The South African Breweries (SAB), then called Castle Breweries, was founded in 1895 specifically to serve a new market of miners and prospectors in and around Johannesburg. Two years later, it became the first industrial company to list on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). Over the last two decades, the business has expanded internationally, making several acquisitions in both emerging and developed markets. Today, SAB Ltd in South Africa i...
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The South African Breweries (SAB), then called Castle Breweries, was founded in 1895 specifically to serve a new market of miners and prospectors in and around Johannesburg. Two years later, it became the first industrial company to list on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). Over the last two decades, the business has expanded internationally, making several acquisitions in both emerging and developed markets. Today, SAB Ltd in South Africa is a wholly-owned subsidiary of London and JSE-listed SABMiller plc. SABMiller is one of the world’s largest brewers by volumes, with over 200 brands and operating across six continents.
In 1955, the South African government introduced a heavy tax on beer products causing many consumers to switch to spirits. However, the subsequent shock to the South African beer industry proved to be a blessing in disguise for SAB. A year later, the company purchased its two main competitors,Ohlsson’s and Chandlers Union Breweries, both of whom were struggling...
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