Current:Home > ContactAnheuser-Busch CEO Brendan Whitworth says financial assistance is being sent to wholesalers, beer distributors impacted by boycott backlash -PureWealth Academy
Anheuser-Busch CEO Brendan Whitworth says financial assistance is being sent to wholesalers, beer distributors impacted by boycott backlash
View
Date:2025-04-14 15:54:40
The CEO of Anheuser-Busch, the parent company of Bud Light, said financial assistance has already begun being sent to wholesalers and beer distributors affected by a two-month sales decline caused by an ongoing customer boycott.
Brendan Whitworth acknowledged his accountability as CEO for the repercussions faced by employees, consumers, and distributors due to the backlash that began in response to a video posted on Instagram by transgender social media star Dylan Mulvaney. The video showcased personalized Bud Light cans Mulvaney received as a "gift" according to Whitworth.
Bud Light, which had held the distinction of America's top-selling beer for over two decades, lost its position to Modelo in May, signifying a significant shift in the beer market.
"I think it's the impact, honestly on the employees that weighs most on me. Again, as I mentioned, seeing the pride and the commitment that they have, working on behalf of 165-plus-year-old American institution is what gives us energy as we look to move forward and focus on what we do best," Whitworth, told "CBS Mornings" exclusively.
Conservatives like Kid Rock and Travis Tritt joined the uproar, calling for a boycott of the popular brew. Viral videos even showed people shooting and dumping Bud Light cans. As a result, many members of the LGBTQ+ community also joined the boycott, upset with how Anheuser-Busch distanced itself following the backlash through a series of statements.
When asked about Bud Light's stance on LGBTQ+ rights, Whitworth highlighted the company's history of supporting the queer community since 1998. He stressed their commitment to supporting organizations and communities they've been associated with for years while focusing on their product.
"As we move forward, we want to focus on what we do best, which is brewing great beer for everyone, listening to our consumers, being humble in listening to them, making sure that we do right by our employee, take care and support our partners, and ultimately make an impact in the communities that we serve," he said.
Despite the recent setbacks, Whitworth said Anheuser-Busch plans to triple its investment in Bud Light this year as they launch their upcoming summer campaign and prepare for the upcoming NFL season.
"Over the last month we've talked to over 100,000 consumers and their feedback is very clear. What is it? The feedback is to reinforce what Bud Light has always meant to them, which is good times goodwill, and easy enjoyment," he said.
- In:
- LGBTQ+
- Anheuser-Busch InBev
- Beer
veryGood! (93)
Related
- Off the Grid: Sally breaks down USA TODAY's daily crossword puzzle, Triathlon
- When does the new season of 'Virgin River' come out? Release date, cast, where to watch
- Mitt Romney’s Senate exit may create a vacuum of vocal, conservative Trump critics
- With the Eras Tour over, what does Taylor Swift have up her sleeve next? What we know
- Krispy Kreme offers a free dozen Grinch green doughnuts: When to get the deal
- McConnell absent from Senate on Thursday as he recovers from fall in Capitol
- Epic Games to give refunds after FTC says it 'tricked' Fortnite players into purchases
- How to watch the 'Blue Bloods' Season 14 finale: Final episode premiere date, cast
- What do we know about the mysterious drones reported flying over New Jersey?
- 'Vanderpump Rules' star DJ James Kennedy arrested on domestic violence charges
Ranking
- Paris Hilton, Nicole Richie return for an 'Encore,' reminisce about 'The Simple Life'
- Chiquis comes from Latin pop royalty. How the regional Mexican star found her own crown
- Ohio Supreme Court sides with pharmacies in appeal of $650 million opioid judgment
- 'The Later Daters': Cast, how to stream new Michelle Obama
- Senate begins final push to expand Social Security benefits for millions of people
- Deadly chocolate factory caused by faulty gas fitting, safety board finds
- The Daily Money: Now, that's a lot of zeroes!
- When does the new season of 'Virgin River' come out? Release date, cast, where to watch
Recommendation
Off the Grid: Sally breaks down USA TODAY's daily crossword puzzle, Triathlon
Here's how to make the perfect oven
Small plane crashes onto New York highway, killing 1 person and injuring another
Snoop Dogg Details "Kyrptonite" Bond With Daughter Cori Following Her Stroke at 24
NHL in ASL returns, delivering American Sign Language analysis for Deaf community at Winter Classic
Finally, good retirement news! Southwest pilots' plan is a bright spot, experts say
Atmospheric river and potential bomb cyclone bring chaotic winter weather to East Coast
Social media platform Bluesky nearing 25 million users in continued post