For centuries, beer has been at the heart of gatherings at bars and pubs, where memories are made and friendships begin.
Bars and pubs are more than just places to enjoy a beer. They’re social hubs that drive prosperity, foster social connection and bring people together.
They also make a positive impact on local economies. With 1.5 million bars generating $244.9 billion in revenue in 2024, and 88% of consumers recognizing their economic importance*, these businesses are vital to our communities around the world.
That’s why AB InBev partners with organizations to help bar culture thrive for generations. A recent whitepaper from our partner, the World Economic Forum, highlights how businesses and third parties can work together to support the evolution of the nighttime economy.
Beginning on International Beer Day, and throughout the month of August, AB InBev raised a toast to celebrate bars in more than 20 countries.
In Argentina, Quilmes launched Refugio Patagonia Puerto Madero, a stunning new pub from our Patagonia brewery. Our Peruvian brewer, Backus, raised glasses of perfectly poured Stella Artois with bar owners at an event honoring the social, cultural and economic impact of their businesses. Beer fans in China met up at Goose Island Brewpub in Shanghai and the Budweiser International Beer Festival in Putian for tastings, pouring tutorials and sharing of their favorite bar stories.
More than 2,000 bars across Belgium and Luxembourg showcased their mastery of pouring the perfect serve of Stella Artois, and the top 12 competitors faced off at The Perfect Serve Awards, where the 2025 “Best Stella Artois Bar & Draught Master” was crowned.
Government, hospitality and industry leaders gathered in Brazil for the release of the Beer Yearbook 2025, an annual reporting of growth and investment in beer and its impact on bars and restaurants. Brazilian beer fans celebrated International Beer Day with discounts on products ordered from Zé Delivery, our direct-to-consumer offering.
Bavaria, Colombia’s largest brewer, signed a strategic alliance with CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean to promote financial inclusion and digitization for small businesses in the region, following an expansion of its Emprendedores program, which empowers 80,000 bar and retail owners with skills and resources.
In South Africa, we marked 130 years of backing local businesses. And in Oaxaca, Mexico, Grupo Modelo recognized the significant contributions of bar and retail owners.
“Ninety percent of Mexicans see bars as vital to their local economy,” says Grupo Modelo CEO Daniel Cocenzo. “By strengthening bars, we strengthen our country.”
* "Cheers to Bars Research” conducted by Zeno Group for AB InBev
