As we reported at the time, in July 2023, 127-year-old Anchor Brewing closed down when its then-owner, Saporro, decided to step away and could not find a buyer. Presumably, Saporro tried to find a buyer. As widely reported, there were efforts to keep Anchor Brewing alive, including efforts by employees to muster up the funds needed to buy it. Sapporo seemed uninterested in helping facilitate such a transition so the unceremonious end was unavoidable. It seemed the brewery was destined for the scrap heap.
That is, until now. The billionaire behind the Chobani yogurt just acquired Anchor Brewing and plans to modernize and reopen the historic San Francisco brewery. Hamdi Ulukaya, the CEO and founder of Chobani, has reportedly purchased the brewery and its 2.17 acres of property in San Francisco’s Potrero Hill neighborhood. He is working with a local developer to restart brewery operations and restore its traditional branding and its position as a national player in the beer industry.
The purchase price was not disclosed but the real estate was previously listed for $40 million. Some reports say that Anchor’s intellectual property was attracting bids of nearly $10 million. Ulukaya’s investment company, Shepherd Futures, now owns it all.
“What an exciting time for San Francisco and Anchor Brewing,” said Ulukaya in a press release. “Both are experiencing the magic of rebirth. I have fallen in love with this city, its history, grit and charm. I believe brands born in places like this are incredibly special and must be treasured, respected and loved. San Francisco is at the heart of Anchor Brewing, and Anchor embodies so much of what makes this city great.”
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
“I am humbled and excited to be part of this city and its rich community of people, who have a spirit that is special and unique. I have learned so much about Anchor and its role in San Francisco’s journey, and I look forward to doing whatever I can to support this amazing story of revitalization.”
Hamdi Ulukaya had never been to San Francisco but heard about the situation at Anchor Brewing and decided to investigate. That is, he had his people look into it. When he visited San Francisco himself and had the opportunity to visit Anchor Brewing’s facilities, he met an employee who had worked at the company for 25 years. It didn’t take long for him to understand the deep roots Anchor Brewing has in the community.
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
sponsor
On Instagram, Ulukaya said, “I am honored to work with the people of San Francisco to bring Anchor Brewing, this dream, back to life.”
