Seagram boosts stake in venture

Article Abstract:

Seagram Co. Ltd. will increase its stake in its 16-year old joint venture with the struggling South Korean conglomerate Doosan Group, from 50% to 77.8% for $90 million in cash and loans. The move to boost its liquor holdings exploits the effects of the battered Asian market in Doosan whose reins will be assumed by Seagram. The firm is not alone on exploiting regional partners and rivals as many US and European firms are also increasing their hold in Asia by giving in to new market-opening measures. Meanwhile, Seagram also plans to divest its Tropicana Products Inc. juice unit under what could possible be the biggest initial public offering in US history.

Comment:

Will increase its stake in a joint venture with struggling South Korean firm Doosan Group, from 50% to 77.8%

South Korea, Joint ventures, Doosan Group

Seagram revamps spirits business

Article Abstract:

Seagram Company Ltd. looks to implement a revamping initiative for its primary business on wine and liquor products. Seagram's liquor and wine operation, which contributes close to 50% of the firm's revenues every year, will have its management structure reorganized and its marketing and sales staff for vital product brands energized. The planned revamping of Seagram's wine and liquor operations will also result to the concentration of operations on key markets, such as South Korea, United Kingdom, Germany, United States, Spain and Japan, and key product brands, such as Captain Morgan Original Spiced rum, Absolut Vodka, Crown Royal and Chivas Regal.

Comment:

Looks to implement a revamping initiative for its primary business on wine and liquor products

Strategy & planning

Seagram dynasty down the hatch

Article Abstract:

Montreal, Que.-based Seagram Company Ltd. has been acquired by Paris, France-based Vivendi Universal in an all-stock deal. The three-way deal, which values Seagram's at $33 billion, includes Canal Plus S.A.

Asset sales & divestitures, Acquisitions & mergers, France, Cable Networks, Cable and other pay TV services, Electric, Gas & Water Utilities, Utilities, Distilled and blended liquors, Cable TV Networks, ELECTRIC, GAS, AND SANITARY SERVICES, Mergers, acquisitions and divestments, Cable television broadcasting industry, Alcoholic beverage industry, Energy industries, Energy industry, Public utilities, Vivendi Universal S.A., Cable networks (Television), Canal Plus S.A., VO