Who is the owner of Kona Brewing Company? This is a question that may pique the interest of both beer lovers and fans of the well-known Hawaiian brewery. Being a beer enthusiast myself, I have always been intrigued by the histories of breweries and the individuals behind the creation of our beloved drinks. Therefore, I have made the decision to thoroughly research the ownership of Kona Brewing Company and unearth the facts.
Kona Brewing Company was founded in 1994 by Cameron Healy and his son Spoon Khalsa, who were inspired by their love for Hawaii and a passion for brewing great beer. The brewery quickly gained popularity for its unique and refreshing island-inspired beers, such as the widely-loved Longboard Island Lager and the Big Wave Golden Ale.
In 2003, Kona Brewing Company caught the attention of Craft Brewers Alliance (CBA), a public brewing company that owns and operates several craft breweries. CBA purchased a 30% stake in Kona Brewing Company, allowing the brewery to expand its distribution and reach a wider audience while still maintaining its unique Hawaiian identity.
Over the years, Kona Brewing Company continued to grow in popularity, thanks to its commitment to brewing high-quality, flavorful beers that capture the spirit of Hawaii. The brewery’s success caught the attention of Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev), one of the largest beer conglomerates in the world.
In 2019, AB InBev acquired Craft Brewers Alliance, which included Kona Brewing Company among its portfolio of breweries. This acquisition raised some concerns among craft beer fans, who feared that Kona Brewing Company would lose its independent spirit and become just another corporate-owned brewery.
However, since the acquisition, Kona Brewing Company has continued to operate as an independent subsidiary of AB InBev, with its original founders and management team still at the helm. The brewery has stayed true to its Hawaiian roots, sourcing local ingredients and supporting environmental initiatives in Hawaii.
It’s worth noting that while some beer enthusiasts may have reservations about corporate ownership, many craft breweries have thrived under the guidance and support of larger companies. These partnerships often provide breweries with resources and distribution capabilities that they wouldn’t have otherwise.
So, while Kona Brewing Company may now have a corporate parent, it hasn’t lost its unique identity or commitment to brewing exceptional beers. As a beer lover, I appreciate the fact that I can still enjoy a cold Kona brew and savor the taste of the islands, even if it’s now backed by a global beer powerhouse.
In conclusion, Kona Brewing Company is currently owned by Anheuser-Busch InBev through its subsidiary, Craft Brewers Alliance. Despite this corporate ownership, the brewery has managed to maintain its independent spirit and continue producing the high-quality, island-inspired beers that it’s known for. Cheers to that!
