Japan’s Suntory Buys Beam In $16 Billion

Suntory Holdings Ltd, a family-owned Japanese maker of both alcoholic and soft drinks, struck a $16B deal to acquire BEAM Inc (NYSE:BEAM), the world’s fifth-largest spirits group by sales.

Suntory first to make whiskey in Japan

BEAM Inc (NYSE:BEAM) makes world-renowned bourbon whiskeys Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark, as well as Teacher’s and Laphroaig Scotch whiskeys. It also owns the Sauza tequila and Pinnacle vodka brands. Suntory was one of the first companies in Japan to make whiskey and owns the Yamazaki, Hakushu and Bowmore brands.

Suntory’s acquisition of Beam is its third big-ticket acquisition in the drinks space after the 2009 deal to acquire French company Orangina Schweppes, and its...