Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV announced the publication of the transaction documents in connection with its recommended combination with SABMiller plc (“SABMiller”). This merger will seek to capitalize on cost-saving opportunities, including downsizing and cutting thousands of jobs.
AB InBev, the maker of Budweiser, will likely cut about 3% of its workforce gradually over the next three years. According to annual reports, at the end of 2015, AB InBev had more than 150,000 employees while SABMiller has 70,000.
Leuven offices in AB InBev will remain as headquarters, with their New York position also functioning as a global management office, it is likely that SABMiller's Woking, England headquarters will encounter the most cuts and downsizing.
Defined terms used but not defined in this announcement have the meanings set out in the scheme document published by SABMiller today (the “Scheme Document”). Copies of these documents will be available, subject to certain restrictions relating to persons resident in restricted jurisdictions, on AB InBev’s website www.ab-inbev.com and on www.globalbrewer.com. The suite of transaction documents comprises documents published by each of AB InBev, SABMiller and Newbelco SA/NV (“Newbelco”) relating to each step of the implementation of the combination as set out below. The documents contain important information for the shareholders of AB InBev, SABMiller and Newbelco in relation to the combination, including details of the action to be taken by shareholders.
