As an expert sommelier and brewer, I understand the decision made by Molson Coors to discontinue Keystone beer. The beer industry is constantly evolving, and companies often need to adapt their offerings to meet changing consumer preferences and market trends.
One of the main reasons behind the decision to stop making Keystone beer is the company's effort to “premiumize” its higher-end offerings. The economy beer segment, which includes brands like Keystone, Icehouse Edge, and Miller High Life Light, tends to have lower profit margins compared to premium and craft beers. By discontinuing these economy brands, Molson Coors can focus its resources and marketing efforts on its higher-end products that have the potential to generate higher profits.
Additionally, consumer tastes have been shifting towards more premium and craft beers in recent years. People are becoming more interested in unique and flavorful brews, and are willing to pay a higher price for quality. This trend has led many beer companies to expand their portfolios with a variety of craft and specialty beers. By discontinuing Keystone beer, Molson Coors can allocate more resources to developing and promoting their premium offerings that better align with consumer preferences.
It's important to note that the decision to discontinue a beer brand is not taken lightly. Companies like Molson Coors invest significant time and resources into market research and analysis to determine which brands are performing well and which ones are not meeting consumer expectations. If a brand like Keystone is not generating enough sales or lacks a strong market presence, it may be deemed necessary to discontinue it in order to focus on more profitable and popular options.
Personal experiences and situations can also shed some light on the decision to stop making Keystone beer. As a sommelier and brewer, I have witnessed firsthand how consumer preferences have shifted towards more premium and craft beers. People are looking for unique and flavorful options, and the economy beer segment may no longer be able to meet those demands. Moreover, I have seen how beer companies strive to stay competitive in a crowded market by constantly evaluating their brand portfolio and making tough decisions when necessary.
Molson Coors made the decision to discontinue Keystone beer as part of its larger effort to “premiumize” its higher-end offerings and meet changing consumer preferences. By focusing on their more profitable and popular brands, the company can allocate resources more effectively and stay competitive in the beer industry.