Who Owns Old Style Beer? The Brew Behind the Brand
Old Style beer is currently owned by Pabst Brewing Company. While the brand retains a strong Chicago connection and local production, the ownership rests with a larger, national brewing entity.
The Legacy of G. Heileman Brewing Company
The story of Old Style is deeply interwoven with the G. Heileman Brewing Company, a La Crosse, Wisconsin, institution founded in 1858. Heileman became synonymous with Midwestern brewing, renowned for its regional brands like Old Style. The beer, originally introduced in 1902, quickly became a favorite, particularly in the Chicago area.
Heileman’s success was built on its commitment to quality and its understanding of the Midwestern palate. Its brands resonated with local communities, forging a strong sense of loyalty that endured for decades. Old Style became the quintessential “working man’s beer,” associated with baseball games, neighborhood taverns, and a blue-collar lifestyle.
The Acquisition Era: A Shift in Ownership
The brewing industry experienced significant consolidation in the late 20th century, and Heileman was not immune to these market forces. Financial difficulties led to a series of acquisitions and ownership changes.
- 1996: Stroh Brewery Company acquired G. Heileman Brewing Company.
- 1999: After Stroh’s decline, Pabst Brewing Company acquired several of its brands, including Old Style.
This marked a turning point for Old Style. While the beer retained its name and core recipe, its ownership was now firmly in the hands of a larger, national corporation.
Pabst Brewing Company: Custodians of a Classic
Pabst Brewing Company, despite its name, does not own any breweries. Instead, Pabst contracts with other breweries to produce its beers, including Old Style. This arrangement allows Pabst to focus on marketing and brand management.
Pabst’s approach to Old Style has been one of preservation and strategic marketing. They recognize the brand’s heritage and its strong connection to the Chicago area. This is reflected in their ongoing support of local sports teams and community events. However, Pabst’s ownership also means that decisions regarding production, distribution, and marketing are ultimately made by a national entity with a broader portfolio of brands.
Brewing Locations: Maintaining the Chicago Connection
Despite the ownership changes, Pabst has maintained a commitment to brewing Old Style in close proximity to its core market. Miller Brewing Company has been a key partner in producing Old Style under contract.
This ensures that the beer available in Chicago and the surrounding areas retains its characteristic taste and freshness. This geographical proximity is a critical factor in preserving the brand’s authenticity and appeal to its loyal customer base.
| Year | Owner | Brewer (Contract) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-1996 | G. Heileman Brewing Co. | G. Heileman | Brewed in La Crosse, WI |
| 1996-1999 | Stroh Brewery Co. | Various | Production shifted; details unclear |
| 1999-Present | Pabst Brewing Co. | Miller/Molson Coors | Primarily brewed at MillerCoors facilities near Chicago, IL and Milwaukee, WI |
Future Outlook: Adapting to the Market
The future of Old Style rests on Pabst’s ability to balance its heritage with the demands of a competitive market. Maintaining quality, fostering community engagement, and adapting to evolving consumer preferences are crucial for the brand’s continued success. The connection to Chicago remains a powerful asset, but ongoing investment and innovation are essential for securing Old Style’s place in the modern beer landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who currently brews Old Style?
Old Style is currently brewed under contract by Miller Brewing Company, a subsidiary of Molson Coors Beverage Company. Pabst Brewing Company does not own or operate any breweries; instead, it contracts with other breweries to produce its beers. The primary brewing location for Old Style is typically facilities near Chicago, Illinois, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Has the Old Style recipe changed since Pabst took over?
While Pabst has made some adjustments over the years, they generally maintain the core recipe that defines Old Style. Flavor profile consistency is crucial for brand loyalty, but there may be slight variations due to ingredient sourcing or production methods. However, the flavor is relatively consistent to ensure the customer can still identify the taste.
Is Old Style still considered a Chicago beer?
Old Style maintains a strong connection to Chicago due to its long history in the area and Pabst’s ongoing marketing efforts that emphasize this association. While the beer is not owned or brewed by a Chicago-based company, its deep roots in the city’s culture and the ongoing production in the region justify its continued status as a beloved local favorite.
Where can I buy Old Style beer?
Old Style is primarily available in the Midwest region of the United States, with a particularly strong presence in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana. Its distribution is concentrated in areas where the brand has historical significance and a loyal following. Specific locations would be beer retailers near Chicago or any Midwest area.
Is Old Style owned by a foreign company?
While Pabst Brewing Company has had a complex ownership history, it is currently majority-owned by Blue Ribbon Partners, a private equity firm. It’s not owned by a major foreign entity. Previously, it had ties to Russian ownership, but that has changed.
How does Pabst manage the Old Style brand?
Pabst employs a marketing strategy that focuses on preserving the brand’s heritage and appealing to its established customer base. This involves sponsoring local events, partnering with sports teams, and maintaining a consistent brand image that resonates with the values and traditions associated with Old Style. They capitalize on its nostalgic charm.
What are some other beers owned by Pabst Brewing Company?
Pabst Brewing Company owns a diverse portfolio of beer brands, including Pabst Blue Ribbon (PBR), Schlitz, Rainier, and Colt 45, in addition to Old Style. The company’s strategy involves managing a collection of historical and regional beer brands.
Does Old Style offer different varieties of beer?
While Old Style is primarily known for its classic lager, Pabst has introduced seasonal and limited-edition variations over the years. These offerings are designed to cater to evolving consumer preferences and introduce new flavors while maintaining the brand’s core identity.
What is the alcohol content of Old Style beer?
Old Style typically has an alcohol content of around 4.6% ABV (alcohol by volume), which is standard for a lager-style beer. This makes it a relatively sessionable beer.
How has the packaging of Old Style evolved over time?
The packaging of Old Style has undergone several revisions over the years, but the overall design maintains a classic and recognizable aesthetic. Vintage-inspired logos and color schemes are often used to reinforce the brand’s heritage and appeal to its loyal customers.
Is Old Style considered a craft beer?
Old Style is generally not considered a craft beer due to its mass production and distribution by a large brewing company. Craft beer typically refers to beers produced by smaller, independent breweries with a focus on unique flavors and brewing techniques.
What role did baseball play in Old Style’s popularity in Chicago?
Old Style cultivated a strong association with baseball in Chicago, becoming a staple at Wrigley Field and a popular choice among fans. This connection cemented the brand’s place in the city’s culture and contributed to its enduring popularity. The Cubs and Old Style are interlinked.