In a surprising move, Victory Brewing and New York’s Southern Tier Brewing announced on Tuesday, February 16, that the two will unite under new ownership in what is sure to be a landmark craft beer venture. The new parent company, Artisanal Brewing Ventures (ABV), will provide capital and security to the breweries while allowing each to continue independent operations.

 

ABV was formed by Phin and Sara DeMink of Southern Tier and Ulysses Management LLC with the goal of creating a firm that can offer growth resources to exceptional craft breweries while maintaining close ties to a brewery’s founders. With macro breweries scooping up smaller brewers left and right, this model could throw a major wrench in Big Beer’s plans.

 

In the venture’s announcement, Victory’s Founder and Brewmaster, Bill Covaleski, said “The craft beer community is at its most critical moment since its inception as larger brewing corporations have bought into our grassroots movement, irrevocably changing the marketplace. Like-minded brewers such as Victory and Southern Tier can preserve our character, culture, and products by banding together. Allied we can continue to innovate and best serve the audience who fueled our growth through their loyal thirst.”

 

This new alliance creates a craft brewing company that ranks within the top 15 in the United States under the Brewers Association’s criteria. The combined brewing capacity of ABV has the potential to reach over 800,000 barrels annually. This is great news for Victory and Southern Tier fans as it will allow both breweries to expand distribution and availability.