As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have delved into the fascinating world of breweries and their ownership. When it comes to the ownership of Carlton United Brewery (CUB), there is an interesting story behind it. CUB is one of the largest and most well-known breweries in Australia, with a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century. Over the years, CUB has seen various changes in ownership, which have shaped its trajectory and contributed to its success in the brewing industry.
To understand the current ownership of CUB, we need to go back in time and explore its journey. The brewery was originally founded in 1854 by a group of entrepreneurs led by William Foster, who established the Foster's Group. Foster's Group went on to acquire several other breweries, including the Carlton Brewery in 1907, which eventually led to the formation of Carlton United Brewery. Throughout the years, CUB continued to expand its portfolio and influence in the Australian beer market.
At that time, SABMiller (South African Breweries) made a bold move to acquire Foster's Group, including its subsidiary, Carlton United Brewery. This acquisition was a strategic move by SABMiller to expand its presence in the Asia-Pacific region and tap into the Australian beer market. SABMiller, a multinational brewing company, was one of the largest players in the industry, with a diverse portfolio of beer brands across the globe.
The ownership of CUB took yet another turn in 2016 when Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev), a Belgian-Brazilian multinational beverage and brewing company, acquired SABMiller. This merger created the largest beer company in the world, and as a result, CUB became a subsidiary of AB InBev. This acquisition further solidified AB InBev's dominance in the global brewing industry and expanded its reach into the Australian market through CUB.
AB InBev, as the current owner of Carlton United Brewery, has continued to invest in and expand the brewery's operations. CUB remains a prominent player in the Australian beer market, with a wide range of popular beer brands under its umbrella, including Carlton Draught, Victoria Bitter, and Pure Blonde, among others. The brewery's commitment to quality and innovation has allowed it to maintain its position as a market leader in Australia.
The ownership of Carlton United Brewery has seen various changes over the years. From its humble beginnings in the 19th century to the acquisition by Foster's Group, SABMiller, and eventually AB InBev, CUB has been shaped by the vision and strategies of different owners. Today, as a subsidiary of AB InBev, CUB continues to thrive and contribute to the vibrant beer culture in Australia.