AB InBev bought Camden Town Brewery to help “growth and expansion” for the brewers of Camden Pale Ale. Those disappointed with the deal took to Twitter to vent their frustration.
Response - Why?
Cuppaidge told the PMA: “The deal with AB InBev gives us the investment we need to build our new brewery, employ more people and keep up with demand for our beer. It also gives us access to their international distribution network and global expertise. We want to make Camden Town Brewery respected around the world.
“The last year’s been fun, crazy and exciting, as you know. To stay at the forefront of the craft movement and secure our future success, we have to build a bigger brewery. As you know, we're hoping to invest in a site in Enfield. To deliver this state of the art brewery, we need to raise £14 million. We can't do this on our own. That's what encouraged the decision."
What will change?
“Nothing will change in terms of Camden’s brands, innovation and creativity. I’m still here running the business. It’s very much business as usual. What we will get is investment and an international distribution network."
Reassurances
"Our drinkers care about getting great beer and that won’t change. There are many examples of great companies that have partnered with larger businesses and have been successful in making their great brands and quality products more widely available to more people, thereby ensuring the company’s future sustainability and growth.
"Innocent for example is still making great drinks! We are confident in ourselves and excited by this great opportunity. We will continue to focus on brewing unique beers and sharing them with our drinkers. That’s all that matters.”
BrewDog
BrewDog led the criticism of the brewery, and will no longer stock Camden Town Brewery products.
The Camden Brewdog bar posted a video on its Twitter feed of the CTB beers being taken off the menu.
But there was support for Camden Town Brewery.
Founder Jasper Cuppaidge responded to questions about the deal on Twitter.