In 2011, beer’s performance reflected a category of contradictions with trends torn between the ongoing price consciousness of some consumers and the insatiable taste for variety — even if it carries a higher price — from other demographics.  

MillerCoors introduced a new standard can top for its 12- and 16-ounce size Miller Lite and Miller Genuine Draft cans. 

Anheuser-Busch, the St. Louis-based subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch InBev, unveiled its newest responsible drinking campaign that relies on the Internet and social media to engage adult drinkers and raise awareness.

Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev), Leuven, Belgium, will acquire the remaining stake in Grupo Modelo, Mexico City, for $20.1 billion. The combined company would lead the global beer industry with roughly 400 million hectoliters of beer volume annually and 2012 estimated revenues of $47 billion, AB InBev noted in a statement. Tangentially, Constellation Brands Inc., Victor, N.Y., which in a joint venture with Grupo Modelo currently owns 50 percent of Crown Imports LLC, Chicago, signed an agreement with AB InBev to purchase the remaining 50 percent interest in Crown for $1.85 billion.

Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev), Leuven, Belgium, released a statement regarding speculation about a possible merger between AB InBev and Grupo Modelo, saying the following:

 Oskar Blues Brewery and Sun King Brewing Co. collaborated to introduce Chaka. 

 Through mid-July, Budweiser is showcasing patriotic packaging.

 The winners of the first “Canny Awards,” which recognized craft beer cans with high-quality, captivating graphics, were announced during the Craft Brewers Conference, May 2-5 in San Diego.  

With more than 4,500 attendees from 35 countries, the Craft Brewers Conference & BrewExpo America, hosted by the Brewers Association, Boulder, Colo., May 2-5 in San Diego, was a testament to the growth in the industry. Setting the tone for the event, Brewers Association President Charlie Papazian addressed any doubts about the industry’s potential, saying, “We are not in a bubble, we are knee-deep in foam — and the foam is still rising.”

 In celebration of the 20th anniversary of Baltimore’s Camden Yards baseball park, Pabst Brewing Co. launched National Bohemian beer in a limited-edition can.