History

Anheuser-Busch traces its origins to a small brewery established in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1852 by George Schneider. In 1860, the struggling brewery was acquired by Eberhard Anheuser, a soap manufacturer. The following year, Anheuser's daughter married Adolphus Busch, a brewery supplier who later became a key figure in the company's expansion. Busch introduced innovations such as refrigerated railcars and pasteurization, facilitating the nationwide distribution of beer. In 1876, the company launched Budweiser, a light-colored pilsner that became a flagship brand. The company was incorporated as the Anheuser-Busch Brewing Association in 1879, and Busch assumed the presidency in 1880 after Anheuser's death. The Michelob brand was introduced in 1896. (britannica.com)

In 2008, Anheuser-Busch merged with Belgian-Brazilian brewing company InBev, forming Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev), the world's largest brewer. (en.wikipedia.org)

Operations and Products

Anheuser-Busch operates 12 breweries and nine aluminum can plants across the United States. The company's product portfolio includes well-known beer brands such as Budweiser, Bud Light, Michelob, and Busch. Additionally, it produces and distributes other brands like Stella Artois, Landshark, Hoegaarden, and Presidente. The company has also expanded into the craft beer market by acquiring breweries such as Goose Island, Elysian Brewing, and Wicked Weed. (britannica.com)

Recent Developments

In May 2025, Anheuser-Busch announced a $300 million investment in its U.S. manufacturing operations. This initiative aims to create and sustain manufacturing jobs, expand technical skills training, and support veteran hiring. The investment includes plans to establish a new facility in Columbus, Ohio. (prnewswire.com)

Financial Performance

In the first quarter of 2025, AB InBev reported a 2.6% increase in revenue to $14.5 billion, despite a decline in sales volumes in the U.S. and China. The company experienced a 9% revenue drop in the U.S. market, partly due to a backlash against Bud Light. However, premium brands like Michelob Ultra and Busch Light showed market share gains. (apnews.com)

Labor Relations

In 2024, the Teamsters union ratified a five-year labor agreement with Anheuser-Busch, covering 5,000 employees, including brewers, packagers, and warehouse workers. The contract includes a cumulative 23% wage increase over the period, a $2,500 ratification bonus, and enhancements to health care, retirement benefits, and job security. (apnews.com)

Environmental Initiatives

Anheuser-Busch has committed to sustainability by investing in renewable energy and reducing its environmental impact. The company has implemented measures such as using renewable electricity in its operations and exploring alternative fuel options for its transportation fleet. (en.wikipedia.org)