Wicked Weed, a popular craft brewery based in Asheville, North Carolina, was indeed sold to Anheuser-Busch in 2017. This acquisition came as a surprise to many craft beer enthusiasts, as Wicked Weed had built a strong reputation for its innovative and high-quality brews.
I remember when the news broke about Wicked Weed being sold. It was a topic of discussion among my fellow beer enthusiasts and industry professionals. People had mixed feelings about the sale, as it was seen as a move away from the independent and locally-owned ethos that had characterized the craft beer movement.
Wicked Weed had gained a loyal following over the years with its inventive and unique beers. They were known for pushing boundaries and experimenting with different styles and flavors. Their barrel-aged sours and IPAs were particularly renowned, and many beer lovers eagerly anticipated their limited releases.
The sale to Anheuser-Busch, the owner of Budweiser and numerous other beer brands, raised concerns about the impact on the craft beer community. Some worried that Wicked Weed's acquisition could result in a loss of independence and a dilution of their brewing practices. There was also a fear that the buyout could lead to a decrease in the quality and creativity that had made Wicked Weed so popular.
While the sale was met with disappointment by some craft beer enthusiasts, it was also seen as a significant financial opportunity for the founders and owners of Wicked Weed. The craft beer industry has experienced immense growth in recent years, and large beer conglomerates like Anheuser-Busch have been looking to invest in successful craft breweries to tap into this market.
The acquisition of Wicked Weed by Anheuser-Busch was part of a broader trend in the craft beer industry, where many independent breweries have been bought out by larger corporations. This trend has sparked debates about the definition of craft beer and the impact of consolidation on the industry.
Wicked Weed was sold to Anheuser-Busch in 2017. The acquisition generated mixed reactions within the craft beer community, with some expressing concerns about the loss of independence and the potential impact on the quality and creativity of Wicked Weed's beers. However, it also provided financial opportunities for the brewery's owners and reflected a larger trend of consolidation within the craft beer industry.