Japan's largest brewer has taken an equity
stake in the Philippines' largest brewer. Kirin Brewery, a
Mitsubishi company and heir to Japan's oldest beer-making
tradition, announced on December 14 that it will acquire approximately
15% of San Miguel Corporation.
San Miguel serves about 90% of the Philippine
market for beer and also has built strong market positions
in China, Vietnam, Indonesia, and other Asian nations. The
equity stake in San Miguel complements Kirin's controlling
interest in a leading Australian brewer, Lion Nathan. The
investment establishes Kirin as the preeminent brewer in Asia
and Oceania.
"Kirin" is synonymous with beer
in Japan and long since has become a favored brew among discriminating
beer drinkers around the world. The eponymous company's investment
in San Miguel positions it solidly among the small handful
of truly global brewers.
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