Craft Beer Growth Surges: Anheuser-Busch InBev’s Craft Portfolio Sees Strong Quarter

In the ever-evolving world of craft beer, Anheuser-Busch InBev has emerged as a major player with its craft portfolio showing impressive growth in the first quarter of 2025. With volume sales up by 11.8%, the company’s craft share has also seen a significant increase of +0.36 points, following a year of positive growth in 2024.

A History of Craft Beer Innovation

Anheuser-Busch InBev has a long history of involvement in the craft beer sector, dating back to the 1990s with their in-house brand Pacific Ridge Pale Ale. However, it was their acquisition of Goose Island Beer Co. in 2011 that truly signaled their commitment to the craft beer movement. Since then, the company has made strategic decisions to buy, sell, and discontinue various brands, ultimately settling on a core group of craft breweries that includes Goose Island Beer Co, Golden Road Brewing, Elysian Brewing, Wicked Weed Brewing, Karbach Brewing Co, Devils Backbone Brewing Co, Four Peaks Brewing Co, Cisco Brewers, and La Rubia Beer.

A Winning Strategy

Anheuser-Busch InBev’s strategy of focusing on six successful labels, such as Goose Island Beer Hug IPA, Golden Road Mango Cart Wheat Ale, Elysian Space Dust IPA, Goose Island IPA, Wicked Weed Pernicious IPA, and Devils Backbone Smash cocktails, in high-performing formats like 19.2oz cans has proven to be a successful approach. These craft brands are now growing at a faster rate than the overall craft industry, positioning Anheuser-Busch InBev as a key player in the craft beer market.

Looking Towards the Future

Andy Thomas, President of The High End at Anheuser-Busch, expressed optimism about the company’s future in the craft beer sector, stating, “As the craft industry continues to transform, we’ve been intentionally crafting our portfolio for the future. The success we’re seeing is the result of a simpler, more focused approach – we’re looking forward to building on this strong momentum.” With an eye on innovation and growth, Anheuser-Busch InBev is poised to further solidify its position in the craft beer market.

Key Insights:

• Goose Island Beer Hug IPA, Elysian Space Dust IPA, and Wicked Weed Pernicious IPA are the fastest-growing 19.2oz craft IPAs.
• Golden Road Mango Cart is the #1 fastest-growing craft wheat brand.

  Industry Outlook and Analysis:

  The strong growth of Anheuser-Busch InBev’s craft portfolio is indicative of the continued popularity and demand for craft beer among consumers. As the company’s craft brands outperform the overall industry growth rate, it is clear that Anheuser-Busch InBev’s strategic focus on quality and innovation is paying off. This development could have far-reaching implications for the global food and beverage industry, including:

• Increased competition in the craft beer market as Anheuser-Busch InBev solidifies its position.
• Potential shifts in consumer preferences towards larger craft breweries with established brand recognition.
• Changes in supply chains and pricing dynamics as craft beer continues to gain market share.
• Opportunities for strategic partnerships and acquisitions within the craft beer sector.

  Overall, Anheuser-Busch InBev’s success in the craft beer market highlights the importance of innovation and adaptability in the food and beverage industry. As consumer tastes evolve, companies must be prepared to pivot and meet changing demands to stay competitive in the market. With a strong focus on quality and a commitment to craft beer excellence, Anheuser-Busch InBev is well-positioned to lead the way in the craft beer revolution.