Houston, Texas, December 8, 2025
Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev) has acquired an 85% stake in BeatBox Beverages for approximately $490 million. The acquisition aims to enhance AB InBev’s portfolio amid shifting consumer preferences toward lower-alcohol beverages. The deal could provide AB InBev with full ownership in the next five years. BeatBox, known for its flavored malt beverages, has gained significant traction among Gen Z consumers, and the acquisition is expected to strengthen AB InBev’s position in the growing ready-to-drink market.
AB InBev Acquires Majority Stake in BeatBox for $490 Million
Houston, Texas – Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev) has announced the acquisition of an 85% stake in Austin-based ready-to-drink beverage company BeatBox Beverages for approximately $490 million. The deal includes a provision for AB InBev to gain full ownership within five years based on a predetermined pricing formula. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approval.
Details of the Acquisition
The acquisition aims to strengthen AB InBev’s “Beyond Beer” portfolio, which already includes brands such as Cutwater Spirits, NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer, and Phorm Energy. This move comes amidst broader industry challenges, including declining alcohol consumption, shifting consumer preferences toward healthier lifestyles, and retail slowdowns. AB InBev has also faced financial pressures, having reported its slowest quarterly profit growth since 2021 in late October.
Background on BeatBox Beverages
Founded in 2011, BeatBox Beverages has grown from a niche party-drink brand to a top-10 ready-to-drink (RTD) player, projecting 12 million cases by the end of 2025 compared with 380,000 cases in 2020. Its portfolio spans flavored malt beverages, non-alcoholic options, and wine- and malt-based variants with alcohol by volumes (ABVs) of 11.1% or 8.0%. The brand gained national exposure after appearing on “Shark Tank” in 2014 and has built a strong presence among Gen Z consumers through bold packaging and social-media marketing.
Strategic Implications
The acquisition aligns with AB InBev’s strategy to diversify revenue streams amid shifting consumer preferences toward lower-alcohol and convenient beverages. By adding BeatBox, AB InBev expands its RTD footprint alongside existing brands such as Cutwater Spirits and NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer, positioning the company to capture a larger share of the rapidly growing RTD market and to counter competitors that are also investing heavily in this category.
Financial Performance
AB InBev’s recent financial performance underscores the strategic fit of the deal. In the first quarter of 2024, the company reported revenue of $14.5 billion—up 3% year-over-year—and earnings per share of $0.75, beating analyst expectations of $0.72. The company’s EBITDA margin expanded to 28% from 26% in the prior year, driven by cost efficiencies and a favorable product mix. The BeatBox acquisition is expected to add incremental revenue and margin expansion by leveraging AB InBev’s scale, marketing capabilities, and distribution network.
Statements from Leadership
Brendan Whitworth, CEO of AB InBev, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating that they have a proven playbook for building winning brands, and he looks forward to partnering with BeatBox and embarking on their next chapter of dynamic growth together. Justin Fenchel, co-founder and CEO of BeatBox, added that with Anheuser-Busch behind them, they are excited for the chance to accelerate their growth and continue doing what they love for years to come—bringing people together and making the world more fun.
Conclusion
The acquisition of BeatBox Beverages by AB InBev represents a significant strategic move to enhance AB InBev’s presence in the rapidly growing RTD market. By integrating BeatBox’s innovative products and strong brand recognition, AB InBev aims to meet evolving consumer preferences and strengthen its position in the beverage industry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the value of the acquisition?
The acquisition is valued at approximately $490 million, with AB InBev acquiring an 85% stake in BeatBox Beverages.
When is the acquisition expected to close?
The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approval.
What is the path to full ownership for AB InBev?
The deal includes a provision for AB InBev to gain full ownership within five years based on a predetermined pricing formula.
What is BeatBox Beverages known for?
BeatBox Beverages is known for its ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages, including flavored malt drinks and wine-based variants, with alcohol by volumes (ABVs) of 11.1% or 8.0%. The brand gained national exposure after appearing on “Shark Tank” in 2014 and has built a strong presence among Gen Z consumers through bold packaging and social-media marketing.
How does this acquisition fit into AB InBev’s strategy?
The acquisition aligns with AB InBev’s strategy to diversify revenue streams amid shifting consumer preferences toward lower-alcohol and convenient beverages. By adding BeatBox, AB InBev expands its ready-to-drink footprint alongside existing brands such as Cutwater Spirits and NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer, positioning the company to capture a larger share of the rapidly growing RTD market.
Key Features of the Acquisition
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Acquisition Value | $490 million |
| AB InBev’s Stake | 85% |
| Path to Full Ownership | Within five years, based on a predetermined pricing formula |
| Expected Closing Date | First quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approval |
| BeatBox Beverages’ Product Range | Flavored malt beverages, non-alcoholic options, and wine- and malt-based variants with ABVs of 11.1% or 8.0% |
| Brand Recognition | Gained national exposure after appearing on “Shark Tank” in 2014; strong presence among Gen Z consumers through bold packaging and social-media marketing |
| AB InBev’s Strategy | Diversify revenue streams amid shifting consumer preferences toward lower-alcohol and convenient beverages; expand ready-to-drink footprint alongside existing brands such as Cutwater Spirits and NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer |
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