In 2017, Avery Brewing made headlines when it announced that the Spain-based Mahou-San Miguel Group had acquired a 30% stake in the company. As a sommelier and brewer, I couldn't help but be intrigued by this partnership and the potential it held for Avery's future. The fact that an international beverage company was investing in a craft brewery spoke volumes about the growing popularity and influence of the craft beer industry.
Fast forward to 2019, and Avery Brewing made another significant move by selling an additional 40% stake in the company. This time, the buyers were Mahou-San Miguel Group and Founders Brewing Company. This acquisition caught the attention of many beer enthusiasts, including myself, as Founders Brewing Company is a well-established and highly regarded craft brewery based in the United States.
The decision to sell a majority stake in the company to Mahou-San Miguel Group and Founders Brewing Company undoubtedly had its reasons. While I don't have insider knowledge of Avery Brewing's specific motivations, I can speculate on some of the potential benefits and opportunities that may have influenced their decision.
1. Financial Stability and Growth: Craft breweries often face financial challenges due to the high costs associated with ingredients, equipment, and distribution. By partnering with larger and more established companies like Mahou-San Miguel Group and Founders Brewing Company, Avery Brewing could gain access to additional financial resources and expertise. This infusion of capital could help fuel growth, expand distribution, and invest in new brewing techniques and equipment.
2. International Expansion: Mahou-San Miguel Group, being a Spanish company, provides Avery Brewing with a gateway to the European market. This partnership could open doors to new distribution channels, allowing Avery's beers to reach a wider audience and gain exposure in international markets. As a sommelier, I've witnessed how the globalization of the craft beer industry has led to the discovery of unique and exciting brews from around the world. This acquisition could enable Avery Brewing to tap into this global trend and showcase their beers to a broader consumer base.
3. Knowledge Exchange and Collaboration: The partnership with Mahou-San Miguel Group and Founders Brewing Company could foster a cross-cultural exchange of brewing techniques, recipes, and industry insights. Craft breweries thrive on innovation, and learning from different brewing traditions can be a catalyst for creativity and experimentation. As a brewer, I understand the value of collaboration and how it can lead to the development of exceptional and groundbreaking beers. This acquisition could provide Avery Brewing with a platform to collaborate with industry experts and create unique brews that push the boundaries of taste and style.
4. Brand Recognition and Marketing: By aligning themselves with Mahou-San Miguel Group and Founders Brewing Company, Avery Brewing could benefit from increased brand recognition and marketing opportunities. These larger companies have established networks and resources that can amplify Avery's visibility in the competitive craft beer landscape. As a sommelier, I've seen how effective marketing strategies can elevate a brewery's profile and attract new customers. The partnership could enable Avery Brewing to reach a wider audience and establish itself as a prominent player in the craft beer market.
While the specifics of the deal between Avery Brewing, Mahou-San Miguel Group, and Founders Brewing Company may not be fully known to the public, it is clear that this acquisition holds immense potential for all parties involved. As a sommelier and brewer, I'm excited to see how this partnership unfolds and the impact it will have on Avery Brewing's future beers and growth in the craft beer industry.