AB InBev acquires majority stake in BeatBox for $490m

Brewing giant Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev) has announced plans to acquire an 85% stake in ready-to-drink brand BeatBox, for approximately $490m. 

The transaction adds BeatBox to AB’s growing ‘Beyond Beer’ portfolio, which includes Cutwater Spirits, NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer and Phorm Energy.

“I have spent the past year getting to know Justin and the team at BeatBox, and I’m confident that their entrepreneurial spirit, their commitment to consistent innovation, and their ability to connect with their consumers will be a strong complement to our existing team and capabilities. We have a proven playbook for building winning brands, and I look forward to partnering with BeatBox and embarking on their next chapter of dynamic growth together,” said Brendan Whitworth, chief executive of Anheuser-Busch.

Anheuser-Busch is acquiring 85% of BeatBox with a path to 100% ownership after five years, based on a predetermined pricing formula. 

Justin Fenchel, co-founder and chief executive of BeatBox said: “When we started BeatBox in 2011, we could never have imagined the journey that lay ahead. We’ve been so fortunate to build something that truly resonates with people, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported us along the way. Our long-standing relationships with the Anheuser-Busch team made this partnership feel like the right next step.”

The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions, and it is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026.