InBev would get access to Anheuser-Busch's notoriously disciplined distribution network (the real secret to their success). It's a double-edged sword: Retailers can count on their AB products always being stocked and well-merchandised by AB jobbers but they're definitely  subject to the AB white-shirt sales brigade which can definitely feel intimidating  (trust me on this, I was there). When an AB distributor wants something, they'll typically arrive at the retailer with 4-5 members of the team, some of which have never been on-site before, and they'll gather in a circle around the decision-maker. Still, if the retailer has a backbone, it's not a problem.

Many popular InBev brands would likely have production for the North American Market moved to one of AB's US locations to reduce import costs (weak dollar, taxation, etc.). AB started brewing Kirin in Los Angeles after inking a deal with that brewer. Would that have a real impact on the quality or taste of those brands? Hard to say, but they would not likely become cheaper for the consumer - heck, if they're getting $9 for a 6-pack of Hoegaarden today, why would they cut the price in half just because they're saving money by brewing it in LA?

Ahh, great insight. I had no idea you had experience with the beverage industry.

> Notoriously disciplined distribution network
"Sell our caffeinated beer or else."

<span style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">What's on tap now for Budweiser?  CNBC takes you inside America's 130-year love affair with the King of Beers. Now that InBev has agreed to purchase the iconic American brand, CNBC's "American Originals: Budweiser" offers a first look at the new reality for Bud. Watch CNBC on Thursday, July 17 at 9p/12a ET to see the side of Budweiser you've never seen before... the past the present and the future. Click here for web highlights.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p></span>

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