InBev, AB and America
Given the impending takeover of American Anheuser-Busch by Belgian InBev, I found the following picture hilariously ironic (click for larger view):
Original picture found here. How much longer will AB be able to claim “America”? This topic is being discussed in depth elsewhere. And other elsewheres. But has anyone else noticed the new AB commercials hearkening back to Prohibition and how freaking American Budweiser is?
I’m not sure their ultimate motives with the commercials… it could be to try to ’save the company’ by getting people riled up. More likely they’re doing some preemptive re-branding in anticipation of InBev’s impending dominance.
Jonathan, Joel & Jeff
July 8th, 2008 at 9:03 pm
I have to say that after reading “Ambitious Brew” by Maureen Ogle A-B, Pasbt, Coors and all the other old time brewers (early 1900’s) have gained my respect for brewing beer during that time. But, then they lost it for what they did in the 80’s. I do find it ironic though and I’m not sure how I feel about it.
Cheers
July 9th, 2008 at 9:45 am
It all makes me sad. First Miller, then Coors (who cares), now AB being gobbled up by the increasingly huge and international beer-marketing machine. To me, it seems the the purchase of some of the largest and best breweries (and brewers), best science, best supply chains and access to ingredients should be worth every penny that InBev would spend. However, even after the purchase, nothing will change. That’s AB’s trademark - no noticeable change.
July 10th, 2008 at 11:01 am
I looking forward to the new Budweiser Tripel, and Abby Lager!!
July 11th, 2008 at 2:17 pm
Ambitious Brew is an AMAZING book. One of the best beer books I’ve read.
August 21st, 2008 at 8:13 am
[...] Sure, they’re probably trying to boost their status as a domestic brewery after being acquired by InBev. Though I have a feeling the American Ale was in the pipeline long before the takeover. Allow me to [...]