Deerfield-based Beam Inc. sold for $16B to Suntory Holdings

This Oct. 3, 2012 photo shows shelves stocked with Jim Beam products at the central Kentucky distillery's new visitors center in Clermont, Ky. Bourbon distilleries are drawing flocks of fans, and the whiskey makers are building new visitors centers to promote their brands. (AP Photo/Bruce Schreiner)
January 13, 2014 2:34:54 PM PST
January 13, 2014 (DEERFIELD, Ill.) --
The Deerfield company that owns Jim Beam and Makers Mark is being sold for $16 billion.

Beam Incorporated is being acquired by Suntory Holdings of Japan.

The deal will make the Japanese company the world's third largest maker of distilled drinks.