The move has put incumbent The Maitland Consultancy, which has worked with SABMiller for three years (PRWeek, 18 September 2003) on alert.
Three undisclosed agencies have been in discussions about the brief, but a shortlist has yet to be drawn up. Maitland wants to hold on to the business.
Head of media relations Nigel Fairbrass said the review would allow SABMiller to ‘have a look around and consider refreshing the format' of its City comms.
He added: ‘We have a very proactive in-house team, and are looking for an agency to challenge us, rather than doing our job for us.'
The global account will be overseen by director of corporate affairs Sue Clark. The move comes amid reports that the UK-listed company - whose brands include Peroni Nastro Azzurro and Miller Genuine Draft - is considering a takeover of Australia's Foster's Group. SABMiller declined to comment on the speculation.
SABMiller's PA agencies - APCO and Politics International - are unaffected.
