Stella Artois is a Belgian pilsner brewed by Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev). It was first brewed in Leuven, Belgium, in 1926, though the brewery dates back to 1366. Known for its smooth, full-bodied flavor, Stella Artois is one of the world’s most famous beers. It is associated with premium quality and is often considered a more upscale beer choice.
Stella Artois is owned by Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev), the largest beer company in the world. In 2023, AB InBev reported annual revenues of around $57 billion, making it a global powerhouse in the brewing industry. Stella Artois contributes significantly to AB InBev’s premium beer sales. While its exact revenue contribution is not publicly disclosed, Stella Artois is one of the company’s flagship premium brands.
Place Among Beer Makers
Stella Artois holds a prominent place in the global beer market, competing in the premium lager category with brands like Heineken and Peroni. Its image as a refined, upscale beer has made it popular among consumers looking for something more sophisticated than mainstream lagers. Despite growing competition from craft beers, Stella Artois has maintained its place as one of the top-selling European beers worldwide.
Interesting Facts About Stella Artois
- Origins in the 14th Century: Stella Artois can trace its roots back to 1366 to the Den Hoorn Brewery in Leuven, Belgium. The modern-day beer was first brewed as a Christmas brew in 1926, hence the name “Stella,” which means star in Latin, symbolizing the Christmas star.
- Unique Chalice: Stella Artois is famously served in a chalice rather than a regular pint glass. The chalice design helps preserve the beer’s head, enhances the aroma, and promotes the beer’s rich taste. The brand has marketed this glassware as part of the premium drinking experience.
- Global Reach: Stella Artois is sold in over 80 countries, making it one of the most internationally recognized Belgian beers. It is particularly popular in the UK and the U.S., where it is often advertised as a premium, imported beer.
- “The Wife Beater” Nickname: Despite its premium image, in the UK, Stella Artois has developed an unfortunate nickname: “Wife Beater.” This originated due to its higher-than-average alcohol content and a perceived association with aggressive behavior. The brewery has tried to distance itself from this negative connotation with various marketing strategies focusing on moderation and responsible drinking.
- Star-Studded Advertisements: Stella Artois has produced some iconic advertisements, often working with renowned directors and actors. Its association with a luxury lifestyle is heavily reinforced in these ads, which depict elegant, cosmopolitan scenes. Celebrities like Adrien Brody have appeared in these campaigns, further enhancing the brand’s prestige.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Stella Artois has invested in sustainability projects, including water conservation in countries like Mexico, Brazil, and India. It partnered with Water.org to help provide clean drinking water to areas in need and has made efforts to reduce the environmental impact of its brewing process.
- Glass Recall (2018): In 2018, Stella Artois had to issue a recall of limited-edition bottles after it was discovered that some bottles contained glass particles. This recall affected several markets, including the U.S. and Canada. While no serious injuries were reported, the incident tarnished the brand’s reputation temporarily.
- AB InBev’s Monopoly Concerns: Stella Artois’ parent company, AB InBev, has faced several monopoly and anti-competition investigations globally due to its dominant position in the beer market. These concerns have led to scrutiny over whether the company’s control of brands like Stella Artois unfairly reduces competition and raises prices for consumers.