Elysian Brewing was sold to Anheuser-Busch last week, and many in the craft beer community are saying the longtime Seattle brewer sold out.
One astute Twitter user posted a picture of a beer Elysian currently offers that seems hypocritical of its decision to join the ranks of Busch's corporate portfolio alongside Bud Light and Michelob ULTRA.
NBC affiliate KING-TV reported that many, including beer blogger Paul Orchard, are already bracing for the backlash.
"I think those who care a great deal about supporting local, privately owned beer are going to reassess whether they want to support a brand like Elysian," he said.
Local beer drinker Coby McGuire also commented negatively.
"If they don't keep their quality up, it's a rich environment in Seattle. There are plenty of others that will come in and take their place."
According to The Seattle Times, Anheuser-Busch owns 47.2 percent of the U.S. beer market, but like many large brands, has been losing sales to the booming craft beer set since roughly 2008.
Instead of going head-to-head with the craft brewers, the company has gone on an acquisitions spree, scooping up Chicago-based Goose Island in 2011, as well as New York-based Blue Point Brewery Co. and Oregon-based 10 Barrel Brewing in 2014.
"The big guys see what is happening with the market, with craft brewing being the major growth in the industry," said Brewers Association director Paul Gatza. "The major domestic brands are down, and they are looking for business opportunities where they can find them."
Andy Goeler, CEO of craft beer at Anheuser-Busch
welcomed Elysian in a corporate press release on Friday.
"Elysian’s story includes everything we look for in a partner," he said. "The team has spent their careers brewing distinctive beers in the thriving West Coast beer community and building unique venues that celebrate beer. As the fastest growing brewer in Washington, their recipe is working. Elysian’s brands are an important addition to our high-end beer portfolio, and we look forward to working together."
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