Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev) announced late on Monday that it has successfully completed the acquisition of SABMiller, marking the end to a process that began one year ago. The merged entity officially began trading on Tuesday.

“The combined company will have operations in virtually every major market and an expanded portfolio that includes global, multi-country and local brands, providing more choices for consumers around the world.

“Customers will benefit from a broad distribution network and strong brand-building expertise,” AB said late yesterday.

AB InBev will benefit by gaining access to key emerging markets in Africa and Latin America. The growth opportunities in these markets will complement the brewer’s stability and strength of its strong existing presence in matured markets.

“As a truly global brewer, we will be able to achieve more together than each of us could separately,” said Carlos Brito, AB InBev’s CEO.

“We remain focused on delivering superior top-line growth and increasing shareholder value. Building on our strong heritage, passion for brewing and expanded portfolio, we are also committed to helping farmers, retailers, entrepreneurs and communities thrive,” Brito said.

Locally, AB InBev will gain control of SABMiller’s Nigerian operations which include International Breweries Plc in Ilesha, makers of Trophy Lager; Intafact Beverages Limited in Onitsha, brewers of Hero Lager and Pabod Breweries in Port Harcourt, producers of Grand Lager and Grand malt.