Davis Polk advised Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., HSBC Securities (USA) Inc., Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, Nomura Securities International, Inc. and RBS Securities Inc. as joint book-running managers on an SEC-registered offering by Diageo Capital plc of $1 billion principal amount of 1.5% notes due 2017 guaranteed by Diageo plc and by Diageo Investment Corporation of $1 billion principal amount of 2.875% notes due 2022 and $500 million principal amount of 4.25% notes due 2042, in each case guaranteed by Diageo plc.
Headquartered in London, Diageo is the world’s leading premium drinks business, with a market capitalization of approximately £40 billion. Among the wide range of premium brands it produces and distributes are Johnnie Walker Scotch whiskies, Smirnoff vodka, Baileys Original Irish Cream liqueur, Captain Morgan rum, J&B Scotch whisky, Buchanan’s Scotch whisky, Windsor Premier Scotch whisky, Cîroc vodka, Tanqueray gin and Guinness stout.
The Davis Polk corporate team included partner Paul E. Kumleben and associates Phillip G. Sharp, Martin Bengtzen and Ashley L. Flucas. Partner John D. Paton and associate Sarah Joy provided tax advice. Associate Catherine L. Martin provided Investment Company Act advice. Claire Lim was the legal assistant on the transaction. Members of the Davis Polk team are based in the London and New York offices.
