Anheuser-Busch InBev has acquired something a little different this week. Homebrew supplies. The global brewery has acquired Northern Brewer.
Northern Brewer was founded 23 years ago by Chris Farley (not the actor). Since then the homebrew supply group has grown to one of the largest in the United States, posting $10’s of millions in annual revenue.
Farley has confirmed that Northern Brewer has been acquired by ZX Ventures, the “global disruptive growth unit” of Anheuser-Busch InBev. The details of the transaction have not been disclosed.
Farley states in a message on the Northern Brewer site: “First, nothing will fundamentally change as the result of this deal. Our entire leadership team will remain intact and our company will continue to be independent. Our staff of dedicated employees will continue to serve our customers and help our industry innovate. Our culture will remain as it is today: vibrant, energetic, fair and dedicated to our mission and to you.”
From here, Farley goes on to say this sale will bring “unparalleled opportunities.” What those are exactly, have not been divulged by the company.
Northern Brewer’s leadership will remain intact, as will all the current employees – for now.
What ZX Ventures, and AB InBev will do with Northern Brewer remains to be seen.
By Reidramsay
Source: Beer Street Journal
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