Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV has sold Azucarera del Norte S.A. to Grupo Luz y Fuerza S.A.S.

September 2018 — Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV (AB InBev) has sold its Honduran subsidiary Azucarera del Norte S.A. (AZUNOSA) to Grupo Luz y Fuerza S.A.S. (Lufussa).

AZUNOSA is one of the largest sugar producers in Honduras, manufacturing close to 15% of the country’s production. It produces sugar made from sugarcane for the food and beverage industry and also as by-products such as molasses and electricity from co-generation. The company administrates 7,978 hectares, 46% of which are owned and 54% leased. The transaction includes the sale of the firm’s sugar mill, land and all assets.

Founded in 1994, Lufussa is a group of companies operating in the Mesoamerican region in various business segments such as dairy industry, energy generation, agriculture, food and beverage, production and distribution of construction materials, real estate, pharmaceuticals and commercial retail outlets. The group employs approximately 5,300 professionals and is committed to actively contribute to the improvement of the communities, economies and the environment of the countries where it operates.

AB InBev is a multinational drink and brewing holding company based in Leuven, Belgium. Additional main offices are located in São Paulo, Brazil, New York City and St. Louis in the US, London, UK, Mexico City and Johannesburg, South Africa. AB InBev is a publicly listed company, with its primary listing on the Euronext Brussels. The sale of this non-strategic subsidiary will allow the company to free up human and capital resources to be able to focus on its core products.

Our role in the transaction

Oaklins’ team in Mexico advised AB InBev on the sale of its Honduran subsidiary. The team led a thorough international competitive process which maximized the proceeds for its client.