WASHINGTON – Concerned that a proposed merger between the parent companies of Anheuser-Busch and Miller, the world’s two largest beer companies, could harm craft brewers in Delaware and across the country, U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today questioned beer industry leaders about the merger’s potential impact on Delaware craft brewers and consumers during a Judiciary Subcommittee hearing.
Witnesses questioned at the hearing included CEO of ABInBev Carlos Brito, CEO of Molson Coors Mark Hunter, President of the Iowa Brewers Guild J. Wilson, CEO of the Brewers Association (National Association for Craft Brewers) Bob Pease, President & CEO, National Beer Wholesalers Association Craig Purser, and President of American Antitrust Institute Diana Moss.
“Nobody wants to take a seat at a bar and find out that their only options are Bud and Miller,” said Senator Coons. “From Dogfish Head to 16 Mile, Delaware is home to incredible craft brewers who are creating jobs and brewing unique, delicious beer. I’m deeply concerned this merger will squeeze out the small and independent craft brewers in Delaware and across the country at the cost of innovation, consumer choice, and jobs. Consumers benefit when craft brewers can compete on a fair and level playing field with the mega breweries, and we should be doing everything we can to make sure that they are able to. I’m optimistic that industry leaders today heard my concerns and will take the necessary steps to make sure all craft brewers can thrive and grow in the marketplace.”
Senator Coons recently joined his colleagues in calling the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate whether the potential merger could allow the beer giants to squeeze craft brewers’ ability to fully access the market. Small and independent craft brewers contribute some $55.7 billion to the U.S. economy and support more than 424,000 jobs.