Japanese drinks company Suntory intends to acquire Beam for $13.6 billion for Beam. In addition to its namesake bourbon, Beam includes Maker’s Mark, Laphroaig Scotch whisky and Courvoisier.
Suntory’s beverage empire includes Yamazaki Japanese whisky, Bowmore Scotch and Midori liqueur. The brand is becoming more popular in the U.S., though it’s probably best known for the 2003 movie ‘Lost in Translation,’ in which Bill Murray’s character shoots a Suntory commercial.
Why Beam? Suntory has been expanding aggressively overseas Suntory has been expanding aggressively overseas to counteract a shrinking market in Japan, according to a New York Times article. Beam is its biggest deal ever. The transaction is expected to close by June 30, pending approval by Beam’s shareholders. Read the full article here.
