Interbrew, the Belgium-based company that acquired John Labatt Ltd. in July 1995, is the second largest brewer in the world by volume with operations spanning from Europe and North America to the Asia-Pacific region. Interbrew’s portfolio consists of a combination of strong international and local brands sold in over 110 countries.

As a member of the Interbrew family, Labatt belongs to an international brewing group that looks to strengthen its business positions domestically, while pursuing opportunities in growth markets around the world through a combination of expansion projects and partnerships. The Interbrew/Labatt partnership allows each of the companies to expand brand portfolios and grow in key world markets.

The strength of the Interbrew portfolio is the combination of strong local brands with international brands including Stella Artois, Labatt Blue and Rolling Rock in the lager category, and Hoegaarden, Leffe and Belle-Vue in the specialty beers category. Many local brands are also market leaders, including, for example, Labatt Blue in Canada, Jupiler in Belgium and Carling in England. The combined strength in both international and local brands makes Interbrew “The World’s Local Brewer©”.

Interbrew has grown over the last 10 years from operating in four countries to operating in 22 countries as a result of internal growth as well as acquisitions of brands, distribution networks and brewing assets. Interbrew has used strong local brands, distribution networks and know-how as a platform for the launch of international and premium brands into new markets.

The Interbrew Strategy

Interbrew’s strategy is designed to strengthen the company’s position as “The World’s Local Brewer©”· while increasing profitability by building leading positions in both mature and emerging markets through strategic acquisitions and internal growth. The following are the key components of the strategy:

Focus marketing efforts on leading local brands.
Grow Stella Artois, Interbrew’s international flagship brand.
Acquire leading brewers.
Implement best practices.
Invest in innovation.
For more information, please visit: http://www.interbrew.com