Heineken Turns Down Proposed Sale to SABMiller

AMSTERDAM — Heineken N.V. rejected an acquisition bid from SABMiller plc.

In a statement issued Sunday, The Netherlands-based beer company acknowledged it had been approached by SABMiller regarding a potential acquisition. However, after consulting with its majority shareholder, Heineken rejected SABMiller's proposal.

"The Heineken family has informed SABMiller, Heineken and Heineken Holding N.V. of its intention to preserve the heritage and identity of Heineken as an independent company," the brewer said. "The Heineken family and Heineken N.V.'s management are confident that the company will continue to deliver growth and shareholder value."

Heineken added that it does not intend to make any further public statements in relation to this announcement.

As Heineken turned down SABMiller's proposal, MarketWatch reported that Anheuser-Busch InBev NV is talking to banks about financing a possible $122-billion deal to buy global beer rival SABMiller. Citing a person familiar with the matter, the news outlet said A-B InBev isn't in active discussions with SABMiller. The company is waiting to line up its financing before making a formal approach.

Anheuser-Busch InBev is the world's largest beer brewer.

SABMiller is the second-largest brewing company in the world. The group's brand portfolio includes leading local brands such as Aguila (Colombia), Castle (South Africa), Miller Lite (United States), Snow (China), Victoria Bitter (Australia) and Tyskie (Poland), as well as global brands such as Pilsner Urquell, Peroni Nastro Azzurro, Miller Genuine Draft and Grolsch.

Heineken is the world's third-largest brewer. Its portfolio includes Heineken, Amstel, Anchor, Desperados, Dos Equis, Foster's, Newcastle Brown Ale, Strongbow and Tecate.