In 2017, Anchor Steam, the iconic beer brand, was sold to Sapporo for a staggering $85 million. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I closely followed this acquisition and its impact on the company. The sale itself marked a significant turning point for Anchor Steam, as it transitioned from being an independent American craft brewery to becoming part of a larger multinational corporation.
Prior to the sale, Anchor Steam had been facing a decline in both working conditions and pay. This decline had begun when the company was sold by Maytag, and unfortunately, it continued under Sapporo's ownership. Despite Sapporo's larger holdings and resources, the situation at Anchor Steam did not improve as many had hoped.
As someone deeply passionate about the craft beer industry, it saddens me to see a beloved and historic brewery like Anchor Steam face such challenges. It is disheartening to witness the deterioration of working conditions and wages, as these factors greatly impact the overall quality and integrity of the beer being produced.
The decline in working conditions and pay at Anchor Steam is not an isolated incident within the beer industry. Many craft breweries have faced similar issues, particularly after being acquired by larger corporations. These corporations often prioritize profit margins over the well-being of their employees, which can lead to a decline in the overall quality of the product.
While I do not have personal experience working at Anchor Steam or within Sapporo's organization, I have interacted with individuals from various breweries who have shared their stories and concerns. It is clear that the challenges faced by Anchor Steam are not unique, but rather emblematic of a larger issue within the industry.
It is my hope that the acquisition by Sapporo will eventually lead to positive changes at Anchor Steam. Perhaps with time, Sapporo will recognize the importance of investing in the well-being of their employees and the quality of their beer. Only then can we truly see Anchor Steam regain its former glory and continue to be a beloved and respected name in the craft beer world.
Anchor Steam was sold to Sapporo for $85 million in 2017. Unfortunately, working conditions and pay at the brewery had been in decline since Maytag sold the company, and this trend continued under Sapporo's ownership. The impact of this acquisition on the brewery and its employees is a cause for concern within the craft beer industry.