Anheuser-Busch InBev is getting PR support from Brunswick Group in the U.S. as the brewing giant makes a $20.1B play to acquire Grupo Modelo, the Mexican beer giant that produces Corona.
A-B InBev, which owns more than 50% of Grupo Modelo, said it has reached a deal with the company’s controlling family to acquire the remaining stake it does not already have for $9.15 per share, a 30% premium on its June 22 stock price.
The result will bring A-B InBev to U.S. revenues of $47B, spanning 24 countries and 150,000 employees. The companies have partnered since 1993.
"Grupo Modelo has been one of our most important partners for more than 20 years and we are very pleased to evolve our long and successful relationship into this combination," said A-B InBev CEO Carlos Brito.
Brunswick senior partner Steve Lipin and partner Stan Neve in New York are supporting A-B Inbev’s communications staff, which is based in New York and Belgium.
Jennifer Shelley handles media relations for Mexico City-based Grupo Modelo, which is selling off its stake in its U.S. importer/marketer, Crown Imports, to Constellation Brands for $1.9B.
The deal has been approved by both companies’ boards.