Yuengling Brewery Expands into Illinois in 2025
A Midwestern Expansion
Yuengling, the oldest brewery in the United States, will launch its beer brands in Illinois at the end of January 2025. The Pennsylvania-based brewery will bring its full line of beers, including lagers, pilsner, and light beer, to major bars, restaurants, and stores in the Chicago area and across the state.
A Growing Presence in the Midwest
Yuengling’s expansion into Illinois marks the latest step in its Midwestern growth strategy. The brewery has already expanded into Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma in 2023. “With the success of our newest expansion, we knew there was more work to be done in the Midwest region,” said Colin Callahan, general manager of The Yuengling Co.
A Family-Owned Legacy
Yuengling is a family-owned brewery that was founded in 1829. It is the largest independent craft beer producer in the country, according to the Brewers Association. The brewery produced about 2.7 million barrels of beer last year, an increase over the 2.3 million barrels in 2022.
A Joint Venture with Molson Coors
In 2020, Yuengling formed a separate joint venture with Molson Coors Beverage Co. to expand production and distribution farther west. Beers distributed in Illinois will be produced and shipped from Molson Coors’ facilities in Fort Worth, Texas, and Milwaukee, as well as from Yuengling in Pennsylvania.
Expanding into New Markets
Yuengling is trying to broaden its markets and appeal to new consumers. In 2021, it launched Bongo Fizz, a mango beer, to attract customers ages 21 to 35. “As always, the beverage alcohol market and consumer demand continue to evolve,” said Bart Watson, chief economist of the Brewers Association. “Many brewers are accordingly updating their operations to match those changes.”
Conclusion
Yuengling’s expansion into Illinois marks a significant milestone for the brewery as it continues to grow and expand its presence in the Midwest. With its full line of beers available in 28 states, Yuengling is poised to become a major player in the craft beer market.
FAQs
Q: When will Yuengling’s beer brands be available in Illinois?
A: Yuengling’s beer brands will be available in Illinois at the end of January 2025.
Q: What types of beers will be available in Illinois?
A: Yuengling’s full line of beers, including lagers, pilsner, and light beer, will be available in Illinois.
Q: Where will Yuengling’s beers be produced and shipped from?
A: Beers distributed in Illinois will be produced and shipped from Molson Coors’ facilities in Fort Worth, Texas, and Milwaukee, as well as from Yuengling in Pennsylvania.
Q: What is Yuengling’s market share in the craft beer industry?
A: Yuengling is the largest independent craft beer producer in the country, according to the Brewers Association.
