In a deal that one might consider “a
little tricky” King of Beers, Anheuser-Busch, purchased a stake in
Chicago based Goose Island. Last week a merger was finalized by
Widmer Brother Brewing Co. (a company owned by Anheuser-Busch) and
Goose Island that will give the small beer company a chance at big time
circulation. As a part of the deal Goose Island will now have access
to the network of independent beer wholesalers who distribute
Anheuser-Busch beers throughout the United States.
One unusual aspect about this purchase is that all three companies
are family owned and operated, which probably eased the merger. In
this newly extended family, everyone will have chores. Widmer will
become a minority investor in Goose Island’s bottling plant and brewery
on Fulton St. in Chicago, Illinois, helping to modernize and streamline
the facility. Anheuser-Busch, who own about 40% of Widmer Brothers
Brewing Co., will lend logistical support to help their distributors
realize the full potential of Goose Island.
With the help of the both Widmer and Anheuser-Busch, Goose Island
will most likely become a new “niche” beer. Found towards the end of
the beer aisle. You know, the treat-to-your-tongue-not-to-your-wallet
beers.
Although I’ve never been to Chicago nor have I drank a Goose Island,
the minute I spot one at my local grocery store you bet I’ll be
bringing it to the cash register. There are few things in this world
that I am sure of - one of them happens to be that an ice cold
Budweiser is always delicious and refreshing. They’ve stood by me in
my times of need: children’s birthday parties, Fridays, lay-offs,
promotions, Saturdays, births, deaths, boring football games, Tuesdays,
great football games, Mondays as well as Sundays. It’s about
high-time I supported them! This Goose Island’s for you Bud!