Fairfield, California, December 12, 2025
Anheuser-Busch announced plans to close its nearly 50-year-old brewery in Fairfield, California, in early 2026, impacting about 475 employees. The closure is part of a strategic move to optimize production across U.S. operations. City officials express concerns about the economic impact, as the brewery is a major local employer. Anheuser-Busch will offer jobs to affected workers at other facilities, while the city explores future uses for the site, despite the challenges posed by its specialized nature.
Anheuser-Busch to Close Brewery in Fairfield, California
Fairfield, California – Anheuser-Busch, the world’s largest beer company, has announced plans to close its nearly 50-year-old brewery in Fairfield, California, in early 2026. This facility, which opened in 1976, produces over 20 of Anheuser-Busch’s brands, including Budweiser, Stella Artois, Corona, and Michelob. The closure is part of a broader strategy to optimize production across the company’s U.S. operations.
The Fairfield plant employs approximately 475 full-time workers. Anheuser-Busch has stated that all affected employees will be offered positions at other U.S. facilities. The company has not disclosed the specific number of employees at the Fairfield plant. Fairfield Mayor Catherine Moy expressed concern over the closure, highlighting potential impacts on local employment and city revenue. She noted that the facility is one of the city’s largest employers and that repurposing the site could be challenging due to its specialized nature.
Local Economic Implications
The closure of the Fairfield brewery brings forth significant implications for the local economy. City officials and the community are concerned about the loss of jobs and the potential decrease in local tax revenue. As one of the largest employers in the area, the facility’s closure may lead to a ripple effect throughout the economy, affecting local businesses that rely on patronage from brewery employees.
Shifts in the Beer Industry
This decision follows Anheuser-Busch’s recent moves involving other brewery closures in the nation. In addition to the Fairfield plant, the company will close its Merrimack, New Hampshire, facility and has already sold its Newark, New Jersey, brewery to the Goodman Group. The beer industry has faced persistent challenges over recent years, including declining alcohol consumption and a growing consumer preference for healthier lifestyle choices. This trend has prompted major players in the industry to reevaluate their operations.
Anheuser-Busch’s Commitment to Employees
Despite the closure, Anheuser-Busch has committed to supporting its employees through the transition. The company will provide opportunities for affected workers to take positions at other U.S. facilities, ensuring that their job security is prioritized even as operations are scaled back in certain areas. It demonstrates the company’s focus on maintaining its workforce while optimizing its production strategy.
Future Prospects for the Fairfield Site
Following the closure announcement, city officials in Fairfield are actively considering potential future uses for the brewery site. However, the specialized nature of the facility poses challenges for repurposing. The municipality is keen on finding a suitable tenant or purpose to minimize the impact of the closure on the community. Local leaders remain optimistic, believing that the area could attract different types of businesses that align with the ongoing shifts in consumer preferences and economic growth opportunities.
Conclusion
The decision by Anheuser-Busch to close its Fairfield brewery marks a significant moment for both the company and the local community. While the closure raises concerns about employment and economic stability, it also opens discussions about adaptability and future growth. Local residents and businesses are encouraged to remain engaged in the evolving economic landscape of San Diego County and support local initiatives aimed at job creation and community resilience.
FAQ
What is Anheuser-Busch’s plan for the Fairfield brewery?
Anheuser-Busch plans to close its nearly 50-year-old brewery in Fairfield, California, in early 2026. The facility produces over 20 of the company’s brands, including Budweiser, Stella Artois, Corona, and Michelob.
How many employees are affected by the closure?
The Fairfield plant employs approximately 475 full-time workers. Anheuser-Busch has stated that all affected employees will be offered positions at other U.S. facilities. The company has not disclosed the specific number of employees at the Fairfield plant.
What other facilities is Anheuser-Busch closing?
In addition to the Fairfield brewery, Anheuser-Busch has announced plans to sell its Newark, New Jersey, brewery to the Goodman Group and to close its Merrimack, New Hampshire, facility in early 2026. Production from these three facilities will be shifted to other U.S. locations.
What challenges are city officials in Fairfield facing due to the closure?
City officials in Fairfield are focused on determining potential future uses for the facility once it ceases operations. The specialized nature of the plant presents challenges in finding a suitable new tenant or purpose for the site.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Facility Name | Fairfield Brewery |
| Location | Fairfield, California |
| Opening Year | 1976 |
| Brands Produced | Budweiser, Stella Artois, Corona, Michelob, among others |
| Number of Employees | Approximately 475 full-time workers |
| Closure Date | Early 2026 |
| Company’s Plan for Employees | Offer positions at other U.S. facilities |
| City’s Concern | Loss of local employment and revenue; challenges in repurposing the site |
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