Beer-articles 947

The beer industry has seen its fair share of legendary advertising campaigns, but not all have succeeded in enhancing brand image. One infamous campaign from Schlitz Brewing Company in 1977 took a controversial approach, humorously termed the "Drink Schlitz or I’ll Kill You" campaign. This campaign featured stereotypical masculine characters, including a boxer and an outdoorsman, who appeared ready to lay down threats against anyone who dared to jeopardize their Schlitz beer.

Developed by the advertising agency Leo Burnett & Co., this ad was intended to utilize shock value to reboost sales, which had been declining for the company. Unfortunately, the campaign did not land as intended; instead of attracting customers, it became a point of ridicule and discomfort among viewers, leading to a swift pullback after just ten weeks due to overwhelming negative feedback.

Contrary to the belief that "there’s no such thing as bad press," the outrage from this campaign further alienated consumers. This was one among many factors that contributed to Schlitz’s downfall. During the 1960s and 70s, management changes included cutting costs by altering the brewing process, which compromised the quality dramatically. They replaced traditional ingredients like malted barley with cheaper corn syrup and expedited brewing times, resulting in a subpar product.

In 1981, after a four-month strike at their Milwaukee plant, the company closed its doors permanently. Following its acquisition by Stroh Brewery in 1982, Schlitz continued to struggle, with Stroh collapsing in 1999 and later assets sold to Pabst Brewing Company, which still owns the brand today. Although Pabst attempted to revive Schlitz by reverting to its original recipe, the brand has never regained its former market dominance.

For more details on the downfall of iconic beer brands and industry changes, check out this article on Schlitz.

It’s the end of an era for Schlitz beer, a cultural icon in Milwaukee, as Pabst Brewing Co. announces the cessation of its production. Pabst, which acquired Schlitz in 1999, is set to conclude brewing the famous beer, leaving fans with limited opportunities to enjoy it one last time.

Kirby Nelson of Wisconsin Brewing Co. received permission from Pabst to produce a final brew using historical brewhouse records that emulate the original Schlitz formula from the 1950s. The following events are scheduled for those eager to participate in the farewell of this beloved brand:

• On May 23, Wisconsin Brewing Co. will brew the final 80-barrel batch of Schlitz in Verona, with a talk by Nelson at 1 p.m. at 1079 American Way, Verona.
• Pre-orders for the last batch will be available on Wisconsin Brewing Co.’s website starting May 23, with deliveries commencing on June 27.
• A "tasting extravaganza" for this final brew is scheduled at Wisconsin Brewing Co. on June 27.
• On July 4, the batch will be featured at Old World Wisconsin’s 50th anniversary celebration in Eagle.
• "Last Schlitz on Earth" parties will occur at Milwaukee Brat House locations in downtown Milwaukee and Shorewood on May 30 and 31, where the last keg served will grant the customer a custom jacket stating: “I Got Schlitzfaced One Last Time at Milwaukee Brat House” at 1013 North Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and 4022 North Oakland Avenue.
• Enthusiasts willing to travel to South Dakota can visit Madame Peacock’s Beer & Bling, a leading Schlitz retailer with 170 cases available at 638 Main St, Deadwood.

For those hosting farewell events for Schlitz, please reach out to add to the list at jsmetro@jrn.com.

If you thought Bud Light maintained its status as America’s most popular beer, you would have been mistaken. The beer held this title for over two decades, but recent reports show a significant shift in consumer preference. As of late 2025, Michelob Ultra has emerged as the new favorite, particularly among health-conscious drinkers and sports fans.

This transition reflects Michelob Ultra’s successful marketing strategy, which has resonated particularly well since the end of 2024, allowing it to surpass Bud Light in bars and restaurants. According to Anheuser-Busch’s Chief Commercial Officer Kyle Norrington, the brand has experienced a remarkable 15% growth in market share from 2020 to 2025, making it a key player in the industry.

While Michelob Ultra excels in volume sales, it’s worth noting that Modelo Especial has taken the lead in dollar sales as of June 2023, dethroning Bud Light in this critical metric. Introduced to the U.S. market in the 1990s, Modelo’s rise in popularity has coincided with a decline in Bud Light’s sales, leading to conversations among beer enthusiasts about their evolving preferences.

Mixed sentiments around these popular brands have been shared among beer drinkers. Some consumers remain loyal to Bud Light for nostalgia, while others express distaste for Michelob Ultra’s taste, suggesting that in their view, Bud Light might be a superior choice. The debate continues, with users on platforms like Reddit weighing in: some assert that their beer choice varies according to the setting, like choosing Budweiser for barbeques and Modelo for hot days.

As the landscape of beer preferences continues to evolve, the discussion surrounding these popular brands illustrates a change in consumer attitudes toward flavor, marketing, and lifestyle choices in the beer industry. For those interested in exploring different beers, the ever-changing dynamics of consumer preferences provide a fascinating backdrop.

Pabst Brewing Co. has announced the discontinuation of Schlitz Beer, a beloved brand often referred to as "the beer that made Milwaukee famous." This decision was confirmed not directly by Pabst but through a press release from Wisconsin Brewing Co., which will produce a final batch of the beer using a recipe from 1948. This special brew, dubbed "The Last Schlitz," is set for release on June 27. After this, any available stock will be in the hands of retailers and resellers.

According to brewmaster Kirby Nelson, "This brew will represent The Golden Age of Schlitz," showcasing the vintage charm that the beer holds in the hearts of its fans. Schlitz Beer traces its origins back to 1849 when German immigrant August Krug first created the beverage. Following Krug’s passing, bookkeeper Joseph Schlitz took over, changing the beer’s name and ultimately marrying Krug’s widow.

Throughout its 177-year history, the brand has seen its share of successes and failures. At one time, it was the largest brewery in the U.S., but struggled after modifying its recipe in the 1970s, leading to dwindling sales and its acquisition by Stroh Brewery. Pabst purchased Schlitz in 1999 and attempted to revive interest by reinstating its original recipe.

Despite its ups and downs, Schlitz has maintained a loyal following, particularly in the Midwest. The #SaveOurSchlitz campaign has gained traction on social media, and a petition is circulating to preserve the brand’s legacy as a classic American beer.

The continuous changes within the Pabst Brewing Co. came into sharper focus last December when approximately 60 to 70 employees were let go from their San Antonio headquarters as part of a strategy to consolidate sales territories for improved efficiency.

For those who want to support the brewing tradition, you can add your voice to the effort to keep Schlitz alive by signing the petition.

Madison Beer made a stunning appearance at her recent concert, capturing attention with her beautiful corset dress. The “Make You Mine” singer officially kicked off The Locket Tour in Kraków, Poland, on May 11, promoting her third studio album, "Locket," which was released in January.

At the concert held at the Tauron Arena, Madison donned a lavender lace corset mini dress featuring a sweetheart neckline, structured boning channels, and delicate spaghetti straps. The dress was elegantly adorned with a bow detail at the center and a ruffled hemline. She styled her long hair in loose waves with a messy middle part, adding a whimsical touch to her ensemble.

Madison shared highlights from the concert on her Instagram, expressing her gratitude in the caption: "Opening night of the locket tour ❦ thank u forever and ever ? our first night in the tunnel of love was magical ?"

Her fashion choice and performance sparked excitement among fans, showcasing yet another memorable moment of her evolving artistry. For more updates, you can follow her journey on social media.

Madison Beer is gearing up for her Locket tour, which kicks off tonight in Kraków, Poland. Following the release of her deluxe edition of her third studio album, this marks her most ambitious world tour yet, featuring an impressive 32 shows that will conclude in New York City this July.

Beer’s journey to stardom began in a familiar way for many artists today—she gained attention by posting covers on YouTube. A pivotal moment occurred in 2012 when she sang Etta James’s “At Last.” The video caught the eye of Justin Bieber, who reposted it, leading to her signing with a record label and a rapid rise in fame. She chronicles these experiences and challenges in her memoir, The Half of It.

Her latest musical chapter began with her hit song “Make You Mine,” which found viral success on TikTok and earned her a Grammy nomination in 2025. The song serves as a centerpiece for Locket, an album that elegantly traverses genres such as dance, dream pop, and R&B. In an interview with ELLE, Beer expressed her passion for diverse and upbeat dance music, aiming to incorporate unique sounds into her work.

Accompanying her news, exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses of her tour preparations have been shared, providing fans an intimate look into the working life of the pop star as she embarks on this exciting new venture.

Ginger beer is a flavorful drink that’s fantastic on its own, but it becomes even more delightful when mixed with a variety of spirits. Here are eight of the best liquors to pair with ginger beer, perfect for your next cocktail creation.

1. Vodka
   Vodka is incredibly versatile and a bartender’s friend. Its subtle flavor allows ginger beer to shine, making it the perfect choice for a Moscow mule. This classic recipe combines vodka, ginger beer, and fresh lime, and has been a favorite since the early 1900s. Vodka’s neutral profile ensures that the ginger beer remains the main attraction.

2. Tequila
   Tequila can be a great alternative to vodka in a Moscow mule, leading to a refreshing Mexican mule cocktail. The zesty flavors of tequila complement the spiciness of ginger beer beautifully. It’s also budget-friendly, with brands like Espolòn and El Jimador offering quality options.

3. Dark or Spiced Rum
   The dark and stormy cocktail, made with ginger beer and dark rum, is a classic combination worth trying. Dark and spiced rum both enhance the flavors of ginger beer, and adding a splash of lime juice can elevate their distinct tastes.

4. Gin
   Gin, with its array of flavors, pairs excellently with ginger beer. A favorite mix is the foghorn cocktail, which simply combines London dry gin, ginger beer, and lime juice. This refreshing drink offers a fun twist on the typical ginger beer highball.

5. Bourbon and Whiskey
   Bourbons and whiskeys add depth and character to ginger beer cocktails. The sweetness and complexity of these spirits work well together. You can create a Kentucky mule with bourbon or an Irish mule with whiskey, both delicious options that emphasize the spiciness of ginger beer.

6. Mezcal
   If you prefer a smoky flavor, mezcal is a distinct option that blends beautifully with ginger beer. This combination allows the mezcal’s unique flavors to shine through, making a classic Mexican mule even more interesting.

7. Cognac
   For a sophisticated option, cognac can transform a simple ginger beer drink into something elegant. The French mule combines ginger beer, lime, and cognac for a refreshing cocktail that’s both approachable and unique.

8. Amaro
   If you’re in the mood for something different, amaro offers a bittersweet profile that can enhance ginger beer’s spice. Whether you choose Ramazzotti or Cynar, you can create a delightful Italian buck cocktail featuring ginger beer, lime juice, and amaro for a refreshing and complex drink.

Each of these spirits adds a unique twist to ginger beer, making it a fantastic base for a variety of cocktails. Whether you’re a fan of classic recipes or looking to try something new, there’s a perfect pairing for everyone.

Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy criticized Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert for his appearance in the music video for his girlfriend Madison Beer’s new single, "Lovergirl." Portnoy expressed his disapproval on social media, suggesting that athletes should focus on their training instead of participating in music videos. He stated, “Call me crazy but I like my coaches and QB’s concentrating on the weight room and studying game tape rather than making steamy music videos.”

Portnoy, a vocal New England Patriots fan, highlighted the contrast between Herbert’s lack of postseason success and the achievements of his own team, which has won six Super Bowl rings. To date, the 28-year-old Herbert has yet to secure a playoff victory despite having played six seasons in the NFL.

The music video features Herbert and Beer, who began dating in August 2025, in romantic scenes such as kissing on the beach and playful interactions. In her recently released song, Beer sings lyrics that celebrate love and intimacy.

Herbert made their relationship Instagram official with a heartfelt post that showcased the couple enjoying time together. Beer also shared affectionate birthday wishes for Herbert, cementing their relationship in the public’s eye.

While Portnoy appears frustrated with Herbert’s extracurricular activities during the offseason, he displayed less concern regarding the controversy surrounding Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, who is involved in an ongoing scandal with an NFL reporter.

For further details, you can check out the music video for "Lovergirl" here.

Madison Beer has ignited excitement among her fans with the release of her new music video for "lovergirl" on May 8. In this visually captivating presentation, the singer-songwriter dons an adorable denim romper, which is paired with a striking black bikini underneath.

The bikini, characterized by its chic halter neckline, adds a playful flare to the outfit. Throughout the video, Madison opts for a minimalistic makeup approach, featuring a soft nude pink lip that complements her overall look.

The "lovergirl" music video, featuring Justin Herbert, showcases Madison Beer’s ability to create mesmerizing visuals that captivate her audience.

Americans are drinking alcohol less than they have in decades, and the beer industry is feeling the impact, especially with the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 on the horizon, which presents a major opportunity for brands. Molson Coors North America’s CMO, Sofia Colucci, announced that their company is making its largest media investment for a live sporting event in the last decade, despite not being an official World Cup sponsor.

The beer category is increasing its advertising spending significantly for this year’s tournament, reportedly twenty times more than during the Qatar 2022 World Cup. This summer’s tournament is set to be particularly advantageous since it takes place on home soil across the US, Canada, and Mexico, with a favorable time zone for enjoying the games with friends.

Rabobank’s beverages analyst, Bourcard Nesin, projected that a failure to see a recovery in beer sales during the World Cup would raise significant concerns for the industry. Molson Coors is planning 90 national advertisements across its brands, marking a creative approach similar to Budweiser’s iconic ads.

In a competitive market, the push for creativity and surprise is crucial, according to Colucci. A recent report indicated signs of recovery for the beer sector, with AB InBev experiencing its first quarterly growth in three years. Interestingly, total industry supply was reported to have increased by 2.5% in March, creating an optimistic atmosphere heading into summer.

However, competition will be fierce, with the World Cup expected to spur a $10.5 billion increase in global advertising expenditures. Local engagements will be essential for success, especially as Molson Coors has devised strategies such as collaborating with Uber to provide branded transportation in major cities and hosting events in partnership with clubs like Chelsea Football Club, aiming to appeal to both established drinkers and new consumers like Gen Z.

Research indicates that soccer fans are more likely to buy beer than fans of other sports, yielding opportunities for increased sales during the World Cup. Many fans tend to socialize before and after matches, spending time in bars and venues, which amplifies beer consumption.

The rise of non-alcoholic beverages also poses a challenge for beer marketers. With Gen Z expressing mixed drinking habits—49% drinking more while 44% want to drink less—brands must emphasize beer’s role as a social connector while showcasing non-alcoholic options to attract a broader audience.

Molson Coors CEO, Rahul Goyal, mentioned that the beverage industry faces an "occasion problem," as people are socializing less overall, which has negative implications for beer sales. The World Cup represents a critical moment for marketers to leverage social interactions during a summer characterized by increased gatherings.

This event, likened to a month-long Super Bowl, creates high expectations for sales increases. Ultimately, brands that adapt to changing consumer behaviors, focusing on the social aspects of beer rather than mere consumption, will likely emerge victorious in the World Cup marketing battle.