Angela Lowe — August 10, 2006 — Lifestyle
References: timesleader & gushmagazine
Anheuser-Busch Inc. has decided to move into the craft beer market and have introduced two new beers called Beach Bum Blonde Ale and Jack's Pumpkin Spiced Ale. Don't worry these will not overpower Budweiser or Bud Light! The craft beer market contains more than 1 300 small breweries and accounts for just 3.5% of the total U.S. beer market in 2005. This move by Anheuser-Busch has some craft brewers worried since Anheuser-Busch does control half of the nation's beer market and will make it more for them to gain shelf space. “ 'We recognize that consumers are looking for more variety,' said Dave Peacock, Anheuser-Busch vice president of business and finance operations. 'The successful player in any industry is the one that provides more choices to consumers.' “ (Times Leader)
Trend Themes
1. Expansion Into Craft Beer Market - Anheuser-Busch’s move into the craft beer market indicates a trend towards larger beer companies expanding into previously niche markets.
2. Focus on Variety and Choice - The focus on providing more choices to consumers is a trend that could disrupt not only the beer industry but others as well as companies seek to appeal to a wider range of tastes and preferences.
3. Concerns About Market Consolidation - The move by Anheuser-Busch raises concerns about the impact on smaller craft brewers who may struggle to compete against larger companies that control a significant portion of market share.
Industry Implications
1. Beer Industry - The beer industry may see disruption and increased competition as larger companies like Anheuser-Busch expand into previously niche markets and seek to offer more choices to consumers.
2. Craft Beer Industry - Smaller craft brewers may face increased difficulty in competing with larger companies like Anheuser-Busch, which control a significant portion of the beer market and have the resources to invest in marketing and distribution.
3. Food and Beverage Industry - The trend towards offering more variety and choice to consumers is a disruptive innovation opportunity for the food and beverage industry as consumers increasingly seek out products that cater to their specific tastes and dietary preferences.
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