The British company Bass plc has announced it sells its UK brewing interests to Interbrew NV for 2.3 billion pounds, which in Carlsberg's opinion is an unrealistic high price.
Following the completion of due diligence of Bass' brewing activities, Carlsberg submitted an offer, which it believed to be a full and fair price for the company, reflecting Bass' current market position and the value of significant synergies with Carlsberg's UK subsidiary Carlsberg-Tetley.
In Carlsberg's opinion, the significant synergies a merger between Carlsberg's and Bass' brewing activities could not justify the unrealistically high price. Additionally, Carlsberg was concerned that the British regulatory authorities would not approve the deal unless Carlsberg sold some of its beer brands or distribution agreements.
Carlsberg is committed to remaining an important player on the British market as Carlsberg-Tetley develops successfully both economically and in the market.
For further information:
Margrethe Skov
Group Public Affairs Manager
+45 33 27 14 10