Latest news with #HamdiUlukaya
Miami Herald
07-07-2025
- Business
- Miami Herald
One of America's oldest breweries may really be shut down forever
Anchor Steam Brewing Company survived the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake, prohibition, two world wars, and several periods of social unrest. But the pandemic and the inflation that followed were just a touch too much. Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter So in 2023, and after 127 years in operation, the company announced it would shut down, making it just one of many craft brewer to shut its doors that year. However, Anchor Steam is unique in the sector. It's one of the oldest breweries in the U.S. and widely regarded as one of the first modern craft breweries here, so its closure hurt more than most. Beer lovers around the world (including me) were devastated because the beer was delicious. One of the best things about living in San Francisco was how easy it was to find on tap. But the brewer's sales had been declining since 2016, and in 2017, Japanese beer giant Sapporo acquired Anchor Steam for around $85 million. Shortly after the announcement, Hamdi Ulukaya, founder of the yogurt company Chobani, purchased Anchor Brewing's recipes, brand, and intellectual property from Sapporo and promised to "bring Anchor back the right way." There was much hope that the brewery would get a second chance at life, but now, two years after Ulukaya's public commitment, those plans are on pause. Despite a promise to restore Anchor Steam Brewing Company's production facility and return brewing operations to the city where it began in 1896, Ulukaya's team recently told The San Francisco Standard that they have no intention of reopening the original brewery or reestablishing a physical taproom in the city - at least for now. Instead, the beer will now be brewed by a contract partner outside the city. While the brand may live on, its deep roots in San Francisco - and its significance to the American craft beer movement - appear severed. Related: Beloved brewery and bar chain closing, no bankruptcy One challenge may be that a dormant facility, such as the one in San Francisco, would take some time to become operational. The traditional production methods that make use of San Francisco's ambient yeast mean you can't just a flip a switch and start pumping out bottles of Liberty Ale or Anchor Steam. Maintaining Anchor's adherence to old-style methods, including the use of open-air fermentation tanks and copper equipment, may require a learning curve for new employees. Brewing Anchor Steam the way "California common," as it is known, is brewed requires a craftsman's touch and a lot of patience. This style of brewing is the only one to have originated in the U.S. Anchor's halted comeback underscores a larger shift in the U.S. craft beer industry, which is facing declining sales, brewery closures, and rising costs. In 2024, more than 500 craft breweries shut down, according to the Brewers Association. Even legacy brands like Anchor, credited with jumpstarting the modern craft beer movement, are struggling to survive. Consumers are drinking less beer overall, and younger drinkers are opting for hard seltzers, canned cocktails, or alcohol-free options instead. Meanwhile, inflation has driven up the cost of raw ingredients, labor, and rent, especially in pricey areas like San Francisco. Related: Struggling department store chain shares more bad news Contract brewing, where brands outsource production to third-party facilities, has become an increasingly common survival strategy. But it often comes at the expense of authenticity and community connection - two values that once defined craft beer. Anchor Steam's planned shift to contract production highlights that tension. While Ulukaya's team says they still intend to honor the brand's legacy, some industry observers say a beer brewed hundreds of miles away and served without a taproom presence lacks the soul of the original. Still, hope springs eternal, and I look forward to the day when I can visit my favorite taproom again. Related: Another classic off-the-Las Vegas Strip resort casino closes The Arena Media Brands, LLC THESTREET is a registered trademark of TheStreet, Inc.
Malaysian Reserve
18-06-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Alianza de Futbol Renews Partnership with Chobani for 2025 Tour, Strengthening Commitment to Hispanic Communities and Youth Empowerment
New Chapter Builds on Shared Values of Community, Youth Development, and Opportunity Through Soccer NEW YORK, June 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Alianza de Futbol, the leading national soccer program for Hispanic communities in the U.S., today announced the renewal of its partnership with Chobani, the natural food maker known for disrupting the Greek yogurt category. The collaboration, led by For Soccer, extends into the 2025 Alianza Tour and builds on the momentum of Chobani's successful 2024 campaign. In returning as an official sponsor of the 2025 Alianza de Futbol Tour, Chobani reinforces its commitment to using food as a force for good within the local community and supporting youth development across the country. As part of this year's renewed partnership, Chobani will be present at select tour stops with on-site brand activations, product sampling, and community engagement events designed to bring family-friendly experiences directly to fans. Chobani's presence will be integrated into digital campaigns and storytelling initiatives to amplify its support of grassroots soccer and the broader Hispanic community. Chobani x Alianza 2025 Activation Schedule: San Antonio – June 21–22 Colorado Springs – July 5–6 Chicago – July 19–20 New York – August 2–3 Salinas – August 9–10 Los Angeles – August 23–24 El Paso – September 13–14 'Chobani's continued support means more than just sponsorship—it's a real investment in the communities we serve,' said Daina Lecuona, Director of Alianza de Futbol. 'Our shared values around family, wellness, and opportunity make this partnership impactful both on and off the field. Together, we're not just growing the game—we're strengthening the fabric of Hispanic communities nationwide.' The renewed partnership highlights a shared vision between Chobani and Alianza: using soccer as a platform to drive positive change in underserved communities and inspire the next generation of leaders. About ChobaniChobani is a food maker with a mission of making high-quality and nutritious food accessible to more people, while elevating our communities and making the world a healthier place. In short: making good food for all. In support of this mission, Chobani is a purpose-driven, people-first, food-and-wellness-focused company, and has been since its founding in 2005 by Hamdi Ulukaya, an immigrant to the U.S. The Company manufactures yogurt, oat milk, and creamers – Chobani yogurt is America's No.1 yogurt brand, made with natural ingredients without artificial preservatives. Following the 2023 acquisition of La Colombe, a leading coffee roaster with a shared commitment to quality, craftmanship and impact, the Company began selling cold-pressed espresso and lattes on tap at cafés nationwide, as well as Ready to Drink (RTD) coffee beverages at retail. In 2025, Chobani acquired Daily Harvest, a modern brand offering consumers nutritious, delicious and convenient ready-to-make meals. Chobani uses food as a force for good in the world – putting humanity first in everything it does. The company's philanthropic efforts prioritize giving back to its communities and beyond. Chobani manufactures its products in New York, Idaho, Michigan and Australia, and its products are available throughout North America and distributed in Australia and other select markets. For more information, please visit or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn. About For SoccerFor Soccer is the preeminent North American soccer marketing, media, and experiences company, focused on helping brands accelerate soccer growth through research, content, experiential marketing, sponsorships, and our owned properties of Alianza de Futbol and Black Star. About Alianza de FutbolAlianza de Futbol is the premier Hispanic soccer program in the U.S., dedicated to top-level soccer experiences and community engagement. It is proudly part of For Soccer, a company committed to growing the game at every level. For more information and to register, visit: and join the conversation on social media using #AlianzaDeFutbol. Media Contact:Daina
Eater
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Eater
At Long Last, the Gilroy Garlic Festival Has Returned
It was back in 2022 that the organizers of the Gilroy Garlic Festival let the greater garlic community know there'd be no more grand festivities, 'indefinitely.' Thankfully, the drought is over: from July 25 to 27, there'll be a smaller, more intimate garlic festival in Gilroy. Tickets are already waitlisted since, per the Mercury News , they sold out within hours. There'll be all the food, music, and activities of former fests, just on a smaller scale. The 3,000-person event will take place on the five-acre South County Grove next to the Gilroy Gardens theme park. In 2019, a gunman wounded 17 people and killed three attendees, and the festival went on hiatus in 2020 due to COVID-19. The festival then transitioned to a drive-thru version in 2021 and other smaller events, according to the Mercury News . The festival was founded in 1978 and became a keystone of the area's annual goings-on. Marina burger joint cited for rodent droppings Athleisure-clad diners on Chestnut Street may pause before eating at Super Duper Burgers next time. A routine city inspection found rodent droppings throughout the restaurant and bread containers stored on the floor. Though the original order instructed the restaurant's outpost to close, the San Francisco Chronicle reports the restaurant received a conditional pass; the original order's closure instruction was apparently an error. An Anchor Brewing update looks nonexistent Fans of Anchor Brewing have been waiting to see what new billionaire owner Hamdi Ulukaya would do with the steam beer-producing hometown hero. The San Francisco Standard took it upon themselves to figure it out. Unfortunately, there's been little activity since May 2024: there was a February Alcoholic Beverage Control permit secured, an April sighting of Ulukaya at Mexican restaurant Papito, and that's about it. Ciccio reopens after a fire It seems it's comeback season for two local restaurants that were hit by fires this spring. Niku Steakhouse made its comeback on Friday, May 30, after a fire in March. Now, Ciccio in Yountville — which suffered a minor fire at the end of April — is back in action as of Saturday, May 31. Mellow coffee lounge opens in Berkeley University Avenue's Wine So Cru is about to open a 'collaborative coffee lounge,' per an Instagram announcement. Styled as 42ndPour, the business will open Saturday, June 7, from 7 to 11 a.m., pouring the immaculate Hydrangea Coffee Roaster. There'll be East Bay-baked pastries and tea, too. Sign up for our newsletter.
Forbes
07-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Why Chobani Is A Bright Spot In Dark Times For Dairy Farming
As America's top-selling yogurt brand with $3 billion (annual revenue) and yogurt sales up 20% last ... More year, Chobani is in a position most food companies would envy. Photo Illustration byI'm back this week with a more in-depth Fresh Take newsletter for you, and I hope you enjoy the new format! I've been a reporter at Forbes for well over a decade now, and I'm hoping that my expertise will help provide much-needed context behind the headlines. What a time to be reporting on all things food, agriculture and sustainability! I'm honored to be doing it. And I'm thrilled to share a story that's been a source of optimism for readers. Amid trade wars and mass uncertainty, billionaire Chobani founder Hamdi Ulukaya is doubling down. He's investing in infrastructure in a major way—with a $1.2 billion commitment for construction on two dairy plants. The vast majority of the money is going towards building a brand new Chobani plant in upstate New York. For many, the news was a beacon of hope , particularly because the Northeastern dairy industry has been struggling for years as big food companies turn to bigger operations on the West Coast and elsewhere. As Ulukaya told me, he feels the weight of responsibility: 'We could make all the advances in life, but if we can't feed our children good food, that's not a success.' This is our 141st Fresh Take newsletter, and whether you've been with us that whole time or you joined along the way, we appreciate you! We'll continue to experiment with the look and format, but you can always expect a focus on the intersection of food, health, sustainability, equity and accessibility. -Chloe Sorvino This is Forbes' Fresh Take newsletter, which every Wednesday brings you the latest on the big ideas changing the future of food. Want to get it in your inbox every week? Sign up here . Why Chobani's Billionaire Founder Is Investing $1.2 Billion In A State-Of-The-Art New York Dairy 'This company is never going to be part of any other company," Chobani founder Hamdi Ulukaya tells ... More Forbes. 'Never." FRANCK FERVILLE/AGENCE VU/REDUX 1 Hamdi Ulukaya has also committed another $500 million to expanding his operation in Idaho—and says he is just getting started. THE FEED Dental assistant Leslie Hernandez applies fluoride varnish to preschooler Jad Ahmed's teeth in ... More Chicago Ridge, Illinois, in November 2024. E. Jason Wambsgans/Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Images The Fluoride Files: Utah and Florida became the first states to ban fluoride in drinking water this week, despite loud criticism from dentists and public health experts. Other states like Louisiana are considering bans, too. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as head of the Health and Human Services Administration, says he plans to have the Centers for Disease Control end its nationwide recommendation to include fluoride in public drinking water. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks at a news conference on synthetic ... More dyes on April 22, 2025 in Washington, Bye To Synthetic Food Dyes: RFK Jr.'s influence is also making change within the world of petroleum-based food dyes by asking companies to stop using the additives . The policy stops short of a full-on ban . But as one of the few reporters ever granted access to the halls of IFF, the largest flavor and fragrance seller in the world, I'm happy to hear it. Years ago, I learned all about the gasoline derivatives in our food there firsthand—and especially thanks to the saccharine smell in the production rooms that left me with a migraine—I've been skeptical of them ever since. For more on the research studies, and what's been actually scientifically linked and what hasn't, the New York Times did a deep-dive into the data that supports the policy. Customers shop in the deli meat aisle of a grocery store on October 17, 2024 in Miami, Cuts Hit FDA: The Trump Administration laid off about 3,500 FDA employees as part of a larger 10,000-person reduction in force at HHS. As Forbes senior contributor Louis Biscotti writes, there's a debate as to whether these layoffs will impact bureaucracy or cut the agency to the bone, potentially exposing our nation's food supply to more safety risks. FIELD NOTES Chloe Sorvino These oysters were briny yet creamy with a salty finish that tasted so much like ocean that I wanted to jump up and whoop. The bites were the best way to end a tour of the operations at Island Creek in Duxbury, Massachusetts, and equally as perfect as a pregame before speaking at Harvard Business School. OUT AND ABOUT Chloe Sorvino It was an honor to speak to students at Harvard Business School all about my book Raw Deal: Hidden Corruption, Corporate Greed and the Fight for the Future of Meat . It brought me a lot of hope! Here are a few of the opportunities for building a better food system that I urged the Harvard MBAs to consider: Build infrastructure that supports healthy, sustainable and equitable food production. This can take many different forms, and can be as small-scale as opening a commercial kitchen with a packaging line and lots of freezer space or canning machinery that regional food makers can utilize. Or it could look like a mobile slaughter facility. If going into finance is the goal, think about alternative financing models that are better designed for long-term businesses (that feed people!) and are not on a three- to five-year return cycle like most VC and PE funds. Lay the foundations for a public food sector in your community. Universal food access is a crucial way to ensure accessibility is at the forefront of solutions as climate change gets worse. In short, think collectively. We don't have enough time to start from scratch, and as Will Harris of White Oak Pastures says, replicability is better than scalability. And if you haven't read Raw Deal yet, here's your sign. Pick up a copy here , or anywhere books are sold. Thanks for reading the 141st edition of Forbes Fresh Take! Let me know what you think, and you can subscribe to Fresh Take here to get it in your inbox every Wednesday.
The Onion
02-05-2025
- Business
- The Onion
Chobani CEO Warns New Hire They In The Yogurt Game Now
NEW BERLIN, NY—Taking the rookie employee aside to offer him 'a word to the wise,' Chobani CEO Hamdi Ulukaya warned new hire Austin Cook that he was in the yogurt game now, company sources confirmed Friday. 'I don't know what they taught you back in the boonies of the almond milk world, but you better be ready to step up, because you're doing bacterial fermentation now, playboy,' Ulukaya said as he firmly jabbed a finger into Cook's chest, adding that if the new hire couldn't hack it in the yogurt game's cutthroat climate of competition and live cultures, he should do them both a favor and resign on the spot. 'You're running with the big dogs here, and I need you to eat, sleep, and breathe yogurt. You see that portrait hanging above my desk? That's the guy who invented Go-Gurt. You work hard, you can end up like him. You don't, this industry will grind you up like the fruit on the bottom of a cup of Dannon. And don't just tell me we should make kefir. I know about kefir. What I want to know is: What's seven steps beyond kefir?' At press time, Ulukaya had quietly told the new hire to get the fuck out of his building after the man proposed branching out into skyr.
