The ownership of Jim Beam has gone through several changes over the years. Originally, the brand was produced by the Beam family, who started distilling whiskey in Kentucky in the late 18th century. However, during the period of Prohibition in the United States, which lasted from 1920 to 1933, the production and sale of alcoholic beverages were banned, and the Beam family was forced to halt their operations.
After Prohibition ended, James B. Beam, also known as Jim Beam, took charge of rebuilding the family business. In 1943, the brand name was officially changed to “Jim Beam” in honor of James B. Beam's efforts and contributions. This move marked a significant milestone in the history of the brand.
For many years, Jim Beam remained under the ownership of the Beam family, and it grew to become one of the most well-known and respected whiskey brands in the world. However, in 2005, the Beam family sold the business to Fortune Brands, a holding company with a diverse portfolio of consumer goods brands.
Under Fortune Brands' ownership, Jim Beam continued to thrive and expand its reach globally. The brand gained recognition for its wide range of whiskey offerings, including the iconic Jim Beam bourbon, as well as other variants like Jim Beam Black, Jim Beam Devil's Cut, and Jim Beam Signature Craft.
In 2014, another significant change occurred in the ownership of Jim Beam. Suntory Holdings, a Japanese beverage company with a long history in the spirits industry, acquired Beam Inc., the parent company of Jim Beam, for approximately $16 billion. This marked Suntory's entry into the American whiskey market and further solidified its presence as a major player in the global spirits industry.
The acquisition by Suntory Holdings brought together two renowned whiskey brands: Jim Beam and Suntory's own Yamazaki and Hakushu whiskies. The combination of these brands under one ownership created a powerhouse in the whiskey world, with a diverse portfolio of high-quality spirits.
Since the acquisition, Jim Beam has continued to flourish, maintaining its commitment to producing exceptional whiskey while benefiting from the resources and expertise of Suntory Holdings. The brand's legacy, rooted in the Beam family's dedication and James B. Beam's vision, lives on under the ownership of Suntory Holdings, ensuring that Jim Beam remains a beloved and respected name in the world of whiskey.