Even Anheuser-Busch is introducing 180, a nonalcoholic energy drink. Like its nonalcoholic counterpart, the alcoholic beverage industry is controlled by a few key players that dominate the global field. Characterized by maturity and low growth, it struggles against a global health kick and heavy price competition. Beer is the industry's top seller. Major brewers include Anheuser-Busch, with its Budweiser brand, as well as Asahi , InterBrew , Heineken , AmBev , and Miller .
Consolidation is also on the collective minds of spirits manufacturers.
The repercussions of this deal will largely determine the future of the industry as all players, great and small, jockey for position in an era where sheer size may be the ultimate predictor of success. Key People Philip Bowman - CEO of Allied Domecq will have a key role to play in the high stakes battle to purchase Seagram's drinks business. Douglas Daft - Succeeded Douglas Ivester as chairman and CEO of The Coca Cola Company . The Gallo Family - Chairman Ernesto oversees a wine empire that sells everything from Thunderbird to premium wines. Joseph E Gallo and Robert J. Gallo serve as co-Presidents.