Anheuser-Busch buys another craft brewer
Anheuser-Busch InBev (Euronext Brussels: ABI-BE) continues to get craftier.
The brewing conglomerate is purchasing Seattle-based Elysian Brewing Company for an undisclosed amount. Founded in 1995, Elysian sold more than 50,000 barrels of beer in 2014.
"Elysian's story includes everything we look for in a partner," said Andy Goeler, CEO of Anheuser-Busch's Craft division, in a statement. "As the fastest-growing brewer in Washington, their recipe is working. Elysian's brands are an important addition to our high-end beer portfolio, and we look forward to working together."
The acquisition is the latest in series of moves by Anheuser-Busch InBev to expand its craft beer portfolio.
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In 2014, Anheuser-Busch acquired Patchogue, New York-based Blue Point Brewing and Bend, Oregon-based 10 Barrel Brewing. A-B's craft group also includes Chicago's Goose Island Beer Company, which it bought for $38.5 million in 2011.
"After a lot of hard work, we've grown from one Seattle brewpub to four pub locations and a production brewery," said Joe Bisacca, Elysian CEO and co-founder. "With the support of Anheuser-Busch, we will build on past successes and share our beers with more beer lovers moving forward."
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The centerpiece of Elysian's offerings is its Immortal IPA, which accounted for more than a quarter of the brewer's total volume in 2014.
