/ 25 August 2006

SABMiller announces $102m investment in Peru

SABMiller, one of the world’s leading brewers, announced on Friday that its Peruvian subsidiary Backus and Johnston will invest $102-million in infrastructural projects in Peru.

The investment, which will be made by March 2007, will include: the expansion of the brew house at its Ate facility to the east of Lima; a new brew house at the brewery in Motupe in northern Peru; and a significant upgrade of packaging capability across the country.

The investment will also include a further $12-million expenditure on fridges, coolers and trade equipment to improve the accessibility of cold product to all Peruvians.

In addition to the investment above, Backus and Johnston has also announced a proposed merger with Cervesur, its majority owned affiliate and other affiliate companies.

This nil-premium transaction will serve to simplify and streamline SABMiller’s operations in Peru into a more directly manageable and accountable holding structure.

Commenting on the new investment, Robert Priday, the president of Backus and Johnston, said: “The investments will serve to extend the production capacity in the brewery plants in Lima as well as interior of the country, which will comply with the most modern technology in brewing, fermentation and packaging processes.

“The investment will ensure that we can sustain and improve on the high quality of beer we have become renowned for. It is also a reflection of our commitment and confidence in our operation in the country. The steady improvement in the local economy deserves to be rewarded with investments of this nature.” — I-Net Bridge