#United States #Jacksonville #Anheuser-Busch #Michelob ULTRA

Anheuser-Busch Makes Bold Moves in Jacksonville

Anheuser-Busch, the American brewing giant renowned for its popular brands including Michelob ULTRA, Busch Light, and Budweiser, has unveiled an ambitious plan to invest $30 million in its Jacksonville, Florida facilities. This investment is part of the company's broader goal to enhance local economic growth and increase production efficiency for its fastest-growing beer, Michelob ULTRA.

Since its foundation, Anheuser-Busch has made significant contributions to American manufacturing, and this latest investment underscores their commitment to sustaining and creating jobs within the community. The funds will be utilized to upgrade brewing and packaging equipment, aimed at efficiently ramping up the production capabilities of Michelob ULTRA, which has recently claimed its status as the #1 top-selling beer in the nation and in Florida, according to recent market data.

Driving Economic Growth through Innovation

This strategic investment aligns with Anheuser-Busch's Brewing Futures initiative, a program that has seen over $300 million invested in U.S. facilities within the last year alone. Focused on enhancing American manufacturing, the initiative rests upon three essential pillars:
1. Job Creation and Sustainability
2. Advancement of Technical Skills Training
3. Support for Veterans in the Manufacturing Sector

Brendan Whitworth, CEO of Anheuser-Busch, highlighted the significance of this investment, stating, "By investing in our Jacksonville facilities, we are not only preparing to brew more of the high-quality beers that our consumers favor but also bolstering local economies and sustaining jobs. Such endeavors are critical as they help us refine operations and foster economic development where we operate."

Upgrades Expected to Enhance Production

The injection of $30 million into the Jacksonville Brewery is not merely a financial boost; it signifies a holistic approach to refining operational capabilities. The upgrades planned include enhancements to bottling lines and the installation of new brewing tanks that will significantly elevate the production of Michelob ULTRA and other popular beverages. The news has been met with enthusiasm from local leaders and representatives.

U.S. Representative Aaron Bean (R-FL) expressed optimism regarding the investment, stating, "Anheuser-Busch's announcement of the $30 million investment in Jacksonville is exceptional news for Northeast Florida. This proactive approach will not only create new job opportunities but also fortify our local economy. With pathways for growth now widened thanks to supportive policies, we anticipate positive ripples throughout our community."

Florida’s political figures have acknowledged how essential such corporate investments are in uplifting the local manufacturing sector. Florida Speaker Pro Tempore, Wyman Duggan (R-Jacksonville), remarked, "By modernizing its brewing and packaging capabilities through this investment, Anheuser-Busch is uniquely positioned to enhance Jacksonville’s manufacturing sector, which will eventually benefit our workforce in the area. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with them to translate this investment into sustained opportunities for Jacksonville's workforce."

Anheuser-Busch's Legacy and Future

Since opening its Jacksonville Brewery in 1969 and the adjacent Metal Container Corporation facility in 2016, Anheuser-Busch has invested over $100 million into its local operations since 2021. Such investments form a part of the company's nearly $2 billion commitment to its 100 U.S. facilities within the last five years alone, showcasing the importance of local manufacturing in their operational strategy.

As they continue to champion local production capabilities and enhance their workforce, Anheuser-Busch aims to maintain its legacy of quality and innovation that has spanned more than 165 years. Their commitment to excellence not only reflects in their products but also in their dedication toward the communities that nurture their growth.

For more information on Anheuser-Busch's initiatives and brands, visit anheuser-busch.com.