Michelob Ultra Surpasses Modelo Especial as America’s Top-Selling Beer

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Michelob Ultra Now America’s Top-Selling Beer, Overtaking Modelo

Larkspur, California – September 22, 2025 – A notable change has occurred in the United States beverage sector: Michelob Ultra has assumed the position of the best-selling beer, surpassing Modelo Especial.This shift represents a significant victory for Anheuser-Busch and a turning point after recent challenges within the industry.

A Resurgence for Anheuser-Busch

According to data released by Circana on September 14,Michelob Ultra now leads retail beer sales. Nielsen IQ data, covering the 52 weeks ending July 12, also confirms the light lager’s dominance in bars and restaurants. This achievement marks a comeback for Anheuser-Busch,which navigated a period of decreased sales following consumer reaction to a marketing campaign involving Bud Light.

Two years ago, Modelo especial rose to prominence, unseating bud Light amidst controversy. The earlier decline of Bud Light stemmed from backlash related to a collaboration with a social media personality. Now, the tables have turned, with Michelob Ultra reclaiming a top spot in the market.

Challenges for Constellation Brands

The rise of Michelob Ultra coincides with declining sales for Modelo Especial, produced by Constellation Brands. The company is currently grappling with several obstacles, including increased tariffs on aluminum and imported goods from Mexico. Furthermore, Constellation Brands has noticed a decrease in demand from a key demographic: Hispanic consumers.

Historically, Hispanic consumers have constituted approximately half of Constellation’s customer base. While non-Hispanic consumer demand contributed to Modelo’s earlier success, changing economic and political factors are now impacting purchasing habits. Executives have publicly linked President Trump’s immigration policies and subsequent job losses within the Hispanic community to a reduction in consumer spending.

Revised Forecast and Market Performance

Constellation Brands recently lowered its financial projections for the fiscal year, citing an “challenging” economic surroundings. The company now anticipates a 2% to 4% decrease in net beer sales, a revision from a previous forecast of flat to 3% growth. This downturn is directly attributed to reduced sales volumes and the impact of ongoing tariff increases.

The contrasting fortunes of the two brewing giants are reflected in their stock performance. Year-to-date, Anheuser-Busch’s stock has increased by over 16%, while Constellation Brands’ shares have declined by 39%.

Company	Top Beer Brand	Stock Performance (YTD 2025)
Anheuser-Busch	Michelob Ultra	+16%
Constellation Brands	Modelo especial	-39%

Did You Know? The light lager category, which includes Michelob Ultra, is experiencing growth as consumers increasingly seek lower-calorie and lower-carbohydrate options.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on tariff policies and immigration trends, as these can have a significant and unexpected impact on consumer packaged goods, particularly within the beverage industry.

What factors do you believe are most responsible for Michelob Ultra’s success? And will Constellation Brands be able to rebound and regain lost market share?

The evolving Beer Market: Trends and Predictions

The beer industry is known for being dynamic, constantly responding to shifts in consumer preferences, economic conditions, and social trends. The rise and fall of different brands underscore the importance of adaptability and marketing strategy. Premium light lagers, like Michelob Ultra, are benefiting from a growing health consciousness among consumers, who are increasingly seeking options with reduced calories and carbohydrates. At the same time, craft beer continues to hold a significant share of the market, catering to consumers interested in unique flavors and brewing techniques.

Frequently asked Questions About Beer Sales

• What is driving the increased popularity of Michelob Ultra? Its appeal lies in its positioning as a premium light lager with a focus on health-conscious consumers.
• What challenges is Constellation Brands currently facing? Increased tariffs, reduced demand from Hispanic consumers, and a challenging economy are all contributing factors.
• Why did Modelo Especial previously overtake Bud Light? A consumer backlash over Bud Light’s marketing campaign led to a shift in market share.
• What impact do political factors have on beer sales? Immigration policies and related job losses can significantly impact the spending habits of key consumer demographics.
• Is the light lager market expected to continue growing? Yes, the trend towards lower-calorie and lower-carbohydrate options suggests continued growth in this segment.
• How has Anheuser-Busch responded to the recent challenges? By refocusing on brands like Michelob Ultra, and appealing to a broader consumer base.
• What is the significance of Circana’s data in this context? Circana provides vital data about retail sales trends, offering a clear picture of consumer behavior.

Share this article and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

What factors contributed to Michelob Ultra surpassing Modelo especial in beer sales?

The Shift in American Beer Preferences

For decades, Bud Light and Coors Light dominated the American beer market. However, recent data reveals a important shakeup: michelob Ultra has overtaken Modelo Especial to become the best-selling beer in the United States. This marks a pivotal moment in the beverage industry, signaling evolving consumer tastes and a growing demand for lighter options. The change, confirmed in late August 2025 by Nielsen data, reflects a trend towards lower-calorie, lower-carbohydrate beers. This isn’t just a fleeting change; analysts predict this shift will continue to influence the beer market for the foreseeable future.

Analyzing the Rise of Michelob Ultra

Michelob Ultra’s ascent isn’t accidental. Several factors have contributed to its success:

* Health-Conscious Consumers: A growing segment of the population prioritizes health and wellness, seeking beverages that align wiht their lifestyles. Michelob Ultra, with its 95 calories and 2.6 grams of carbohydrates, appeals directly to this demographic.

* Strategic Marketing: Anheuser-Busch InBev, the parent company of Michelob Ultra, has invested heavily in marketing campaigns featuring high-profile athletes and emphasizing an active lifestyle. This branding resonates with consumers seeking a beer that doesn’t compromise their fitness goals.

* Expanding Flavor Profiles: Beyond the original light lager, Michelob Ultra has successfully introduced new flavors like Organic Seltzer, Mixed Berry, and Peach Peach, broadening its appeal and attracting new customers. Light beer flavors are becoming increasingly significant.

* Modelo Especial’s Challenges: While modelo Especial experienced substantial growth in recent years, it faced supply chain disruptions and, more notably, a consumer boycott stemming from controversies surrounding its parent company, Constellation Brands.

Modelo Especial’s Recent performance & Challenges

Modelo Especial’s reign at the top was relatively short-lived, but remarkable. Its popularity surged, particularly among Hispanic consumers, becoming a symbol of cultural pride and a preferred choice for social gatherings. Though, the boycott, triggered by comments made by the CEO of Constellation Brands regarding the border situation, significantly impacted sales.

* Boycott Impact: The call to boycott modelo especial led to a noticeable decline in sales volume, creating an opening for competitors like Michelob Ultra.

* Supply Chain Issues: Prior to the boycott, Modelo Especial had already been grappling with supply chain constraints, limiting its ability to meet growing demand.

* Competition in the Import Sector: The import beer market is fiercely competitive, with brands like Corona and Heineken constantly vying for market share.

The Broader Trends in the US Beer Market

the shift from Modelo to Michelob Ultra is part of a larger trend reshaping the American beer landscape:

* Decline of Traditional Lagers: Bud Light and Coors Light,once dominant forces,have experienced declining sales as consumers seek more flavorful and premium options.

* Growth of Premium Light lagers: michelob ultra’s success demonstrates the growing demand for premium light lagers that offer a balance of taste and health benefits.

* Rise of Craft Beer: While craft beer’s growth has slowed, it remains a significant segment of the market, catering to consumers seeking unique and innovative brews. Craft breweries continue to innovate.

* Hard Seltzer’s Influence: The popularity of hard seltzer in recent years has influenced the beer market, prompting established brands to introduce similar products and cater to the demand for lighter, refreshing beverages.

Impact on Anheuser-Busch InBev & Constellation Brands

This change has significant implications for both Anheuser-Busch InBev and Constellation Brands:

* AB inbev’s Victory: Michelob Ultra’s success is a major win for Anheuser-Busch InBev, solidifying its position as the leading beer company in the United States. It validates their investment in the brand and its marketing strategy.

* Constellation Brands’ Response: Constellation Brands will need to address the challenges facing Modelo Especial, including rebuilding consumer trust and resolving supply chain issues. They may also need to explore new marketing strategies to regain market share.

* Stock Market Reactions: following the announcement,AB InBev’s stock saw a modest increase,while Constellation Brands experienced a slight dip. Investors are closely monitoring the situation and assessing the long-term impact on both companies.

Future Outlook: What’s Next for the Beer Industry?

The battle for the top spot in the American beer market is far from over. Several factors will shape the industry’s future:

* Continued Focus on Health & wellness: Expect to see more brands introducing lower-calorie, lower-carbohydrate options to cater to health-conscious consumers.

* innovation in Flavor Profiles: The demand for unique and flavorful beers will continue to drive innovation in the brewing industry.

* Sustainability Concerns: Consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of their purchases, prompting brands to adopt more enduring practices. Sustainable brewing is becoming a key differentiator.

* Evolving Consumer Preferences: The beer market is constantly evolving, and brands must remain agile and responsive to changing consumer tastes.