St. Louis, MO – May 6, 2025 – Anheuser-Busch (NYSE: BUD), the iconic American maker of Michelob ULTRA, Budweiser, Bud Light, Busch Light, and Stella Artois, today announced the production of its 100 millionth can of emergency drinking water. Since 1988, the company has paused beer production periodically to produce emergency drinking water for communities impacted by disasters, underscoring Anheuser-Busch’s long-standing commitment to supporting communities in need, in partnership with the American Red Cross.
The 100 millionth can marks a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing efforts to provide critical resources during times of crisis. Anheuser-Busch’s breweries across the country, with their extensive network of partners and wholesalers, allow the company to respond quickly and efficiently to national disasters, ensuring that vital drinking water is delivered where it is needed most.
Investment in Fort Collins Brewery to Strengthen Disaster Relief Efforts
Timed with this achievement, Anheuser-Busch is making a substantial investment of over $6 million into its Fort Collins brewery to further enhance its brewing and packaging capabilities for both beer and emergency drinking water. This upgrade strengthens the company’s ability to rapidly produce and deliver drinking water during emergencies, reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in disaster relief.
Cesar Vargas, Chief External Affairs Officer at Anheuser-Busch, commented, “This remarkable achievement is the result of the dedication of our employees, our breweries, and our extensive network of partners. Producing 100 million cans of emergency drinking water highlights our unwavering commitment to being there for our neighbors in times of need. By continuing to invest in our facilities, like the Fort Collins brewery, we can ensure that we’re always ready to support communities when disaster strikes.”
Anheuser-Busch’s Nationwide Response to Disasters
Anheuser-Busch’s commitment to disaster relief spans across all 12 of its U.S. breweries, each of which has paused beer production at some point to produce emergency drinking water for communities affected by natural disasters. The company’s breweries in Fort Collins, Colorado, and Cartersville, Georgia, are particularly proactive, ensuring that emergency drinking water is always available for rapid delivery.
In addition to its direct contributions, Anheuser-Busch collaborates with the American Red Cross, the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), and other partners to deliver life-saving resources to those who need it most.
Cliff Holtz, CEO of the American Red Cross, said, “Anheuser-Busch has been a critical partner in providing disaster relief support for over a century. This milestone of 100 million cans of clean drinking water reflects our enduring partnership and the life-changing impact it has had on millions of Americans. Together, we’ve been able to help countless communities during their most vulnerable times.”
Partnership with Fire Departments and Ongoing Commitment
The 100 millionth can of emergency drinking water will be delivered from the Fort Collins brewery in May as part of Anheuser-Busch’s annual campaign to support first responders. This year, the company, along with its wholesaler partners and the NVFC, will distribute 1.5 million cans of emergency drinking water to over 630 volunteer fire departments across 45 states. These donations will provide local first responders with the resources they need to stay hydrated during wildfire season, ensuring they are ready to protect communities in need.
Sarah Lee, CEO of the NVFC, shared, “Anheuser-Busch’s contributions have been instrumental in ensuring our volunteer fire departments are equipped with vital resources to protect and serve American communities. With over ten percent of the 100 million cans distributed to fire departments, these donations not only provide critical hydration but also help save costs, allowing departments to invest in other essential needs.”
Looking Forward
Anheuser-Busch’s commitment to disaster relief is far from over. The company will continue to work closely with partners to ensure that communities are equipped with the resources they need in times of crisis. The 100 millionth can is just one example of Anheuser-Busch’s long-term dedication to making a meaningful impact and supporting its neighbors when they need it most.
For more information about Anheuser-Busch’s emergency drinking water program, visit www.anheuser-busch.com.
About Anheuser-Busch
Anheuser-Busch is a leading American brewer, renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and community support. The company produces some of the most iconic beer brands in the world, including Budweiser, Bud Light, Michelob ULTRA, Busch Light, and Stella Artois. Anheuser-Busch has a long history of supporting communities in need, including its partnership with the American Red Cross to provide emergency drinking water during times of disaster.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization that provides emergency assistance, disaster relief, and education. For over a century, the Red Cross has helped millions of people through its network of volunteers, donors, and partners, offering aid during times of disaster and crisis.
About the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC)
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) represents the interests of the nation’s 1 million volunteer firefighters and emergency medical service (EMS) personnel. The NVFC supports the recruitment, training, and retention of volunteer responders and advocates for the vital role they play in keeping communities safe.
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