Anheuser-Busch InBev just announced today that it has agreed to purchase Blue Point Brewing Co., one of the nation’s top craft brewers. This is continued proof, just like the sale of Goose Island to AB InBev, that multinational beer companies are threatened by craft beer and would rather buy craft breweries than compete with them.
Although Blue Point will likely have more resources at its disposal under AB-InBev, and can theoretically be a better brewery with a greater presence, this partnership with Anheuser-Busch is actually a double-edged sword. Blue Point is now in bed with a corporation that employs anti-competitiv
By selling itself to the largest brewer on the planet, has Blue Point sold its craft beer soul? Here’s what some craft beer enthusiasts are saying:
The Potable Curmudgeon: Fare thee well, Blue Point; may the multinational brewing assassins at AB InBev stuff… http://t.co/ULFIyO7PYA
— Roger A. Baylor (@newalbanian) February 5, 2014
Still on Blue Point’s website: “We want to remain a small, local, independently-owned […] microbrewery with absolutely no corporate ties.”
— Brew York (@brew_york) February 5, 2014
Was nice knowing ya #bluepointbrewery Going the way of many craft beers before you. #BeerWars http://t.co/yFGvE3OxZl
— JD (@thebronze79) February 5, 2014
I’m gonna go on record and say that I am a fan of Blue Point toasted lager – and I really hope it stays good & available…
— Carla Companion (@beerbabe) February 5, 2014