JAMES CITY – Anheuser-Busch announced Thursday that it will invest an additional $10 million in its Williamsburg brewery.
That brings investment in the facility since 2011 to $39 million.
That investment has soothed area concerns that the brewery might shutdown, voiced after Anheuser-Busch was acquired by the Belgium firm InBev.
The latest investment will go toward expanding the brewery’s packaging operation and “other production needs,” according to a press release in which Anheuser-Busch announced the change.
“The continued investment in our Williamsburg brewery allows us to expand our brewing and production capabilities, as well as make upgrades to increase the energy and water efficiencies of our operation,” said Pete Kraemer, vice president of supply and head brew master, in a press release. “These investments also help support our talented team in Williamsburg, which is committed to carrying on our company's long history of brewing excellence.”
The Williamsburg brewery opened in 1972 and serves Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, West Virginia, Kentucky, Georgia and Washington, D.C. It produces more than 40 different beers, including the company's best-known brands — Budweiser and Bud Light.
“Today's announcement is another demonstration of Anheuser-Busch's commitment to our brewery, which has been in operation for more than 40 years,” said Rick Shippey, general manager of the brewery, also in the release. “This investment includes the addition of a slim package to one of our existing can lines, which will further enhance our ability to offer new and innovative packages for our consumers.”
The Anheuser-Busch Williamsburg brewery remains an important employer in James City County and a key contributor to the regional economy.
The brewery has won several environmental awards this year, including the Governor's Environmental Excellence Award for Energy Conservation and the Most Outstanding Business in Virginia for Excellence in Recycling by the Virginia Recycling Association.
