Belgian aristocratic families, key shareholders in AB InBev, have divested approximately 10 million shares, valued at about $731 million, in the world's largest brewer. This sale, which occurred on May 13, 2026, was executed by EPS SA, an entity representing some of these founding families, and reduced their direct stake in BRC S.à r.l., one of AB InBev's two main anchor investors. Following the transaction, EPS SA's direct shareholding in AB InBev increased from 0% to 3.33%, while a subsidiary, EPS Participations, decreased its holding from 3.33% to 0% due to dissolution.
The broader group of founding families, including the Van Hoegaerden Herrmann Telles, Jorge Paulo Lemann, and Carlos Alberto da Veiga Sicupira, along with Rayvax Société d'investissements SA, BRC S.à r.l., and Stichting Anheuser-Busch InBev, remain bound by a shareholders' agreement. This pact, which organizes joint control of Stichting Anheuser-Busch InBev by EPS and BRC, and a concert with Rayvax, ensures their collective influence despite individual stake adjustments. The agreement was updated in 2026 and is set to continue until at least 2034, reinforcing the long-term commitment of these key investors.
The transaction resulted in the aggregate percentage of voting rights held by AB InBev and the parties to the shareholders' agreement crossing downwards the 40% threshold. Specifically, the total voting rights held by these concert parties now stand at 40.43%. This change was partly prompted by the delivery of treasury shares by AB InBev. The move highlights a strategic reallocation of assets within the founding family's investment structures, rather than a significant reduction in their overall commitment to the company.
AB InBev, known for global brands like Budweiser, Corona, and Stella Artois, reported a revenue of $59.3 billion in 2025 and employs approximately 137,000 people across more than 40 countries. The founding families' continued involvement through the shareholders' agreement underscores their enduring interest in the company's performance and strategic direction, despite the recent share sale.
