CORPORATE AFFAIRS

SITUATION

• In June 2017, Anheuser-Busch InBev (ABInBev), the world’s largest brewer took steps to consolidate its operations in Nigeria through its independently operated breweries – International Breweries Plc, Intafact Beverages ltd and Pabod Breweries Ltd.

TASK

Provide strategic communication advice to AB InBev on the merger process and implementation of communication activities for the pre-merger phase.

APPROACH

• The strategic communication advisory addressed the pre-merger and post merger phases, including the media and stakeholder engagements required in each phase, including management of leaks. Execution of the pre-merger activities involved updating the media and other stakeholders on the developments on the merger through media advisories, interviews and media briefings.

RESULT

• The merger of the three breweries was successful with no negative story, nor was there any misrepresentation of information in all media channels, thus reflecting a high level of understanding by the media on the issues around the merger.