As an expert sommelier and brewer, I am thrilled to provide you with a detailed answer to your question about the ownership of Founders All Day IPA. Let's dive into the fascinating story behind this beloved beer.
Founders All Day IPA, known for its approachable and sessionable nature, was founded by Mike Stevens and Dave Engbers in 1997 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The brewery quickly gained a dedicated following with their commitment to quality and innovation in craft brewing.
Fast forward to 2014, when Founders Brewing Company made a significant move in their ownership structure. They partnered with Mahou San Miguel, a renowned Spanish brewery, and formed a strategic alliance. Mahou San Miguel initially acquired a 30% stake in Founders, signaling their confidence in the brand and their desire to expand their global reach.
Over the years, the partnership between Founders and Mahou San Miguel has deepened. In 2019, Mahou San Miguel increased their ownership stake to 90%, making them the majority owners of Founders Brewing Company. This move has allowed Founders to leverage Mahou San Miguel's extensive resources, expertise, and distribution network to further grow and develop their brand.
While some craft beer enthusiasts might have reservations about larger corporations acquiring craft breweries, it's essential to note that Mahou San Miguel has shown a commitment to preserving Founders' independence and maintaining the quality and integrity of their beers. As a brewer myself, I understand the importance of staying true to the craft and ensuring that the soul of the beer remains intact.
I have personally witnessed the positive impact of strategic alliances in the craft beer industry. These partnerships often provide smaller breweries with the necessary capital, distribution networks, and expertise to expand their reach while maintaining their unique identity and commitment to craft brewing.
In the case of Founders All Day IPA, Mahou San Miguel's ownership has allowed the beer to reach a broader audience both domestically and internationally. The partnership has also provided Founders with access to new brewing techniques, ingredient sourcing, and quality control measures, further enhancing the overall experience of enjoying their beers.
It's important to acknowledge that the craft beer landscape is constantly evolving, and ownership structures can change over time. However, what remains constant is the passion and dedication of the brewers behind the beer. Founders All Day IPA continues to be brewed with the same care, attention to detail, and commitment to quality that made it a fan favorite in the first place.
Founders All Day IPA is now majority-owned by Mahou San Miguel of Spain. This partnership has allowed the beer to grow and expand while staying true to its craft brewing roots. As a sommelier and brewer, I appreciate the commitment to quality and innovation that both Founders and Mahou San Miguel bring to the table, ensuring that beer lovers can continue to enjoy the sessionable goodness of Founders All Day IPA for years to come.