It is true that New Belgium brewery was sold in 2019. The brewery, which was founded in 1991 in Fort Collins, Colorado, has become one of the most well-known and respected craft breweries in the United States. As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of sampling and enjoying many of New Belgium's beers over the years, and I was personally saddened to hear about the sale.
The acquisition of New Belgium by Lion, a subsidiary of the Kirin beverage group, came as a surprise to many in the craft beer community. New Belgium had always been seen as a pioneer and leader in the industry, known for their commitment to sustainability and their dedication to quality and innovation. The news of the sale sparked a lot of discussion and debate among beer enthusiasts, with some expressing concern about the potential impact on the brewery's values and independence.
As a brewer myself, I understand the challenges and pressures that breweries face in today's competitive market. Running a successful craft brewery requires not only a passion for brewing great beer, but also a keen business sense and a commitment to adapt and evolve with changing consumer tastes. In recent years, we have seen a wave of consolidation in the craft beer industry, with many small and independent breweries being acquired by larger players. While this can provide financial stability and distribution opportunities for the acquired breweries, it can also lead to concerns about the loss of their unique character and identity.
In the case of New Belgium, the decision to sell was driven in part by the desire of the brewery's founders to provide a meaningful transition for their employees and to ensure the long-term sustainability of the company. In a letter to the brewery's employee-owners, co-founder Kim Jordan explained that the sale was necessary in order to deal with the financial challenges faced by the company and to provide liquidity for the ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) shares held by the employees. This decision was not taken lightly, and it is clear that the founders and management of New Belgium had the best interests of their employees and community at heart.
While there is always a certain level of uncertainty and concern when a beloved craft brewery is acquired by a larger company, it is also important to recognize that these acquisitions can sometimes lead to positive outcomes. Larger breweries often have the resources and expertise to invest in and expand the acquired brewery's operations, allowing them to reach a wider audience and continue brewing the beers that made them famous in the first place. Additionally, the financial stability provided by an acquisition can help ensure the long-term viability of the brewery and its employees.
In the case of New Belgium, Lion has expressed its commitment to preserving the brewery's unique culture and values. In a press release announcing the acquisition, Lion stated that New Belgium will continue to operate independently and that there are no plans for significant changes to the brewery's operations or its portfolio of beers. This is certainly encouraging news for fans of New Belgium, as it suggests that the brewery will be able to continue producing the high-quality, innovative beers that it has become known for.
As a sommelier, I believe that the most important thing is the quality of the beer itself. While ownership changes and acquisitions can be unsettling, ultimately it is the taste and craftsmanship of the beer that matters most. I have had the pleasure of enjoying many New Belgium beers over the years, and I trust that the talented brewers at the brewery will continue to produce outstanding beers under the new ownership.
Yes, New Belgium brewery did sell in 2019 to Lion, a subsidiary of the Kirin beverage group. While this news may have initially sparked concern among craft beer enthusiasts, it is important to approach the situation with an open mind and give the new owners a chance to prove themselves. The craft beer industry is constantly evolving, and while change can be difficult, it is also an opportunity for growth and innovation. Only time will tell what the future holds for New Belgium under its new ownership, but I remain hopeful that the brewery will continue to thrive and produce exceptional beers for years to come.