US: Beer drinkers sue over AB InBev 110 billion dollars SABMiller deal | Progresiv
Beer drinkers sued to block AB InBev's 110 billion dollars SABMiller takeover, saying the deal would force them to pay more for lower quality. The acquisition by the world’s largest brewer of the second biggest would create a monopoly in the beer market in violation of US antitrust law, the beer drinkers contend. 
Brewers of mass-market beer are trying to cut production and distribution costs as they lose sales to smaller independent brands in Europe and North America. Carlsberg, the world’s fourth-largest brewer, announced this month that it would eliminate 2,000 jobs. The AB InBev lawsuit by San Francisco lawyer Joseph Alioto on behalf of 23 consumers was filed in federal court in Oregon. The drinkers, who said they have bought products made by either or both companies, as well as craft beers, seek to permanently bar the sale. AB InBev believes the lawsuit claims are without merit and intends to vigorously defend against them, said John Blood, vice president of legal and corporate affairs. (www.esmmagazine.com)
