Shocker!
Anchor Brewing Company SOLD.
In perhaps one of the greatest surprises ever in the craft brewing industry, it appears that Anchor Brewing Company has sold.
It was announced today that the Griffin Group, an investment and consulting company focused on beverage alcohol brands has acquired Anchor Brewing Company, including its portfolio of artisan spirits.
The Griffin Group, headquartered in Novato, Marin County is led Keith Greggor and Tony Foglio who built the Skyy Vodka label. Additional affiliated companies to be held under the newly named “Anchor Brewers & Distillers” include Preiss Imports, a specialist spirits and beer importer, and BrewDog USA, the US division of the leading UK craft beer.
More details to come.
Wow, just…wow.
This is an interesting announcement with the recent sale of Anderson Valley. One of the great things about the craft brewing industry is the personality that owners and/or brewers impart on their products. Only time will tell whether these new owners can continue in the spirit of the companies they are purchasing or even evolve them in a positive manner.
I think this also relates to the new Coors “craft beer.” Some replies in that other thread state that all breweries operate as a business and should try to be successful businesses. While I agree that a business needs to make more money than it spends, our current (unsustainable) focus on unlimited growth detracts from the personality of the product.
Craft beer is great not just because it recognizes traditional methods and styles. Craft beer is great not just because of the bold innovation and new flavors. Craft beer is great because of the people involved and every bit of themselves that gets put into each handcrafted product.
Yeah well Fritz is getting up there in age. Hang in there Anchor brew crew, you guys are the best.
Dear Mr. Maytag,
Enjoy your retirement, you’ve certainly earned it.
Thank you.
Love,
The brewing world.
Amen!!!
Tim
P.S. You will be sorely missed.