Anheuser-Busch CEO Brendan Whitworth is vowing to steer the company’s future away from contentious societal issues, following a crippling boycott and substantial financial losses due to Bud Light’s sponsorship of transgender activist Dylan Mulvaney.
Whitworth regretfully stated that the “discussion surrounding our company and Bud Light has moved away from beer,” prompting the re-evaluation of the company’s marketing strategy. Amid these controversies, Bud Light lost its title as America’s top-selling beer.
In a bid to mitigate the backlash, Whitworth has laid out a three-fold commitment.
He stated, “First, we are investing to protect the jobs of our frontline employees.
Second, we are providing financial assistance to our independent wholesalers to help them support their employees.”
Additionally, he asserted that Anheuser-Busch hears its customers and plans to “focus on what we do best — brewing great beer and earning our place in moments that matter to you.”
Nevertheless, his statement lacked an apology, an omission that might not sit well with disenchanted consumers. Reportedly, he plans a summer road trip across the U.S., in tandem with Bud Light’s sponsorship of Major League Baseball, to engage with customers.
Whether these efforts can restore Bud Light to its former position as America’s top beer and mend the brand’s relationship with its consumers, remains uncertain.
