How a Mexican Lager Became America’s Top-Selling Beer: Modelo Especial, a Mexican lager, has outsold Bud Light in America. Even before Bud Light faced outrage for a transgender influencer relationship, this monumental accomplishment was in the works for nearly a decade.
Several elements contributed to Modelo Especial’s success. Imported and more costly beers are becoming increasingly popular among Americans. Craft beers, imports like Modelo, strong seltzers, and canned cocktails have grown in popularity, making Bud Light and other domestic brands compete.
Modelo was expected to outsell Bud Light, according to Brewers Association senior economist Bart Watson. Never “if,” but “when.”
Modelo took 8.7% of US retail beer sales in the four weeks ending July 8 after a ranking move in early June. According to Nielsen IQ data examined by consulting company Bump Williams, this beat Bud Light’s 6.8%.
Modelo Especial’s popularity isn’t limited to the growing Hispanic population. The rising Hispanic population is only one cause.
Modelo’s position improved due to the decade-old antitrust settlement. In 2012, Bud Light producer Anheuser-Busch InBev tried to buy Grupo Modelo, which makes Modelo and Corona. The Obama Department of Justice opposed the agreement, stating that maintaining Modelo independent from Anheuser-Busch and MillerCoors was vital for a fair market. In 2013, a deal allowed the purchase if Constellation Brands handled Grupo Modelo’s U.S. business.
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Constellation Brands has painstakingly rebranded Modelo since taking control. Balance between Hispanic identity and new customers has been crucial. Modelo published their first English-language advertisement in 2016, stressing its “fighting spirit.” In 2017, the brand sponsored the UFC as a game-day beer. It differed from Corona, Constellation’s beach beer.
The country’s demographic transition also helped Modelo. According to the Census Bureau, Hispanics increased from 13% in 2000 to 19% in 2021. Mexican beer, tequila, and mezcal have also developed cultural appeal among non-Hispanic customers.
Mexico exports the most beer to the US, with imports rising over the last decade. From 2013 to 2022, Mexican beer imports increased while others fell.
Modelo has thrived despite beer industry challenges. It shows that possessing a Mexican beer brand is not enough; good marketing, knowing customer tastes, and adjusting to shifting trends are necessary for continued development.
The beverage industry’s dethroning of Bud Light as America’s best-selling beer is important. As customer preferences change, it will be interesting to observe how local and international firms adapt to remain ahead.
Our Reader’s Queries
What is the #1 selling beer in America?
Modelo has taken over as the best-selling beer in the US, surpassing even Bud Light, which has held the top spot for both sales dollars and volume since 2001. This impressive feat has been confirmed by a leading consulting firm.
What are the top 3 beer brands in the US?
When it comes to beer, two brands that immediately come to mind are Corona and Bud Light. These two brands have an impressive 87 percent brand awareness each, making them the most well-known beer brands in the United States. Following closely behind are Budweiser and Heineken, both recognized by 85 percent of surveyed consumers, tying for the third spot on the list.
What is the top No 1 beer in the world?
In 2023, Budweiser emerged as the most valuable beer brand globally, with a staggering worth of 13 billion U.S. dollars. Heineken secured the second spot, while Corona ranked third. Although the notion of brand value can be somewhat ambiguous, various definitions exist. Nonetheless, Budweiser’s dominance in the market is undeniable.
What is the number one beer in North America?
Bud Light, the leading beer brand in 2022 and the first four months of this year, has experienced a decline in sales due to conservative backlash over a social media campaign featuring transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney.