By James Atkinson
Beam Global says the upcoming departure of several employees from its Australian office is completely unrelated to the company’s proposed takeover by Suntory Group.
TheShout understands that several employees of Beam Global Australia were this week advised that their services would no longer be required.
When approached for comment today, Beam Global’s US head office would not officially confirm the identities of the personnel affected by the change.
However, industry sources have told TheShout they include Steve Inch, managing director – Oceania since 2011, and veteran bourbon marketer, Ray Noble.
In a statement to TheShout, a Beam Global head office spokesman said that following a recent review, “the Australia business is realigning its structure to become more agile, closer to the needs of customers and consumers, and even better positioned to win in the marketplace”.
“This review was undertaken in the ordinary course of business, and is unrelated to the proposed transaction announced this week,” the spokesman said.
“Beyond that, we have no individual personnel announcements to make,” he said. “Beam Australia is sharply focused on outperforming in 2014 and beyond in partnership with CCA.”
The spokesman declined to comment further.