Leinenkugel Brewing Company is currently owned by Molson Coors Beverage Company. This ownership came about as a result of a series of mergers and acquisitions in the beer industry.
Leinenkugel's has a rich history that dates back to 1867 when it was founded by Jacob Leinenkugel in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. The brewery remained family-owned and operated for several generations, with each new generation adding their own touch to the business. The Leinenkugel family built a strong reputation for brewing quality beers, particularly their German-style lagers and wheat beers.
However, in recent years, the beer industry has undergone significant consolidation. In 2007, SABMiller, a multinational brewing company, acquired a majority stake in MillerCoors, which included ownership of the Leinenkugel brand. MillerCoors was a joint venture between SABMiller and Molson Coors, formed in 2008. This partnership allowed for the distribution and marketing of MillerCoors' portfolio of brands, including Leinenkugel's.
Fast forward to 2016, when Anheuser-Busch InBev, another major player in the beer industry, acquired SABMiller. As part of the regulatory requirements for this acquisition, SABMiller was required to divest its stake in MillerCoors. Molson Coors saw this as an opportunity to take full control of the Miller brands, including Leinenkugel's.
In October 2016, SABMiller sold its stake in MillerCoors to Molson Coors for approximately $12 billion. This transaction made Molson Coors the sole owner of all Miller brands, including Leinenkugel's.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experiencing and working with Leinenkugel's beers. Their offerings range from classic German-style lagers like their Original Lager and Creamy Dark, to more unique and experimental brews like their Summer Shandy and Canoe Paddler Kölsch. Each beer showcases the Leinenkugel family's commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Under the ownership of Molson Coors, Leinenkugel's continues to thrive as a beloved craft brewery. The brand's heritage and dedication to brewing exceptional beers remain intact, ensuring that beer lovers can continue to enjoy the unique flavors and traditions that Leinenkugel's has to offer.
Leinenkugel Brewing Company is currently owned by Molson Coors Beverage Company. This ownership came about through a series of mergers and acquisitions in the beer industry, ultimately resulting in Molson Coors acquiring full control of the Miller brands, including Leinenkugel's.