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Trading in Lion Nathan shares - Australia's second-largest brewer, have been put on hold by the New Zealand Stock Exchange, after reports emerged this morning about a potential merger with soft drinks group Coca-Cola Amatil.
The Australian Financial Review reported the news today, saying a merger would create a A$11 billion ($13.02 billion) company.
Discussions have intensified in recent weeks with the involvement of both parent companies in the talks, the paper said without citing sources.
Lion Nathan is 46 per cent owned by Japan's Kirin Brewery Co and Coca-Cola Amatil is 30 per cent owned by US-based The Coca-Cola Company.
The trading halt will remain in place until the announcement is made to the stock exchange.
- NZPA
