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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
SCHEDULE 14A
(Rule 14A-101)
PROXY STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 14(a)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
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Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc.
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On July 14, 2008, August A. Busch IV, President and Chief Executive Officer Anheuser-Busch
Companies, Inc. (the Company), and David A. Peacock, Vice President-Marketing, of Anheuser-Busch,
Incorporated, participated in a teleconference, together with representatives of InBev S.A./N.V.
(InBev), concerning the announced transaction between the Company and InBev.
Set forth below is a transcript of the teleconference and the slides displayed during the teleconference:
InBev and Anheuser-Busch Agree to Combine, Creating the Global Leader in Beer
with Budweiser as its Flagship Brand (Conference Call)
CORPORATE PARTICIPANTS
Carlos Brito
InBev CEO
August Busch, IV
Anheuser-Busch President & CEO
Felipe Dutra
InBev CFO
Dave Peacock
Anheuser-Busch VP, Marketing
CONFERENCE CALL PARTICIPANTS
Marc Leemans
Bank Degroof Analyst
James Edwardes Jones
Execution Analyst
Andrew Holland
Dresdner Kleinwort Analyst
Melissa Earlam
UBS Analyst
Kris Kippers
Petercam Analyst
Carlos Laboy
Credit Suisse Analyst
Nico Lambrechts
Merrill Lynch Analyst
Chris Wickham
MainFirst Analyst
Trevor Stirling
Sanford Bernstein Analyst
Gerard Rijk
ING Wholesale Banking Analyst
PRESENTATION
Operator
Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for standing by and welcome to todays conference call to
discuss InBevs combination with Anheuser-Busch. At this time, all participants have been placed on
a listen-only mode. Following the presentation, we will open the call for a question-and-answer
session.
InBevs Chief Executive Officer, Carlos Brito, and Chief Financial Officer, Felipe Dutra, are
joined on the call today by August Busch IV, President and Chief Executive Officer of
Anheuser-Busch.
Before we begin, please note that certain statements contained in the report that are not
statements of historical facts constitute forward-looking statements notwithstanding that such
statements are not specifically identified.
Forward-looking statements are identified by words or phrases such as anticipates, estimates,
projects, believes, intends and similar words and phrases. Forward-looking statements are not
guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions, which
are difficult to predict and outside the control of the management of InBev and Anheuser-Busch.
Actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in such
forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking
statements.
Factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in the forward-looking
statements include, but are not limited to, the risk that the businesses of InBev and
Anheuser-Busch will not be integrated successfully or such integration may be more difficult,
time-consuming or costly than expected; expected revenue, synergies and cost savings from the
merger may not be fully realized or realized within the expected timeframe and may be lower than
expected; operating costs, customer loss, and business disruption following the merger, including,
without limitation, difficulties in maintaining relationships with employees may be greater than
expected; the ability to obtain governmental or regulatory approvals of the merger in the proposed
terms and schedule; the failure of shareholders of InBev or Anheuser-Busch to approve the merger;
local, regional, national and international economic conditions and the impact they may have in
InBev and Anheuser-Busch and their customers and the InBev and Anheuser-Buschs assessment of that
impact; rapid technology developments and changes; containing costs and expenses; governmental and
public policy changes; the outcome of pending and future litigation and governmental proceedings;
continued availability of financing and financial reports and the amounts at the time on the terms
required to support future businesses of the combined company.
All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements concerning the proposed transaction or
other matters and attributable to the InBev or Anheuser-Busch or any person acting on their behalf
are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements referenced above.
Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which such statements are made. InBev and
Anheuser-Busch undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events
or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of
unanticipated events.
In connection with the proposed acquisition, Anheuser-Busch and/or InBev intend to file relevant
materials with the SEC. Investors of Anheuser-Busch are urged to read the proxy statement and all
other relevant documents filed with the SEC when they become available because they will contain
important information. Investors will be able to obtain the documents for free through the SECs
website at www.sec.gov and the AB stockholders will receive information at an appropriate time on
how to obtain transaction-related documents for free from Anheuser-Busch.
InBev and Anheuser-Busch and certain of their directors and executive officers may be deemed
participants, participants in the solicitation of proxies from Anheuser-Busch stockholders in
connection with the proposed transaction. Investors may obtain information regarding the
participants in the interest of the participants by reading the proxy statement when it becomes
available. Now I would like to turn the call over to InBevs Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Carlos
Brito.
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
Thanks, Maria. Good morning, everyone. Welcome to our call. Just to confirm, we have here on
the call with us, we have August Busch, IV and Dave Peacock. Great to have you guys in here with
me, Felipe Dutra.
So before we start, let me first go through todays agenda with you. First, Ill give you a summary
of the transaction and the reasons I feel so enthusiastic about it. Well then talk a little bit
about Anheuser-Busch and our views on the reasons behind the success of this company. Next, we will
give you more details on our transaction rationale, explain the benefits of this deal in terms of
synergies, both costs and top-line, and how we plan to capture these synergies. Lastly, we will
have the opportunity to share with you in more detail our track record in delivering results in
previous business combinations before we open for questions.
In terms of transaction summary, Im very pleased to announce that Anheuser-Busch and InBev agreed
to combine forces and create Anheuser-Busch InBev, the global leader in beer and one of the five
largest consumer products companies in the world. Anheuser-Busch InBev will have a leading position
in the five largest beer markets in the world, more than double the profitability of its largest
competitor and the balanced exposure to high-growth margin markets and stable developed markets.
The combined entity will have an outstanding portfolio of leading global and local brands,
including three of the top five brands in the world Budweiser, Bud Light, and Skol. Budweiser
will become the flagship brand of the new company and will expand through the extensive footprint
InBev operates today in Europe, Latin America and Asia.
This transaction brings significant benefits for all shareholders of both companies. It provides
value neither company could have created on its own such as gold expansion Budweiser, enhancing its
Chinese market position and realizing significant cost synergies. We also firmly believe that, in a
more competitive global landscape, this transaction will create a stronger company to generate
benefits to consumers, wholesalers, communities and other stakeholders. Now Im going to turn it
over to August Busch, IV, who will share his thoughts on this combination. August?
August Busch, IV - Anheuser-Busch President & CEO
Thank you, Brito. Before Brito end Felipe take you through the financials, I wanted to briefly
comment on our new agreement. Our Board thoroughly evaluated different alternatives, but ultimately
agreed that the price of $70 per share provides full and certain value for Anheuser-Busch
shareholders and was superior to the earlier proposal. Anheuser-Busch InBev will be a global
powerhouse of brands and brings together two companies with an ideal strategic and geographic fit.
The combined business is best equipped to compete in a global industry and provide employees,
wholesalers and other stakeholders with excellent opportunities for future growth.
Let me stress that this is a friendly business agreement. Carlos Brito is a strong leader with an
ambitious plan for building this new great business. I respect him and he has my firm backing on
the operation of the future company. I am convinced we will honor his public commitments and
continue the traditions that have made Anheuser-Busch a success over many years. Now let me turn it
back over to Brito and Felipe and I would be happy to take any questions at the end of the
presentation. Thanks, Carlos.
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
Thanks, August, very kind words. You are right. I would like to stress it is a friendly
combination and we will jointly work to make this dream come true.
August Busch, IV - Anheuser-Busch President & CEO
Thank you.
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
Thanks, August. So moving on to the presentation, next section, the key transaction
highlights. The combination between these two companies will be achieved through an acquisition of
all outstanding AB shares by InBev in an all-cash offer of $70 per share, representing total equity
consideration of $52 billion. The Boards of Directors of AB and InBev unanimously recommended the
transaction. The Board of Directors of the
combined company will be comprised of existing directors
of InBev Board, Anheuser-Busch President and CEO, August Busch, IV and one other current or former
director of ABs Board. Shareholders will have an opportunity to vote on the proposed combination
at special shareholder meetings, which will be scheduled at a later date. InBevs controlling
shareholder has agreed to vote its shares of InBev in favor of the combination.
We expect the closing of the transaction by year-end following regulatory clearance. The total
transaction enterprise value amounts to $62 billion, which represents 12.4 times multiple on a 2008
expected EBITDA basis, which is in line with comparable pricing transactions in the industry. This
transaction fully complies with InBevs strict financial acquisition criteria and we expect
significant value creation through cost synergies. We estimate total cost synergies of $1.5 billion
phased in equally during the next three years.
In addition, we expect return on invested capital (inaudible) to exceed WACC in year two and the
transaction to be EPS neutral in 09 and accretive in 2010 on a normalized basis.
We go to the next slide, we will see that financing for this transaction is fully committed and
loan documents have been signed. Our consideration will be financed through a mix of debt, equity
issuance and divestitures. InBev has secured $45 billion in financing, including a $7 billion
bridge for noncore asset disposals from both companies.
Additionally, we have a $9.8 billion commitment in an equity bridge financing, which will allow the
company flexibility to choose the timing and the form of equity offering for a period of up to six
months after closing. The weighted average pretax cost of debt for this transaction will be LIBOR
plus 150, 1-5-0, basis points and financing is being provided by several leading institutions. The
annual cost of this new credit facility should be between 4.5% to 5.5% depending on our hedging
strategy going forward.
We are fully committed to maintaining strong investment-grade ratings and intend to rapidly
deleverage through strong free cash flow generation and reduce net debt to EBITDA to below two
times our leading term financial target. This cash flow generation will also be driven by our
enhanced focus on working capital improvements.
We also foresee a short-term reduction in dividend payments from the current level to support our
commitment to a rapid repayment of debt, which we expect to restore to current levels in two to
three years. Reducing the companys leverage to its historical level of below two times EBITDA is
of the highest priority of Anheuser-Busch InBevs measure.
Moving on to next section, Anheuser-Busch highlights. We feel very confident that the partnership
between AB and InBev will strengthen even further the pillars that made AB a success, the strength
of the brands, focus on product innovation, the world-class production and distribution system and
successful equity partnerships in Mexico and China.
Today, Budweiser and Bud Light are the two leading brands in the worlds largest beer profit pool.
Those brands are also the number one and number two top-selling brands worldwide. Combined with the
rest of ABs strong portfolio, they represent almost 50% share in the U.S. market, significantly
ahead of newly formed MillerCoors joint venture.
In this next slide, youll see that ABs strong portfolio is also comprised not only of Budweiser
and Bud Light, but also the number one brands across all remaining segments of the U.S. beer
market.
AB has a strong pipeline of innovations and its recently launched products have been delivering
outstanding results. Bud Light Lime, LandShark, and Chelada have been very well-received by the
U.S. consumer and have captured almost two percentage points of marketshare in 2008.
AB operates a very efficient footprint of 12 breweries across the United States providing
geographical proximity of production to end markets. Together with the highly dedicated, mostly
exclusive wholesaler network, this has created a strong foundation for growth.
AB has made selected equity investments in very successful companies and attractive markets. AB
owns an approximately 50% economic stake in Grupo Modelo, the leading beer play and the third
largest beer profit pool in the world Mexico. AB also holds a 27% stake in Tsingtao, Chinas
leading premium beer. China is the worlds largest and fastest-growing beer market and an important
element of ABs international growth strategy.
Now if we move to the next section, were going to talk a little about transaction rationale.
Talking about the transaction rationale for this transaction, we clearly see it is a natural next
step of a successful long-term relationship between InBev and Anheuser-Busch. Anheuser-Busch and
InBevs partnership dates back to 1980 with the signing of an agreement between Anheuser-Busch and
Labatt Breweries for the sale and
distribution of Budweiser in Canada. This has been a very
successful partnership has allowed Budweiser to become the number one beer in Canada and Bud Light
to become the fastest-growing beer brand today. AB and InBevs partnership has been extended to
South Korea where Budweiser is twice the size of the largest international competitor.
In 2006, AB and InBev signed an important distribution agreement through which AB becomes the
exclusive importer of InBevs import brands in the U.S. Today, AB has fully integrated in its
portfolio of brands such as Stella Artois, Becks, Bass, Hoegaarden and Leffe. Most recently, AB
and InBev joined forces in the Dominican Republic.
The foundation for a collective success is based on a set of shared core values, such as no
compromise attitude towards quality, heritage and traditions, a commitment to long-term
brand-building and socially and environmentally responsible policies.
Moving to the next slide, youll see that Anheuser-Busch InBev will become one of the worlds top
five consumer companies, joining the ranks of highly respected and global companies such as PepsiCo
and P&G. In EBITDA terms, the combined business would rank in third place in global consumer
companies.
This combination is transformational for the industry and provides Anheuser-Busch InBev with an
undisputed position in the global beer industry, both in terms of size and profitability.
Anheuser-Busch InBev will achieve the combined global marketshare of 26% in terms of volume by
combining both companies complementary footprints.
Anheuser-Busch InBev had pro forma volume of 460 million hectoliters, revenues of EUR26.6 billion
and an EBITDA of EUR7.8 billion on a pro forma basis in 2007. The pro forma EBITDA margin of the
combined entity is 29.4%, which is similar to the margin InBev had in its first full year following
the merger between Interbrew and AmBev and 500 basis points lower than InBevs current EBITDA
margins.
In addition to Anheuser-Busch InBev becoming a clear global leader, it will have a leading position
in three of the five largest markets in the world and three of the top five largest brands
worldwide. In China, the worlds largest and fastest-growing beer market, Anheuser-Busch InBev will
become double the size of InBev or AB on a stand-alone basis. As you all know, ABs market-leading
position in the U.S. provides even further growth opportunities for some of InBevs import brands
through a full alignment behind long-term growth and providing the opportunity of further portfolio
expansion. In Russia, Brazil and Germany, InBevs strong presence provides long-term growth
opportunities for the expansion of Budweiser and Bud Light.
Anheuser-Busch InBevs strong position [in niche], these top five global beer markets will be
supported by a strong portfolio of brands that is unmatched in the industry. In the import premium
segment, Budweiser becomes the flagship brand, taking a central role in a portfolio composed by
Stella Artois and Becks. In these [five] markets, we will also have a leading position in the
local premium segment with local juice such as Tsingtao, our partner brand, Michelob, Siberian
Crown, Bohemia and Becks.
Global brands and local jewels will be supported by strong leaders such as Harbin and Sedrin in
China, Bud and Bud Light in the U.S., Klinskoye and Tolstiak in Russia, Brahma Skol, Antarctica in
Brazil, and Hasseroeder and Franziskaner in Germany.
Moving to the next slide, when we compare the combined pro forma numbers of the company to its
largest competitor, Anheuser-Busch InBev will be over 60% larger in terms of volumes and revenues
and more than 140% in EBITDA terms.
The complementarity of our geographical footprints will provide leadership positions in key
geographies, including, number one in both North America and Latin America and number two in Europe
and Asia. We will continue to have balanced exposure to high-growth developing markets and cash
flow generative developed markets, become the most diversified player in the beer industry.
The combined business would have a 57%/43% split between developed and developing markets in
revenues and a well-balanced 47%/53% split in operating profit, all on a 2007 pro forma basis. Our
complementarity geographic footprint will provide a natural hedge against various economic cycles
and currency fluctuations, resulting in a stronger, more dynamic and resilient player.
Im going to talk about the benefits of the transaction. We believe this combination will deliver
substantial costs and top-line synergies. After learning more about ABs Blue Ocean plan, we feel
confident that this plan can be fully delivered as planned by ABs management team. There
are also incremental cost synergies that AB could not deliver on a stand-alone basis, which will
add an additional $450 million EBITDA by year 2011.
So our plan is to build on the Blue Ocean plan to deliver a total estimated cost synergy of at
least $1.5 billion by year 2011. We also see great potential for top-line synergies, mainly arising
from the expansion of the flagship brand, Budweiser, worldwide and also from cross-selling
opportunities in China in exchange of best practices in sales and marketing. However, given the
intrinsic executional risk nature of top-line synergies, we decided not to include any of them in
our financial projections at this time.
We just mentioned we have had discussions with ABs management on Blue Ocean and we have carefully
reviewed the underlying actions required to achieve the savings. The plan was built on a very
detailed bottom-up analysis and we are comfortable that working together we will be able to deliver
the results.
On this slide, we show some details on the areas of savings. The majority of the savings have been
identified in the areas of cost of goods sold and G&A that will result in savings of $730 million
by 2011. Products related to the savings are, for example, (inaudible) best practice benchmark
emphasized throughout ABs production facilities, supply chain and material efficiency.
As part of Blue Ocean, AB management has announced an attractive early retirement program that is
expected to lead to savings of about $150 million by 2011. Estimated one-time charges related to
this program are about $300 million. Further savings will come from debt reductions in
nonsalary-related overhead functions in IT spending, which will lead to savings of $215 million by
2011.
In addition to the savings projected by AB, we believe that the cost synergies in China,
procurement opportunities given our scale, elimination of overlapping corporate functions and the
implementation of cost management best practice, we will be able to exceed these cost savings
communicated by AB by about $450 million in 2011. In total, we believe that we will achieve at
least $1.5 billion pretax annual run rate cost savings by 2011.
China, the worlds largest and fastest-growing beer market, is another example of how we can
leverage our strengths and deliver top-line synergies. Our presence in the Southeast complements
ABs market reach in the Northeast, resulting in an immediate potential for cross-selling
opportunities between Budweiser and InBevs brands.
Moving to the next slide, our intentions to make Budweiser our flagship brand and aggressively
pursue international expansion. Again, given the execution risks inherent to any top-line
synergies, we have been conservative and have not included any synergies arising from Budweiser
expansion in our plans.
Our partnerships in Canada, Korea, Latin America show the great potential that Budweiser has
outside of the U.S. Our [cost nets] in the international (inaudible) for Budweiser relies on three
pillars the strength of our operations outside the U.S., the recognition of position of the
Budweiser brand and our track record in building global brands.
In terms of footprint, InBev is the market leader in more than 19 markets where Budweisers
presence is very limited, but where InBev can offer superior distribution capability. These
countries include, for example, Brazil, Belgium and Ukraine.
The second factor that gives us confidence in the expansion of Budweiser is its strong global brand
recognition position. Given global sponsorship is a leading position in the U.S., the Budweiser
brand enjoys high levels of awareness, even in countries where it does not operate, which provides
a fertile ground for the brand introduction expansion.
Budweiser has a very aspirational and universal position that our research has proven to be very
appealing to consumers around the globe. Expansion of Budweiser will allow us to fully exploit the
potential global sponsorships such as football, World Cup. InBev has a track record in transforming
local jewels into global brands. Stella Artois is a good example, a local brewer in Belgium, to
becoming recognized as a global reference for genuine work in more than 80 countries. Stella Artois
today sells 10 million hectoliters worldwide and during the last decade has become the favorite
premium brand in the UK. It is also one of the fastest-growing import brands in the U.S. and
Canada.
In Argentina, the brand was launched in 2007 and has already reached 32% share of the premium
segment, overtaking Heineken as the number one import brand in the country. Becks is another
example of how we have used InBevs footprint to transform a local jewel into a global brand. As
the number one beer brand in Germany, Becks has transformed into Germanys number one export brand
after the combination between Interbrew and Becks in the year 2002. Today, Becks has 7.5 million
hectoliters in sales and is present in more than 120 countries.
Our track record, together with the opportunity to leverage our footprint and the position in
recognition of the Budweiser brand makes us comfortable that we will be able to achieve significant
incremental Budweiser volumes. As a reference, a 1% incremental marketshare arising from the
expansion of Budweiser in InBevs top 10 markets alone would translate into an annual volume of
more than 10 million hectoliters.
In addition to cost synergies, we believe this transaction can add substantial value through the
exchange of best practices in sales, distribution, marketing and corporate social responsibility.
Both Anheuser-Busch and InBev have disciplined programs of sales and marketing execution that can
be combined to achieve the ultimate World Class Commercial Program.
In innovation, both companies have had recent successes such as Bud Light Lime and PerfectDraft in
Europe. There is a clear opportunity to cross-fertilize and create real global platforms for
product innovation.
Finally, we see a substantial upside in combining the corporate social responsibility practice of
AB, elected the second most admired company in the U.S. and InBev, elected the number one
value-added beverage company in Europe. Together, we believe we can do much more to achieve our
dream of becoming the best beer company in a better world.
I would now like to move to talk a little bit about InBevs track record of business combinations,
InBevs history, the history of successful combinations and integrations. InBevs recent M&A
activity starts in 1987, with the combination of Jupiler and Stella Artois in Belgium. Since then,
Interbrew combined with Labatts, the leading brewer in Canada in 1985 and Becks, the leading
brewer in Germany in 2002.
AmBev was also originated by the merger between the number one and number two players in Brazil in
the year 2000, followed by a combination with Quilmes, the number one brewer in Argentina, Uruguay,
Paraguay and Bolivia in 2002. The creation of InBev in 2004 by itself is a demonstration of our
track record in integrating companies to deliver shareholder value.
Moving onto the next page, we will see that the InBev transaction shows our ability to deliver
substantial synergies in transactions with limited geographical overlap. In this transaction,
synergies were mainly driven in the procurement, the exchange of best practice and cross-licensing
and we are able to deliver well above expectations in a shorter timeframe.
In 2004, InBev publicly shared its dream of achieving 30% EBITDA margin by 2007. In reality,
InBevs EBITDA margin went from 24.7% on a pro forma basis in 2004 to 34.6% in 2007 and we achieved
our dream in 2006, one year ahead of schedule.
The InBev transaction generated substantial value for shareholders of both companies over the last
three years. This period shares of both InBev and AmBev have more than doubled. We believe that the
main driver of performance in combining and integrating companies relies on an early commitment to
a single and unique culture based on the principles of ownership, meritocracy and disciplined
execution that are fully translated into tools and processes and live day in and day out.
Our track record in synergy delivery can be better exemplified by taking the example of Canada. In
Canada, EBITDA margin went from 32.5% to 42.1%, a 10 percentage point margin increase in three
years. Despite adverse inflationary pressures, 90% of projected synergies were realized in less
than two years, operational costs on a hectoliter basis had decreased by 36.2%. Results similar to
what we delivered in Canada were also achieved in other developed markets.
Moving to the next slide, if we have a look back at the three main M&A transactions for the
creation of InBev, we can see how we have performed against our commitments, not only in captured
cost synergies, but also in growing the business.
In 2000, during the merger of Brahma and Antarctica in Brazil, we were committed to creating a
stronger company to compete internationally. Two years after the combination, AmBev was able to
combine with Quilmes and expand to Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Bolivia and Chile. Following the
combination with Quilmes, AmBev expanded even further to Central America and finally combined with
Interbrew in the year 2004.
In 2002, Interbrew acquired Becks and committed to transform Becks into a global brand. In 2006,
Becks became the number one German export brand and reached the milestones of 120 countries. Since
this transaction, Becks has been growing at double-digit rates annually.
In 2002, AmBev also joined forces with Quilmes and committed to synergies of approximately 30% of
the combined EBITDA of the companies. In probably one of the most value accretive transactions of
InBevs history, Quilmes EBITDA increased by more than six times since the combination in which
more than half can be directly attributed to the effects of the transaction.
Having talked about the benefits for all shareholders in this transaction, I would also like to say
why I believe this transaction is positive for all the stakeholders involved. Consumers can be
assured that we will maintain and strengthen what makes Bud the great American lager. As a
combination of local brewers ourselves, we are highly committed to the heritage, traditions and
product quality, which is, at the end, what makes
our brands what they are. We also intend to
expand Budweiser to consumers all over the globe to provide them with the opportunity to make this
iconic brand their favorite brand too.
Given ABs efficient production footprint in the U.S., all U.S. breweries will remain open and we
count on the full support of the wholesalers and their three tier system to continue delivering
outstanding results. St. Louis will be the headquarters of our North American operations and will
be made global home for expansion of the flagship Budweiser brand. We will maintain the Pestalozzi
Street Brewery and other traditions that are part of the soul of Anheuser-Busch such as Grants
Farm and the Clydesdales.
Our dream is to become the best beer company in a better world by bringing together the best
practices of each company for employees, communities, and the environment into a global platform.
We believe we can achieve more than either company could do on its own.
Just wanted to finalize by saying that we are very excited about this transaction. It is the dream
of our management and a transformational deal that shapes the industry creating a global beer
the global leader in beer. The potential synergies identified will allow us to create value for
shareholders, stakeholders involved. We look forward to completing this transaction as fast as
possible, to have management teams working together and focus our efforts on selling our brands,
which is what we know and like and love to do best. Thank you. I will now open for questions.
Please, Maria.
QUESTION AND ANSWER
Operator
(OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS). Marc Leemans, Bank Degroof.
Marc Leemans - Bank Degroof Analyst
Good afternoon or good morning, gentlemen. Congratulations with this transaction. A few
questions, if I may. If I look at the final page of the [one that last] on the presentation,
were looking at the capital increase of roughly $9.8 billion. Is that correct?
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
Yes, that correct.
Marc Leemans - Bank Degroof Analyst
Okay, could you give me some more detail on the divestitures of noncore assets? I think the
entertainment business will be sold. Perhaps also the packaging, but probably also other stuff,
perhaps within InBev.
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
Yes, at this point, we have, of course, alternatives that we identified through the process
and were going to communicate that in due course.
Marc Leemans - Bank Degroof Analyst
All right, perhaps one last, if I may. You say the dividend will be (inaudible). Does that
mean you will not pay any dividend for the next coming two or three years or will that go back to,
lets say, EUR0.72, which you paid in 2006?
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
Yes, our dividend policy anticipates a minimum dividend of 25% and then as we go back to the
previous levels, that is about the expected payment during the first two to three years and after
that, we should resume to the current levels.
Marc Leemans - Bank Degroof Analyst
All right. Thank you very much.
Operator
James Edwardes Jones, Execution.
James Edwardes Jones - Execution Analyst
Yes, good morning, guys, three questions if I may, very quickly. First when you took when
AmBev combined with Interbrew, the cost savings that were identified then were about EUR140
million, which is equivalent to about 2% of Interbrews revenues. What is so different this time
that
you think you can get savings equivalent to about 8% of Anheuser-Buschs revenues? Second, I think
between the debt and the equity bridge financing, you have got financing in place of about $54.8
billion for an acquisition of $52 billion. What is the gap between the two? Whats happened with
that $2.8 billion?
Finally can I just confirm, I think I heard you say that the coupon on the net debt was going to be
4.5%. Im not sure how that reconciles with LIBOR of about 5.8% plus another 175 basis points. Is
it a pre- and post-tax number or something like that?
Felipe Dutra - InBev CFO
Let me start then from the coupon, your last question we set between 4.5% and 5.5%. We see the
six-month LIBOR around 2.7%. Then you add 150 basis points on top of that. The three-year swap into
6 at LIBOR is more towards 4%. That is the range that is pretax.
Then the difference between EUR54.8 billion and the EUR52 billion, there is an extra page on the
presentation at the appendix reconciling the numbers, but I would say up front the difference is
for us to deal with the AB debt to be refinanced at needs. That is about EUR1.3 billion and the
fees related to this transaction, which is around another EUR1.3 billion.
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
James, on the first question this is Brito we see this time an enlarged opportunity
given a couple of things. First, when we did Interbrew/AmBev, youre talking about three countries
and then, of course, theres different implications when you talk about focus and scale. Here, we
are talking about, of course, many countries, but mainly one country, the U.S., which will be our
main country with very, very good marketshare position, very strong brands and the great scale in
one geography. So a lot of focus, a lot of scale in one location, which we like very much, the
(inaudible) we like a lot.
Second, this transaction gives us an unheard scale in terms of our industry. So its something that
we we see opportunities that before we couldnt see in terms of suppliers, partnerships and
different things we can do with the kind of scale that we will get at the closing. And I think,
first and foremost, the Blue Ocean plan. I mean we have been in meetings for the last three days
with Anheuser-Busch top management. We have to say we are very impressed on how bottom-up detailed
that plan was and that gives us a lot of confidence because, of course, at this point, they know
the business much better than we do and with the skill sets we have from previous integrations, we
think we can do even more than we had previously in our plan. So that is why, this time, it is
different than the other times.
James Edwardes Jones - Execution Analyst
Got it. Thank you very much.
Operator
Simon Hales, Dresdner Kleinwort.
Andrew Holland - Dresdner Kleinwort Analyst
Its actually Andrew Holland here. Just a couple of questions, if I may. Can you remind us
where you dont have or Anheuser doesnt have control of the Bud brand and how youll get that back
from licensees and contract brewers? Secondly, have you have any discussions with regulators about
getting the deal approved? Thirdly, can you just take us through the tax rate and WACC sorry
the tax rate you have used for your ROIC and the WACC that youre using in that calculation?
Felipe Dutra - InBev CFO
Yes, Felipe, here. The WACC we are using for this transaction is the 7.75%, despite being too
early to anticipate the expected effective tax rate for this deal as we still have to work together
and put in place the pro forma IFRS financials. However, it is fair to assume that that number
should be between 25%, 27%. As soon as we have a more precise number, we will be sharing it with
the market, but 25%, 27% is a good estimate at this stage.
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
Andrew, on the first question I guess it was the first question in terms of Budweiser,
we have here a great year for Europe and Europe out of the 35 countries, in 16, we can use the name
Budweiser. In the other 16 in 15 others, we can use the name Bud. In two others, we can use
Anheuser-Busch Bud, and in just in two very small ones, we can use Anheuser-Busch [B]. So in most
of the countries, yes, we can use Budweiser and/or Bud. That for us is great because those are the
two names that are recognized by consumers around the world Budweiser and Bud, so thats great.
Andrew Holland - Dresdner Kleinwort Analyst
Sorry, there was just one, whether you have had any discussions with regulators to get an idea
of how easily you will get this through approved by regulators.
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
Yes, Andrew, regulations, were going to start now that we have signed. We going to start
talking to them and we have all the paperwork ready to file. We dont foresee, given that this is a
deal about complementary footprints, not about overlapping, we dont foresee any major issues. Of
course, we have to go through the process and again, we have all the paperwork and we will have the
cooperation from AB, of course, in terms of data and everything.
Andrew Holland - Dresdner Kleinwort Analyst
Okay, thank you.
Operator
Melissa Earlam, UBS.
Melissa Earlam - UBS Analyst
Good afternoon. A couple of questions, please. First of all, could you give us an update on
the status of your discussions with Grupo Modelo? Secondly, could you just talk a little bit more
about working capital savings that you might be planning because obviously you have had a lot of
success in your own fiscal year on these? Would this be incremental to the $1.5 billion that you
are guiding to for cost synergies and how big, if its incremental, can we expect that this might
be? Finally, just to clarify one point, the deal WACC youre using, did you say 7.75%? Thanks.
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
For Modelo, let me tell you this. We have had some very positive discussions with them the
last few days. We see a great future, a great partnership that we could build together. We are very
excited about this opportunity. We think we can be great partners and we dont believe, at this
point, that this will constitute in any way any impediment to the deal were talking about today.
Felipe Dutra - InBev CFO
So let me take your question related to working capital. No, we are not accounting for any
potential working capital gains as part of the $1.5 billion of synergies. That is why we said at
least $1.5 billion. I am thinking InBev has been increasing the focus and in priority in terms of
working capital management since last year. We delivered great results in moving from a positive
working capital into a negative working capital scenario when we look at that number as a
percentage of net sales. It is modestly negative, but we like to benchmark a lot. We see Reckitt
Benckiser out there doing much better than we do, which drives a lot of excitement in terms of
things we could do better.
We see AB is very good in working capital management as well and we will be exchanging our best
practices, focusing on delivering working capital improvements as a way to quickly deleverage the
company. I would say that as part of the Blue Ocean plan as was announced by AB, a kind of $200
million improvement in CapEx expenditures over time. That number is not included into the $1.5
billion and as it drives cash impact as part of value creation for this whole transaction. Finally
the question on cost of capital, yes, its 7.75%, confirming that number.
Melissa Earlam - UBS Analyst
Thank you.
Operator
Kris Kippers, Petercam.
Kris Kippers - Petercam Analyst
Yes, good morning, thanks for taking my call. I had a small question regarding the savings of
$1.5 billion at least. Could you state something more on what would be the best case scenario in
this case? Also another question regarding the fact that the Budweiser cross-selling is not in
there. What are your cross-selling targets? Do you have calculated them? Could you elaborate a
little bit on that? Also, on the one-off costs, could you give some more details on that? Thank
you.
Felipe Dutra - InBev CFO
The $1.5 billion, that is our number, our target, our commitment for the next three years, so
that is the number we should achieve by the year 2011. We have delivered on prior commitments, so
we are very confident about these numbers, especially after seeing Blue Ocean, which, again, is a
great program that they put together and theyve been working on that for quite a while.
On the second question sorry you asked also about top line. On top line, we decided that, at
this point, to take the view to have a more conservative view. Again, weve always said we see lots
of synergies in terms of cross-selling brands, our brands, but especially Budweiser, the flagship
brand, across to our footprints. I think its a great opportunity. Budweiser has done a great job
in North America and in China. Now with our footprint, I think we can do what they have done so
successfully in these markets, also Canada and Mexico, and so many other countries. But at this
point, taking a conservative view, we decided not to include in the $1.5 billion, but it is in our
plans, internal plans.
Kris Kippers - Petercam Analyst
Could you also elaborate on the third question regarding one-off costs?
Felipe Dutra - InBev CFO
One-off costs, AB already anticipated one-off costs of about $300 million. We believe that
number could be slightly higher. We are conservatively taking a range between $400 million to $600
million of our valuation money.
Kris Kippers - Petercam Analyst
Okay, thank you.
Operator
Carlos Laboy, Credit Suisse.
Carlos Laboy - Credit Suisse Analyst
Good morning or good afternoon. Two questions, one, Brito, do you want the other 50% of
Modelo? Does this deal constitute a fundamental business disagreement with Modelo? The second topic
I wanted to touch on relates to the U.S. We all know that you have to abide by a three tier
structure. It is a matter of law. But my question is different. It is what is your long-term vision
of both the size of ABs distributor network? Are there too many distributors and of the current
distributor support spending levels?
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
Carlos, in terms of Modelo, again, it is support that wed love to have. We have had very good
discussions with them in the last few days. We think there is a great opportunity, great upside for
us and them. Corona is a great brand to be also expanded through our footprint if they so wish. We
are partners when the transaction closes. Of course, we intend to work in that fashion with them
and so we see a great future. So at this point, were talking to them. Conversations have been in
very good grounds and I think it is sort of a great partnership going forward. So we are very
excited and we respect them a lot, what they did with their brand and what their business in Mexico
and the U.S. is just amazing. So very excited to be able to be in contact with them now.
In terms of the distribution system, we recognize that the wholesalers in the U.S., the AB
wholesalers, are an integral part of the way AB was able to build this great business and great
brands in the U.S., which support fully the three tier system. It is a great system. It works. You
talk to owners, to wholesalers that have been in the business for generations and Carlos, you have
known us for a long time. Ownership for us, its a key principal in our culture and we like to talk
to owners because theyre worried about the short term, but mainly theyre worried about the long
term. Being a brand-building company, we love to work with people, business partners, that worry
about and invest in the long term. So we like this relationship a lot.
I have learned from the early days in the 90s when we did a lot of benchmark with AB and the way
they manage their wholesaler system, they way they interacted with the wholesaler panel, a very
important piece of the whole relationship, and we have transplanted that, you know that, to some of
the countries we operate like Brazil and now Belgium and other countries. So we respect that. We
think its a very strong pillar and we have no intention to change that. We think it is one of the
things that really gives AB its strength in the system.
Carlos Laboy - Credit Suisse Analyst
Thanks. Congratulations, Brito.
Operator
Nico Lambrechts, Merrill Lynch.
Nico Lambrechts - Merrill Lynch Analyst
Carlos, three questions. Could you confirm the combined entity tax rate? You said 25% to 27%.
Would it be correct that I imply that the tax rate for Anheuser-Busch U.S. would then be 32% and
how do you achieve such a low tax rate?
Felipe Dutra - InBev CFO
That implies the InBev one being between the 20% and 22% and the 25% to 27%, yes, it is
confirmed. It is part of the way that we will be structured in terms of where the debt will be
placed and thats it. Were not anticipating any potential goodwill deductibility for tax purposes,
not at all.
Nico Lambrechts - Merrill Lynch Analyst
At the moment, it does not include any goodwill deductibility, but there is a potential that
that ?
Felipe Dutra - InBev CFO
No, well, there is nothing close. There is no plan at this stage to benefit from that. If we
see a window of opportunity in the future, we will evaluate, but it is not part of the plan. I also
said that now we have to work together and put in place the financials under IFRS. As soon as we do
that, we will refresh the number to the market, but currently 25% to 27% is a fair assumption.
Nico Lambrechts - Merrill Lynch Analyst
Would most of the debt be in U.S. dollars and within the Anheuser-Busch operating entity?
Felipe Dutra - InBev CFO
Well, based on our risk management [post] approach, we have been managing the debt, the
currency exposure in line with the cash flow generation. Then we should have a balanced this
credit facility will be withdrawn in U.S. dollars and then we will manage through its swaps or
forward agreements in order to keep the balance between cash flow generation and outstanding debt
in terms of currency profile.
Nico Lambrechts - Merrill Lynch Analyst
Excellent. Then, Felipe, the range for the cost of debt that you guys 4.5% to 5.5%, would
the debt at the current LIBOR be at the low end of that and the range is taking into account
potential increases in interest rates? Is that correct?
Felipe Dutra - InBev CFO
No, this range is for the $45 billion credit facility. There is a bridge to disposal as part
of that facility. Therefore, lets say the residual (inaudible) debt should be around $38 billion.
The range were giving if we keep this debt fully floating and based on the six-month LIBOR of
2.7%, then youll get to the lower end of this range. Then if we put a swap into to fix it, a
three-year swap around 4%, then we go to the upper range, to the upper side of this range. And then
it will depend a lot on the hedge or strategy. But based on our approach, it is fair to assume that
at least 25% of this debt will be fully swapped and to fix it. Then you can get to your own
estimate in terms of blending.
Nico Lambrechts - Merrill Lynch Analyst
Okay, understood. So if it is fully flexible floating, it will be at 4.5%? If it is fully
fixed and swaps are in place, it will be 5.4%?
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
Thats it. You got it.
Nico Lambrechts - Merrill Lynch Analyst
Got it. In terms of the equity raising, will it be in the form of a rights issue and would the
existing investors participate in that rights issue?
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
Well, the structure we put in place right now gives us full flexibility in terms of form of
the equity. Meaning in other words, between now and up to six months after closing, we can do one
or more than one transaction. Rights issue, it is the natural one. But were not excluding
potential mandatory convertible and/or accelerated book building at this stage given the full
support from this (inaudible) to this transaction. It is fair also to assume that (inaudible) will
bring new money. Meaning in other words, if rights is the issue, they will not only adopts a [tale
swallowing] strategy, but will bring some new money to the table, reducing the equity needs.
Nico Lambrechts - Merrill Lynch Analyst
Okay, understood. Then in terms of the disposed businesses, is it possible to give an
indication of the EBIT that will be associated with that or if you can give an EBIT multiple or an
EBITDA multiple so that we know what to strip out?
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
Not at this stage, Nico. We set a clear criteria for that, being a nonstrategic asset, but
also in terms of avoiding a significant tax leakage. The $7 billion for disposal is already after
tax. We put together a list of potential assets from InBev and from AB. But no, unfortunately, at
this stage, there is nothing I could anticipate in terms of implied multiple and/or related EBITDA.
Nico Lambrechts - Merrill Lynch Analyst
Then a final question. In your financial calculations, have you basically based your return on
invested capital, etc., on you fully consolidated mainly Anheuser-Busch business? If you did that,
what value did you strip out in, sorry, Modelo and Tsingtao?
Felipe Dutra - InBev CFO
We use the market value for both.
Nico Lambrechts - Merrill Lynch Analyst
Latest market values?
Felipe Dutra - InBev CFO
Yes.
Nico Lambrechts - Merrill Lynch Analyst
Okay, thank you very much.
Operator
Chris Wickham, MainFirst.
Chris Wickham - MainFirst Analyst
I was just wondering, like Nico, if I could just ask you a quick four. Just in terms of due
diligence and conversations, I just wonder what portion of the distributors you talked to and
including also what was the response from control states? I was wondering perhaps also if you could
just talk a bit about the apparent shift between an element of hostility in some of the sort of
proposed Board changes that youve put out and the now friendly nature of the deal? Is that just
simply to do with the change in price? Third one, I was just wondering on the $360 million of these
cost synergies, what portion of that $360 million is ZBB and VPO synergies or do we capture some of
those already in the Blue Ocean?
Then finally, Im just wondering what your approach is going to be going forward towards
marketshare management and your expectations on pricing. Clearly there is quite a severe downward
movement in pricing. Theres quite heavy discounting in 2005 and it has been quite a lot of hard
work for the industry to recover from that. I am just wondering what approach youd like to have
towards pricing, whether it might differ from the existing or the experience we have in the past
three to four years. Thank you and congratulations.
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
Thanks. In terms of our engagement with their Board and now at the top management of AB,
again, we are very happy that this transaction turned out to be a friendly one. We believe together
we can achieve much more. I think the thing to understand here, Chris, is that we have been
partners with AB for 28 years, since 1980. So weve known their top management. We respect them. We
like what they do. And I think from what they told us, they also shared some of the same feelings.
So I think, of course, in terms of procedure, sometimes you go one way or the other, but weve
always said since the beginning that our preferred way would be the friendly, negotiated way in the
engagement of their Board and top management. Im very happy to say that we are so glad when a
couple days ago were able to sit down because, again, we have known each other for so many years
and talk about the future as opposed to other things. So were very happy with that. I dont know,
August, if you want to add to that from your side or Dave?
Dave Peacock - Anheuser-Busch VP, Marketing
This is Dave Peacock. Yes, we met for the last few days with Brito and his team and we were
very impressed with the dialogue and the commitment, as Brito says, to the future. The belief and
confidence they have in the Blue Ocean plan and really our entire five-year plan that we shared
with them that included both top line and Blue Ocean really reassured us at this was a good
combination for us.
And to speak real quick I know, Chris, you asked about distributors in control states and I know
obviously InBev has some relationships through our import agreement with distributors. We obviously
have been talking with distributors. I think Brito said it best. There is a strong reinforcement to
the three tier system and they have reassured us and I believe in what theyre saying that that is
going to continue.
And as control states is not really an issue within the beer industry in the United States, it is
more of a liquor and wine issue, we, except for one county in Maryland called Montgomery County, go
through independent distributors in just about every market. There is not a controlled state
situation like you see in the liquor industry here in the U.S. So that is not relevant necessarily
to the discussion, but I think Brito said it best that we are very committed to going forward,
working closely, and insuring that we deliver on the plan that weve communicated.
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
Thanks, Dave. In terms of prices, since we are in the period between signing and closing, I
would rather not comment on that subject.
Felipe Dutra - InBev CFO
Finally on synergies, we see ZBB and VPO as best practices in managing fixed and vertical
costs. Were not making a distinction here other than saying, well, were confident that the Blue
Ocean synergies will be captured based on the AB plan. We see some additional ones, that $360
million that was referred to in our slides. That is coming primarily from procurement efficiencies,
bigger scale, elimination of our corporate overlapping for the [flagships] and then some cost
management best practices that are related to VPO and ZBB that, in total, should lead to at least
$1.5 billion. But it is all inked into that number.
Chris Wickham - MainFirst Analyst
Sorry, just to clarify, not all of the $360 million is VPO and ZBB, then?
Felipe Dutra - InBev CFO
No, no, no because naturally, as you implement both programs, you should drive some of the
cost savings that were already considered as part of the Blue Ocean.
Chris Wickham - MainFirst Analyst
Okay, thats great. Thank you very much indeed.
Operator
Trevor Stirling, Sanford Bernstein.
Trevor Stirling - Sanford Bernstein Analyst
Good afternoon, Brito, Felipe. Two quick questions. The first one, you may not be in a
position to answer this, but as part of the equity issue, would you consider a new U.S. equity
issue as part of the fund raising?
The second thing in terms of competition clearance issues, clearly thisll have to go through the
U.S. Department of Justice. Outside the U.S., would I be right in thinking that the UK is one where
clearly there will be a material change with 18 adding in the AB will make a material change
that likely will need consideration by the UK authorities?
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
I think we will have to evaluate the U.S. listing going forward. I would say today it is not
the main priority. The main priority is to get this deal closed and being able to move as fast as
possible in terms of the successful integration and assuring synergies will be captured.
Felipe Dutra - InBev CFO
Trevor, in terms of your second question and what were going to do as we do in the U.S. is
that were going to do all the customary filings across the world where we dont see any
significant issue at this point because again its all about complementarity and not overlapping.
Trevor Stirling - Sanford Bernstein Analyst
Okay, thank you very much.
Operator
Gerard Rijk, ING Wholesale Banking.
Gerard Rijk - ING Wholesale Banking Analyst
Three questions. First about the restatement of the profits of Anheuser-Busch to IFRS, which
direction do you expect? Is that upwards or is that downwards?
Second question is about the phasing of the savings of the $1.5 billion that is in three years
time, but can you give a phasing in year one, year two and in year three?
The third question is on Modelo because I think that has become not really clear whether Modelo has
the right to buy back that mix of 50% stake now held by Anheuser-Busch because of this bit and
against which conditions?
Felipe Dutra - InBev CFO
Let me then start from the savings. We are assuming a linear capture for the savings,
one-third, one-third, one-third. We have all the incentives in place to accelerate that, but I
think that a fair assumption for your model.
In terms of accounting, no, it is too early to anticipate any direction. First view is that
adjustments should not be material, but then as we execute the financials, we should also provide
you guys a kind of historical pro forma basis. We see this deal in terms of relevance as a
transformational deal. Therefore, instead of treating as the standard scope change approach in our
number, we will restate the past, restate the (inaudible) part of the organic exactly the same way
we did by the time we announced it, the AmBev and Interbrew combination.
August Busch, IV - Anheuser-Busch President & CEO
In terms of Modelo, Gerard, again we have had some very positive discussions. We see a great
future that we could build together. They have built an amazing brand, an amazing business. We
respect them a lot and again, we think together we can do more and that is what we will pursue with
them in discussions. So far, discussions have been very positive and we see no grounds for impeding
our transaction.
Gerard Rijk - ING Wholesale Banking Analyst
Thank you.
Operator
Thank you. At this time, I would like to turn the call back over to Carlos Brito for any
closing remarks.
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
Okay, thanks. First, let me say that I am very happy that our conversations turned out the way
we have always wanted, which is of friendly conversation and very happy to have August and his team
totally onboard helping us to build this great company. Mostly very happy that August accepted to
be part of our Board at closing. That will be great in terms of leadership, reference point, just
great knowledge source of learning for us and a great guy to have in terms of the U.S. business in
the Budweiser brand. Its a great person, I respect for him a lot, to get along very well and to be
great to have him at our Board of the combined company at closing.
So we are very excited to build this great company even further. Its always been our dream. Of
course, we just signed. Now we need to close and try to do it quickly so we can get down to
business, which is what we like to do. We are very excited about start building this great future,
this great company together with the AB top management. So that is it on my side. August, thank you
very much for participating. Dave, anything on your side, closing remarks?
Dave Peacock - Anheuser-Busch VP, Marketing
Thanks a lot, Brito. No, we are very excited at Anheuser-Busch and remain very committed to
delivering on all the commitments that we have made both to you and to shareholders.
Carlos Brito - InBev CEO
Great, guys. Thanks a lot. Thank you very much for your time and see you next time. Thanks.
Operator
Thank you. That does conclude todays InBev combination with Anheuser-Busch conference call.
You may now disconnect your lines at this time. Have a wonderful day.
Anheuser-Busch InBev Creating the Global Leader in Beer July 14 , 2008 |
Forward Looking Statements: |
Certain statements contained in this report that are not statements of historical fact constitute
forward-looking statements, notwithstanding that such statements are not specifically identified.
In addition, certain statements may be contained in the future filings of InBev and Anheuser-Busch
with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), in press releases, and in oral and written
statements made by or with the approval of InBev that are not statements of historical fact and
constitute forward-looking statements. Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not
limited to: (i) statements about the benefits of the merger between InBev and Anheuser-Busch,
including future financial and operating results, cost savings, enhanced revenues and accretion to
reported earnings that may be realized from the merger; (ii) statements about the timing of the
merger between InBev and Anheuser-Busch; (iii) statements of strategic objectives, business
prospects, future financial condition, budgets, projected levels of production, projected costs and
projected levels of revenues and profits of InBev or Anheuser-Busch or their managements or boards
of directors; (iv) statements of future economic performance; and (v) statements of assumptions
underlying such statements. |
Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks,
uncertainties and assumptions which are difficult to predict and outside of the control of the
management of InBev and Anheuser-Busch. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ
materially from what is expressed or forecasted in such forward-looking statements. You should not
place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results
to differ from those discussed in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to:
(i) the risk that the businesses of InBev and Anheuser-Busch will not be integrated successfully or
such integration may be more difficult, time-consuming or costly than expected; (ii) expected
revenue synergies and cost savings from the merger may not be fully realized or realized within the
expected time frame; (iii) revenues following the merger may be lower than expected; (iv) operating
costs, customer loss and business disruption following the merger, including, without limitation,
difficulties in maintaining relationships with employees, may be greater than expected; (v) the
ability to obtain governmental or regulatory approvals of the merger on the proposed terms and
schedule; (vi) the failure of shareholders of InBev or Anheuser-Busch to approve the merger; (vii)
local, regional, national and international economic conditions and the impact they may have on
InBev and Anheuer-Busch and their customers and InBevs and Anheuser-Buschs assessment of that
impact; (viii) increasing price and product competition by competitors, including new entrants;
(ix) rapid technological developments and changes; (x) InBevs ability to continue to introduce
competitive new products and services on a timely, cost-effective basis; (xi) containing costs and
expenses; (xii) governmental and public policy changes; (xiii) protection and validity of
intellectual property rights; (xiv) technological, implementation and cost/financial risks in
large, multi-year contracts; (xv) the outcome of pending and future litigation and governmental
proceedings; (xvi) continued availability of financing; (xvii) financial resources in the amounts,
at the times and on the terms required to support future businesses of the combined company; and
(xviii) material differences in the actual financial results of merger and acquisition activities
compared with expectations of InBev, including the full realization of anticipated cost savings and
revenue enhancements. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements concerning the
proposed transaction or other matters and attributable to InBev or Anheuser-Busch or any person
acting on their behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements
referenced above. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which such statements are
made. InBev and Anheuser-Busch undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to
reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made, or to reflect the
occurrence of unanticipated events. |
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
This communication may be deemed to be solicitation material in respect of the proposed acquisition
of Anheuser-Busch by InBev. In connection with the proposed acquisition, InBev and Anheuser-Busch
intend to file relevant materials with the SEC, including Anheuser-Buschs proxy statement on
Schedule 14A. |
INVESTORS OF ANHEUSER-BUSCH ARE URGED TO READ ALL RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC, INCLUDING
ANHEUSERBUSCHS PROXY STATEMENT, BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED
TRANSACTION. |
Investors and security holders will be able to obtain the documents free of charge through the
website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov, and Anheuser-Busch stockholders will receive
information at an appropriate time on how to obtain transaction-related documents for free from
Anheuser-Busch. Such documents are not currently available. |
InBev and certain of its directors and executive officers and other persons, and Anheuser-Busch and
its directors and certain executive officers, may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation
of proxies from the holders of Anheuser-Busch common stock in respect of the proposed transaction.
Information regarding InBevs directors and executive officers is available in its Annual Report
for the year ended December 31, 2007, available at www.InBev.com/annualreport2007. Information
about the directors and executive officers of Anheuser-Busch and their respective interests in
Anheuser-Busch by security holdings or otherwise is set forth in its proxy statement relating to
the 2008 annual meeting of stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on March 10, 2008. Investors
may obtain additional information regarding the interest of the participants by reading the proxy
statement regarding the acquisition when it becomes available. |
Agenda Transaction Summary
Anheuser-Busch Highlights
Transaction Rationale Transaction Benefits Track Record in Business Combinations Closing Remarks
and Q&A |
· Anheuser-Busch and InBev to combine and create Anheuser-Busch InBev, the global leader in beer
and one of the top five consumer companies in the world
· Leading positions in five of the largest beer markets in the world More than double the
profitability of its largest competitor on a pro-forma basis Balanced exposure to developing
markets and developed markets
· Outstanding portfolio of beer brands globally Three of the top five largest brands worldwide -
Flagship Budweiser brand to further expand in Europe, Latin America and Asia
· Significant value creation for all shareholders from synergies neither company could obtain on a
stand-alone basis
· Creation of a stronger company to benefit consumers, wholesalers, communities and other
stakeholders |
Key Transaction Highlights
OFFER SUMMARY
· All-cash consideration of $70 per Anheuser-Busch share -Total equity consideration of $52 billion
-Transaction recommended by Anheuser-Buschs and InBevs Board of Directors -Board of Directors of
combined company will be comprised of existing directors of InBev, Anheuser-Busch President and CEO
August Busch IV and one other current or former director of Anheuser-Buschs Board -Transaction
expected to close by year-end and conditioned upon regulatory approval and Anheuser-Busch / InBev
shareholder approvals
KEY METRICS
· Anheuser-Busch transaction value of $62 billion -Implied EV/EBITDA 08E(a) multiple of 12.4x
-Multiple in line with comparable transactions in the industry
VALUE CREATION
· Significant value creation potential through cost synergies -Cost synergies of at least $1.5
billion equally phased in over three years -ROIC anticipated to exceed WACC in year two
-Transaction EPS neutral in 2009 and accretive in 2010 on a normalized basis
(a) I/B/E/S 2008E EBITDA consensus estimate. Source Bloomberg. |
Transaction Financing: Signed Loan Documentation
FINANCING
Senior acquisition credit facility of $45 billion Including $7 billion bridge financing for
divestitures of non-core assets from both companies InBev has a commitment for up to $9.8 billion
in equity bridge financing which will allow the company flexibility to choose the timing and form
of equity offering for a period of up to six months after closing Weighted average pre-tax cost of
debt: Libor + 150 bps
LEADING INSTITUTIONS |
Committed to Rapid De-Leveraging
CREDIT PROFILE
Highly committed to maintaining a strong investment grade profile
DE LEVERAGING
Rapid de-leveraging expected through strong free cash flow generation
Group financial target of net debt / EBITDA < 2x remains unchanged
Enhanced focus on working capital improvements to drive strong free cash flow generation
DIVIDEND POLICY
Current payout should be reduced for a period of 2-3 years before returning to current levels
Reducing the companys leverage to its historical level of below 2x EBITDA is of the highest
priority to Anheuser-Busch InBevs management |
Agenda
Transaction Summary
· Transaction Rationale
· Transaction Benefits
· Track Record in Business Combinations
· Closing Remarks and Q&A |
Leading Brands in the Worlds Largest Beer Profit Pool Two iconic brands, Bud Light and Budweiser,
are United States best selling beers...
UNITED STATES MARKET SHARES
48% ~30%
Anheuser-Busch MillerCoors
...as well as #1 and #2 top selling brands worldwide |
An Exceptional Portfolio of Leading Brands
Segment A-B Brands A-B Rank
Premium Light Bud Light 1 Premium Budweiser 1
Above Prem. Light Mich Ultra, Mich Light 1
Sub-Premium Busch 1
Sub-Prem. Light Natural Light, Busch Light 1
Ice Brands Natural Ice 1 Non-Alcohol ODouls 1 |
Strong Product Innovations and Pipeline |
World Class Production and Distribution System |
Highly efficient 12 brewery-footprint combined with a fully dedicated and primarily exclusive
wholesalers network provide strong foundation for growth |
Successful Equity Investments with Exceptional Brands and Market Positions
· 50.2% stake in Grupo Modelo
· 56% market share in Mexico, the 3rd largest beer profit pool
· 27% stake in Tsingtao, leading Chinese premium brewer
· China is the worlds largest and fastest growing beer market |
Agenda Transaction Summary Anheuser-Busch Highlights Transaction Rationale Transaction
Benefits Track Record in Business Combinations Closing Remarks and Q&A |
Natural Next Step in a Successful Long-Term Partnership
Introduction of Budweiser in Canada Anheuser-Busch becomes
1980 19872006 2007 2008 In 2004, Budweiser became the the importer of InBevs
#1 brand in Canada portfolio in the U.S. Creation of
Bud Light is the countrys fastest
Anheuser-Busch
growing beer
InBev
Partnership Partnership extended to
extended to the Dominican Republic South Korea
· Management of Anheuser-Busch and InBev have been co-operating successfully based on a set of
shared values
- No compromise commitment to quality, heritage and traditions Commitment to long term brand
building Socially and environmentally responsible policies |
Top Five Consumer Products Company in the World
ENTERPRISE VALUE
148,2 104,0 71,6 70,0 65,8 58,6 41,4 40,7 33,7 28,5 |
P&G Nestlé A-B InBev Coca-Cola PepsiCo Unilever Kraft InBev Diageo Danone
2007 EBITDA |
14.1 11.1 7.8 6.3 6.3 6.2 5.0
3.8 3.4 2.7 |
P&G Nestlé A-B InBev PepsiCo Coca-Cola Unilever InBev Kraft Diageo Danone
Note: Enterprise values based on closing share prices as at 11 July 2008. Reported EBITDA numbers
calendarized to 31 December |
Global Leader with Significant Profitability Upside Potential
2007 FIGURES |
INBEV ANHEUSER-BUSCH(a) -BUSCH INBEV(a) ANHEUSER-BUSCH INBEV(a) |
TOTAL VOLUMES (b) 271 mhl + 189 mhl 460 mhl
REVENUES 14.4 billion + 12.2 billion 26.6 billion
EBITDA 5.0 billion + 2.8 billion 7.8 billion |
EBITDA MARGIN 34.6% 23.0% 29.4% |
(a) Anheuser-Busch financials converted from USD into Euro at a FY2007 average /$ exchange rate of
1.37.
(b) Adjusted for equity brands. |
Leading Positions in Worlds Top 5 markets
MARKET SHARES InBev MARKET SHARES IN THE TOP 5 GLOBAL MARKETS MARKET SHARES IN THE TOP 5 GLOBAL
MARKETS Leading Positions in Worlds Top 5 markets
TOTAL VOL (MHL) 293 mhl Anheuser-Busch A-B InBev
#1: CHINA 293 mhl 11.4% 9.6% 21%
#2: U.S. 215 mhl < 2% 48.5% 50%
#3: RUSSIA 110 mhl 19.3% < 1% 20%
#4: BRAZIL 102 mhl 68.6% < 1% 69%
#5: GERMANY 97 mhl 9.3% < 1% 10%
Source: Platologic |
Unmatched Brand Portfolio in Top 5 markets IMPORT PREMIUMS CHINA LOCAL PREMIUMS LOCAL CORE U.S.
RUSSIA BRAZIL GERMANY
(a) Equity brand |
Industry Transforming Transaction
(in billions)
2007 Total Volumes
(hl in millions)
460 284 271 +62% 189 150 130
A-B InBev SABMiller InBev A-B Heineken Carlsberg
2007 Revenues
26.6 16.7 15.8 14.4 12.2 8.9 +61%
2007 EBITDA
7.8 5.0 3.2 +143% 3.1 2.8 1.5
A-B InBev InBev SABMiller Heineken A-B Carlsberg
Note: Data based on calendar year-end. Carlsberg and Heineken are pro forma estimates for the joint
acquisition of Scottish & Newcastle. |
Geographical Complementarity and Balanced Exposure to High-Growth and Mature Markets
REVENUES(a) OPERATING PROFIT(a)
43% 57% 53% 47%
Developed Markets
Developing Markets
(a) Developing Markets: Include InBev operations in Central and Eastern Europe, Russia, China,
Brazil, Argentina and other South-America operations and Anheuser-Buschs holdings in Grupo Modelo
and Tsingtao at their respective equity interests. 2007 Pro-Forma Figures. Sources: InBev,
Anheuser-Busch 10-K. |
Agenda Transaction Summary Anheuser-Busch Highlights Transaction Rationale Transaction
Benefits Track Record in Business Combinations Closing Remarks and Q&A |
Cost Synergies Summary
ASSUMP TIONS
Management fully confident in delivery of synergies under Blue Ocean plan Further cost synergies
foreseen due to the combination Top-line synergies including Budweiser expansion, cross selling
in China and exchange of sales and marketing best practices not included in our projections
BREAK DOWN
$730 m $150 m $215 m $55 m $360 m $1.5 bn
COGS & G&A Overhead Other China Other Total |
Significant Cost Synergies Building on Blue Ocean
COGS & G&A RUNRATE 2011 Overhead Other ...and What the Combination with InBev Can Add: Other Cost
synergies estimated to reach at least $1.5 billion phased in equally over 3 years Process
Benchmarking Improved materials usage Supply chain $730m $150m Early retirement and headcount
reductions Total reduction of 1,185 positions What Anheuser-Busch Has Planned... $215m $360m
Non-salary overhead spending and salaried benefits benchmarking IT spending and SKU reduction
Procurement efficiencies Elimination of corporate overlapping functions Cost management best
practices China $55m Cost synergies in China |
InBev Anheuser-Busch Sichuan Yunan Hainan Hunan Hubei Guangdong Zhejiang Guizhou Guangxi Shaanxi
Gansu Ningxia Neimongu Shanxi Shandong Jiangsu Shanghai Jiangxi Anhui Henan Heilongjiang Jilin
Liaoning Beijing Hebei Fujian # of breweries Volume sold Employees 20(a) 15(b) 33.4 mhl 28.2 mhl
8,000+ 15,000 COMBINED COMPANY 61.6 MHL VOLUME SOLD (a) Does not include JVs and bottling plants.
(b) Includes
Foshan brewery, scheduled to start operating in December 2008. Primarily InBev presence Primarily
Anheuser-Busch presence InBev brewery Anheuser-Busch brewery Strong complementarity between
Anheuser-Buschs and InBevs operations; significant potential for Budweiser Cross Selling
Opportunity in China |
Potential for Budweiser Expansion INBEVS FOOTPRINT BUDWEISER AWARENESS & POSITIONING TRACK RECORD
· High awareness of Budweiser brand in markets where it has limited presence Budweiser
positioning is universally appealing to beer consumers InBev is the leading brewer in 19 markets
where Budweiser has limited presence or InBev can offer a superior distribution footprint
üFor example: Brazil, Belgium, Ukraine Stella Artois 10.0 mhl worldwide volume in 2007
Leadership position in the UK, available in more than 80 countries One of the fastest growing
import brand in US and Canada #1 International premium in Argentina overtaking Heineken 2 years
after launch Becks 7.5 mhl worldwide volume in 2007 #1 German export beer Present in more
than 120 countries A 1 p.p. incremental market share of Budweiser in InBevs top 10 markets would
represent an incremental volume of 10 mhl |
Further Upside from Sharing Best Practices SALES AND DISTRIBUTION Anheuser-Busch InBev MARKETING
CSR Budweiser brands Sports sponsorship Advertising Wholesaler management and excellence
programs Anheuser-Busch InBev World Class Commercial Program (WCCP) Expansion Stella Artois /
Becks internationally Local jewels INNOVATION Bud Light Lime Chelada Landshark PerfectDraft
Becks Gold / Vier Bohemia Best in industry sales and distribution capabilities Expand
Budweiser internationally Global sponsorships Global platforms for innovation 2nd most admired
company in US Philanthropic outreach Responsible enjoyment #1 Value Added beverage company in
Europe Foundations Responsible enjoyment Combination of best practices to achieve our dream:
best beer company in a better world |
Agenda Transaction Summary Anheuser-Busch Highlights Transaction Rationale Transaction
Benefits Track Record in Business Combinations Closing Remarks and Q&A |
InBev A Successful Combination of Local Brewers 1987 1995 2000 2002 2004 2002 |
InBev has a track record of delivering synergies on transactions with limited geographical overlap
InBevs transaction synergies driven by procurement, best practices and cross-licensing InBev
achieved normalized EBITDA of 3.3 billion in 2005 and 4.2 billion in 2006 compared to pre-deal
analysts consensus of 2.9 billion in 2005 and 3.4 billion in 2006 for the combined entity SHARE
PRICE PERFORMANCE (3Y) INBEV MARGIN EVOLUTION Strong Track Record of Delivering Synergies InBev
Case SYNERGIES +990 bps 50 100 150 200 250 300 May 05 May 06 May 07 May 08 InBev (rebased) AmBev
(rebased) 3,339 4,239 4,992 2,116 1,498 28.6% 31.9% 34.6% 24.7% 21.3% 2003 Standalone 2004A
2005A 2006A 2007A Normalized EBITDA % Margin 113.9% 112.8% |
Source: InBev Management EBITDA MARGIN EXPANSION COMMENTS ~10 p.p. margin expansion over three
years ~50% of total ZBB cost savings achieved already after one year ~90% achieved after two
years Significant achievements despite adverse inflationary conditions Similar results achieved
in other developed markets CANADA Strong Track Record of Delivering Synergies Canada Case ~10 p.p.
EBITDA margin expansion 32.5% 1.6% 2.8% 5.2% 42.1% 2004 04-05 05-06 06-07 2007 |
AMBEV CREATION (2000) COMMITMENTS DELIVERY KEY TRANSACTIONS AMBEV/QUILMES COMBINATION (2002) BECK S
ACQUISITION (2002) Expansion of Becks worldwide Became #1 selling German beer in the world in
2006 with distribution in more than 120 countries Average volume growth of approximately 10%
between 2004-2007 Synergies of approximately 30% of combined EBITDA in Quinsas markets Stronger
company to compete internationally EBITDA from operations in Latin American countries (excluding
Brazil) expanded from $92 million (2002) to $563 million (2007) Exports of Quilmes portfolios of
brands to AmBevs countries Expand throughout Latin America 2000 pre-tax synergies of R$100
million Combination with Quilmes, expansion to Central America, and InBev transaction 2000
pre-tax synergies of R$192 million EBITDA expansion from R$1,505 million (2000) to R$4,537 million
(2004) Strong Track Record of Delivering Synergies AmBev, Becks and Quilmes Cases |
Benefits to Consumers, Wholesalers and Community ST. LOUIS Bring together the best practices of
each company for employees, community and the environment into a global platform which can achieve
more than either company could on its own COMMUNITY CONSUMERS Commitment to heritage and
traditions Commitment to product quality Budweiser international expansion St. Louis
headquarters to have expanded role for the North American region St. Louis to be made global home
for expansion of the flagship Budweiser brand Pestalozzi street brewery, Grants Farm,
Clydesdales BREWERIES AND WHOLESALERS All US breweries to remain open Full support for
wholesalers and the three-tier system |
Agenda Transaction Summary Anheuser-Busch Highlights Transaction Rationale Transaction
Benefits Track Record in Business Combinations Closing Remarks and Q&A |
· Transformational deal reshaping the beer industry
· Creating a global leader in beer
· Synergies providing significant value creation
· Expecting closing by end of year and expeditious integration |
Offer Analysis: Sources and Uses of Funds USES OF FUNDS SOURCES OF FUNDS Term A Bridge to DCM
(12+12 mo.) Term B Bridge on Disposals Term C 3 year Bullet Bank Loan Term D 5 year Bullet Bank
Loan (incl. $1bn RCF) New Equity Total Sources of Funds Rollover Debt (a) Total Transaction Value
(a) $8.2bn less $1.3bn expected to be refinanced. Offer price for A-B Share Number of Shares (Fully
Diluted) Equity Value A-B Debt to be Refinanced Fees and Transaction Costs Total Uses of Funds A-B
Debt to Be Assumed (b) Total Transaction Value ($ in billions) $70.00 746mm $52.2bn $1.3 $1.3
$54.8bn $6.9 $61.8bn $12.0bn $7.0 $13.0 $13.0 $9.8 $54.8bn $6.9 $61.8bn |
Offer Analysis: EBITDA Multiple Reconciliation
($ in billions)
12.4x
$8.5
($0.3)
$52.2
$49.1
($10.6)
($0.8)
$3.9
Equity Value Total Debt Cash Modelo Tsingtao Enterprise 2008E Equity Equity Value EBITDA (a)
Investment Investment
(a) I/B/E/S 2008E EBITDA consensus estimate. Source Bloomberg. |