Grolsch deal makes SABMiller world’s biggest brewer

SABMiller, previously the world’s second-biggest brewer, has completed its deal to acquire Dutch brewer Grolsch and become the largest brewing company in the world.

Reuters writes: “The deal is a sign of consolidation in the global brewing industry as brewers look to cut costs as input prices for malting barley and aluminum cans have risen and to create a bigger platform for their top brands.”

SABMiller, which makes Miller Lite, Castle and Peroni beers, has said it plans to expand the Grolsch brand across Africa and Latin America.

With the deal SABMiller passes InBev as the world’s largest volume brewer.