Golden Road Brewing is indeed owned by Anheuser-Busch InBev. The acquisition took place in September, and it was a move that didn't come as a surprise to many craft beer enthusiasts in Los Angeles.
Golden Road Brewing had experienced rapid growth and expansion since its inception, and there was a sentiment among beer drinkers that the brewery was “built to sell.” This sentiment was often expressed on social media platforms, internet forums, and comment threads.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have observed similar trends in the craft beer industry. Many breweries start with a passion for brewing unique and high-quality beers, but as they grow and gain popularity, they become attractive to larger brewing conglomerates like Anheuser-Busch InBev. These conglomerates have the resources and distribution networks to further expand the reach of these craft breweries.
The acquisition of craft breweries by larger beer companies has become quite common in recent years. It is seen as a strategic move to tap into the growing craft beer market and appeal to consumers who are seeking more diverse and unique beer options. Craft breweries offer a level of creativity and innovation that can be valuable to larger companies looking to diversify their beer portfolio.
However, the acquisition of craft breweries by major beer companies has also sparked some controversy within the craft beer community. Some argue that the essence of craft beer, which is often associated with independence and local production, is compromised when breweries become part of large corporations. There is a concern that the quality and authenticity of the beer may be affected by the focus on mass production and cost-cutting measures.
In the case of Golden Road Brewing, it is worth noting that the brewery had already established a strong presence in the Los Angeles craft beer scene before the acquisition. They had multiple locations, including a large production facility and a popular brewpub. The brewery had also gained recognition for their diverse range of beer styles and their commitment to sustainability.
While the acquisition by Anheuser-Busch InBev may have disappointed some loyal fans of Golden Road Brewing, it also provided an opportunity for the brewery to expand its reach and introduce their beers to a wider audience. Anheuser-Busch InBev has a vast distribution network and marketing resources, which can help Golden Road reach new markets and increase their production capacity.
The acquisition of Golden Road Brewing by Anheuser-Busch InBev reflects the ongoing trend of larger beer companies seeking to tap into the growing craft beer market. It is a move that can have both positive and negative implications for the craft beer industry and its consumers.