AB InBev is rebranding in the UK

AB InBev, the world’s largest brewer, is rebranding in the UK as Budweiser Brewing Group UK&I.

The new signage at the Magor brewery site, south Wales (Photo: Budweiser Group)

The beer giant announced the name change alongside new targets for its UK business, including to “champion Britain’s iconic beer culture with trade-boosting programmes for the whole community, from barley farmers to pubs and retail,” as well as accelerating its sustainability targets, encouraging mindful drinking, and “continuing to invest in premium drinks and powerful brands.”

Ab InBev, which makes Stella Artois, Budweiser, Corona, Michelob Ultra, Bud Light, Beck’s, Bass and Boddingtons, chose Budweiser as it is the company’s most globally recognisable name, according to an emailed statement.

The company hired a new sales director in the UK in January amid a reshuffle of the management team.

The UK business has also pledged to accelerate its sustainability and mindful drinking initiatives. Low and no-ABV beer made up around 8% last year according to its latest financial results. The company said it expects low and no products to make up 20% of its global volumes by 2025.

Paula Lindenberg, President of Budweiser Brewing Group UK&I, said: “We are a fast-paced, ambitious group that dreams big, and we have exciting plans ahead for the UK and Ireland. Through the power and recognition of the Budweiser brand, we want to open ourselves up to working with more partners to achieve our ambitions.

“We are looking forward to making a big impact in the year ahead, working towards brewing our beers with 100% renewable electricity and accelerating our progress towards 20% of our global products being no or low alcohol.”