Heineken confirms talks to buy Brazilian beer firm

By Michael Stones

- Last updated on GMT

Heineken has confirmed talks to acquire Kirin's Brazilian beer business
Heineken has confirmed talks to acquire Kirin's Brazilian beer business

Related tags Brazil

The Dutch brewing giant Heineken has confirmed talks with the Japanese group Kirin to buy its Brazilian beer business.

The brewer released a statement today (January 20), after Japanese media reports that Heineken might be considering paying about £708M for the Brazilian beer business.

Heineken said: “In response to press speculation on Kirin in Brazil, Heineken NV confirms that it is currently in discussions with Kirin Holdings Company Ltd, regarding a potential transaction in respect of Brasil Kirin Holding SA. These discussions are ongoing and there can be no certainty that an agreement will be reached.”

‘No certainty an agreement can be reached’

The brewer said further announcements would be made as appropriate.

Kirin also issued a statement today concerning the reports but neither confirmed nor denied that a deal as being discussed. Its director of group corporate communications Tetsuay Fujiwara said: “Kirin Holdings Company Limited (Kirin) notes the report in the Nikkei today that Kirin has basically agreed to sell its Brazilian subsidiary (Brasil Kirin) with Heineken.

 ​This report is not based on any comments from Kirin. As announced on September 16, whilst Kirin continues to primarily focus on the self-growth acceleration of Brasil Kirin, Kirin is also considering other alternatives, including a strategic partnership. Kirin is reviewing all options regarding a potential transaction.

Talks between the two firms follows the £79bn brewing mega merger​ last year of AB InBev and SAB Miller.

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