JD Wetherspoon has dropped its supply deal with Heineken after 41 years.
Instead, the pub chain has announced its new 20-year partnership with AB InBev’s Budweiser.
The new deal would make Budweiser the largest supplier across all Wetherspoon establishments from December 15.
Budweiser’s Brewing Group’s portfolio including Budweiser, Stella Artois, Corona, Leffe Blonde and Bud Light would replace Heineken on draught, and be featured in packaged formats.
Wetherspoons has also announced continued long-term deals with current suppliers BrewDog, Carlsberg Marton’s Brewing Company and Molson Coors.
However, Heineken’s Strongbow would be replaced by Stowford Press Apple by Westons Cider, and John Smiths bitter replaced by Molson Coor’s Worthington’s bitter.
READ MORE: Heineken appoints new CFO
This comes after an increased demand for Budweiser Brewing Group’s portfolio during the pandemic, with Stella Artois becoming Wetherspoon’s most popular draught beer and Corona rising to the UK’s most popular world beer.
“At Budweiser Brewing Group, we have the perfect recipe for success across Wetherspoon pubs, we have a strong, leading portfolio that caters to evolving consumer trends, especially as people opt for more premium options post-Covid.” Budweiser Brewing Group president Paula Lindenberg said.
JD Wetherspoon chairman Tim Martin added: “Wetherspoon will continue to sell a wide range of traditional ales and craft beers from regional and micro brewers supporting our efforts.”
The news comes as Budweiser Brewing Group UK&I has signed a multi-year agreement with Premier League football team Watford FC to become its official beer supplier.
Budweiser, Camden Hells and Camden Pale Ale will headline the wide range of available drinks at Vicarage Road Stadium this season, alongside Budweiser Brewing Group beer and ciders.
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