Iconic San Francisco beer maker Anchor Brewing Co. has shut down production, ending a 127-year run for what's considered to be America's first craft brewery.
Known for its complex ales, Anchor Brewing is owned by Tokyo-based Sapporo Holdings — which also is the parent company of Escondido's Stone Brewing. The closure does not signal a change in Sapporo's strategy of making the U.S. a growth driver for its beer business, according to the company.
"Anchor Brewing's plans to cease operations are unique to Anchor's business only," said Maria Stipp, chief executive of Stone Brewing. "Plans set forth by Sapporo USA and Stone Brewing remain unchanged. We are continuing to move forward with our expansion and growth plans, including the brewing of all Sapporo beers for the U.S. market at Stone's facilities."
