Mahou San Miguel acquires full ownership of Founders Brewing to strengthen US market presence
USA – Mahou San Miguel has acquired the remaining stake in Founders Brewing Co., securing 100% ownership of the Michigan-based craft beer brand.
The financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.
In a statement, Mahou San Miguel emphasized that full ownership of Founders Brewing reinforces its business expansion in the US, which remains a key market in its internationalization and diversification strategy.
The company added that the acquisition also strengthens its position within the craft beer sector, enhancing its market presence across all distribution channels.
Mahou San Miguel first invested in Founders Brewing in 2015, before expanding its stake in Colorado-based Avery Brewing and becoming the majority shareholder in both breweries by 2020.
The company has held a 90% stake in Founders Brewing since 2020 and has now acquired the remaining shares to assume full ownership.
According to Mahou San Miguel, Founders Brewing was the fourth-largest craft brewery by market share in the US in 2024
Founders Brewing is well known for brands such as All Day IPA and Mortal Bloom, a Hazy IPA launched in 2023.
In 2024, the company expanded into new beverage categories, including ready-to-drink hard beverages under the Devil Spiked label and non-alcoholic drinks with its Hoppy Mood hop water.
The Spanish brewer operates its US business under Mahou USA, which runs three production facilities and employs more than 500 people.
European expansion
Mahou San Miguel has also been focusing on European expansion, with a significant marketing push for San Miguel beer.
In October 2023, the company committed €50 million (US$54 million) to doubling its continental European sales volume between 2023 and 2027.
During the first half of 2024, San Miguel’s sales volume rose by 17%, encouraging Mahou San Miguel to increase its marketing efforts across Europe.
The company noted that its pan-European branding strategy has solidified San Miguel’s position as the best-selling and most recognized Spanish beer across the continent.
Mahou San Miguel, the fourth-largest beer producer in Europe, boasts a global presence in over 70 countries, with international sales contributing 21% of its total beer revenue.
Financial results in 2024
In FY 2024, Mahou San Miguel reported a 6% revenue increase to P400.9 billion (US$6.98 billion), driven by higher sales volumes and market expansion.
The company’s gross profit rose 10% to P110.9 billion (US$1.93 billion), supported by cost efficiencies and a favorable product mix.
The beer segment generated P153.4 billion (US$2.67 billion) in revenue, with domestic sales contributing P137.6 billion and international sales adding US$276.5 million.
Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.
