Odell Brewing Co is not owned by Anheuser Busch. Odell Brewing Co is an independent craft brewery based in Fort Collins, Colorado. It was founded in 1989 by Doug, Wynne, and Corkie Odell, who had a passion for brewing beer and wanted to create unique and high-quality brews. Since its inception, Odell Brewing Co has remained independent and family-owned.
In 2015, the majority of the company was sold to its co-workers in a combined management buyout and an Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP). This means that the employees of Odell Brewing Co are now co-owners of the company. This decision was made to ensure the long-term independence and sustainability of the brewery, as well as to reward the hard work and dedication of the employees who helped build the company.
The ESOP structure allows the employees to have a direct stake in the success of the brewery, which fosters a sense of ownership and pride in their work. This model aligns the interests of the employees with the success of the company, as they directly benefit from its growth and profitability. It also creates a strong sense of community and camaraderie among the employees, as they are all working towards a common goal.
The decision to sell to the employees and establish an ESOP was not only a strategic move for the long-term success of the brewery, but also a reflection of the values and culture that Odell Brewing Co has cultivated since its founding. From the beginning, the Odell family and the employees have acted like owners, taking pride in their work and striving to create exceptional beers.
Remaining independent allows Odell Brewing Co to maintain its creative freedom and continue to innovate in the craft beer industry. It enables them to focus on brewing unique and flavorful beers that are crafted with care and passion. Being independent also allows them to stay true to their core values and maintain the close-knit and collaborative culture that has been instrumental in their success.
Odell Brewing Co is not owned by Anheuser Busch. It is an independent craft brewery that is majority-owned by its co-workers through a management buyout and ESOP. This ownership structure ensures the long-term independence and success of the brewery, while fostering a strong sense of community and ownership among the employees.