Brussels, 22/04/2014 (Agence Europe) - On Tuesday 22 April, the European Commission gave the go-ahead to the purchase of Beam of the United States, which manufactures Jim Beam bourbon whisky, by Japan's Suntory Holdings Limited, which is active in a number of sectors globally, such as the manufacture and distribution of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks (e.g. Orangina and Schweppes). Suntory makes 90% of its spirit sales in Japan. In the European Economic Area (EEA) both parties largely rely on third-party distributors for the sale of their products. Although some overlaps exist in the EEA in respect of some spirits produced and sold by both parties, their product portfolios are mainly complimentary. The Commission's investigation found that a number of strong competing players would remain in the EEA and customers would therefore still have sufficient alternative suppliers in respect of all spirits categories. (EL)