AP: Japan’s Suntory to purchase Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark brands

STAFF REPORT

Monday, Jan. 13, 2014, 11:45 a.m. — The Associated Press is reporting that Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark brands have agreed to be acquired by Japan’s Suntory Holdings Ltd. for $13.62 billion.

Suntory will pay $83.50 per share, a 25 percent premium to Beam’s Friday closing price of $66.97. The companies put the deal’s value at about $16 billion, including debt.

Suntory has a portfolio of spirits that includes whisky and a variety of other spirits and beverages.

Suntory distributed Beam brands in Japan, and Beam Brands distributes Suntory products in Singapore and other Asian markets, the AP reported.

The deal requires the approval of Beam stockholders and should close in the second quarter of this year.

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