Anheuser-Busch - The Beer Thrillers

Anheuser-Busch Unveils ‘Choose Beer Grown Here’ Initiative

B. Kline — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 11:12:36 +0000

Anheuser-Busch Unveils ‘Choose Beer Grown Here’ Initiative

Anheuser-Busch: “Choose Beer Grown Here”

The premier brewing company, renowned for featuring tractors and corn cobs on its beer cans, has unveiled a new initiative to back American farmers during National Agriculture Week.

The American Farmland Trust introduced a new certification and packaging seal called U.S. Farmed, which identifies products made with at least 95% of their agricultural ingredients sourced from U.S. farms. Anheuser-Busch is the first to incorporate the U.S. Farmed certification and seal across several of its beer brands.

This certification is designed to change consumer purchasing habits towards domestically sourced products, with Busch Light beer being the first to showcase the seal this May. Anheuser-Busch is also launching a campaign titled “Choose Beer Grown Here,” which aims to prompt consumers to look for the certification and seal while shopping. Other beer brands under Anheuser-Busch, including Budweiser, Bud Light, and Michelob ULTRA, have also received the U.S. Farmed certification.

Luke Adams, a third-generation farmer and owner of Timm Adams Farms, expressed his enthusiasm for the certification. He highlighted that, until now, the effort and quality behind the barley his family produces were invisible to consumers.

“I’m excited about the launch of the U.S. Farmed certification and proud to be a supplier for the pioneering company in this initiative,” Adams commented. “The knowledge that consumers can actively support farmers nationwide, including my family and our farm workers, is incredibly meaningful.”

The initiative is open to all companies within the consumer-packaged goods sector that source their products domestically, encouraging them to obtain the U.S. Farmed certification. The American Farmland Trust notes that certification fees will assist farmers in accessing necessary support to sustain and safeguard their land, and to devise innovative ways to pass on their farms to future generations.

Anheuser-Busch’s CEO, Brendan Whitworth, emphasized the company’s longstanding relationship with American agriculture. “Supporting U.S. farmers by sourcing top-notch ingredients has been a core part of our identity for over 165 years,” Whitworth stated. “We’ve been partnering with diligent U.S. farmers, many of whom have been our collaborators for generations, to produce our iconic American beers.”

The announcement has received widespread support from various agricultural groups, including the USA Rice Federation, National Corn Growers Association, Hop Growers of America, National Barley Growers Association, and the Hop Research Council.

Harold Wolle, a Minnesota corn farmer and President of the National Corn Growers Association, praised the certification for recognizing the quality of American agricultural products. Peter Bachmann, president and CEO of the USA Rice Federation, highlighted the certification’s role in showcasing the significance of the U.S. manufacturing base and the contributions of American rice growers to the nation’s food landscape.

SUPPORTING U.S. FARMERS: Anheuser-Busch announced it will be the first to adopt the new U.S. Farmed certification, signifying at least 95% of the agricultural ingredients are sourced from U.S. farms.Courtesy of Anheuser-Busch

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Anheuser-Busch InBev Closes Two Craft Brewpubs

B. Kline — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 19:33:19 +0000

Golden Road Brewpub

Anheuser-Busch InBev Closes Two Craft Brewpubs

The closures are unrelated and just happened to occur at similar time,

-An A.B Spokeswoman said.

Anheuser-Busch InBev is in the process of closing two craft beer brewpubs. Both brewpubs have been affiliated with craft beer and were purchased by Anheuser-Busch InBev in the past decade.

Anheuser-Busch InBev is closing Golden Road Brewery out of Sacramento, California, and Wynwood Brewing Company in Miami, Florida. Golden Road Brewing closed its Sacramento, California, brewpub last week, and Wynwood Brewing Co. in Miami will close after a final day of operations on Feb. 4.

The difficult decision to close the Golden Road Sacramento Brewpub reflects the current operating realities facing the entire restaurant and hospitality industry, and we are committed to supporting our people through this transition, we are tremendously grateful to this community and their support over the years, and though the Sacramento Brewpub is closed, we look forward to continuing to bring them the beers they know and love at their favorite bars, restaurants, and bottle shops.

-Craig Weiner, Golden Road Brewery’s general manager

Various reports give different “reasons” cited for the closures, but with Anheuser-Busch InBev, generally speaking the biggest fundamental reason is — money. Costs versus profit, both brewpubs came up lacking, and with Anheuser-Busch InBev that means they were expenditures willing to be cut.

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Craft Beer vs. Regular Beer: Exploring the Differences

B. Kline — Sun, 28 Jan 2024 16:27:15 +0000

Craft Beer vs. Regular Beer: Exploring the Differences

In the ever-expanding world of beer, two terms often surface, creating a buzz among enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike: craft beer and regular beer. While both ultimately serve the same purpose—quenching thirst and offering a spectrum of flavors—the paths they take from brewery to glass are markedly different. This article delves into the essence of craft beer, contrasts it with regular beer, and explores the factors that distinguish one from the other.

The Craft Beer Identity

Craft beer is synonymous with creativity, quality, and local flavor. It’s produced by small, independent breweries—craft breweries—that prioritize innovation, taste, and traditional brewing methods. The Brewers Association, a key authority in the craft brewing industry, defines craft breweries based on three criteria: small, independent, and traditional. This means they produce a limited amount of beer, are independently owned, and focus on quality, flavor, and brewing technique.

The Regular Beer Landscape

Regular beer, often referred to as “macro beer” or “commercial beer,” is produced by large-scale breweries with a global presence. These breweries prioritize consistency and accessibility, ensuring that a beer bought in one country tastes the same as one bought on another continent. Brands like Budweiser, Coors, and Heineken dominate this segment, offering products that appeal to a broad audience with their mild flavors and approachable profiles.

Distinguishing Factors

1. Scale of Production

One of the most significant differences lies in the scale of production. Craft breweries produce beer in smaller batches, allowing for greater flexibility, experimentation, and attention to detail. In contrast, macro breweries focus on large-scale production to meet global demand, often at the expense of diversity and innovation.

2. Ingredients and Innovation

Craft brewers are known for their experimental approach to ingredients and brewing methods. They often incorporate local, unconventional, or seasonal ingredients, resulting in a wide array of unique flavors and styles. Regular beers, however, tend to stick to a standard recipe to maintain flavor consistency across the board.

3. Flavor Profiles

Craft beers generally offer more complex and varied flavor profiles compared to their regular counterparts. From the hoppy bitterness of an IPA to the rich, dark notes of a stout, craft beers can range widely in taste, aroma, and appearance. Regular beers, while enjoyable, usually provide a more consistent and less adventurous drinking experience.

4. Community and Culture

Craft breweries often serve as community hubs, reflecting local culture and preferences. They support local economies, engage with their customers on a personal level, and contribute to regional identity. Macro breweries, with their global reach, cannot replicate this level of local involvement and personal touch.

5. Price Point

Due to the use of high-quality ingredients, smaller scale production, and artisanal methods, craft beer often comes at a higher price point compared to regular beer. Consumers pay for the experience, diversity, and quality that craft beers offer.

Conclusion: A Matter of Preference

Choosing between craft and regular beer boils down to personal preference. Do you value the consistency and familiarity of a global brand, or do you seek the unique, locally-produced flavors that craft breweries offer? Perhaps the real joy lies in exploring the vast spectrum of beers available, appreciating the craftsmanship and tradition behind each pour. Whether you’re a devout craft beer aficionado or a regular beer enthusiast, the world of beer has something for everyone.

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AB InBev’s Budweiser becomes Olympics’ first beer brand global sponsor

B. Kline — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 15:24:44 +0000

Paris at Sunset – Home of the 2024 Olympics

AB InBev’s Budweiser becomes Olympics’ first beer brand global sponsor

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has, for the first time in its 40-year sponsorship history, partnered with a beer brand, welcoming Anheuser-Busch InBev into its multi-billion dollar sponsorship program that benefits both the organization and international sports. This landmark agreement was unveiled by the IOC and AB InBev, the brewing behemoth from Belgium known for popular labels such as Budweiser, Corona, Michelob, and Modelo, covering the upcoming three Summer and Winter Olympic Games. The collaboration kicks off with the Paris Olympics, set to commence on July 26, and will extend through the 2026 Winter Olympics in Northern Italy, culminating with what is anticipated to be a highlight event at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.

The IOC has not disclosed how much the sponsorship costs, but estimates point to north of 300$ Million.

Corona Cero, the non-alcoholic variant of the globally second most valuable beer brand Corona, will serve as the worldwide beer sponsor for the Olympic Games, announced the leaders of the IOC and AB InBev. While the financial terms of the sponsorship were not revealed, it is known that some sponsors of the IOC’s TOP (The Olympic Partner) program contribute over $300 million for a four-year commercial partnership.

AB InBev, with its extensive support for sports worldwide, aims to celebrate the communal spirit that sports and beer jointly foster among fans, according to AB InBev CEO Michel Doukeris during an interview with The Associated Press. “Beer and sports are a natural pairing for fans,” Doukeris remarked, highlighting the company’s commitment to enhancing the sports viewing experience.

Since its inception in 1985, a year after the commercially revitalizing Los Angeles Games, the IOC’s TOP program has primarily partnered with companies in the technology and logistics sectors, such as Deloitte, Intel, and Toyota, to aid Olympic Games organizers in host cities. This marks the first time the Olympic organization has engaged with a beer or alcohol brand for its globally celebrated event, which is recognized as the zenith of athletic excellence and features an increasingly youthful roster of medalists in new sports like skateboarding. Nevertheless, beer sponsorships have been commonplace at the local level; for example, Chinese officials designated Budweiser as the international beer for the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

The IOC’s historical collaborations with Coca-Cola and McDonald’s led to a moment of reflection in 2012 when then-president Jacques Rogge acknowledged the need for these partners to contribute to the fight against obesity by offering healthier, low-sugar, and low-fat alternatives. While Coca-Cola remains an Olympic sponsor, the partnership with McDonald’s was concluded prematurely in 2017, three years before its scheduled end.

The IOC has always maintained a marketing philosophy that shuns commercial ties with products that could undermine its mission or the values of Olympism. When queried about the timing of the new sponsorship agreement, Thomas Bach, who succeeded Rogge as IOC president, highlighted the alignment of shared values between the IOC and its new partner, emphasizing the celebration of sports and unity that both entities cherish.

“We are organizations that are eager for success, yet we understand the importance of social responsibility that accompanies such achievements,” Bach commented during a press conference.

AB InBev’s CEO, Michel Doukeris, in an interview with The Associated Press, saw no conflict in having Corona Cero as the global Olympic brand and Michelob Ultra sponsoring the U.S. team and the 2028 LA Olympics, citing the promotion of responsible drinking as a core message.

The market for non-alcoholic beverages has seen a significant uptick, driven by health-conscious younger consumers and a general trend towards moderation, outpacing the growth of alcoholic beverage sales over recent years. From 2018 to 2023, non-alcoholic drink sales in the top 10 markets surged by 70% to over $8.5 billion, while alcoholic drinks experienced a 14% growth to $470 billion, according to IWSR Drinks Market Analysis.

This shift presents alcohol companies with an opportunity to retain customers within their brand portfolio, according to Susie Goldspink, head of no- and low-alcohol insights at IWSR. For instance, a consumer transitioning from alcoholic Corona to Corona Cero remains a win for AB InBev.

IOC sponsors, now totaling a record 15, are restricted from showcasing their names or slogans at Olympic venues. Thus, there will be no visual presence of Corona Cero marketing amidst competitions, such as skateboarding or gymnastics, in Paris. However, sponsors do gain exclusive global rights to use Olympic branding, like the iconic five rings, in their advertising and promotional activities.

The sponsorship program has been lucrative for the IOC, generating almost $2.3 billion in cash, services, and value-in-kind for the cycle ending with the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

The partnership with the beer industry begins in France, where a 33-year ban on alcohol sales in sports stadiums is in place, though alcohol is available in premium hospitality areas.

Fans heading to Paris have diverse views on alcohol’s role at the Games, emphasizing the event’s focus on world-class competition and cross-cultural unity over drinking. Some attendees, like KC Branch, a 61-year-old attorney, and Wendi Johnson, a 46-year-old professor, appreciate the emphasis on a family-friendly atmosphere free from alcohol-induced misbehaviors. Meanwhile, others like Derick Gavidia, a 35-year-old tech worker, view the option to purchase alcohol as a nice-to-have but not essential to their Olympic experience, prioritizing the events, atmosphere, and memories above all.

History of Budweiser

Budweiser, an iconic American beer, traces its origins back to 1876 when Carl Conrad, a German immigrant, decided to create a beer that would echo the Bohemian lager style, popular in his homeland. He collaborated with Eberhard Anheuser and Adolphus Busch, the founders of what would become Anheuser-Busch, to brew this novel beer. Adolphus Busch, utilizing pasteurization and a network of ice-cooled railroad cars, was instrumental in ensuring that Budweiser could be the first national beer brand by maintaining its freshness during transportation across the United States. This innovation marked a turning point in the beer industry, setting Budweiser on a path to becoming a household name.

The early 20th century was a challenging period for Budweiser and the entire American brewing industry due to the Prohibition era (1920-1933), which banned the production, transportation, and sale of alcoholic beverages. Anheuser-Busch navigated these turbulent times by diversifying its product line to include non-alcoholic beverages such as soft drinks and malt syrup. Despite these efforts, the company’s survival was at stake. However, the end of Prohibition marked a resurgence for Budweiser, as it quickly reestablished itself as a leader in the beer market, benefiting from the infrastructure and distribution networks that had been kept intact during the dry years.

Post-Prohibition, Budweiser embarked on an era of innovation and expansion. In the 1950s, Anheuser-Busch introduced the Budweiser can, significantly expanding the beer’s accessibility and convenience for American consumers. The latter half of the 20th century saw Budweiser solidifying its position as “The King of Beers,” a slogan that aptly reflected its dominant market presence. The brand was adept at marketing, utilizing various mediums from print to television, which featured memorable campaigns such as the Budweiser Clydesdales and the “Wassup” commercials. These efforts helped Budweiser to not only become synonymous with American beer but also a significant cultural icon.

Entering the 21st century, Budweiser has faced new challenges and opportunities. The rise of craft beers and changing consumer preferences towards more diverse and artisanal beer options have seen Budweiser adapting its strategy to maintain relevance. In 2008, Anheuser-Busch merged with InBev, forming Anheuser-Busch InBev, the world’s largest beer company. This merger allowed Budweiser to tap into new markets and expand its global footprint. Today, Budweiser continues to be a major player in the beer industry, renowned for its rich history and contribution to the development of the American beer landscape. Despite the evolving market dynamics, Budweiser remains a symbol of quality and tradition to beer enthusiasts around the world.

History of the Modern Olympics

The Modern Olympics, a global spectacle uniting nations through the spirit of competition and camaraderie, trace their origins to the vision of Pierre de Coubertin, a French educator and historian. Inspired by the ancient Olympic Games held in Greece, de Coubertin aimed to revive this tradition to foster peace and understanding among nations. His efforts culminated in the first Modern Olympic Games in 1896, held in Athens, Greece. Despite initial skepticism, the event was a success, featuring 241 athletes from 14 nations, competing in 43 events. This marked the beginning of the Modern Olympics, setting the stage for what would become the world’s foremost sports competition.

As the 20th century unfolded, the Olympics faced numerous challenges, including two World Wars, which led to the cancellation of the 1916, 1940, and 1944 Games. Despite these setbacks, the Olympics emerged as a symbol of global unity and resilience. The post-war era saw significant expansion and innovation in the Olympic movement. The introduction of the Winter Olympic Games in 1924 in Chamonix, France, broadened the scope of competition to include winter sports, while the Paralympic Games, established in 1960, emphasized inclusivity for athletes with disabilities. The latter half of the 20th century also witnessed the advent of the Youth Olympic Games, further extending the Olympic ideals to young athletes.

Throughout its history, the Olympics have not only been a showcase for athletic excellence but also a platform for social and political statements. The 1968 Mexico City Games were notable for the iconic Black Power salute by American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos. The 1972 Munich Olympics were tragically marred by the terrorist attack on the Israeli team. The 1980 and 1984 Games were affected by Cold War tensions, with the United States and the Soviet Union leading boycotts. Despite such controversies, the Olympics have continually strived to uphold the principles of peace, respect, and mutual understanding.

In recent years, the Olympic Games have continued to evolve, reflecting the changing landscape of global sports. The introduction of new sports and disciplines, such as skateboarding, surfing, and sport climbing, aims to capture the interest of younger audiences and reflect the diversity of athletic talent worldwide. The Tokyo 2020 Olympics, held in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, showcased the resilience of the Olympic spirit amidst unprecedented challenges. As the Olympics look towards the future, with upcoming Games in Paris (2024), Milan-Cortina (2026), and Los Angeles (2028), they remain a testament to humanity’s enduring quest for excellence, unity, and peace through sport.

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BY 99 PERCENT, TEAMSTERS AUTHORIZE STRIKE AT ANHEUSER-BUSCH

B. Kline — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 14:46:05 +0000

BY 99 PERCENT, TEAMSTERS AUTHORIZE STRIKE AT ANHEUSER-BUSCH

Teamsters working nationwide at Anheuser-Busch have voted by an overwhelming 99 percent to authorize a strike.

The resounding vote allows the Teamsters National Negotiating Committee to call a strike if Anheuser-Busch fails to come to terms on a strong new contract. The union is seeking an agreement that improves wages, protects jobs, and secures health care and retirement benefits for 5,000 Teamsters across the company’s 12 U.S. breweries. The current agreement expires Feb. 29, 2024.

Anheuser-Busch is one of the largest brewing companies in not just the United States, but also in the world. Employing one of the largest production work forces for beverage companies, short of just Coca-Cola and Pepsi.

Teamsters stand firm in our fight for the best contract at Anheuser-Busch, and this powerful strike vote proves it. Our members’ labor, talent, and sacrifice are what put Anheuser-Busch products on the shelf, and we are committed to getting a contract that rewards and recognizes their hard work. If Anheuser-Busch’s executives can’t get their act together to negotiate an agreement that respects workers, we will see them out on the streets
Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien

Anheuser-Busch

Under pressure from the Teamsters, the company reached tentative agreements to end tiered health care and restore retiree health benefits last month. However, Anheuser-Busch has delayed negotiating on important job security issues since mid-November, despite repeated requests by the union. The global beermaker pulled in $58 billion in 2022. The company also recently announced $1 billion in stock buybacks to wealthy investors as it simultaneously ignores the need to protect good jobs.

Anheuser-Busch can’t kick this can down the road much longer. The Teamsters don’t want to be forced onto the picket line at any employer, but we are fully prepared to walk if Anheuser-Busch doesn’t get serious about negotiating a record contract that also protects good union jobs. It is the workers — the dedicated and tireless members of the Teamsters — who make this company a success and who have earned to share in that success.
Jeff Padellaro, Director of the Teamsters Brewery, Bakery, and Soft Drink Conference

There are no dates currently set for negotiations. Anheuser-Busch Teamsters recently rallied in New Hampshire, California, and Florida. More actions will take place soon across the country.

If this company wasn’t willing to come to a fair agreement with the Teamsters, we would strike. My Teamster brothers and sisters have a lot of fight in us and, by all means, we will stand united.
Josh Blanton, an Anheuser-Bush worker with Teamsters Local 947 in Jacksonville, Florida

Anheuser-Busch is obviously best known for its Budweiser line of beers (Budweiser, Bud Lite, etc), as well as the Clydesdale Horses seen in their annual commercials during the Super Bowl.

Teamsters

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Visit Teamster.org for more information. Follow us on Twitter @Teamsters and “like” us on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.

Anheuser-Busch Articles

Anheuser-Busch

The following comes via Untappd. Anheuser-Busch is a Subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch InBev. They are a macro brewery from St. Louis, MO United States. They have 492 unique beers, and over 2.8 Million ratings, with a global average rating of 2.66 (as of 12.18.23).

Their Untappd description reads: The leading American brewer, bringing people together for more than 160 years.

You can find them at the following social media pages:

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Book Review: Family Reins (Billy Busch)

B. Kline — Sun, 06 Aug 2023 13:40:00 +0000

Family Reins

Family Reins – The Heartbreaking Fall of An American Dynasty (or – Family Reins: The Extraordinary Rise and Epic Fall of An American Dynasty) is a book by Billy Busch Sr. There’s a lot to discuss with this book, and I thought about how I wanted to approach the review, and decided I didn’t want to jump right into a biography of Billy Busch (which I will be doing in a bit). But I first also need to address that I was approached and reached out to by Rebecca Malzahn and given a free copy of this book (an Uncorrected Advanced Reading Copy – or “ARC”) in lieu of a review here on the blog / site and on our GoodReads and LibraryThing pages.

So lets first take a look at Billy Busch Sr, take a look at Grant’s Farm, and more, then dive into the book review.

Billy Busch Sr.

If you do a quick Google search on Billy Busch Sr. one of the first things that pops up is his net worth – a staggering $17.6 Billion. He has self reported in the past that his family is the “16th richest family in the world with a net of $18 Billion” (according to The Sun).

A quick biography search on Google also brings up this:

The businessman was born William K. Busch in 1954 in St. Louis, Missouri, USA. As already mentioned, he belongs to the Busch family, whose business was launched by Bill’s great-great-grandfather, Adolphus Busch. Likewise, Billy Busch Sr’s father, August Anheuser Busch, aka Gussie Busch, served as the Anheuser-Busch CEO for more than two decades. He married four times in his lifetime, and Billy’s mother, Gertrude Buholzer Busch, was his third wife.

William grew up in a large household with five siblings, Adolphus A. Busch III, Peter W. Busch, Beatrice Busch von Gontrad, Trudy Busch Valentine, and Andrew D. Busch. Among them, Peter created The Busch Family Foundation, and Trudy was a Missouri Senate candidate. On the other hand, Beatrice is one of the owners of Grant’s Farm and is passionate about wildlife and environmental conservation.
Billy Busch Sr. Biography 2023 – Businessman And Gussie Busch’s Son

The Busch Family Brewed

“The Busch Family Brewed” stars one wing of the beer dynasty. The show focuses on Billy Busch, Sr., his wife Christi Busch, and the couple’s seven children — Billy Jr. (28), Haley (27), Abbey (25), Gussie (24), Grace (22), Maddie (17), and Peter (13) — at the time of its airing.

The show aired for one season (10 episodes) on MTV in March of 2020. The show never broke the 0.5 million viewers mark.

The Busch Family Brewed is an American reality television series that premiered on MTV on March 5, 2020.^[1]^[2] The series chronicles the lives of Billy Busch, great-grandson of Adolphus Busch; his wife Christi; and their seven children ranging in age from 28 to 13: Billy Jr., Haley, Abbey, Gussie, Grace, Maddie, and Peter.^[1]
The Busch Family Brewed – Wikipedia

Grant’s Farm

House on Grant’s Farm / Billy Busch on the Bud Light Polo Team (photos courtesy of Rebecca Malzahn)

Grant’s Farm has its own website – a tourism website – about how to visit and view the legacy farm. They are currently geared up for their summer season, which you can read about here:

Summer

Late May – August

Summer at Grant’s Farm features days of fun and exploration and nights of music and dancing!

Starting May 26, we are open daily for general admission visits, where guests can enjoy the tram ride, animal feedings, carousel rides, complimentary beer samples courtesy of premier sponsor Anheuser-Busch, and more. General admission is free. There is a parking fee.

Seasonal Events

Summer Nights

(NEW) Grant’s Farm in the Sky: A Drone Show Spectacular

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Clydesdales at Anheuser-Busch Brewery / Adolphus Anheuser-Busch with President Truman at Grant’s Farm (photos courtesy of Rebecca Malzahn)

Book Statistics and Book Blurbs

The Press Junket:

Billy Busch on his new tell-all book Family Reins: The Extraordinary Rise and Epic Fall of an American Dynasty? Written for the first time by a Busch heir, the book chronicles the iconic multi-billion-dollar Anheuser-Busch dynasty (creators of Busch, Budweiser, Bud Light, and Michelob brands). But with money and power, misfortune and mayhem were quick to follow suit. (Think: The Kennedys of the beer industry.)

Family Reins tells the story of a legendary American family, their rise to power, and their fall from grace through poisonous infighting, succession struggles, and a seemingly endless string of tragedies, scandals, and loss. The book also shares the family’s patriotic involvement supporting American businesses and warfare during WWI, Prohibition, the Great Depression, and WWII.
Family Reins – Press Junket

Book Title: Family Reins: The Extraordinary Rise and Epic Fall of an American Dynasty

Author: Billy Busch

Publisher: Blackstone Publishing

Formats: hardcover, audio, e-book

Genre: Autobiography

Hardcover ISBN: 9798200798827

Pub Date: August 1, 2023

GoodReads Blurbs

Family Reins: The Heartbreaking Fall of an American Dynasty — And the Discovery of What Really Matters by Billy Busch.

Blurb:

The story of the iconic Anheuser-Busch dynasty, written — for the first time — by a Busch heir.

As an heir to the Anheuser-Busch company and fortune, Billy Busch was raised on the real stories of how his family built one of America’s oldest and most iconic brands. Since the company was formed almost 150 years ago, the Busch family, their beer, the famous Clydesdales in their advertising, and even their style of business have become a symbol of the American dream — that not-so-outdated belief that hard work, grit, and a positive can-do attitude make anything possible.

Growing up on the family’s ancestral estate as a prince to the King of Beers, Billy lived a life only kids could dream up — living in an amusement park, traveling by private rail car and yacht, and playing with his pet elephant, Tessie. But as he grew up, he realized that the Busch family legacy was not just wealth and privilege. With no separation between family and business, Billy’s father — more boss than dad — continued the tradition of preparing the next generation for corporate leadership, with high and exacting standards for his children. For Billy, all of this, combined with a dysfunctional family environment, was all too normal.

Family Reins tells the story of a legendary American family, their rise to power, and their fall from grace through poisonous infighting, succession struggles, and a seemingly endless string of tragedies, scandals, and loss.
Family Reins – GoodReads Blurb 1

Family Reins: The Extraordinary Rise and Epic Fall of an American Dynasty by Billy Busch

Blurb:

The story of the iconic Anheuser-Busch dynasty, written — for the first time — by a Busch heir. As an heir to the Anheuser-Busch company and fortune, Billy Busch was raised on the real stories of how his family built one of America’s oldest and most iconic brands. Since the company was formed almost 150 years ago, the Busch family, their beer, the famous Clydesdales in their advertising, and even their style of business have become a symbol of the American dream — that not-so-outdated belief that hard work, grit, and a positive can-do attitude make anything possible. Growing up on the family’s ancestral estate as a prince to the King of Beers, Billy lived a life only kids could dream up — living in an amusement park, traveling by private rail car and yacht, and playing with his pet elephant, Tessie. But as he grew up, he realized that the Busch family legacy was not just wealth and privilege. With no separation between family and business, Billy’s father — more boss than dad — continued the tradition of preparing the next generation for corporate leadership, with high and exacting standards for his children. For Billy, all of this, combined with a dysfunctional family environment, was all too normal. Family Reins tells the story of a legendary American family, their rise to power, and their fall from grace through poisonous infighting, succession struggles, and a seemingly endless string of tragedies, scandals, and loss.
Family Reins: The Extraordinary Rise and Epic Fall of an American Dynasty by Billy Busch – GoodReads Blurb 2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=asBbXreD_k8&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blackstonepublishing.com%2F&feature=emb_imp_woyt

The Rise and Fall of the Anheuser-Busch Dynasty

Book Review

This is a memoir by Billy Busch Sr., in his own words, discussing his growing up in one of the most iconic families known across the world. This is the first time a member of the Busch family has released a memoir or really even discussed the family in detail. So this is kind of a ‘big deal’.

The Busch family ruled over the brewing business in America for several decades and was ranked among the wealthiest households. Budweiser has been a staple of the beer market for years upon years in America.

In an interview with St. Louis Magazine, Billy Busch – when asked “Why write this now” – said:

There’s never been a book about the Busch family published by a Busch. I thought, There’s been so many things written about our family from outsiders, so many things in the media. But none of them tell the true story of what it was like growing up in the Busch family. I had read a lot of old letters that my father left behind. My wife and I went through boxes and boxes of relics. There was one book about the company that really stood out—it wasn’t a published book but written more for the employees. It was called Making Friends Is Our Business. I read that book, and I came to a realization that this is such incredible history and that my ancestors worked so hard to build a dynasty. My grandfather kept the company going during 13 years of Prohibition, and he kept all 2,000 employees working. My father ran the brewery when I was a kid, and it was probably the time of the brewery’s greatest growth. I saw the principles he used to make the company successful. I then got a better understanding of where he got these principles—from his father, whom I never knew.
Billy Busch wants you to understand his side of the Busch family story – St. Louis Mag

Family Reins chronicles the history of the Anheuser-Busch Brewing Company, makers of Budweiser beer as well as other very successful brands ver the years, from its beginnings in 1857 to today. Currently Anheuser-Busch is owned by AB InBev. The author, Billy Busch, is the great – grandson of its original founder, Adolphus Busch, who emigrated from Germany to St. Louis, Missouri. Adolphus established a supply company first, then bought a brewery from Eberhard Anheuser and married his daughter – Lilly Eberhard Anheuser. (They had twelve children). From his great – grandfather to his grandfather, father, and brother, Billy Busch tells the story of how the company survived Prohibition, the Depression, and two World Wars to become a business empire.

Adolphus Busch’s first job in St. Louis was working as a clerk in the commission house. He was also an employee at William Hainrichshofen’s wholesale company. Billy Busch goes into the detail of the family legacy, the history, and the sheer scope of their family. Talking about how the Busch family rose from that first job to the business conglomerate, world spanning empire, that they are today.

Busch partnered with Ernst Battenberg in St. Louis to found the first of his businesses, a brewing supply company that sold to the three dozen breweries in the city. Eberhard Anheuser was one of Adolphus’ customers. Anheuser was a soap manufacturer that lent money to the Bavarian Brewery. When the small brewery went bankrupt, Anheuser bought out the other creditors and renamed the company Anheuser. Adolphus married Eberhard’s daughter Lilly in 1861.^[3]

Returning to St. Louis after the Civil War, Busch entered his wife’s family’s brewery business. He bought out Eberhard’s partner, William D’Oench. In 1879, the company was renamed Anheuser-Busch.^[3]

At the death of Eberhard Anheuser in 1880, Busch became president of the business, and became wealthy due to the success of the brewery. He envisioned a national beer with universal appeal. His work was distinguished by his “timely adoption of important scientific and technological innovations, an expansive sales strategy geared largely toward external domestic and international population centers, and a pioneering integrated marketing plan that focused on a single core brand, Budweiser, making it the most successful nationally-distributed beer of the pre-Prohibition era.”^[4]
Adolphus Busch – Wikipedia

“I want to leave something to my family and this world as my ancestors did for me,” Billy Busch Sr. said at the end of July, when discussing his upcoming book release. (The book goes on sale August 1st, 2023.)

The book’s story is “[a] great American history and something people will be interested in hearing about,” Billy Busch Sr. continued, from his home in Ladue.

Billy, the third son of Gertrude, reminisces about growing up Grant’s Farm. For many the farm, the Clydesdales, and the animals represent a nostalgia. Billy refers to it as “show magic” not “real magic”. This sums up Billy’s youth, growing up, and the Grant Farm in general. The opening chapter of the book discusses a normal day at the farm for him, playing with animals, playing as a kid does, and then the ride with his parents – which he both looked forward to and loathed in its own way.

Much of life in “the Big House” at Grant’s Farm was a created spectacle for guests. Typical for the rich and the elite, nannies and staff took care of Billy and his siblings, their parents entertained celebrities, athletes, singers, and even future Presidents, people such as John Wayne, Frank Sinatra and Lyndon B. Johnson.

Later he writes about disagreements with his siblings and half siblings. Stating there was animosity, feuds, and quarrels. Of August Busch the Third (August III), who took over Anheuser-Busch from his father, Busch Sr. writes that his father asked him, to “sock August III in the puss if you get the chance.” (Billy Busch Sr. recalls this happening when he was 15 years old.)

Sadly, Billy Busch doesn’t go into great detail with some of the rivalries and disagreements. For those looking for more of the ‘scandalous’ stories of the Busch family, the memoir will be a bit lacking.

The half-siblings met at the Belleau Farm, for a “throw down of sorts,” Busch writes. August III defused the situation, Busch writes, by saying: “I had to do what was right in order for the company to continue to thrive. We had to make this decision. Dad is still affected by the loss of Christina emotionally and physically. He doesn’t have the strength at this point to run the company any longer.’”

Even with his father asking for it, no punch was thrown, but Billy Busch recalls that although his father remained honorary chairman of the board at Anheuser-Busch, he was certainly “humiliated.”

Through all this, Billy Busch Sr. lost control of the Grant Farm, no longer owner of the property, he is now not even allowed on the property. He says in his memoirs that he now concentrates on his children, which is evident in their reality show from MTV back in 2020.

At the wrap up of the book, Busch writes ‘life remains busy’, he says, but it’s a lucky accident that his book goes on sale the same month a new brewing venture plans its opening. (Luck or marketing?) Busch’s book goes on sale August 1 2023, and on August 25 2023, he will open Busch Family Brewing and Distilling to the public on weekends. His farm in Defiance grows hops, wheat and other products and will brew several types of beer, Busch Sr. states. “It’ll be farm-to-glass and farm-to-table,” he says. His last brewing effort, called Kräftig, (unfortunately) eventually failed. The ultimate goal – to start with – is for the Busch Family Brewery and Distillery to break even within four years.

I think I want to create something of my own. I still feel the weight of the legacy upon me. I don’t want that to be forgotten.
Billy Busch Sr.

Final Thoughts On The Book

Overall I thought it was pretty good. Skimp on some details I wished that he went into more, and not as “scandalous” as one might think given the sub – title to the memoir. I enjoyed it, and its a good look into the family. Well worth the read – especially if you are into memoirs, family history, Anheuser-Busch, or the idea of the “American Dream”.

My GoodReads Rating: ****
My LibraryThing Rating: ***.5

(Just as a reminder – I was given this book for free in lieu of this review. This did not alter my thoughts or review of the book.)

Anheuser-Busch Articles

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