USA, TX: Alamo Beer Company and VIVA Beer announce consolidation

Two Texas beer brands that are stocked on shelves and available on taprooms all around San Antonio have announced they are officially merging, MySanAntonio.com reported on September 20.

Alamo Beer Company and VIVA Beer announced the consolidation on Wednesday, September 20, aiming to "bring together the best of both worlds, creating a powerful synergy that will strengthen their shared commitment to crafting exceptional, approachable beer for the San Antonio community and beyond."

VIVA Beer co-owners Micheal (MJ) Johnson and Bobby Jones have tackled the local craft beer scene in their own innovative style, utilizing a self-distribution model to grow from homebrew to contract brewing partnerships since 2019. The brand can be found in stores including H-E-B, Quiktrip, and other convenience stores around San Antonio.

Johnson and Jones had a "fortuitous meeting" with Alamo Beer Co. last year that was parlayed into "a dynamic partnership built on shared values and a deep passion for San Antonio," according to a news release.

"I have been really impressed with how quickly VIVA has grown and how the beer has resonated with San Antonio," Eugene Simor, owner of Alamo Beer Co., said. The release notes that Simor was inspired by VIVA Beer's self-distribution model, which was similar to Alamo Beer Co.'s start 20 years ago. Johnson noted that Simor has been a mentor to the VIVA Beer founders from the very beginning.

"With the help of the Alamo team, we know we can continue to grow the brand throughout San Antonio and beyond," Johnson said.

VIVA's "Ale Camino," a Chrevolet El Camino retrofitted with working taps that travels to various events around San Antonio year-round, will remain in service following the merger.

"As the craft beer scene in San Antonio continues to grow, this merger promises an exciting future, with both VIVA Beer and Alamo Beer Company working hand in hand to craft exceptional experiences, celebrate the essence of San Antonio, and raise a toast to the vibrant craft beer culture that defines our beloved city," Alamo Beer Co. said in the statement.

Alamo Beer Co. has been busy this summer after the announcement that Jan Matysiak was appointed as brewmaster and VP of Operations in August. Matysiak began his brewing career at Memminger Brewery in Bavaria before bringing his knowledge to the United States at Sixpoint Brewery and Big Bend Brewing, according to a news release.

In May, the company announced a partnership with HighBridge to move production of its hemp-derived cannabinoid infused 'faux beers' to San Antonio.

22 September, 2023