Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer and Linklaters are leading on Anheuser-Busch (AB) InBev’s proposed merger with SABMiller, which could create an £150bn valued company.
Freshfields’ corporate partner Mark Rawlinson advised AB InBev, along with London head of corporate Simon Marchant and antitrust partner John Davies, who works in the City and Brussels.
Linklaters meanwhile worked with SABMiller, with partner Nick Rumsby leading the team supported by partner Charlie Jacobs.
SABMiller has also turned to longstanding adviser Hogan Lovells, with partner Andrew Pearson leading. However, the firm’s role in the deal has not been made clear, with no formal proposal having yet been received by SABMiller.
AB InBev owns global brands such as Budweiser, Corona and Stella Artois, with SABMiller counting Bulmers, Coors, Grolsch and Peroni as some of their leading brands.
Although SABMiller confirmed it had been informed about the offer, it added that no proposal has yet been received. AB InBev also said there is no certainty the approach will result in an offer or agreement.
Background to the deal
Hogan Lovells has tended to represent SABMiller in the past, advising on its acquisition of Meantime Brewing Company, as well as takeover bid for Fosters in 2011.
In 2009, the firm lost out on a place on AB InBev’s legal panel due to its role advising rival SAB Miller, while Clifford Chance, Freshfields and Linklaters all picked up spots on the roster.
AB InBev has turned to Freshfields on a number of matters over the last few years, particularly giving antitrust advice on acquisitions such as Mexico’s Grupo Modelo.
