worldwide. The offer made is reported to be $52 billion and that will buy a lot of the foamy stuff.
Anheuser-Busch, which includes Bud Light, has been the number two brewery. InBev, which produces the brands of Becks and Stella Artois, has announced that if regulators approve the deal it is prepared to retain all the 6,000 employees and the 12 brewery sites across North America. InBev has also promised to keep St. Louis as the headquarters of the company in North America as well.
While this may sound like good news, many employees of the company are skeptical, as in recent years they have been fighting to retain their benefits packages and medical coverage. Just like candidates running for office, promises are always made initially and usually broken. Merging companies are no different from politicians and money is always the deciding factor. Most employees are doubtful that some employee cuts won't occur.
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Money is the main reason why all corporations and not just beer companies, are seeking mergers worldwide. Consolidating companies allows the larger company to save money across the board and in this world economy anything is possible.
But for now enjoy your American brewed Bud, as it may not be part of the St Louis tradition much longer. Cheers!
