Anheuser-Busch InBev has completed the first review of its legal panel since the two companies merged in 2008.

The drinks giant has selected Clifford Chance (CC), Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, Linklaters, Howrey, Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom and Sullivan & Cromwell for its global panel, with all appointed for a two-year period.

The appointments mean that Lovells is the only regular adviser to legacy companies InBev or Anheuser-Busch not to make it onto the post-merger roster. Lovells was previously a frequent adviser to Anheuser-Busch but is thought to have been dropped because of its strong ties with rival SABMiller.

The six firms will advise across all areas of the company's global business.

The review was kick-started in March by the merged company's chief legal and compliance officer Sabine Chalmers (pictured). Chalmers, who was appointed to her role late last year having previously served as InBev's general counsel before the merger, said the company asked all of the panel firms to provide value-added services.

Commenting on the appointments, Chalmers said: "We believe that each firm brings strong, broad-ranging expertise and impeccable credentials, as well as its own unique firm culture to the panel. This will create a system where we can deliver world-class legal services in a cost effective and efficient manner."

Anheuser-Busch InBev was formed in November 2008 through a $52bn (£36bn) combination of the two companies.

The merged company overhauled its in-house legal group the following month, creating a 250-strong legal team.

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