Kona Brewing Co., the brewery behind Kona Big Wave beer, is indeed owned by Anheuser-Busch (AB) InBev. The acquisition took place in 2020, and it marked a significant milestone for Kona Brewing Co. as it joined AB InBev’s extensive portfolio of beer brands.
Kona Brewing Co. was originally founded in 1994 in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, by a father-son duo, Cameron Healy and Spoon Khalsa. They started the brewery with the goal of creating beers that captured the spirit of Hawaii and its laid-back lifestyle. Over the years, Kona Brewing Co. gained popularity for its unique beer offerings and commitment to sustainability.
The acquisition by AB InBev provided Kona Brewing Co. with the resources and distribution capabilities of one of the largest beer companies in the world. This allowed Kona Big Wave and other Kona beers to reach a wider audience and expand their presence beyond Hawaii.
AB InBev, headquartered in Belgium, is known for its global reach and ownership of numerous well-known beer brands, including Budweiser, Stella Artois, Corona, and many others. While AB InBev owns Kona Brewing Co., it is important to note that the brewery still operates independently and continues to produce its distinctive Hawaiian-inspired beers.
The acquisition by AB InBev brought both opportunities and challenges for Kona Brewing Co. On one hand, the increased distribution channels and marketing capabilities offered by AB InBev can help Kona Big Wave beer gain more visibility and accessibility in the market. On the other hand, some beer enthusiasts may express concerns about the impact of corporate ownership on the authenticity and local spirit of the brand.
It’s worth mentioning that acquisitions and partnerships between craft breweries and larger beer companies have become common in recent years. These collaborations often allow craft breweries to scale their operations, expand their reach, and benefit from the expertise and resources of larger corporations. However, it is essential for these craft breweries to maintain their unique identity and commitment to quality despite the ownership change.
Kona Brewing Co., the brewery behind Kona Big Wave beer, is owned by Anheuser-Busch (AB) InBev. The acquisition in 2020 provided Kona Brewing Co. with the opportunity to reach a broader audience and expand its presence, while also raising questions about the impact of corporate ownership on the brand’s authenticity.