Reuters Blogs

Shop Talk

Retailers, consumers and prices

July 11th, 2008

Check Out Line: Name that brew

Posted by: Brad Dorfman

bud.jpgCheck out: InBever-Busch? BudBever?
 
That hostile takeover stuff between InBev and Anheuser-Busch with the court fight and proxy battle and stuff? Looks like it was nothing a little more money can’t solve.

The two companies have begun friendly negotiations, a source told Reuters. The Wall Street Journal and New York Times reported that InBev has raised its offer by $5, to $70 a share, to try to cinch a friendly deal.

Some analysts have said that even $65 was something Anheuser-Busch shareholders would take. At $70, the discussions could be reduced more to things like what to call the company.

InBev is the buyer, so it could just keep its own name. A Busch runs the company, so they could get a nod if there is some sort of corporate name change, a la DaimlerChrysler, or Newell Rubbermaid.

Eberhard Anheuser, who started the company by buying a Bavarian brewery in 1860 might be out of luck. But Adolphus Busch was his son-in-law, so the family could still be represented.

So, any naming consultants have any ideas for what to call the company if a deal happens?
 
Also in the basket:
 
Carlos Slim boosts Saks stake (WWD)
Steve & Barry’s looks to expedite process (WWD, subscription required)

(Image from Anheuser-Busch)